Kaghau Airport

Kaghau Airport sits on a small island in the Solomon Islands' Western Province, accessible only by light aircraft from Honiara or Gizo. The airstrip is a grass strip running the length of the island, surrounded by shallow lagoons and coconut palms. Flights are infrequent and unscheduled beyond weekly services, but the airport serves as the primary link for Kaghau's population and a handful of visitors heading to nearby eco-lodges. The approach is one of the most scenic in the Pacific—planes descend over turquoise waters and coral reefs, giving passengers a view that justifies the journey before they even touch down.

Getting There

Kaghau is not connected by road, ferry, or any regular boat service from the major transport hubs. The only practical way to reach the airport is by flying into Kaghau itself, which means arriving via a domestic flight from Honiara's Henderson International Airport or from Gizo. Solomon Airlines operates flights to Kaghau, typically once or twice per week depending on demand and weather. The flight from Honiara takes about an hour in a Twin Otter or similar small aircraft, with a stop in Gizo possible.

Once on the island, there is no public transport. Visitors are met by staff from their accommodation if pre-arranged. The airstrip is within walking distance of the village and the Taqu Ecolodge, but heavy luggage should be carried or portaged by hand—there are no baggage carts. For those needing to reach Wagina Island, a dinghy transfer costs around SBD$1200 (about USD$140), fuel prices permitting. Arrangements should be made through the ecolodge or local boat operators before arrival.

Inside the Terminal

There is no terminal building in the usual sense. Kaghau Airport consists of a grass airstrip, a small shelter, a toilet block, and a fruit market. The shelter has bench seating and a roof but no walls—open to the breeze and the view. The toilet is basic but functional; carry your own toilet paper and hand sanitiser. The fruit market operates when flights are due, run by local women selling bananas, papayas, coconuts, and pineapples. Prices are low, and it's wise to buy fruit before leaving the island as the selection in Honiara is more expensive. No food or drinks are available for purchase besides the market goods, so bring water and snacks.

Departure involves a simple process: check-in happens on the grass near the aircraft. There is no security screening or baggage X-ray. Passengers must pay a departure tax of SBD$50 in cash—not included in the ticket and no card facilities exist. Have the exact amount ready. Flights are often full, but as the agent Yeates noted, you can usually turn up and buy a seat on any flight if there is space. However, booking ahead through Solomon Airlines is recommended during holiday periods.

Kaghau Airport and the Region

Kaghau is part of the Solomon Islands' Western Province, a region of dense rainforest, coral reefs, and traditional Melanesian culture. The island itself is small—roughly two kilometres long—and supports a village of a few hundred people who rely on subsistence fishing and gardening. The airport is the only reliable connection to the outside world, used primarily for medical evacuations, government business, and the occasional tourist drawn to the remote eco-lodges.

The standout reason to visit Kaghau is the Taqu Ecolodge, located on the neighbouring island of Taqu, a short boat ride away. It offers rustic beachfront bungalows with solar power, locally sourced food, and guided snorkelling excursions. The lagoon between Kaghau and Taqu is pristine—crystal-clear water with coral gardens teeming with fish, sea turtles, and occasional reef sharks. The area is also known for dugongs. Kayaking and village visits can be arranged. The cultural experience is authentic, with few foreign visitors and a strong sense of community.

Historically, the region was part of the British Solomon Islands Protectorate and saw fighting during World War II—nearby Gizo was a base for Allied forces. Today, the pace is slow. The airport's scenic approach underscores the isolation and beauty: flying in, you see patterns of coral and sand beneath the wing, then the grass strip appears like a green ribbon on a blue sea. For travellers who value discovery over convenience, Kaghau is a gem.

Practical Information

Kaghau Airport does not have its own website. Bookings should be made through Solomon Airlines (www.flysolomons.com) or a travel agent in Honiara. The airport is open only on flight days, which are generally Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday as per scheduled services, though times vary—busiest periods are late night to early morning (Monday 11pm, Tuesday 3am, Wednesday 9pm, Thursday 6am). Most flights arrive in daylight, but schedules can shift with weather.

Important tips: Carry cash—SBD$50 departure tax per person, plus extra for fruit and boat transfers. Pack light; small planes have weight restrictions and limited baggage space. Use waterproof bags for belongings as boat transfers involve salt spray. Arrange accommodation and transfers in advance using satellite phone or email (the ecolodge has limited connectivity). Insect repellent is essential, as is sun protection. No ATM or bank exists on the island.

One final piece of advice: arrive at the airstrip at least 30 minutes before departure for check-in, even without a terminal. And buy a stalk of bananas from the market—they are delicious and a gesture of support for the local community.