Dive into the Waters of Gizo! Located in the Western Province of the Solomon Islands, Gizo is a dream destination for diving enthusiasts. With its crystal-clear blue waters, vibrant coral reefs, and historic World War II wrecks, this region offers a diverse array of dive sites. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced diver, Gizo’s underwater world promises breathtaking encounters and unforgettable adventures.
Recommended Dive Sites in Gizo
Toa Maru
A 140-meter-long (459-foot-long) Japanese transport ship rests between depths of seven to 37 meters (23 to 121 feet). Inside the wreck, divers can observe artifacts, such as bottles, medical supplies, motorcycles, and even a two-man tank, making it a fascinating dive into history.
Joe’s Wall
This steep wall dive starts from the shallows, known for its excellent visibility and vibrant marine life. This site is ideal for spotting an array of rare macro subjects, including pigmy seahorses and nudibranchs. Divers can enjoy a slow drift dive along the wall.
Grand Central Station
Located at the northwestern tip of Gizo, this site is where ocean currents converge, attracting an incredible variety of marine species. Expect encounters with sharks, jacks, batfish, and other large pelagic species. It is also recognized as one of the world’s top fish aggregation sites, where divers can spot and identify over 279 species on a single dive.
American Hellcat Fighter Plane
A well-preserved World War II aircraft resting in a shallow lagoon at a depth of approximately 10 meters (33 feet). The sunlight filtering through the water makes for a mesmerizing dive experience, offering a unique blend of history and marine beauty.
Beyond the Blue: Conservation and Cultural Experience in Baniata Village
For those looking to make their diving trip to Gizo even more meaningful, a visit to Baniata Village is highly recommended. Located on Rendova Island, this village is just a 15-minute flight from Gizo to Munda, followed by a 70-minute boat ride. The community is known for its warm hospitality and dedication to protecting the endangered leatherback turtles.
Protecting the Giants of the Ocean
Baniata is an essential nesting site for one of the oldest marine species on Earth, the leatherback turtle. The village runs conservation programs, including nesting site protection, hatchling monitoring, and environmental education. Visitors can witness nesting turtles and hatchlings during the peak seasons — nesting occurs between November and January, while hatching peaks from January to March.
Experience Local Life
Beyond conservation, Baniata offers visitors a chance to experience the authentic and unspoiled lifestyle of a traditional Solomon Islands village.
- Traditional Cooking Experience: Learn how to prepare local dishes using fresh ingredients from the islands, including seafood and organic vegetables.
- Baking with a Drum Oven: Try your hand at baking bread the traditional way, using a simple yet intriguing drum oven technique.
- Basket Weaving Workshop: Craft your own basket using locally sourced materials and discover the intricate weaving techniques passed down through generations.
Plan Your Next Dive Trip to Gizo!
With its world-class dive sites, the expert guidance of Dive Gizo, and the enriching cultural experience of Baniata Village, Gizo is the ultimate dive destination where adventure, culture, and conservation come together. Dive trips can be booked through Dive Gizo – Adventure Sports.
Your next unforgettable dive begins here!
*This article was written by Tourism Solomons.