A simple beachside resort located 15km west of Honiara offering budget beach accommodation in traditional-style bungalows. The property sits on a pleasant beach with calm swimming and provides an escape from the city at affordable rates. Basic facilities with authentic local atmosphere.
Kakabona Village Resort sits on a stretch of dark volcanic-sand beach in Kakabona Village, approximately 15 kilometres west of Honiara along the north Guadalcanal coast. The drive from the capital takes around 20 minutes by taxi or shared PMV bus, making it the closest dedicated beach escape from the city for most visitors staying in or transiting through Honiara.
The property operates traditional-style bungalows with corrugated iron roofing and timber frames, positioned close to the waterline. Accommodation ranges from basic rooms with shared facilities to slightly upgraded bungalows with private bathrooms and electric fans. Air conditioning is not standard, but the coastal position generates reliable sea breezes for much of the year. The shoreline is calm and suitable for swimming, with the dark sand characteristic of this volcanic section of the Guadalcanal coast.
A small open-air restaurant on site serves grilled fish, noodles, and local vegetable dishes at straightforward prices. The kitchen sources much of its produce from the adjacent village market. There is no bar licence; guests bringing their own alcohol should confirm current house policies at check-in.
Water activities include shore snorkelling over a modest reef, sea kayaks for guest use, and fishing excursions arranged through the village. Staff can connect guests with local guides offering day trips to nearby WWII relics along the north Guadalcanal coast, including the remains of aircraft and landing craft accessible within a few kilometres. The village atmosphere is sociable and informal, with local life providing an authentic counterpoint to more polished Honiara hotels. Kakabona suits backpackers and budget travellers who prioritise beach access and proximity to Honiara over resort facilities.
Amenities
- beachfront location
- traditional bungalows
- restaurant
- snorkeling
- kayaks
- local village experience
- peaceful setting
- fishing trips
Location
Kakabona Village, West Guadalcanal
-9.4471, 159.8118 View on map
Highlights
- Beachfront bungalows on Guadalcanal's north coast, 15 kilometres and 20 minutes from Honiara by road
- Shore snorkelling and sea kayaking from the dark volcanic sand beach
- Access to local guides for WWII relic excursions along the north Guadalcanal coast
- Authentic village atmosphere with home-style local cooking at modest prices
- Lowest-cost beach accommodation with direct Honiara road access
Tips for visiting
- PMV buses to and from Honiara pass along the highway above the resort; ask staff for the correct stop to flag one down
- Bring cash — the resort does not have card facilities and the nearest ATM is in central Honiara
- Pre-arrange any local guide excursions the day before; guides have other commitments and early morning departures require advance notice
- The beach is best for swimming at high tide when water covers the reef shelf closest to shore
- Bring your own snorkelling gear if you have it — rental equipment availability can vary
When to visit
May to October (dry season) for clearer skies and calmer sea conditions. The property is accessible year-round; light rain is possible even in drier months.
Accessibility
Ground-floor bungalows with direct beach access over flat sandy terrain. No elevator. Shared bathroom facilities involve short outdoor walks. Road access from Honiara via paved coastal highway.