Today, many destinations today underline surfing as one of their key attractions. But the one factor that separates the Solomon Islands from its competition is the one thing all surfers crave more than anything – uncrowded waves.
And this is where the Solomon Islands delivers in spades.
While the destination’s two best-known surf regions are Gizo in the Western Province and Santa Isabel, there are still literally dozens of secret spots throughout this archipelago of 992 islands, the locations of which are closely guarded by a handful of hard travelling board riders. Gizo offers two of the best breaks to be found anywhere in the Western Province – Paelonge, a speedy right hander breaking over a shallow reef, while just a few hundred metres away, Titiana offers a looping, tubing lefthander.
The best places for surfers to stay are the dedicated surfing camps, particularly in Santa Isabel, all of which package accommodation, boats, meals and easy access to those all-important surf breaks.
These include a new surf resort – Nafinua Surf Retreat in Makira-Ulawa Province which opened its doors for the first time in March.
But without doubt, the jewel in the Solomon Islands’ surfing crown is Papatura Island Retreat. Sitting on a beautiful sandy beach facing the main island of Santa Isabel, Papatura Island Retreat is one of the best surfing set-ups to be found anywhere in the South Pacific.
Best of all, Papatura Island Retreat limits the number of board riders to a maximum of 14 at any one time – so with more than 20 different breaks to choose from, it’s a surfer’s dream.
Still too busy – just two hours along the coast is Vavaghio Guest House which limits numbers to just eight surfers at any one time.
For more information on surfing in the Solomon Islands, go to visitsolomons.com.sb or contact Richard Skewes, trade manager NZ, Tourism Solomons – +61 412 524 699, trade@tourismsolomons.com.sb