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Auki, Solomon Islands - Things to Do in Auki

Things to Do in Auki

Auki, Solomon Islands - Complete Travel Guide

Most visitors to the Solomon Islands never make it to Auki—their loss. This working town on Malaita's northwestern coast operates on island time, where traditional canoes dock alongside cargo boats and authenticity trumps polish every time. The town spreads along a natural harbor. What strikes you first is how genuinely Melanesian everything feels, without the tourist veneer that sanitizes so many Pacific destinations. You'll slow down whether you planned to or not.

Top Things to Do in Auki

Langa Langa Lagoon

This impressive lagoon stretches for miles along Malaita's coast, dotted with artificial islands built centuries ago by local communities. The water stays incredibly clear—perfect for snorkeling—and village visits reveal traditional shell money production up close. Total time warp.

Booking Tip: Local operators charge around $50-80 for half-day trips including transport and guide. Book through your accommodation or ask at the market - morning departures tend to have better water visibility.

Traditional Village Visits

Several villages around Auki maintain traditional customs and crafts. These aren't performances but working communities where shell money production and traditional weaving happen daily, and you can observe Melanesian culture without filters. The hospitality runs deep. You'll likely share a meal whether you planned to or not.

Booking Tip: Arrange through local guides for $30-50 per day including transport. Always bring a small gift like tobacco or store-bought food, and ask permission before taking photos.

Snorkeling and Diving

The waters around Auki offer solid snorkeling and diving opportunities. Healthy coral reefs and decent fish populations thrive here, less developed than other Pacific destinations but better for it. You'll often have reefs to yourself. Visibility stays excellent most days—just don't expect dive shops on every corner.

Booking Tip: Limited dive operators available - book well in advance for $60-100 per dive. Snorkeling gear rental is around $15/day. Best conditions are typically morning hours.

Auki Market

The central market peaks early morning when vendors sell fresh fish, traditional handicrafts, and everything between. This stays genuinely local rather than tourist-focused, with interesting produce, betel nut, and handmade items scattered throughout. The atmosphere stays relaxed. Conversations happen naturally, without the hard sell you'd expect elsewhere.

Booking Tip: No booking needed - just show up early morning (6-9 AM) for the best selection. Bring small bills and don't be afraid to bargain gently on handicrafts.

Sunset Harbor Views

Auki's harbor delivers impressive sunset views from the wharf area or nearby hills. Traditional boats, distant islands, and tropical light combine into memorable scenes that draw both locals and the few visitors who make it here. Natural gathering spot. Worth timing your evening around, especially after a day exploring the lagoon.

Booking Tip: No cost involved - just head to the harbor area around 5:30-6 PM. The small hill behind town offers elevated views if you don't mind a short walk.

Getting There

Getting to Auki takes planning. No direct international flights serve Malaita Island, so you'll route through Honiara first, then catch a Solomon Airlines domestic flight—45 minutes, ~$150-200 one way. Flights run several times weekly but schedules shift. Build flexibility into your plans, or risk getting stuck in Honiara longer than expected. Cargo boats offer a cheaper alternative: 8-12 hours depending on conditions and stops.

Getting Around

Auki is walkable. The main town covers maybe a dozen blocks, though you'll need local transport for beaches, villages, and anything worthwhile outside the center. Shared taxis and small buses run irregular routes for a few dollars. Private taxi hire costs ~$20-30 for half-day trips. Many guesthouses arrange transport, and boat trips to the lagoon typically include guides—expect rough roads during rainy season.

Where to Stay

Town Center
Harbor Area
Airport Road
Residential Quarter
Coastal Edge
Market District

Food & Dining

Dining options are limited but honest. Small restaurants serve fresh fish, root vegetables, rice dishes, and tropical fruits at reasonable prices, focusing on local ingredients prepared traditionally rather than international fusion experiments. The market works well for fresh produce. Some guesthouses offer meal plans, which makes sense given the restaurant scene—most places close by sunset anyway.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Solomon Islands

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

Le Bernardin

4.6 /5
(4023 reviews) 4

La Villa Restaurant

4.8 /5
(498 reviews)

Restaurant L'Auberge Gourmande

4.9 /5
(349 reviews)

La Vela Italian Restaurant

4.5 /5
(360 reviews)

When to Visit

May through October delivers the most reliable weather. Less rainfall, calmer seas for boat trips and snorkeling, though temperatures stay consistent year-round and wet season can surprise you with perfect days. Sea conditions matter for lagoon visits. Road quality affects village access—both improve during dry months, while humidity stays high regardless.

Insider Tips

Bring cash in small denominations—ATMs are unreliable and most places don't accept cards
Pack insect repellent and basic medical supplies since pharmacies are limited
Learn a few words in Pijin—locals appreciate the effort and conversations open up quickly

Explore Activities in Auki

Continue Planning Your Trip

Itineraries

Sample trip routes and plans for Auki

Getting Around

Transport options and tips for Auki

Where to Stay

Accommodation guide for Auki

Budget Guide

Trip costs and money tips for Auki

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