solomon islands map and information page

Details

The Solomons were first settled by Melanesian peoples some 4,000 years ago.

Extending about 900 miles in total length, the Solomons are a wide-spread archipelago of mountainous, (heavily forrested) volcanic islands (some active), and a few low-lying coral atolls.

Included in the mix are six major islands and approximately 1,000 smaller islands, all ending in the Santa Cruz Islands of the far southeast.

In the 16th century the Spanish (searching for gold) were the first Europeans to build scattered settlements here. All eventually failed, and the British subsequently established a protectorate over the Solomon Islands in 1893. It was then seized by the Japanese in 1942.

During World War II, some of the heaviest fighting of that war occurred in the Solomons, with the bloodiest and most decisive battle fought on the island of Guadalcanal.

After decades of nationalistic feelings, the Solomons achieved self-government in 1976, and independence from the UK in 1978. They remain a member of the British Commonwealth.

The major industries are agriculture, forestry and fishing. Tourism is a growing in economic impact, however, travelers are warned to be aware of potential ethnic violence and a rising crime rate.

For additional info about the Solomons, go here.

Facts and Figures

Official Name Solomon Islands

Population 496,200

Capital City Honiara (54,600)

Flag here

Languages Melanesian (Pigin), others

Official Currency Solomon Island Dollar

Currency Converter here

Religions Anglican, Catholic, others

Land Area 28,900 sq km (11,158 sq miles)

Latitude/Longitude 9º 43S, 159º 91E

Highest Point Makarakomburu 8,028 ft. (2,447 m)

Time and Date in Honiara

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Maps

Solomon Islands Large Color Map here

Solomon Islands Map CIA version here

Solomon Islands Outline Map here

Solomon Islands Maps at UT here

Oceania Maps here

Suggested Links

Solomon Islands (Complete) information on the (GDP) overall economy, imports and exports, resources, government, population, military, transportation, and more here

Solomon Islands Diving here

Solomon Islands History here

Solomon Islands Photos here

Solomon Islands Tourism here

Climate Weather in the Solomons is generally warm and humid, though local temperatures are rarely excessive due to prevailing trade winds. Daytime highs are normally in the mid-80s.

November through March is the rainy season, with slightly warmer temperatures throughout the islands.