Small-resort reef wilderness on the edge of the world's largest saltwater lagoon
Updated Apr 26, 2026 • 20 sources
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Last updated: April 26, 2026 • 20 sources
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Overview
Uepi is a remote, resort-based dive and snorkel base on the northern barrier reef of Marovo Lagoon. The signature rhythm is simple: fly to Honiara, connect by small plane to Seghe, cross the lagoon by boat, then dive, snorkel, kayak, walk, and recover from one tiny island. It suits divers who want big-fish pass diving, soft-coral walls, resident grey reef sharks, easy house-reef snorkeling, and a quiet eco-lodge feel rather than nightlife or shore-diving freedom. The wider Marovo-Tetepare complex is part of the Coral Triangle and is managed through strong customary reef ownership, so planning should respect local reef-owner fees, village etiquette, and operator guidance. Best comfort comes in the drier May to October window, while Uepi's own dive program is marketed as reliable year-round.
Uepi sits where Marovo Lagoon meets New Georgia Sound, giving divers both sheltered lagoon habitat and current-fed oceanic walls.
Many signature Uepi sites are close enough for relaxed surface intervals back at the resort rather than long day-boat logistics.
The house reef, lagoon paddling, guided walks, village visits, and beach houses make the destination work for non-divers as well as serious photographers.
The wider Marovo-Tetepare area relies heavily on customary marine tenure and community-managed reef access, so visitor fees and etiquette directly matter.
Best time to go
May to October
Drier, more comfortable season with average air near 27°C; May to August can feel breezier under southeast trades.
Main caution: Hotter, more humid wetseason travel with higher rain risk, possible lowpressure systems, and greater disruption risk for small planes and boats.