Solomon Peace Memorial Park


The road to Mt Austen begins in Kukum and climbs up to the historical sites where Japanese troops doggedly resisted the US advance. About 3.5km from the main coastal road, this large, white memorial was built by Japanese war veterans in 1981 to commemorate all who died in the WWII Guadalcanal campaign.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Mount Austen

1.7 MILES

The clearing at the summit of Mt Austen (410m) offers a marvellous view northeas over Henderson. Americans in WWII dubbed this spot Grassy Knoll. There’s…

2. Holy Cross Catholic Cathedral

2.17 MILES

Honiara's most prominent religious building is this cathedral perched on a hill to the east of the centre. Visitors are welcome to attend, but make sure…

3. US War Memorial

2.24 MILES

This superb memorial is a five-minute taxi ride from the centre. The well-maintained compound has marble slabs bearing detailed descriptions of battles…

4. Central Market

2.32 MILES

While Honiara won't be mistaken for Lagos, the country’s bubbling principal food market covers a whole block between Mendana Ave and the seafront. It has…

5. National Parliament

2.67 MILES

The conical-shaped concrete building that’s perched on the hill above Hibiscus Ave is the National Parliament. Inside, the dome boasts a rich tapestry of…

6. Mataniko Falls

2.78 MILES

One of the star attractions in Honiara’s hinterlands is Mataniko Falls, which feature a spectacular thundering of water down a cliff straight into a…

7. National Museum

2.88 MILES

This modest museum – there is only one room – features interesting displays and old photographs on traditional dance, body ornamentation, currency,…

8. Betikama SDA Mission

3.27 MILES

In Betikama village, this sprawling property comprises a small WWII museum with an outdoor collection of salvaged material (mostly US aircraft) as well as…