Western Province (Solomon Islands)

Western Province
Wes Provins (Pijin)
Flag of Western Province
Coordinates: 8°0′S 157°0′E / 8.000°S 157.000°E / -8.000; 157.000
Country Solomon Islands
CapitalGizo
Government
 • PremierDavid Lani Gina
Area
 • Total5,475 km2 (2,114 sq mi)
Population
 (2009 census)
 • Total76,649
 • Density14/km2 (36/sq mi)
Time zoneUTC+11 (+11)

Western Province is the largest of the nine provinces of Solomon Islands. The area is renowned for its beautiful tropical islands, excellent diving and snorkelling, coral reefs and World War II wrecks, ecotourism lodges, and head-hunting shrines. The province contains many small lagoons and most of the country's tourist trade outside Honiara.