FAQ’s

Getting There + Transportation

  • Located near Kavolavata village, Gatokae Island, in Marovo Lagoon in the Western Province of the Solomon Islands.

  • Marovo Lagoon is 200 Kilometres northwest of Honiara, the capital of the Solomon Islands. The most direct routes to Honiara are from Brisbane (Australia) or Nandi (Fiji), both a 3-hour flight to Honiara. There are also flights direct from Brisbane to Munda.

    From there it’s another 30 min to 1-hour flight to Seghe (Solomon Airlines) followed by a boat transfer to the Gatokae Island in the Marovo Lagoon (1.5 hrs-2 hrs weather depending).

  • From Seghe Airport

    Our crew will meet you at Seghe airport and help transport you and your luggage to one of our boats located a 5 minute walk from the airport.

    Avoid Saturday arrival/departure times, as we do not send transfer boats on Saturdays due to the Sabbath. Overnight stay in Seghe might be required. We can assist with bookings at Vanua Kino or Bluetown.

    9M power landing boat - 1-1.5 hour ride

    Single Boats - 1.5-2 hour ride

  • Transfers from Seghe airport to Driftwood lodge cost as follows:

    Price is per person, one way. Minimum 2 people.

    Adults: $200 AUD

    Child 7-12: $100 AUD

    Child 3-6: $50 AUD

Accommodation + Facilities

  • The Driftwood Experience incorporates adventure and eco-travel with a touch of creature comforts. Offering two unique accommodation styles—

    Driftwood Main House

    Three bedroom spacious house with large dining, lounge, and shared kitchen. Wraparound verandas with ocean views. Each bedroom has an ensuite bathroom.

    Ocean Bungalows

    Large private villas with kitchenettes and living space. Each bedroom has it’s own bathroom. Ocean-front views, nestled metres from the shoreline amongst the tropical jungle gardens. 

    Features

    Everything in the main house and bungalows has been made from scratch using natural materials and fallen trees - Driftwood.

    Each bedroom features a private ensuite with Australian-standard flushing toilets and cold-water showers supplied with fresh spring-fed water.

    Each house and bedroom is fitted with Australian power-points for electronics.

    Our friendly crew provides daily cooking and cleaning services, always greeting guests with warm hearts and big smiles. 

    CLICK HERE to explore Driftwood Accommodation.

  • Our communal kitchen is where we have all of our meals prepared and served. You can request for your food in your house or villas instead.

    We have a huge waterfront deck purpose-built for yoga, games, or just sitting and enjoying the views.

    Our gear-room is where we meet before our dives every morning, and gear up before getting on the boat.

  • Mosquito Nets & Insect Info

    Nets available on request. Every dwelling is fully screened. The area has very few mosquitos. Fans deter bugs at night.

    Electricity, Wifi & Charging

    Solar-powered Australian plugs. Wifi available, but digital detox encouraged.

    Please note that while we strive to maintain these luxuries, occasional challenges such as WiFi issues or equipment breakdowns may arise. Rest assured, it is our priority to resolve these promptly. However, do keep in mind that being on a remote island may occasionally result in longer than usual resolution times.

    Children Considerations

    Not baby-proof. Bring baby supplies.

    Babysitting is possible with local carers. Our staff are available to mind your children of all ages while you do other activities, or simply have a break from parenting duties!

    Child minding fees $15 AUD per hour.

  • Embracing off-grid living in the Solomon Islands offers a unique opportunity to disconnect from the hustle of modern life and immerse oneself in the rhythms of nature and community. Sustainability is a way of life woven into every aspect of daily existence. From subsistence farming and traditional hunting practices to communal gatherings, this lifestyle invites visitors to appreciate the simplicity and resilience of island communities. 

    With a profound glimpse into a lifestyle where tradition, community, and the natural environment are seamlessly intertwined, we find the beauty in fresh showers after a day of exploring, tropical island cuisine, and a few creature comforts including: 

    • flushing toilets

    • fresh (cold) water showers

    • clean drinking water

    • fridges

    • equipped kitchen (communal)

    • WIFI

    Each room is serviced with clean sheets and general tidying. A laundry service can be provided upon request. 

    Feel free to chat with our team before your stay to ensure all your questions are answered and preparations are made smoothly.

Solomon Island’s Culture

  • Nestled in the heart of the South Pacific, the Solomon Islands beckon eco-adventurers with their untouched natural beauty and vibrant marine life. This archipelago of over 900 islands boasts pristine coral reefs, dense rainforests teeming with endemic species, and a rich Melanesian culture waiting to be explored.

    From world-class diving spots where kaleidoscopic reefs meet curious marine giants, to secluded beaches fringed with coconut palms, the Solomon Islands offer a sanctuary for those seeking authentic and sustainable travel experiences in the midst of unspoiled wilderness.

  • Etiquette + Dress Code

    The Kavolavata people are friendly, traditional, and subsistence-based. They hold a deep respect for elders and land.

    Dress modestly in villages. Bikinis only at private or remote areas.

    Village Culture

    The moment you set foot on Gatokae Island, you will get an immediate sense of what life was like before Western civilisation.

    There are no cars and no roads – just idyllic bush tracks, canoes and narrow walking paths. It is a truly fulfilling experience to be able to step back in time and immerse yourself in the essence of nature.

    The people of Gatokae Island are one of the last civilisations who live a subsistence lifestyle. This means they are totally self-sufficient – they build their own homes, catch their own fish and grow their own food.

    The Gatokae people are master storytellers, and it is through the power of story that they learn from each other and share their wisdom with the younger generations. When you stay at Driftwood, you will no doubt enjoy many special moments with this wonderful community.

    Off-grid village life thrives with vibrant culture, tradition and warm community spirit, where locals welcome visitors with warm hearts and enormous smiles. We invite guests to embrace the slow pace of village living, where meals are shared under starlit skies and storytelling sparks new friendships and keeps ancient narratives alive.

    This immersion offers a profound glimpse into a lifestyle where sustainability, community, and tradition intertwine seamlessly in harmony with the natural environment.

    Living among the local community, guests will undoubtedly forge connections with nearby families and children who live as subsistence farmers, hunters, and gatherers, welcoming new visitors with kindness, gentleness and curiosity.

  • Solomon Islanders hold a deep reverence for their religious practices, notably observing Sabbath on Saturdays as part of their Seven Day Adventist faith. During this sacred day, communities across the islands engage in worship, reflection, and communal activities that strengthen their spiritual bonds. The Sabbath observance offers visitors a unique opportunity to witness the islanders' devotion and experience the peaceful rhythm of life in harmony with their beliefs.

    For guests, Sabbath is a day of rest, relaxation, reflection and even learning, as the crew do not work during this time. Therefore, there are no transfers, day trips, tours, or services available from 6pm on Friday evening until 6pm on Saturday evening. We still have kitchen staff preparing meals on Sabbath.

    You are welcome to go for walks, swim, snorkel. Guests can also attend church on Saturday.

    Feel free to chat with our booking team about planning ahead for Sabbath during your stay.

Health + Safety

  • It is important to remember that you are in an isolated part of the world and you MUST get travel insurance to stay at Driftwood Lodge.

    The closest health clinic is located in Sobiro — a 15-minute boat ride. There is a nurse there with basic medical supplies.

    There is a new clinic with a nurse in Batuna about 40 mins into the lagoon by boat. The closest hospital is in Seghe (1-2 hrs by boat), however it is not always attended by a doctor.

    It is worthwhile bringing extra medical supplies Click here to see list

  • Low risk but seek out what is right for you with a travel doctor. Each dwelling is fully screened with fans in every room.

    Nets available upon request. Preventative measures recommended.

  • Tropical cuts and scratches can escalate if not properly cleaned.

    If you get an open cut, we recommend washing with hot water, cleaning with an antiseptic and keeping well covered the whole time you’re here. See the staff if you need assistance or supplies.

Dining + Drinks

  • All of our stays include three gourmet buffet-style meals daily, with fresh local ingredients and options for dietary preferences.

    Featuring fresh-caught fish, mud crabs, fresh juice, and a lot of locally grown produce, our cooks have been trained by award-winning cheffing superyacht champion KDN to create incredible flavour combinations. He taught our cooks to use the local ingredients on hand, and make them taste sensational.

    Breakfast:

    • Coffee and tea

    • Hot breakfast (eggs, bacon and pancakes)

    • Muesli with fresh coconut milk, and fresh fruit.

    Lunch & Dinner:

    • Fresh Juice

    • A rotation of fresh salads,

    • Rice, casava, or potato,

    • Fish, mud crabs, chicken, or sausages, always in some delicious combination of flavours.

    *Dietary requirements can be catered for; please get in touch before your stay so we can prepare accordingly. Vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free options available.

  • You will have access to beer (local Blue Canoe), wine, and soft drinks.

    You are welcome to bring your own spirits.

    At the end of your stay, you will receive your final bill for additional drinks and activities in Solomon Islands Dollars on your last evening. Payment can be made by online transfer to our Solomon Islands bank account (internet is available), in cash using AUD, or via a secure online payment link sent to your email through HOTEL LINK. Credit card payments in AUD are accepted, with a surcharge of 2.9% applied.

Scuba Diving

  • We are an SSI dive centre.

    We have 3 on-site Divemasters who can guide you through our beautiful sites (see site details here)**

    We have our on-site SSI dive instructor, who runs a number of different courses if you’re new to SCUBA, or are looking to upskill.

  • We require all scuba divers to have and show us their dive insurance before we go diving.

    Dive Assure is recommended as dive insurance while you’re diving with us. Please make sure that your dive insurance covers enough for possible Emergency Medical Transportation, and possible Dive Accident Medical Coverage.

    Because we are so remote, emergency evacuation is expensive, and you want your insurance to cover evacuation to Honiara, and potentially to Australia if things escalate and you need further medical treatment.

    Contact our staff if you have further questions about dive insurance.

  • We have emergency oxygen on our dive boats, as well as a large first-aid kit and an emergency action plan including all relevant phone numbers to call.

    In the case of a dive emergency, we will immediately initiate our emergency procedures.

    Emergency Procedure

    - If a diver is lost, initiate emergency procedure

    - Determine most appropriate search technique for dive site

    - Secure necessary equipment

    - Recall other divers if there is an emergency

    - Organise rescue and first aid care and establish control

    - Alert rescue authorities

    - Prepare first aid equipment

    - Provide basic life support

  • House Wall – Our signature house reef is a spectacular kilometre-long wall dive with turtles, reef sharks, moray eels and endless marine life around every corner.

    Coral Gardens – A vibrant maze of pristine hard corals, colourful reef fish and exciting swim-throughs that feels like exploring an underwater botanical garden.

    Barracuda Run – An exhilarating blue-water dive where huge schools of barracuda, snappers, sharks and pelagic fish create an unforgettable spectacle.

    Fan-Tastic – A breathtaking wall covered in giant sea fans, brilliant soft corals and incredible macro life, with frequent sightings of spotted eagle rays.

    Manta – Our signature manta ray cleaning station offers unforgettable close encounters with graceful manta rays above a beautiful, shallow coral reef.

    Elephant Pinnacle – An exciting drift dive around an isolated underwater pinnacle bursting with colourful coral, swirling schools of fish and passing pelagic visitors.

Water Activities

  • On Driftwood’s doorstep lies a thriving coral reef, inviting guests to enter the underwater world of epic marine life and ecosystems. 

    Our Day Trips invite guests to explore nearby uninhabited islands, dive into enchanting underwater caves, discover cascading coral gardens, and engage with extraordinary marine life—from dolphin sightings to thrilling manta ray dives.

    For serious Freedivers, Spearos, and Line Fishermen & Women, we visit a range of hot spots, including recently deployed Fish Aggregating Devices (FADs) located at depths of 1000 to 2000 meters (within 12-nautical-miles from Driftwood), as well as Matakai Seamount.

    The turquoise waters of the Marovo Lagoon truly offer something for everyone. Casual snorkelers and dedicated divers and hunters alike, your Driftwood experience can be jam-packed with adventure, or you can simply unwind in this tropical haven. From the depth of the deep blue,  to waterfall swims, village walks and beach BBQ’s, this tropical lifestyle is yours to design. 

    CLICK HERE to explore Driftwood Experiences.

  • Boats: We have two Bray Boats. One accommodates up to 6 guests (Suzuki 40 hp 2 stroke), and the second up to 8 guests (Suzuki 60 hp 2 stroke). Both boats and engines were purchased brand new in 2019.

    Our newest addition is a 300 HP 9m powerboat with a landing on the front for easy-access to get into the water. This boat fits up to 12 guests and makes the choppy water feel like a breeze. This boat was purchased brand new in 2026.

    Skippers + Guides: Day Trips are led by our team of highly experienced and skilled guides. Their deep local knowledge and intuitive approach ensure that guests are in safe hands as they explore the best of what the Solomon Islands has to offer.

    Professional facilitators and guides are invited to host training weeks, certification programs, and retreats with the full support of our crew.

    We collaborate closely with you to ensure you are fully prepared and informed about our facilities, equipment, services, and capabilities.

    Fishing Ethos: We invite guests to come and experience the hunter-gatherer lifestyle. We only fish to catch enough for our daily meals. Any excess gets shared amongst our neighbours, friends, and throughout the village.

    Our vision is to support Gatokae Island to flourish through tourism in a sustainable and long-term way, and for its local reefs to continue to thrive. 

  • What Fish Can You Catch?

    Tuna Species: Yellowfin, Skipjack, Bigeye, Dogtooth

    Predators: Narrow-barred Spanish Mackerel, Wahoo, Mahi Mahi, Sharks

    Big Game Fish: Sailfish, Dogtooth Tuna, Blue, Black, and Striped Marlin

    Reef & Lagoon Fishing:

    Trevally Species: GT, Blue, Bigeye, Papuan

    Others: Coral Trout, Red Bass, Barracuda, Rainbow Runner, Queenfish, Green Jobfish, Spot-tail Bass, Mangrove Jack GT Hotspot: Malemale Island (5 mins from the Lodge) offers thrilling GT action on oversized poppers and stickbaits.

    All-year fishery with seasonal peaks. Offshore and reef fishing.

    Overview of locations:

    Deep blue ocean water starts just 200 metres from the Lodge, with free-jumping sailfish and marlin a regular sight.

    Three uninhabited offshore islands produce spectacular upwellings with pelagic and bottom-dwelling fish always in attendance.

    Visit the FAD at Matikai seamount which is within 15 nm.

    Just north, 700 sq km of unexplored sand and coral flats in Marovo Lagoon and the epic

    Gevala River provide a fisherman’s paradise.

  • Although inconsistent, we get surf from the ground swells from cyclones, but we also get surf in the tradewind seasons. April to August is typically the best time for the occasional wave.

    Surf can be found in two spots accessible by boat, but it’s not consistent. When it’s good, it’s good! Both are reef breaks, one is a left and the other is a right-hander, and when they work, we’ve surfed incredible barrels here. We have some boards at the lodge for those miraculous times.

Land Activities

  • We have world-class woodcarvers living amonst us in the village.

  • toe-covered shoes recommended, can be done in sandals.

    watch out for itchy plant

Climate and Weather

  • Tropical, 26—30°C day, cooler nights. Variable rain, occasional winds.

    End of November to April is our best weather season. It is similar to what they experience as the Doldrums in the Northern Territory and top end in December. Glass off. It get humid with sporadic showers throughout January- April.

    May to October is when we experience the Tradewinds with fine weather in between; cooler, windier. Great for fishing, sometimes wet for boat trips. Trips to Kavachi and the oceanic seamounts and FADs (10-20 nautical miles offshore) are less frequent during the .trade wind season

    The end of October through to November sees a decreased in tradewinds and more favourable conditions of calm seas, and baitball migrations.

    *due to the proximity to the equator , it makes forecasting an almost impossible task, but we have guests coming all year round.

  • Best Seasons & Weather Windows

    The end of November to April is our best season for weather.

    April to Oct ideal for GTs and dogtooth tuna as water is cooler during this time but can fish any time of year. The New Moon and Full Moon bring tidal movement, which can stir up bait.

    Baitball action is most common in November.

Driftwood Team

  • We invite guests to experience an epic ocean adventure and embrace the remote village life of our tropical jungle paradise. Through our connection to nature, culture and community we seek to grow as individuals, be grateful for the simple things in life and make a positive impact.

    Our vision is to support Gatokae Island to flourish through tourism and sustainable practices so its people, environment and local reefs can continue to thrive.

  • With a long career in free diving and subsistence living among the people of the Marovo Lagoon in the Solomon Islands, Driftwood founder Matt Woodfield invites us to discover the beauty of the natural world, embrace rich cultural traditions, and explore beyond our wildest imaginations.

    With an unwavering passion for the oceanic and natural world, and a profound appreciation for community and craftsmanship, Matt embarked on an extraordinary journey to create Driftwood Lodge—a rare gem now visited by adventurers and travellers worldwide.

    Through this journey, local islanders and custodians of the land, Stew, Hilda and their children, became family, and a collection of both local and visiting hands played an integral role—physically, spiritually, and emotionally—in shaping Driftwood into what it is today.

    Driftwood partners and friends, Jordie Strybos and Gabe Hewitt, joined forces with Matt in the early days to support, cultivate, and enhance Driftwood not just as a remarkable structure, but as an extraordinary experience for individuals who resonate with shared values, inspirations, and passions.

    After over a decade of hard work, dedication, and a few tears shed along the way, they couldn't be prouder or more grateful for what this journey has brought to themselves, guests and the local community. With immense passion, they are committed to shaping the future of Driftwood Lodge.

  • Driftwood has an onsite Manager, Alofa, who will guide and assist you throughout your stay. Should you have any queries, special requests or concerns, please do not hesitate to let us know.

    Your booking process with be managed by Nicole, and expert in all things Driftwood. Assisting with groups, individual travellers, couples, friends and families, she will ensure you are fully prepared for your great adventure.

    Throughout your stay, our team of locals will prepare all meals and ensure your accommodation is serviced daily. 

    Our Skippers and Guides are also available to assist with transfers, luggage handling, and share invaluable local knowledge along the way.

What to Bring

  • Must-haves:

    • Spray/rain jacket (lightweight)

    • Reef shoes (an absolute must!)

    • Hat

    • Sunscreen (reef-safe)

    • Swimming gear

    • Shirt & shorts for village visits

    • Quick-dry, breathable clothing

    • Sun protection swim clothing (long rashies, tights)

    • Sun protection long-sleeve shirt for the boat

    • Comfortable walking shoes (sandals, hiking shoes)

    • Dry bag/snap lock bags (for keeping gear dry on the boat)

    • Day pack

    • Toiletries (we provide soap but no shampoo or conditioner. A good idea for ladies to bring sanitary products if needed)

    Suggested Items

    • Mask, snorkel, and fins (ensure they fit before arrival)

    • Head torch (can use phone torch)

    • Bug spray

    • Electrolyte powder (energy drink powder)

    • Polarized sunglasses

    • Basic medical supplies

    • High-energy snacks (nuts, protein bars)

    • Cash in Solomon Island Dollars (SBD) - there is no ATM on the islands, please arrive with cash if you’re wanting small local purchases and souvenirs

    *Note, once you arrive, there is no immediate access to shops, so ensure you bring everything you need!

  • What does Driftwood have: We have weights, (don’t worry about yours, just bring belts. We also have flippers and mask sets if you need them. (high quality but check for sizes before coming)

    Spearfishing checklist:

    • 140ish railgun or equivalent (essential)

    • Cannon (for larger fish and blue water work)

    • Short railgun (for smaller reef species)

    • Spare parts (nearest shop is in Brisbane!)

    • Floats (essential for tracking large fish)

    • New rubbers, bridles, and shooting line

    • Dive knife (essential for dispatching fish)

    • Flashers (to attract large fish like Dogtooth Tuna, Marlin, Wahoo)

    • Freedive mask, snorkel & fins

    • reef shoes

    Sports Fishing Gear:

    • You know what to do - we trust you to pack your own tackle box.

    • Driftwood does not have much fishing gear - bring your own tackle and rods.

    • Be prepared to crank the drag up and enjoy some hand-to-hand combat with the ocean’s giants!

    Recommended for Divers:

    • Underwater dive torch

    • Travel insurance (essential for divers)

    • Dive computer

    • Any of your own dive gear you want to bring (BCD, regs, fins, accessories, etc).

    • We are equipped with top of the line scuba gear that you can rent from us if you don’t have your own.

  • We have a large medical kit, but it is recommended to bring the following:

    • Band-aids, Elastoplast, strong adhesive dressing tape (Fixumull)

    • Bandages, gauze, non-stick dressings

    • SteriStrips (adhesive wound closures)

    • Disposable surgical gloves

    • Bactroban ointment, triple antibiotic ointment

    • Dettol or similar antiseptic wash

    • OHT solution (electrolyte powder) for treating dehydration

How to Give Back

  • You can support the locals by bringing cash for carvings or handmade souvenirs. Bring school supplies or sports balls (soccer or volleyball) as they are welcomed by the church.

  • A highlight of Driftwood is our vibrant community. Local families, subsistence farmers, artisans, tradespeople, and storytellers are integral to our team, each contributing to where we are today.

    We are dedicated to supporting this community through employment, educations, stable income, and sustainable practices. Our global guests, who’ve experienced the heart and soul of our village, often express a genuine interest in joining our efforts.

    From engaging skilled professionals who offer their support during their stay, to physical or monetary donations there are countless opportunities to create a positive impact.

    Grounded in our deep understanding of local needs, charitable contributions are not always straight forward when it comes to equality amongst the community. For this reason we invite those wanting to donate, to join us in supporting community enrichment through the our initiative: HILDA

    Health—Innovation—Learning—Development—Aid

    CLICK HERE to join us on our HILDA—Driftwood Impact Fund journey.