Explore Honiara’s Filming Locations

Immerse yourself in the unique charm and allure of Honiara, the capital city of the Solomon Islands, through the lens of cinema, literature and television. This comprehensive guide explores the city’s rich cinematic heritage, showcasing the locations and places that have played pivotal roles in the creation of various films, books, and TV series.

Honiara in the Silver Screen: 6 Famous Films Shot in Honiara

Honiara is a city that boasts a vibrant blend of culture, history, and natural beauty, making it an ideal filming location for many directors. Here are six renowned films that have effectively utilized the unique charm and allure of Honiara to weave their cinematic tales:

1. “The Thin Red Line” (1998) – This war film, directed by Terrence Malick, captures the Battle of Guadalcanal during World War II, showcasing the lush landscapes and brutal combat scenes in Honiara.
2. “Tales of the South Seas” (1998) – This adventure series, shot in and around Honiara, depicts the daring exploits of a roguish seaplane pilot in the South Pacific of the 1930s.
3. “The Pacific” (2010) – This Emmy-winning miniseries, co-produced by Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks, depicts the Pacific Theatre of World War II, featuring sequences filmed in Honiara.
4. “The Lost Island” (2012) – This documentary uses the breathtaking scenery of Honiara and the surrounding islands, exploring the impact of climate change on the Pacific islands.
5. “Kokoda: The Spirit Lives” (2015) – This war documentary retraces the brutal WWII Kokoda Track campaign and features locations around Honiara.
6. “Blackbird” (2018) – This Australian-Solomon Islands feature film, shot in Honiara, tells a story about the little-known human trafficking of South Sea Islanders to Australia’s sugar cane fields.

Honiara on TV: TV Shows Set in Honiara

Honiara’s unique charm extends beyond the big screen to the world of television. Here are a few series that capture the essence of this captivating city:

1. “Pitcairn” (2015) – This mini-series, partially filmed in Honiara, follows the descendants of the mutineers of the Bounty as they struggle to build a life on the remote Pitcairn Island.
2. “Island Medics” (2018) – This reality TV show, filmed in Honiara, follows the work of medical professionals at the National Referral Hospital, the largest hospital in the Solomon Islands.
3. “Death in Paradise” (2011-present) – Although not shot in Honiara, this British-French crime drama series, set on a fictional Caribbean island, shares similar tropical vibes and settings.

Honiara in Animation: Animated Films Set in Honiara

Animated films provide a unique, creative perspective of Honiara, allowing for imaginative interpretations of the city’s landscapes and culture. Here are a few animated features that bring the spirit of Honiara to life:

1. “The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the South Seas” (1994) – This animated short film, inspired by the real-life journey of a drag queen across the Pacific, features vibrant representations of Honiara.
2. “The Legend of the Sea of Gold” (2006) – This animated series, set in a fictional version of Honiara, follows the adventures of a group of treasure hunters.
3. “Solomon’s Song” (2010) – This animated music video, created by Solomon Islander artist Sharzy, showcases various landmarks in Honiara.

Literary Honiara: Famous Books Set in Honiara

Honiara’s rich history and diverse culture have inspired many authors. Here are three classic and three contemporary books set in Honiara that will transport you straight to the heart of this enchanting city:

Classic:

1. “Solomon Time: An Unlikely Quest in the South Pacific” by Will Randall – This travelogue, set in Honiara, is a humorous and touching account of the author’s experiences in the Solomon Islands.
2. “The Happy Isles of Oceania: Paddling the Pacific” by Paul Theroux – This classic travel book, includes the author’s experiences and observations in Honiara.
3. “The Coastwatchers” by Eric Feldt – This book narrates the true story of the coastwatchers, a group of men stationed in the Solomon Islands during World War II, with significant portions set in Honiara.

Contemporary:

1. “Devil-Devil” by Graeme Kent – This murder mystery novel, set in Honiara, follows the adventures of a native police officer in the Solomon Islands.
2. “Solomon Islanders in World War II: An Indigenous Perspective” by Anna Annie Kwai – This historical book provides a local perspective on the impact of World War II on the Solomon Islands and Honiara.
3. “The Thin Red Line” by James Jones – This novel, which inspired the 1998 film, provides a gritty portrayal of the Battle of Guadalcanal, with key scenes set in and around Honiara.

Exploring Honiara’s Filming Locations – Where to Go

Honiara’s iconic landmarks and breathtaking landscapes have long been a favored canvas for filmmakers. Here are some essential filming locations in Honiara you must visit:

1. Guadalcanal American Memorial – This memorial, featured in “The Thin Red Line,” pays tribute to the American soldiers who fought in the Guadalcanal Campaign during World War II.
2. Honiara Central Market – This bustling market, featured in various films and documentaries, offers a vibrant taste of local life in Honiara.
3. National Referral Hospital – Featured in “Island Medics,” this hospital gives you a glimpse into the healthcare system of the Solomon Islands.
4. Honiara Botanical Gardens – This lush, sprawling garden has been the backdrop of several local films and series.
5. Iron Bottom Sound – This body of water, named after the numerous WWII shipwrecks on its seabed, has been featured in various war films and documentaries.

Where to Sleep in Honiara: From Budget to Luxury

Whether you’re looking for luxury accommodation or a budget-friendly option, Honiara offers a wide range of options to suit every travel style.

Luxury:

1. Heritage Park Hotel – This upscale hotel offers luxurious rooms and suites with stunning sea views, a swimming pool, and several dining options.
2. Coral Sea Resort & Casino – This luxury resort offers a unique blend of stylish accommodations, casual dining, and casino gaming.
3. King Solomon Hotel – Perched on a hillside, this hotel provides panoramic views of Honiara and the Pacific Ocean.

Budget:

1. Honiara Hotel – This budget-friendly hotel offers comfortable rooms with basic amenities, located close to the city center.
2. Pacific Casino Hotel – This budget-friendly option, located near the casino and the national museum, offers decent rooms with sea views.
3. Tanuli Royal Plains Motel – This budget motel offers clean, comfortable rooms, a friendly atmosphere, and is located close to the city center.

A Taste of Honiara: Where to Eat From Budget to Luxury

Honiara offers a myriad of dining options, from budget-friendly eateries to high-end restaurants. Here are some places to savor the local cuisine:

Budget:

1. Honiara Central Market – This bustling market offers a variety of local dishes at affordable prices. Try the freshly caught seafood or the local root crops.
2. Lime Lounge – This café and restaurant offers a wide selection of international and local dishes at reasonable prices.
3. Breakwater Café – Overlooking the sea, this café offers a variety of sandwiches, pastries, and coffee at affordable prices.

Luxury:

1. Capitana Restaurant at Heritage Park Hotel – This high-end restaurant offers a wide selection of international and local dishes, as well as a spectacular view of the sea.
2. Haydn’s Steakhouse at Coral Sea Resort & Casino – This upscale restaurant offers a variety of steak and seafood dishes, complemented by an extensive wine list.
3. Kitano Mendana Hotel Restaurant – This restaurant offers Japanese, Western and Solomon Island cuisines in a sophisticated setting.

Exploring Honiara: A Detailed 5-Day Itinerary

Embark on a cinematic journey through Honiara with this five-day itinerary:

Day 1: Honiara City Tour

Start your tour at the Guadalcanal American Memorial, a key filming location for “The Thin Red Line.” Visit the National Museum and the National Parliament, both featured in various documentaries.

Day 2: Market Day

Visit the Honiara Central Market, a bustling hub that has been featured in various films and TV shows. In the afternoon, stroll down Mendana Avenue, Honiara’s main street, and visit the various shops and eateries featured in local films.

Day 3: Natural Beauty

Visit the Honiara Botanical Gardens, a popular filming location. In the afternoon, take a boat ride on the Iron Bottom Sound, a key location in several war films.

Day 4: A Taste of Honiara

Spend the day sampling the city’s culinary scene, from the budget-friendly options at the Central Market to the high-end restaurants like Capitana.

Day 5: Local Culture

Visit the nearby village of Kakabona, a location for several local films, and learn about the local culture and traditions. In the evening, enjoy a traditional feast and dance performance.

Mysterious Honiara: Cryptid Legends and Curiosities

Honiara is a city steeped in myths, legends, and mysteries. One of the most popular legends is of the “Giluwe,” a Bigfoot-like creature said to dwell in the mountains of Guadalcanal. The “Ramo,” a half-man, half-crocodile creature, is another local cryptid. These tales add a layer of mystery to Honiara’s cinematic locations.

Hidden Gems in Honiara

Beyond the well-known filming locations, Honiara boasts hidden gems that offer unique views and experiences:

1. Mataniko Falls – Hidden in the hills behind Honiara, these waterfalls are a natural wonder that have inspired several local filmmakers.
2. Tenaru Waterfall – This secluded waterfall, located on the Tenaru River, is a hidden gem that offers a serene escape from the city.
3. Betikama SDA College – This college, located on the outskirts of Honiara, is known for its unique architecture and has been the backdrop for several local films.

What to Pack for a Trip to Honiara

Packing for a trip to Honiara requires consideration of the tropical climate and the activities you plan to do. Here are some essentials:

1. Comfortable footwear – With lots of walking and hiking opportunities, sturdy and comfortable footwear is a must.
2. Versatile clothing – Pack lightweight, breathable clothing for the tropical climate. Don’t forget a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings.
3. Sun protection – A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential to protect against the tropical sun.
4. Water bottle – Stay hydrated with a reusable water bottle.
5. Camera – Capture your own cinematic memories of Honiara.