The South Pacific's Best-Kept Secret Are These Islands Full Of Pristine Beaches And Seclusion

East of Indonesia's little-known Raja Ampat archipelago is one of the best-kept secrets in the South Pacific for travelers seeking a secluded island destination. This beachy wonderland is known as the Solomon Islands in Oceania's Melanesia subregion. These stunning tropical islands feature preserved natural beauty, incredible biodiversity, and uncrowded beaches. Composed of 992 atolls and islands, this fascinating area welcomes visitors looking for everything from luxurious resort stays to adventurous underwater excursions.

Accessible by plane or boat, the Solomon Islands allow many travelers to obtain a visitor's visa upon arrival. Once you get there, passenger boats, minibuses, taxis, and rental cars are available to help you get out and explore the region's serene shores and natural wonders. If you are not a fan of coordinating your own transportation in a new place, you should consider hiring a travel agency or operator to take the stress out of your vacation planning.

Similar to other quiet island getaways, the hundreds of islets that make up this paradise provide visitors with tons of stunning beaches to explore. Even better, the Solomon Islands' reputation as an uncrowded oasis means you can enjoy these secluded beaches without worrying about competing for space on the sand. For a day spent swimming in clean, sparkling waters or lounging beneath shady trees, head to Mbonege Beach on Ruaniu Island. Beachgoers love this spot's safe waters and views of an old shipwreck, but visitors who prefer shallow waters should be aware of the water's drop-off into the Iron Bottom Sound.

If you want your beach day to include scuba diving and adventurous walks, visit the beaches of Papatura Island. This Solomon Islands destination is an amazing spot for visitors looking to snorkel, dive, surf, fish, or stroll through the tropical rainforest. It's home to several charming bungalows for travelers to stay in, and families will appreciate the island's kid-friendly activities, like crafting with coconut leaves and learning about local flora.

Tucked between Fiji's top-rated islands and Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands face many of the same weather patterns as these areas. Like many destinations in the South Pacific, the Solomon Islands experience a dry and wet season. The dry season runs from May to October, and the wet season is from November to April. As you might expect, the wet season features plenty of rain — nearly 12 inches (300mm) in a month. Cyclones, while not common, may appear during this time, too.

These conditions make the dry season best for travelers who prefer clear skies. Still, no matter when you visit, expect heat and humidity in the Solomon Islands. Temperatures vary little from season to season, and the region's annual average temperature measures at about 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The Solomon Islands' relative humidity also stays consistent, reaching a maximum of 81% in some months.