Marovo Lagoon

Marovo Lagoon, in the Western Solomons, is one of the natural wonders of the Pacific, the largest double-barrier lagoon in the world, some 700 square kilometres between the extinct volcanic islands of Vangunu and Nggatokae, a vast, dazzling expanse of calm turquoise water enclosed by a rare double barrier reef and studded with countless small, jungle-clad islands. This pristine, spectacularly beautiful realm is a paradise for snorkelling and diving among vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life, and for exploring by kayak and boat among the maze of islands. Its villages are renowned across the Pacific for their exquisite woodcarving, and simple community-run eco-lodges offer an immersion in this remote, unspoilt island world.

Highlights

• The vast lagoon - among the largest saltwater lagoons anywhere.
• The double barrier reef - the rare reef enclosing the lagoon.
• The snorkelling and diving - the coral reefs and marine life.
• The woodcarving villages - the renowned Marovo carvers.

When to go

May to October, the drier season, for the best weather, calmest waters and clearest diving and snorkelling conditions; the lagoon is reached by a flight from Honiara to Seghe and then a boat trip, and explored from simple community-run eco-lodges, a remote and rewarding escape best enjoyed over several unhurried days.

Before you go

Marovo is deeply remote, reached by flights and boats and offering only simple community-run eco-lodges with basic facilities, so it suits adventurous, laid-back travellers rather than those seeking comfort or amenities, and the Solomon Islands overall are undeveloped with limited infrastructure. For the reward of the world's largest double-barrier lagoon, a pristine paradise of turquoise water, jungle islands, superb reefs and renowned carving villages, far from any crowd, though, Marovo is genuinely extraordinary.

Nearby

The Western Solomons' islands and the capital Honiara are reached by boat and air.

Key facts