About The Port Of Santa Cruz Highlands
Santa Cruz Highlands rises above the Santa Cruz Islands group in the Solomons' remote Temotu Province, one of the most isolated corners of the South Pacific. Steep, forested slopes give way to small coastal settlements where outrigger canoes still serve as the primary means of travel between islands. The interior's volcanic terrain and dense tropical canopy shelter a landscape largely unaltered by development, offering a rare glimpse of Melanesian life far from well-traveled routes.
Visits here typically involve tender landings, as no deep-water pier serves the area, followed by short excursions into nearby villages where local customs and craftsmanship remain central to daily life. Travelers can expect warm, informal welcomes rather than curated attractions, with the surrounding reefs and clear waters offering additional appeal for those interested in marine life. The setting rewards curiosity and an appreciation for authenticity over polish.
Pavlus Recommendations
How our planners would spend a day in Santa Cruz Highlands.
Visit a Village Welcome
Join an informal reception in a coastal settlement where locals share dance, craftsmanship, and daily customs largely untouched by outside influence. Reached by tender and a short walk from the landing point.
Snorkel the Surrounding Reef
Clear, current-fed waters around the islands harbor vibrant coral and reef fish, best explored just offshore from the tender landing. Bring your own gear, as facilities are minimal.
Watch Outrigner Canoes at Work
Observe traditional outrigger canoes ferrying people and goods between islands, a living transport method rather than a staged display. A brief stroll along the shoreline offers good vantage points.
Last Minute Cruise Deals From Santa Cruz Highlands
| Departs | Cruise Line | Ship | Itinerary | Nights | From | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Feb 22, 2027 | Ponant Cruises | Le Soleal | 15 | $12,090 | ||
| May 7, 2027 | Avalon Waterways | Delfin III | 19 | $19,362 | ||
| May 9, 2027 | Avalon Waterways | Delfin III | 17 | $18,182 | ||
| Jun 4, 2027 | Avalon Waterways | Delfin III | 19 | $16,962 | ||
| Jun 6, 2027 | Avalon Waterways | Delfin III | 17 | $15,782 | ||
| Sep 4, 2027 | Ponant Cruises | Le Jacques Cartier | 16 | $14,570 | ||
| Oct 8, 2027 | Avalon Waterways | Delfin III | 19 | $16,892 | ||
| Oct 10, 2027 | Avalon Waterways | Delfin III | 17 | $15,712 | ||
| Oct 22, 2027 | Avalon Waterways | Delfin III | 19 | $16,892 | ||
| Oct 24, 2027 | Avalon Waterways | Delfin III | 17 | $15,712 | ||
| Nov 5, 2027 | Avalon Waterways | Delfin III | 19 | $16,792 | ||
| Nov 7, 2027 | Avalon Waterways | Delfin III | 17 | $15,612 | ||
| Jan 21, 2028 | Ponant Cruises | Le Jacques Cartier | 13 | $13,320 | ||
| Jan 28, 2028 | Avalon Waterways | Delfin III | 19 | $18,691 | ||
| Jan 30, 2028 | Avalon Waterways | Delfin III | 17 | $17,431 | ||
| Apr 7, 2028 | Avalon Waterways | Delfin III | 19 | $18,791 | ||
| Apr 9, 2028 | Avalon Waterways | Delfin III | 17 | $17,531 | ||
| May 5, 2028 | Avalon Waterways | Delfin III | 19 | $18,861 | ||
| May 7, 2028 | Avalon Waterways | Delfin III | 17 | $17,601 | ||
| May 19, 2028 | Avalon Waterways | Delfin III | 19 | $18,861 |
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