Things To Do
in Buala
Buala is a small coastal town on Santa Isabel Island, serving as the provincial capital of Choiseul Province. It is framed by lush jungle, rugged coastline, and a friendly, close-knit community. Life centers around the sea and traditional villages, with markets and small guesthouses giving visitors a glimpse of island rhythms.
While remote, Buala offers a gateway to Solomon Islands’ rich Melanesian culture, coral reefs, and pristine beaches.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Buala and take in the pristine beauty of the Solomon Islands. After settling into your accommodation, immerse yourself in the tranquil ambiance of the area as you enjoy a light breakfast featuring local fruits. Gather your belongings and prepare for an exciting exploration ahead.
Embark on a guided tour of the nearby villages, where you can interact with the friendly locals and learn about their culture. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local eatery, sampling traditional delicacies like cassava and fresh fish. As the day unfolds, take a leisurely stroll along the stunning coastlines to soak in the natural beauty.
As the sun sets, gather around a beach bonfire and enjoy the sounds of the ocean. Relish a dinner of fresh seafood while sharing stories with fellow travelers under a sky full of stars. This serene atmosphere provides a perfect conclusion to your first day.
Start your day with an early breakfast before heading out for an exciting snorkeling adventure at nearby coral reefs. Explore vibrant underwater worlds filled with colorful marine life and stunning coral formations. Capture memories through photography as you swim alongside tropical fish.
Take a break for lunch on a deserted beach, enjoying the warm sun and gentle sea breeze. Afterward, continue your underwater exploration or relax on the beach, soaking in the beauty of the surrounding nature. Consider a nature hike in the afternoon to discover the local flora and fauna.
Return to Buala for a refreshing shower and an evening of relaxation. Savor a dinner at a seaside restaurant while enjoying the cool ocean breeze. End your day with a stroll along the beach as you reflect on your adventurous experiences.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🧃Bottle of water (1.5 L) | $1-2 |
| 🍺Domestic beer | 2-4 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel room per night | $25-60 |
| 🚗Short taxi or boat transfer | $3-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich coastal scenery and friendly communities
- Relatively low crowds and authentic local experiences
- Limited infrastructure and remote access
- Sparse dining and nightlife options
- "Helo" - Hello
- "Tenkiu" - Thank you
- "Plis" - Please
- "Wea i stap?" - Where is it?
- "Mi laik kisim samting" - I would like to order / ask for this
Places to Visit in Buala
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide water reflections with fishing boats and silhouettes of fishermen as the sun rises.
Vibrant stalls, baskets of produce, and locals in motion create colorful, candid scenes.
A rocky overlook above the town offering expansive ocean and island views.
Long, carved canoes and bright patterns set against turquoise water.
Food in Buala
Buala Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional root-vegetable dish (often taro or yam) layered in banana leaves and slowly cooked, usually accompanied by coconut cream.
Must-Try!
Raw reef fish cured in lime juice and coconut milk with fresh vegetables; a refreshing coastal specialty.
Fresh fish simmered in coconut milk with herbs, served with steamed rice.
Hearty baked root vegetables with leafy greens and coconut, common at village meals.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Morning market stalls offering fresh reef fish, root vegetables, fruit, and prepared snacks.
Grilled fish, cassava chips, and fruit shakes along the water’s edge.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet locals with a friendly handshake; show respect to elders; ask permission before photos of people or interiors.
Dress modestly, especially in villages and religious sites; cover shoulders and knees when appropriate.
Always ask before photographing people, ceremonies, or homes; some communities may request a small fee for photos.
Safety
Tipping in Buala
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated but not expected; a small amount for good service is customary.
Cash (Solomon Islands dollar, SBD) is preferred in most rural places. Some guesthouses may accept AUD or USD; card facilities are uncommon in rural areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Wet and humid with frequent showers and occasional tropical storms. Better visibility for underwater life after rain; bring insect repellent and lightweight rain gear.
Less rain, cooler evenings, and calmer seas. Ideal for hiking, village visits, and long shoreline walks.
Buala at Night
Hiking in Buala
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Moderate hike with ocean views and opportunities for birdwatching.
Shaded path leading to a hilltop view of the bay and surrounding islands.
Airports
How to reach Buala by plane.
Main gateway to the Solomon Islands; domestic flights to Choiseul and other provinces operate here.
Small domestic airstrip offering charter flights from Honiara; schedule varies.
Regional option on the western side of the archipelago; access for island-hoppers and charter connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant group on Santa Isabel Island with rich cultural traditions.
Smaller groups and families from nearby islands who live and work in Buala.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across towns, with local leagues and pickup games.
Common in schools and community centers; informal games on weekends.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Buala.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options include root vegetables, fruits, leafy greens, and coconut-based dishes; communicate dietary needs with hosts and cooks.