Things to Do in Malaita, Solomon Islands

Malaita is the second-largest island in the Solomon Islands archipelago and serves as the cultural heartland of the nation. Home to approximately one-third of the country's population, this mountainous island boasts pristine rainforests, traditional villages, and some of the most authentic Melanesian cultural experiences in the Pacific. The island's rugged interior is dominated by dense jungle and towering peaks, while its coastline features beautiful lagoons, coral reefs, and traditional fishing communities that have maintained their ancestral ways of life for centuries. Unlike more touristy Pacific destinations, Malaita offers visitors an opportunity to experience genuine island life where ancient customs, traditional shell money, and elaborate cultural ceremonies remain integral to daily existence.

Top Things to Do in Malaita

Traditional Village Cultural Tours

Visit authentic Malaitan villages to witness traditional customs, ceremonies, and daily life practices that have remained unchanged for generations. Experience the fascinating shell money system, observe traditional crafts like wood carving and basket weaving, and participate in welcoming ceremonies with local communities.

Booking Tip: Arrange through local guides or guesthouses for $20-40 per day including transport. Best visited during dry season (May-October). Look for guides who speak local dialects and have established village relationships for authentic experiences.

Snorkeling and Diving Adventures

Explore pristine coral reefs surrounding Malaita with exceptional visibility and diverse marine life including tropical fish, rays, and occasionally dolphins. The island's remote location means untouched reefs with vibrant coral formations and minimal tourist impact.

Booking Tip: Arrange through Auki or local operators for $30-60 per trip. Best conditions April-November. Ensure operators provide quality equipment and know local reef conditions and currents.

Rainforest Trekking

Hike through Malaita's dense tropical rainforest to discover hidden waterfalls, exotic bird species, and unique flora. These challenging treks offer opportunities to spot endemic species and experience the island's pristine wilderness areas.

Booking Tip: Hire experienced local guides for $25-45 per day. Dry season (May-October) offers best conditions. Choose guides familiar with forest navigation and wildlife spotting for safety and enhanced experience.

Traditional Fishing Experiences

Join local fishermen using traditional outrigger canoes and time-honored fishing techniques in lagoons and coastal waters. Learn about sustainable fishing practices while experiencing authentic island lifestyle and enjoying fresh catches.

Booking Tip: Arrange through coastal villages for $15-30 per half-day including canoe use. Early morning trips (5-9 AM) are most productive. Look for experienced fishermen who can teach traditional techniques.

Shell Money Workshop Tours

Discover the fascinating traditional currency system still used in Malaita through hands-on workshops where artisans demonstrate the intricate process of creating shell money. Learn about its cultural significance in marriages, ceremonies, and traditional exchanges.

Booking Tip: Book through cultural centers or village contacts for $20-35 per session. Available year-round but best combined with cultural festivals. Seek authentic artisans who can explain historical and contemporary uses.

Getting There

Malaita is accessible primarily through Auki Airport, which receives regular flights from Honiara (the Solomon Islands capital) operated by Solomon Airlines. The 45-minute flight runs several times weekly and costs approximately $80-120 one way. Alternatively, cargo and passenger ships connect Malaita to Honiara and other islands, taking 6-8 hours but offering a more adventurous and budget-friendly option at around $15-25 per person. Charter boats can also be arranged from Honiara or nearby islands, though this is significantly more expensive.

Getting Around

Transportation around Malaita relies heavily on local buses, trucks, and boats due to limited road infrastructure. The main road connects Auki to several coastal towns, with local buses and shared taxis available for $2-8 per journey depending on distance. For reaching remote villages and interior locations, hiring a local guide with a 4WD vehicle is essential, costing $40-80 per day. Coastal areas are often best accessed by boat, with local operators offering transport services. Walking remains the primary means of reaching many traditional villages, so comfortable hiking gear is essential.

Where to Stay

Auki Town Center

Langa Langa Lagoon

Fauabu Village

Malu'u Coastal Area

Dala Village

Su'u Harbor Area

Food & Dining

Malaita's dining scene centers around fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and traditional Melanesian cuisine featuring taro, sweet potato, and coconut-based dishes. Local markets in Auki and larger villages offer fresh produce, fish, and traditional foods prepared by local families. Small family-run restaurants and guesthouses provide authentic island meals typically costing $5-15 per meal, featuring dishes like fish curry, roasted pork, and tropical fruit platters. Many accommodations include meals in their rates, offering visitors the chance to experience home-cooked Malaitan specialties. Betel nut and fresh coconut water are popular local beverages available throughout the island.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Malaita is during the dry season from May to October, when rainfall is minimal, humidity is lower, and roads and trails are more accessible. This period offers ideal conditions for trekking, cultural tours, and water activities with calmer seas and better visibility for snorkeling. The wet season (November-April) brings heavy rainfall, higher humidity, and potential cyclones, making transportation challenging and some areas inaccessible. However, the wet season also brings lush green landscapes and fewer visitors, which some travelers prefer for a more authentic experience.

Insider Tips

Bring cash in Solomon Islands dollars as ATMs are extremely limited and credit cards rarely accepted outside Auki

Learn basic greetings in Pijin English or local languages as this greatly enhances cultural interactions and village welcomes

Pack insect repellent, water purification tablets, and basic medical supplies as medical facilities are limited and pharmacies scarce outside main towns

Things to Do in Malaita