MAROVO LAGOON—SOLOMON ISLANDS
Experience an epic ocean adventure and embrace the remote village life of our—TROPICAL JUNGLE PARADISE
There is no doubt about it, this is an underwater paradise and one of the main reasons travellers make the journey to the Marovo Lagoon. Whether you love Free Diving, Spear Fishing, Line Fishing or Snorkelling, there is plenty to see right at our doorstep.
The Driftwood Experience
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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.
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Situated on Gatokae Island, at the gateway of the Marovo Lagoon in the Solomon Islands, Driftwood is surrounded by pristine oceanic beauty. With an incredible 100-meter blue water drop-off right at your doorstep, this truly is an unparalleled eco-off-grid experience.
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.
From there it’s another 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).
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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 Free Divers, Speros, 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 offers 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.
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The Driftwood Experience incorporates adventure and eco-travel with a touch of creature comforts. Offering three unique accommodation styles—Driftwood Main House (featuring an open deck to enjoy the epic ocean views), and two newly built bungalows, Sleeping Coconut and Fire Fly, nestled metres from the shoreline amongst the tropical jungle gardens.
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.
Guest enjoy a communal kitchen and dining area located conveniently by Driftwood Main House. Our friendly crew provides daily cooking and cleaning services, always greeting guests with warm hearts and big smiles.
CLICK HERE to explore Driftwood Accommodation.
Off-Grid Village Life
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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.
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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.
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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.
Feel free to chat with our booking team about planning ahead for Sabbath during your stay.
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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 (in the Main House)
Each room is serviced with clean sheets and general tidying. A laundry service can be provided upon request.
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.
Feel free to chat with our team before your stay to ensure all your questions are answered and preparations are made smoothly.
The Driftwood Crew
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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.
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Boats: We have two bray boats or more commonly known as Land Cruisers. One accommodates up to 6 guests (Suzuki 40 hp 2 stroke), and the second up to 8 guests (Suzuki 60 hp 2 stroke). Free-diving and fishing groups may rent the boats privately. Please contact us for any queries and pricing.
(*Both boats and engines were purchased brand new in 2019.)
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 over and experience the hunter gather lifestyle. Fishing for us is to catch only enough for our daily meals and any excess gets shared out amongst our neighbours and friends. If there is any excess it gets shared 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 continue to thrive.
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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.
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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.
The staff felt more like family and were very attentive to our needs. The friendly smiles of all of the crew were an absolute joy at every interaction. The meals were fit for tropical royalty. With culinary combinations and varieties of foods at each meal. Truly incredible.
Absolutely loved every moment.
—Aaron, Tripadvisor Sept 2023
Aqua Adventure
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The Marovo Lagoon is a free-divers dream, featuring a huge range of vertical wall drop-offs for you to explore the many diving locations.
The water temperature ranges from 26-31 degrees all year round, allows you to swim with lightweight wetsuits.
CLICK HERE for more Driftwood Free Diving details.
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Just like the free-diving adventures, the spearfishing experiences are world class. With 100-metre coral drop offs just out the front of Driftwood, your spearfishing adventure can begin right at our doorstep, where you will be fishing in one of the most pristine ocean environments on earth.
CLICK HERE for more Driftwood Spear Fishing details.
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This is an all year-round fishery. Pelagics and GT casting action is generally hottest April through November. Mid-April to mid-June and early-October to late-November are generally the best weather windows (this close to the equator climate is highly variable) within that period for offshore action, and Whitewater GT work.
CLICK HERE for more Driftwood Line Fishing details.
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With water temperatures ranging between 26-32 degrees and excellent visibility all year round, snorkelling is an ideal activity for everyone to discover the abundant and prolific sea life.
Explore the 100-foot drop-off at Driftwood's doorstep, inviting you to discover the underwater paradise of the Marovo Lagoon.
Immerse yourself in the traditional mode of transportation: the canoe, and experience firsthand the vital role these canoes play in village life. Take your canoe adventures solo or with our village guides; learn how to create a masterpiece with fallen ancient timbers; or go hiking up rapids to waterfalls.
CLICK HERE for more Driftwood Activities and Day Trip details.
Travel + Bookings
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Driftwood is located on Gatokae Island in the Marovo Lagoon, 200 Kilometres NW of Honiara, Solomon Islands.
The most direct routes to Honiara are:
Ex Australia: Brisbane-Honiara (3-hour flight)
Ex Fiji: Nandi-Honiara (3-hour flight)From Honiara it’s another 1-hour flight to Seghe (Solomon Airlines) followed by a free boat transfer to Gatokae Island in the Marovo Lagoon (1-2 hours).
Fiji has many direct flights coming in from international destinations including: Sydney, Auckland, Christchurch, Wellington, Singapore, Hong Kong, Honolulu, Los Angeles and San Francisco.
Solomon Airlines is Driftwood’s preferred airline. Driftwood recommends all guests purchase travel insurance prior to their trip.
CLICK HERE for more information on Driftwood Packages and Bookings.
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Driftwood offers all-inclusive packages catering for small or large groups from 2-13 guests. (minimum 3-nights).
Package include:
Twin or queen rooms with private en suite
Three meals per day including daily freshly caught fish and lobster
Fresh juices, coffee, tea and unlimited coconuts throughout the day
Private boat driver, village guide, a private cook, housekeeper and full laundry service
Boat transfers return to Seghe airport
Two, 2-3 hour boat adventures per day
Canoe ride or daily land adventure
Unlimited use of ocean equipment - kayak, SUP, snorkel gear
CLICK HERE for more information on our Packages and Bookings.
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We are located in a very remote location. It is important to remember that you are in an isolated part of the world and it is worthwhile bringing extra medical supplies to avoid needing to leave the island.
If you are planning to go scuba diving, remote fishing to sea FADs, Free Diving or many of the excursions we offer we recommend you organise MEDEVAC insurance.
DAN cover is highly recommended for all water activities including Free Diving and Spear Fishing etc.
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. It has been recently donated by Australian doctors.
Seghe has a hospital with a doctor and takes between 1.5 hour-2.5 hours depending on weather by boat. However, it is not always staffed or equipped to handle serious emergencies.
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For Aqua Adventures, Driftwood offers some weight belts and diving masks, however, please provide your requirements upon booking as equipment is limited and subject to availability.
CLICK HERE for Driftwoods FAQ's for further packing tips!
Island Activities
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Day Trips through the inner lagoon and remote reefs which include a BBQ lunch, can take you on the ultimate paradise island adventure.
With endless secret locations to snorkel with manta rays, and many marine life species this is truly an mesmerising experience with some of the best visibility in the world.
Our experienced and patient guides will help guests make the most of your time exploring this incredible island and the underwater world.
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Our incredible team of local cooks have been trained by award-winning Yacht Chef, Kdn Lyne.
Together they have developed a mouth-watering weekly menu that plates up the best of Solomon Islander dishes, combined with a contemporary twist.
Using local ingredients, and the catch of the day, guest are invited to enjoy three freshly cooked meals each day, with additional snacks available. Tea, coffee, clean drinking water and fresh tropical juices are available and some alcohol may be pre-ordered before you stay as required.
CLICK HERE to explore Driftwood’s full menu and chat with our booking team for special requests and dietary requirements.
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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.
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Driftwood has three accommodation options: Driftwood Main House (sleeps 2-6), Sleeping Coconut Bungalow (sleeps 2-4), and Fire Fly Bungalow (sleeps 1-3).
Each accommodation has a living area, with the Main House being the largest. This is a great space for groups and training sessions to take place. This space opens onto the deck, together, creating space for yoga, meditation or breath-work practices. If you would like to use this space for a specific purpose such as training weeks, retreats etc, please speak to our booking team prior to you stay to ensure it meets all of your requirements.
Our newly-built kitchen has been purposely designed to accommodate guests who love cooking and eating. Featuring a large functional bench top and modern four-burner cooker, this space is the ideal setting for socialising with friends over our local fresh food.
The kitchen accommodates 8 seated guests at a time. Meal times can be as formal/informal as you like, with the option to take meals back to your private accommodation. Typically, this communal space becomes a beloved hangout to share delicious cuisine, freshly caught fish, and stories from the day's adventures.
CLICK HERE for more Accommodation details.
