In thus paper we validate a numerical model for wave-structure interaction by comparing numerical results with laboratory data. The numerical model is based on the Navier-Stokes (N-S) equations for an incompressible fluid. The N-S equations are solved by a two-step projection finite volume scheme and the free surface displacements are tracked by the volume of fluid (VOF) method The numerical model is used to simulate solitary waves and their interaction with a group of slender vertical piles. Numerical results are compared with the laboratory data and very good agreement is observed for the time history of free surface displacement, fluid particle velocity and wave force. The agreement for dynamic pressure on the cylinder is less satisfactory, which is primarily caused by instrument errors.