Things to do in Bougainville Island
Discover the best attractions and experiences Bougainville Island has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore Bougainville's WWII history and enduring memorials, set against rainforest and coast.
Torokina World War II Cemetery
A somber memorial site honoring Allied soldiers who fought on Bougainville during WWII.
Panguna Mine Ruins
Ruins of Bougainville's former copper mine, a powerful reminder of the island's industrial past.
Arawa War Memorial
Local memorial commemorating residents and service members connected to Bougainville's wartime history.
Museums
Learn about Bougainville’s culture, conflict and daily life through local collections.
Bougainville Museum (Arawa)
Exhibits on culture, colonial history, and the region’s mining legacy.
Cultural Heritage Centre (Arawa)
Displays traditional arts, crafts and village life from Bougainville communities.
Religious Monuments
Religious sites reflect the island’s communities and enduring faith.
St. Michael's Cathedral (Arawa)
A central church that serves as a community hub with regular services and events.
Anglican Mission Church (Kieta)
Historic church with colonial-era roots and local ceremonies.
National & Theme Parks
Coastal outlooks, rainforest trails and dramatic scenery await in Bougainville’s wild places.
Numa Numa Nature Reserve
Protects rainforest habitats and offers nature trails and wildlife viewing.
Cape Torokina
Coastal headland with scenic views and WWII history, great for a day trip.
Neighborhoods
Vibrant towns and coastal settlements where visitors can feel local life.
Arawa
Main administrative town with markets, shops and a pulse of everyday life.
Buka Town
Coastal community known for beaches and waterfront activity.
Kieta
Historic port area offering coastal scenery and local culture.
Free Things to Do
Get a taste of Bougainville without spending a kip.
Beach strolls along Bougainville shores
Relax on white sands and listen to the sea.
Village walks and cultural exchanges
Meet locals, observe daily life and crafts.
Sunset at Cape Torokina
Capture panoramic views as the sun goes down.
Gastronomy
Sample Bougainville’s flavors, from coffee to fresh seafood.
Bougainville coffee tasting
Savor coffee from highland plantations with a smooth finish.
Fresh seafood feast
Try catches from the coast prepared simply and deliciously.
Coconut crab and local root dishes
Experience a regional specialty alongside starchy sides.
Nightlife
Evenings feature village gatherings and relaxed after-dark activity.
Village dances and evening gatherings
Join locals for traditional music, dance and storytelling.
Evening markets in Arawa
Browse crafts, snacks and friendly conversation after sundown.
Entertainment
Cultural performances and storytelling showcase Bougainville’s heritage.
Cultural performances
Traditional songs, dances and costumes performed for visitors.
Local storytelling evenings
Hear legends and histories from Bougainville communities.
Sports
Water and land activities that let you explore the outdoors.
Snorkeling in coastal reefs
Explore vibrant marine life and clear turquoise waters.
Hiking to lookouts
Trek through lush terrain to viewpoints over coast and villages.
Off the Track
Venture beyond the main routes to meet remote communities.
Visit remote villages around Panguna
Experience daily life and traditional practices away from tourist hubs.
Boat trip to secluded bays near Buka
Relax on private beaches and snorkel near quiet coves.