Things To Do
in Sola
Sola is a coastal town on the island of Efate, offering a gateway to traditional Ni-Vanuatu culture and pristine Pacific beaches. The area blends quiet village life with accessible marine experiences, from snorkeling to easy seaside walks. Fishermen’s harbors, markets, and small guesthouses give visitors a taste of island rhythms and hospitality.
Expect warm, friendly encounters, tropical scenery, and a laid-back pace suited for short getaways or a mellow island stay.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Sola, Vanuatu and check into your beachfront accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll along the pristine sandy shores, breathing in the fresh ocean air. Settle in and allow the tranquility of the island to wash over you.
Visit the local markets to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and pick up some unique souvenirs. Sample delicious local cuisine, enjoying a refreshing coconut water as the sun begins to descend. Engage with local artisans and learn about their crafts.
Unwind with a sunset dinner at a seaside restaurant, savoring freshly caught seafood. Listen to the gentle waves lapping at the shore as the sky transforms into a canvas of colors. End the night with a soothing walk under a starlit sky.
Start your day with a guided tour of the breathtaking waterfalls around Sola. Feel the refreshing mist on your face as you navigate through lush tropical landscapes. Capture stunning photographs of the cascading waters.
After a picnic lunch by the falls, head to a nearby village to experience an authentic tribal cultural performance. Participate in traditional dances and listen to stories passed down through generations. Take part in local crafts as you learn new skills from the villagers.
Return to your accommodation and enjoy a calming swim in the ocean. As night falls, indulge in a traditional Melanesian feast prepared by local chefs. Enjoy the warmth of a bonfire while sharing stories with fellow travelers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🥤Bottle of water | $1-2 |
| 🚗Taxi or short ride | $5-15 |
| 🧭Local SIM card with data | $5-15 |
| 🥖Grocery staple (bread, rice, etc.) | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm hospitality and a relaxed pace
- Beautiful marine scenery and accessible snorkeling
- Authentic village experiences and culture
- Compact area convenient for short trips
- Limited infrastructure in some areas
- Remote distances to larger services or hospitals
- Occasional cyclone risk during the wet season
- "Olsem wanem?" - How are you?
- "Tank yu" - Thank you
- "Wetin ia?" - What is this?
- "Mi laik save pothman" - I would like information
- "Gud morning" - Good morning
Places to Visit in Sola
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden light over calm waters, with colorful boats and silhouettes of palm trees along the quay.
Lush rainforest backdrop with cascading waterfalls visible from elevated viewpoints.
Vibrant street life, fishing boats, and market stalls offering candid scenes of locals at work.
Food in Sola
Sola Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional coconut milk–steamed pudding of grated root vegetables (often taro or manioc) wrapped and cooked in banana leaves; a staple across Vanuatu.
Must-Try!
Freshly caught reef fish grilled or pan-seared, finished with a fragrant coconut and lime sauce.
A curry featuring local coconut flavors and seafood; available at some coastal eateries and market stalls.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hub for fruits, vegetables, fish, and prepared snacks; a great place to taste fresh local produce and chat with vendors.
A smaller market area offering produce, baked goods, and simple street bites; ideal for a quick, tasty bite and photography.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people with a smile and a simple handshake. Show respect when visiting villages; seek permission before entering, and dress modestly in public areas and religious sites.
Ask permission before taking photos of individuals, families, or ceremonies; some events may restrict photography.
Safety
Tipping in Sola
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory. If service is good and a service charge is not included, a tip of around 5–10% is reasonable in restaurants; for guides or drivers, small tips are customary.
Cash in local currency (Vatu) is widely accepted in small shops; many larger establishments also take cards. Bring some cash for markets and rural areas where card facilities may be limited.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Pleasant, cooler evenings with low humidity and clearer skies. A good time for outdoor activities, coastal walks, and photography at golden hour.
Warm and humid with regular tropical showers and potential storms. Lush landscapes and more dramatic skies, but plan for occasional rain delays.
Sola at Night
Hiking in Sola
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic coastal hike with ocean views, coastal vegetation, and the opportunity to spot seabirds.
A manageable forest walk near the village offering a glimpse of local flora and a cooler microclimate.
Airports
How to reach Sola by plane.
Main international gateway to Efate; provides both domestic and international connections. From here, you can catch a domestic flight to Santo or Malekula and other islands.
Located on Espiritu Santo; serves regional flights and connects visitors traveling between Santo and Efate or other islands.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Melanesian communities with strong cultural traditions and family-centered social structures.
Small but growing mix around tourist areas, guesthouses, and resorts, contributing to a cosmopolitan hospitality scene.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across the islands, with informal games common in villages and towns.
Both sport fishing and traditional fishing are widely practiced by locals and visiting anglers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sola.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can rely on abundant root vegetables, fruits, and coconut milk. Look for vegetable curries, salads, and rice or taro-based dishes; ask for no fish sauce if avoiding seafood stock.