Mountains run like a spine down the island's centre: the highest point reaches 1040 m, then falls steeply to the sea along its southern shore.

Its coast is the only part of the Solomons where the rare Olive, or Pacific Ridley, turtle is known to visit and nest.

[3] Because Makira Island was isolated for long stretches of time during periods of high sea level, a wide variety of unique plants and animals evolved.

At the village of Hauta, situated hundreds of metres above sea level, at the Bauro inland region an established conservation area exists.

On Makira, five languages are spoken: Arosi, Bauro, Fagani, Kahua, and Owa.