Takapuna Rest House

Takapuna Rest House is family owned, funded by the Solomon Islands Government through the Ministry of Culture and Tourism in 2016, and sits on the southern part of Ranongga Island in the Western Province. It is a simple establishment, deliberately so — a locally designed leaf construction house for people who want to experience remote life. Guests come to Ranongga for its people, its culture and the care they are shown, and tend to leave feeling like family.

Where you stay

Two rooms accommodating four people at a time, with a shower and flush toilet. You do not need to cook: the local house staff provide everything, so you can sit back and take in the way of living here, with a touch of adventure. Fresh wind blows in off the ocean.

The cultural centre

The cultural information centre at Takapuna is where you learn the history and culture of Ranongga and the wider Western Province. You can visit the old tambu sites, watch for rare bird species, and see first-hand how locals are reviving the old tapa cloths, with traditional dancers from Ranongga performing live. You will also see traditional cooking ovens and cooking with bamboo. A trip to Mount Koritinu takes in the historical sites and makes a rare adventure of about three hours. Your guide is Mr Kenneth Roga, who worked as culture officer for Western Province for 20 years and closely with the British Museum.

Things to do

Your host Denver can arrange all tours. There is a crocodile viewing area on Ranongga about 15 minutes’ drive from Takapuna, and bush walking to see the different bird species and wild pigs in the forest. Fishing is one of the biggest attractions here — bring your own gear. The island has coverage from both of the country’s largest communication companies, Bemobile and Telekom.