Dala

Dala is a settlement on the northern coast of Malaita Island in Malaita Province, Solomon Islands. Located along the shore of the Lau Lagoon, Dala is one of several communities built on artificial islands constructed from coral stone — a tradition unique to the Lau Lagoon area. The man-made islands have been inhabited for centuries and are a distinctive cultural feature of north Malaita. The people of Dala speak the Lau language and maintain a seafaring lifestyle centred on fishing and inter-island canoe travel. The climate is tropical with consistent heat and humidity, and heavier rainfall from November to March.

By Plane

The nearest airport is Auki Airport (IATA: AKS) on Malaita, served by Solomon Airlines from Honiara. From Auki, Dala is about 40 km north by road and boat — take a minibus to the north coast, then a canoe across the lagoon.

By Car / Road

From Auki, a rough road runs north along the coast to the villages near Lau Lagoon. Minibuses operate from Auki market. The drive takes about 1 hour. From the road end, transfer to a dugout canoe to reach Dala on its artificial island.

Dala's artificial island is only a few metres across and is traversed on foot. Canoes provide transport between the artificial islands and the Malaita mainland.

• Artificial islands — the man-made coral islands of Lau Lagoon, a remarkable cultural landscape.

• Lau Lagoon — a large coastal lagoon with mangrove islands and abundant birdlife.

• Traditional Lau architecture — thatched houses built on the coral islands.

• Canoe culture — the Lau people are renowned seafarers with beautifully crafted outrigger canoes.

• Cultural tour — learn about the history and construction of the artificial islands.

• Canoe rides — explore the lagoon by dugout canoe.

• Snorkelling — the lagoon waters offer calm conditions for swimming.

• Birdwatching — mangrove and lagoon birds.

fresh seafood is central to Lau cuisine. Guesthouses serve fish, taro, and coconut.

coconut water is abundant. Bring bottled water.

• Budget: village homestay on the artificial islands; a unique cultural experience.
• Mid-range: No mid-range accommodation available.
• Upscale: No upscale accommodation available.

limited — small trade stores on the mainland sell essentials. Handicrafts and shell money may be available.

• Lau Lagoon — explore the other artificial island communities in the lagoon.
• Auki (40 km south) — the provincial capital with market and services.
• Langa Langa Lagoon (south) — another lagoon system with artificial islands.
• Afio (further north) — traditional village at the northern tip of Malaita.