Things to Do in Auki, Solomon Islands

Auki is the charming capital of Malaita Province in the Solomon Islands, serving as the gateway to one of the country's most culturally rich and diverse regions. This small coastal town sits on the northwest shore of Malaita Island, offering visitors an authentic glimpse into traditional Melanesian life while providing access to pristine coral reefs, traditional villages, and unique cultural experiences. The town itself maintains a relaxed pace with a bustling local market, colonial-era buildings, and friendly locals who are eager to share their island heritage. Despite its modest size, Auki serves as an important hub for exploring Malaita's many wonders, from ancient shell money traditions to spectacular diving sites and untouched natural beauty. The surrounding waters teem with marine life, while the island's interior reveals lush rainforests, traditional villages, and archaeological sites that speak to thousands of years of human habitation. Visitors to Auki will find themselves immersed in a world where modern conveniences blend seamlessly with age-old customs and breathtaking natural landscapes.

Top Things to Do in Auki

Traditional Village Tours

Explore authentic Melanesian villages around Auki where traditional customs, shell money, and ancient practices are still part of daily life. These guided visits offer incredible insights into local culture, traditional architecture, and the famous shell money that originated in this region. Many villages welcome visitors to participate in traditional ceremonies and learn about their ancestral customs.

Booking Tip: Arrange tours through local guesthouses or the provincial tourism office for $20-40 USD per person. Best visited in the morning when villagers are most active. Look for guides who are from the villages themselves for the most authentic experience.

Coral Reef Snorkeling and Diving

The waters around Auki offer some of the Solomon Islands' most pristine coral reefs with incredible biodiversity and visibility. The nearby reefs are home to colorful coral gardens, tropical fish species, and occasional encounters with larger marine life including rays and reef sharks. The relatively untouched nature of these reefs makes for exceptional underwater photography opportunities.

Booking Tip: Local dive operators charge $50-80 USD for snorkeling trips and $80-120 USD for diving excursions. Dry season (May-October) offers best visibility. Ensure operators provide quality equipment and are familiar with current conditions.

Auki Market Experience

The vibrant local market in Auki is the heart of the community, where locals gather to sell fresh produce, handmade crafts, and traditional items including shell money. This authentic market experience offers visitors the chance to interact with locals, sample tropical fruits, and purchase unique souvenirs. The market is particularly lively on weekdays when boats arrive from surrounding villages.

Booking Tip: No booking required, but visit early morning (6-9 AM) for the best selection and freshest produce. Bring small bills in Solomon Island dollars. Expect to spend $5-15 USD for souvenirs and local crafts.

Mangrove Kayaking

Paddle through the extensive mangrove systems around Auki's coastline, discovering hidden waterways and observing unique ecosystems. These guided kayak tours offer opportunities to spot various bird species, juvenile fish in the mangrove roots, and learn about the important role mangroves play in coastal protection. The calm waters make this activity suitable for most fitness levels.

Booking Tip: Tours cost $30-50 USD per person and typically last 3-4 hours. Best during high tide for easier navigation. Book with operators who provide life jackets and have local knowledge of tidal conditions.

WWII Historical Sites

Explore remnants from World War II when the Solomon Islands were a crucial Pacific theater battleground. Around Auki and Malaita, visitors can find crashed aircraft, military equipment, and sites where Allied forces established bases. Local guides share stories passed down from elders who witnessed these historical events firsthand.

Booking Tip: Historical tours cost $25-45 USD per person and can be combined with village visits. Best booked through local guides who know exact locations and have family stories to share. Wear sturdy shoes for jungle trekking to remote sites.

Getting There

Reaching Auki requires flying into Henderson Field (HIR) in Honiara, the Solomon Islands' main international airport, then taking a domestic flight to Auki Airport (AKS) with Solomon Airlines. The domestic flight takes approximately 45 minutes and operates several times per week. Alternatively, you can take a passenger ferry from Honiara to Auki, which runs twice weekly and takes about 8-10 hours, offering scenic views but requiring advance booking. Some visitors also arrive by chartered boat or private yacht, as Auki has a small harbor suitable for smaller vessels.

Getting Around

Getting around Auki and the surrounding areas is best accomplished by walking within the town center, as most attractions, accommodations, and services are within a compact area. For longer distances and village visits, local buses and trucks provide affordable transportation, though schedules can be irregular. Taxis are available but limited, so many visitors arrange transportation through their accommodation. For exploring coastal areas and nearby islands, local boat operators offer services that can be arranged through guesthouses or the tourism office. Rental cars are not commonly available, making organized tours or local transport the most practical options.

Where to Stay

Auki Town Center

Auki Waterfront

Fauabu Village Area

Dala Village

Gwaunasu'u

Su'u Harbor Area

Food & Dining

Auki's dining scene is centered around local guesthouses, small restaurants, and the vibrant local market. The town offers authentic Solomon Islands cuisine featuring fresh seafood, tropical fruits, root vegetables like taro and sweet potato, and coconut-based dishes. Local specialties include fish cooked in bamboo, lap lap (a traditional dish wrapped in banana leaves), and various preparations of locally caught tuna and other reef fish. Most accommodations provide meals, and there are several small local eateries serving traditional dishes at very reasonable prices. The market is the best place to sample fresh tropical fruits and local snacks, while some guesthouses can arrange traditional feast experiences with advance notice.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Auki is during the dry season from May to October, when rainfall is lower, humidity is more comfortable, and sea conditions are generally calmer for water activities. This period offers the best visibility for diving and snorkeling, and roads to outer villages are more accessible. The wet season from November to April brings higher temperatures, increased humidity, and frequent rainfall, though it's also when the landscape is most lush and green. Cultural activities and village visits can be enjoyed year-round, but the dry season provides more predictable weather for outdoor activities and transportation between islands.

Insider Tips

Learn basic phrases in Solomon Islands Pijin, as English proficiency varies and locals appreciate the effort to communicate in their common language

Bring cash in Solomon Islands dollars as ATMs are limited and credit cards are rarely accepted outside of main accommodations

Pack reef-safe sunscreen and insect repellent, as both sun exposure and mosquitoes can be significant, especially during evening hours and in village areas

Things to Do in Auki