Santa Isabela Island

Santa Isabel Island is the longest in the Solomon Islands, South Pacific, and the largest in Isabel Province. The terrain here is rugged with almost impassable mountains. It is surrounded by a fringing reef and has some of the most pristine waters and coral reefs anywhere in the world.

The provincial capital is Buala, which has an airport. Other villages include Kaevanga in the south, Samasodu and Kia in the north. Villages are all traditional, with beautifully kept leaf houses and gardens. The highest point is Mount Sasari, 1220 meters (3675 ft). River Marutho runs down that mountain into the ocean at Hofi. Almost all the rivers or streams run down that center point except for those at the other tip of the Island, Katova side.

The village of Kia in the north is of especial interest, as it is built mainly on stilts over the clear lagoon waters. All transport is by canoe, outboard or dugout.

Things to see and do
* Kayaking
* Diving and snorkeling
* Island exploration
* Kia village visit

Cruise Season – Jan - Dec
Currency – Solomon Islands Dollar (SBD)
Language – English, Melanesian Pijin
Land Area – 2,999 km²
Population – 32,000 approx
Electricity – 2 angled flat pins and 1 round pin centred below Australian style
Time – GMT plus eleven hours
International Country Telephone Code – + 677

Port Location – Anchorage is available offshore at Kia village.

Transport Links – An airstrip is located in Fera, which is the landing point for the Sol-Air service to Isabel. It is a 15 minute boat ride from Buala.