EVERY year, from November to April when the northern Pacific swells sweep in from Hawaii, the Solomon Islands’ reefs and northly coastlines come alive with some of the most perfect waves to be found on the planet.
The destination’s two best-known surf regions are Gizo in the Western Province and Santa Isabel, but there are still dozens of secret spots throughout this 992-island archipelago, the locations of which are closely guarded by a handful of hard travelling board riders.
The best places for surfers to stay are the dedicated surfing camps, all of which package accommodation, meals, and boat access to the waves.
Waves-wise, Gizo in the Western Province offers Paelonge, a speedy right hander while just a few hundred metres away, Titiana is a goofy footer’s paradise.
Nafinua Surf Retreat in Makira-Ulawa Province, which opened in March, is already attracting a steady stream of surfers .
But without doubt, the jewel in the crown is Papatura Island Retreat, one of the best set-ups to be found anywhere in the South Pacific.
With board riders’ numbers limited to 14 at any one time and with some 20 breaks on hand, surfers are guaranteed an uncrowded surf, a rare commodity in these days of ever-more crowded waves in an ever more crowded world.
Still too busy? Two hours away you’ll f ind Vavagio Guesthouse which limits its numbers to just eight.