Kennedy Island, Historical island near Gizo, Solomon Islands
This small 2.9-acre landmass in the Western Province rises from the Pacific Ocean waters, surrounded by clear waters and coral formations.
In August 1943, Lieutenant John F Kennedy and his PT-109 crew sought refuge on this island after their patrol boat was struck by Japanese destroyer Amagiri.
Two Solomon Islander scouts, Biuku Gasa and Eroni Kumana, discovered Kennedy and his crew, leading to their rescue through a message written on a coconut.
Visitors can reach Kennedy Island by taking a 15-minute boat ride from Gizo, where several tour operators provide transportation and guided historical tours.
The island features a memorial shrine constructed by rescuer Eroni Kumana, who maintained a connection with the Kennedy family until his death in 2014.
Location: Western Province
Part of: New Georgia Islands
GPS coordinates: -8.11278,156.90556
Latest update: March 2, 2025 19:57
The Solomon Islands in the South Pacific preserve numerous traces of World War II. In Honiara, the National Museum and Vilu War Museum document the Guadalcanal Campaign through collections of artillery pieces, aircraft wrecks, and military equipment. Offshore, sunken warships and planes have become dive sites. The archipelago includes active volcanoes such as Mount Balbi on Bougainville and Tinakula. The Marovo Lagoon ranks among the world's largest saltwater lagoons. Waterfalls include Mataniko Falls near Honiara and Tenaru Falls. The Central Market in Honiara offers local produce, fish, and handicrafts from various provinces across the archipelago.
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East Rennell
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Guadalcanal American Memorial
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Solomon Scout and Coastwatcher Memorial
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Solomon Peace Memorial Park
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WWII Museum
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Mbonege Beach Shipwreck
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Marovo Lagoon
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Tenaru Falls
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Edsons Ridge Monument
376.2 kmReviews
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