Best Anchorages in the Solomon Islands are some of the most atmospheric and rewarding anchorages in the South Pacific, from calm volcanic bays to remote coral lagoons rich with marine life. Cruisers who venture through these islands discover protected waters, welcoming villages, and unforgettable scenery. This guide highlights the most reliable, scenic, and culturally significant anchorages to help you plan safe, confident, and memorable stops throughout the archipelago.
The Solomon Islands offer some of the most atmospheric and rewarding anchorages in the South Pacific, remote lagoons, volcanic backdrops, WWII relics, and villages where traditional life continues largely unchanged. Because the region is vast and lightly charted, the best anchorages tend to be those that combine good holding, protection from swell, and access to friendly communities. Below is a curated selection of the most reliable and memorable anchorages for cruising yachts, organized by region.
Gizo is one of the most practical anchorages in the Solomons, offering a balance of protection, provisioning, and access to dive sites. The anchorage off Gizo Town has good holding in sand, though it can get busy with local traffic. It’s an ideal first stop for yachts arriving from PNG or Vanuatu. Highlights include:
Lola Island, home to Zipolo Habu Resort, is one of the most cruiser‑friendly spots in the Solomons. The lagoon is calm, the holding is reliable, and the resort offers moorings, meals, and a warm welcome for those desperate for creature comforts. Highlights include:
Noro is a recommended port of entry with a protected harbor and straightforward access to fuel, markets, and there is a tuna cannery here. It’s not the most scenic anchorage, but it’s one of the most useful. Highlights include:
Munda offers a calm anchorage with a small-town feel, excellent diving, and access to shops and a runway. It’s a great staging point for exploring the New Georgia group. Highlights include:
Ringgi Cove sits at the base of Kolombangara’s perfect volcanic cone. It’s a deep, sheltered anchorage with a dramatic backdrop and access to hiking trails and local villages. Highlights include:
Tulagi offers one of the safest anchorages near Honiara, with deep, calm water and good holding. It’s a quieter alternative to the capital and a hub for technical diving. Highlights include:
Roderick Bay is famous for its friendly village and the wreck of the MS World Discoverer, which lies dramatically on the reef. The anchorage is calm, scenic, and culturally rich. Highlights include:
Santa Ana is one of the most culturally significant islands in the Solomons. The anchorage is well‑protected in settled weather, and the village is known for traditional dances and warm hospitality. Highlights include:
Ugi offers quiet, scenic anchorages with good holding and friendly villages. It’s a great stop for cruisers heading east toward Santa Ana or south toward Makira. Highlights include:
Graciosa Bay is one of the few safe anchorages in the remote Santa Cruz group. It’s a long way from anywhere, but the cultural experience is extraordinary. Highlights include:
The Solomon Islands offer a diverse collection of anchorages that blend natural protection, cultural richness, and stunning scenery. From calm volcanic bays to intricate coral lagoons, each stop provides its own character and cruising rewards. Many anchorages sit near welcoming villages, while others offer quiet isolation and exceptional snorkelling. This summary highlights the most reliable, scenic, and practical anchorages in the Solomon Islands to help cruisers plan confident, well‑informed passages through the archipelago.