Tangarare

Tangarare is a coastal village on the northwestern tip of Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, located near Cape Esperance. This area marks the westernmost extent of Guadalcanal's north coast and overlooks Ironbottom Sound toward Savo Island. Tangarare was the site of the evacuation of the Japanese garrison from Guadalcanal in February 1943, known as Operation Ke, and remnants of wartime activity are scattered along the coast. The village is surrounded by coconut plantations and rainforest. The climate is tropical, hot and humid year-round, with a wet season from November to March.

By Plane

The nearest airport is Honiara International Airport (IATA: HIR), about 40 km east. From the airport, take a taxi or minibus west along the coastal road.

By Car / Road

From Honiara, follow the Kukum Highway west for approximately 40 km. The road is sealed as far as central Guadalcanal but becomes rougher beyond. Minibuses operate from Honiara to the northwest coast villages. The drive takes about 1 hour.

Tangarare is a small village and walkable on foot. Footpaths connect the houses and the beach. For exploring the Cape Esperance area, a 4WD vehicle or boat is recommended.

• Cape Esperance — the northernmost point of Guadalcanal, offering sweeping views of Ironbottom Sound and Savo Island.

• Operation Ke evacuation site — the beach from which Japanese forces evacuated in February 1943.

• WWII relics — wrecked equipment and gun emplacements along the coast.

• Savo Island views — the volcanic island is clearly visible across the sound.

• WWII history trekking — walk the coastline to explore battle and evacuation sites.

• Boat trips to Savo Island — arrange a local fishing boat to cross to Savo (30 minutes).

• Fishing and snorkelling — the reefs off Cape Esperance offer good marine life.

• Jungle walks — explore the rainforest-clad slopes above the village.

village guesthouses provide meals. Seafood and coconut-based dishes are standard.

coconut water is widely available. Bring treated water from Honiara.

• Budget: basic village homestay accommodation; arrange through the Guadalcanal provincial government office in Honiara.
• Mid-range: No mid-range accommodation available.
• Upscale: No upscale accommodation available.

no shops — Tangarare is remote. Bring all supplies from Honiara.

• Visale (east along the coast) — coastal village with more WWII history.
• Savo Island (30 min by boat) — volcanic island, hot springs, and megapode birds.
• Honiara (40 km east) — the national capital.
• Lambi (east) — coastal village near the Tassafaronga battlefield.