Malaita is a province defined by its strong cultural identity and traditional engineering. Located northeast of Guadalcanal, it is less developed for conventional tourism than the Western Province, making it a destination for families seeking cultural immersion rather than resort-style relaxation. The journey typically begins in Auki, the provincial capital, which feels like a small, bustling market town and serves as the launching point for boat trips into the lagoons.
The region's most distinct feature is its artificial islands found in the Langa Langa and Lau Lagoons. Centuries ago, locals built these islands by hand using coral stones to escape tribal warfare and mosquitoes on the mainland. Visiting these communities is fascinating for children, who can see how families live entirely surrounded by water. A major highlight is witnessing the production of shell money (tafuliae). Local artisans chip, drill, and polish shells into small discs to create intricate necklaces used for dowries and conflict resolution. It is a tangible and mesmerizing process that captivates older children and offers a rare glimpse into a living barter economy.
Travel in Malaita requires patience and a sense of adventure. Roads are unpaved and can be rough, so boat travel is often the smoother option for exploring the coast. Accommodation is generally basic, consisting of small eco-lodges or homestays which, while lacking luxury, offer warm hospitality and fresh local seafood. Families should be prepared for a "back to basics" experience—electricity may be solar-powered and limited to evenings, and mosquito nets are a necessity. For active families, the interior offers hiking, but this is rugged terrain best suited for teenagers and requires local guides. The province provides a genuine, unfiltered look at island life that contrasts sharply with the western world.
Click a region to explore
Activities & Best Times
Hiking, wildlife, outdoor exploration, ecotourism
Malaita offers a raw, authentic immersion into pristine tropical rainforests and unique lagoon ecosystems that appeal to world-traveled families. The peak months represent the 'dry' window (250-290mm) allowing for safer exploration, while the extreme rainfall of the wet seasons (exceeding 350mm) can make wilderness trails impassable.
Beach resorts, marine activities: diving, snorkelling, kite surfing, wind surfing, sailing
The Langa Langa Lagoon offers a unique marine environment with crystal-clear waters surrounding man-made islands, though it lacks the high-end resort infrastructure of the Maldives. Peak months offer the best visibility for snorkeling; the off-season sees intense tropical downpours and rougher seas that diminish water clarity and safety.
Urban tourism, museums, historical sites, architecture
Malaita's cultural traditions are significant but zero verified attraction data exists. No organized cultural tourism infrastructure, no museums or cultural centers of international standard. Good rating reflects genuine but unstructured cultural interest.
Learning experiences, scientific sites, historical education
The region serves as a living classroom for families to learn about pre-colonial economies and sustainable maritime engineering found nowhere else on Earth. The peak and shoulder months offer more stable conditions for guided cultural interactions, whereas heavy monsoon-like rains in February and July disrupt the outdoor educational experience.
Events, celebrations, seasonal attractions
Home to vibrant panpipe music festivals and cultural celebrations, particularly around Malaita Day in August. These events offer a rare look at untouched Pacific traditions, though the lack of fixed international tourism schedules means local guides are essential to timing a visit correctly.
Attractions (14 total)
Beach / Coastal Recreation Area
Langa Langa Lagoon
Auki
A stunning coastal expanse known for its unique artificial islands and traditional shell money production, offering calm waters ideal for family boat exploration.
Leli Island
Auki
A pristine tropical island reachable by boat from Auki, offering safe swimming and snorkeling in calm, clear turquoise waters for families.
Lau Lagoon
Malu'u
An impressive coastal landscape of artificial islands and traditional stilt villages, offering an educational and scenic boat-based adventure for families.
Landmark / Monument / Iconic Urban Attraction
Laulasi Island
Auki
Families can explore an ancient man-made coral island and watch traditional shell money being handcrafted in the beautiful Langa Langa Lagoon.
Sulufou Island
Auki
This historic artificial island in the Lau Lagoon provides a fascinating and educational look at traditional Solomon Islands coral architecture and maritime culture.
Auki Central Market
Auki
The vibrant heart of the town offers families a colorful look at local life, unique tropical produce, and traditional Malaitan handicrafts.
Road Trips & Scenic Drives
Malaita North Road
Auki
Approximately 82km gravel and partially paved coastal route (3-5 hours). 4WD vehicle is highly recommended. The route follows the northwestern coastline, offering stunning views of the Indispensable Strait, passing through traditional villages, coconut plantations, and crossing the Fiu River before reaching Malu’u and the Lau Lagoon area.
Malaita East Road
Auki
65km rugged cross-island mountain pass (3-4 hours). 4WD is essential due to steep gradients and gravel surface. This dramatic route climbs from Auki into the central mountain range, traversing dense primary rainforest and offering panoramic views of the island's interior and the Kwaibaita River valley before ending at the eastern port of Atori.
Visit website →Hiking & Cycling Routes
Bina-Talakali Trail
Bina
15km moderate day hike following a traditional path through coastal forests and Langa Langa villages. Typical duration is 5-6 hours with approximately 200m elevation gain. The route provides access to cultural sites and mangrove ecosystems. No bicycle or hiking equipment rentals available locally; visitors are advised to carry sufficient water and trekking poles.
Visit website →Lau Lagoon Lookout Trail
Fouia
5km moderate day hike climbing the ridges above the Lau Lagoon. Features a 2-hour duration with 300m elevation gain, offering panoramic views of the man-made coral islands. The trail is primarily used by visitors staying in the northern Malu'u and Fouia areas. No rental facilities are available; local guides are required for navigation and land permissions.
Visit website →Castle / Palace / Historic Site
Funaafou Island
Malu'u
One of the oldest man-made coral islands in the Lau Lagoon, showcasing the unique stone-building heritage and maritime history of the northern tribes.
Natural Feature / Scenic Site
Kwaibala Waterfall
Auki
A serene and easily accessible waterfall near the capital city, offering refreshing natural pools perfect for a family swim.
Historic Town / Village / Cultural Area
Busu Cultural Village
Auki
An immersive cultural site near the provincial capital offering demonstrations of traditional dancing, weaving, and authentic Solomon Islands earth-oven cooking.
National Park / Nature Reserve
Riba Cave
Auki
A fascinating limestone cave system with subterranean streams and impressive stalactites, offering a unique natural exploration for adventurous families.
Visit website →