Papatura Island Retreat

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Papatura has been designed with the natural environment in mind, using local bush materials. They are highly environmentally conscious and have taken great care in planning and setting up the retreat. They've connected the bungalows, toilets, restaurant, and bar with raised timber walkways, they are wheelchair-friendly. The entire retreat offers a 180-degree view of the turquoise waters of the bay, coconut groves, and the Isabel mountain range, creating breathtaking sunsets. The Deck Bar and Restaurant provide a relaxed, barefoot dining experience and are perfect for unwinding with a good book on the day bed, browsing through our library upstairs, or enjoying drinks with fellow guests at the bar. Your stay includes three meals a day. They source their produce from local villages, ensuring freshness, and also offer some imported items. This region specializes in fresh fish and seafood, along with fruits, vegetables, and root crops like sweet potatoes, all prepared in traditional and homestyle cooking. Your menu may include salads, rice, pasta, pizza, and a variety of meats. The cook, assisted by local women, ensures you enjoy delicious meals while introducing you to new flavors. They provide 24/7 access to tea and coffee, and the water comes from a spring at the top of the hill, always fresh and piped directly to the retreat. The bar is stocked with ice-cold Sol Brew beer, basic spirits, Australian white and red wines, sparkling wine, and a full range of soft drinks. The goal is to make you feel like a part of the "Papatura family" while visiting this unspoiled natural paradise. Incredibly isolated Papatura's connection to the world is through satellite technology. All guests receive free WiFi, but they encourage a "NO PHONE ZONE" at the bar and restaurant to promote the art of conversation. Papatura takes pride in being a unique place where guests are encouraged to disconnect from technology and savor a tech-free experience. Come socialize, enjoy happy hour, and engage with other like-minded travelers. All the bungalows at Papatura Island Retreat are crafted using traditional materials such as sago leaves and wild beetle nut. Each bungalow features spacious decks that overlook the Isabel mountain range and are just a few steps away from the stunning white sandy beach and crystal clear waters. They are nestled amidst coconut palms, orchids, and local plants, and come equipped with LED lighting, inner spring mattresses, mosquito nets, pedestal fans, and 240V Australian power outlets. Enjoy breathtaking views of the untamed dusk sunsets and fall asleep to the soothing sounds of gentle waves. Dive Papatura is thrilled to introduce diving experiences for the first time. As the only operator in our island group, you'll have the pristine underwater world all to yourself. They accommodate a maximum of 4 divers for multiple dives or up to 6 for single dives. Is deeply committed to preserving the local marine ecosystems and environment. This area is rich with marine life waiting for you to explore. Situated in the Coral Triangle, the Solomon Islands boast some of the world's highest concentrations of fish, marine species, and coral. Now, Papatura offers comprehensive diving courses, including open water, advanced open water, and dive skill refreshers, all with SSI accreditation. The dive shop provides gear rental and tank fills. Learn in the paradise setting of Papatura Beach with no crowds, and benefit from personalized training courses. Dive into the beauty of the underwater world with confidence and skill. Papatura Island spans approximately 270 hectares, featuring a small mountain ridge covered in lush tropical rainforest. This pristine landscape offers fantastic opportunities for walks and hikes. They are delighted to provide knowledgeable guides to accompany you and point out the hidden gems you might miss on your own. The staff possesses extensive knowledge of bush foods and plants, offering insights into what's edible or has medicinal properties. During your walks, you'll encounter ancient cycads that have stood for hundreds of years, towering tropical palms, massive rain trees, strangler figs, exotic birds, and unique lizards and insects. You'll also discover small rock pools for refreshing dips and waterfalls where you can escape the midday summer heat. The walks vary in difficulty, and most can be enjoyed with a reasonable level of fitness.

WaveCamps Review

Papatura Island Retreat — Editor's Take

Author: Edijs
Edijs
Surf camp reviewer • WaveCamps
Overall score 75/100

Remote island retreat with peaceful waters and eco-friendly charm.

Highlights
  • Secluded island location
  • Calm paddling waves
  • Fresh local meals
Quick overview:

Papatura Island Retreat offers a tranquil, laid-back atmosphere surrounded by stunning turquoise waters and lush mountains. This remote paradise is perfect for those wanting to truly disconnect and soak in nature’s beauty.

Guests love the calm, clear waters ideal for gentle paddling and ocean exploration, plus the fresh, locally sourced meals served three times a day. The charming bungalows provide comfortable stays with thoughtful amenities, while diving courses add extra adventure options.

This retreat suits nature lovers and travelers seeking peace rather than intense surfing action. Keep in mind it requires a flight plus local transport, making it best for those ready to embrace a slower, eco-friendly pace.

What we liked

  • Beautiful bungalows with mountain views
  • SSI-accredited diving courses available
  • Three delicious meals daily included

Good to know

  • Requires flight and local transport
  • Focus on relaxation over intense surfing
The Location

The Location

Papatura Island Retreat is tucked away on beautiful Santa Isabel Island in the Solomon Islands. It’s a remote paradise with stunning views of turquoise waters and lush mountains. Getting here usually involves a flight into the Solomon Islands followed by local transport to the island.

Nearby Surf

While the retreat is more known for its pristine beaches and diving, the surrounding waters offer calm, crystal-clear conditions perfect for paddling and gentle wave riding. It’s a peaceful spot to enjoy the ocean without crowds.

What's Included

Your stay includes three delicious meals a day, with fresh local produce and seafood prepared in traditional styles. Plus, there’s 24/7 tea and coffee, and a stocked bar with local brews and wines. They also offer SSI-accredited diving courses and gear rental for exploring the incredible underwater world.

Accommodation

Stay in charming bungalows made from local materials like sago leaves and beetle nut, each with a spacious deck overlooking the mountains and beach. They’re comfy with proper beds, mosquito nets, fans, and power outlets—perfect for relaxing after a day in nature.

Best For

This spot is ideal for nature lovers and travelers looking to disconnect, unwind, and explore both land and sea in a peaceful, eco-friendly setting.


This camp is located in the Solomon Islands in the Santa Isabel Island area.

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