Solomon Islands Tourism Rebounds, Nears Pre-Pandemic Levels
Tourism in the Solomon Islands is rebounding strongly, with international visitor numbers nearly matching pre-pandemic levels. In 2025, the country welcomed 28,458 international tourists, just shy of the 2019 benchmark of 29,000 visitors annually. This recovery follows a significant stall in tourism due to COVID-19, with development now accelerating across the islands.
A focus on eco-adventure tourism
The Solomon Islands Tourism Board is branding the country as the Pacific’s “last true great adventure frontier.” This strategy aims to draw high-value travelers seeking authentic, nature-focused experiences. Travellers are particularly attracted to activities like diving, snorkelling, and exploring World War II wrecks, which are abundant in the region.
Dagnal Dereveke, Head of Corporate Services at Tourism Solomons, emphasizes their commitment to “real adventure in a true eco-environment.” The focus is on delivering high-value, low-impact experiences in niche areas like diving, surfing, and hiking. This approach aligns with the growing global demand for sustainable and authentic travel experiences.
Infrastructure development fuels growth
Post-pandemic, the Solomon Islands is experiencing a wave of tourism development. Much of this activity is concentrated in the capital, Honiara, with new hotels like the Xiaos Henderson Hotel, a 60-room property that opened in January beside the international airport, and the renovated King Solomon Hotel (a $45 million project) catering to visitors. These developments are part of a broader effort to enhance the country’s tourism infrastructure.
Other notable additions include the Outback Holiday Resort, a 41-room property that opened in mid-2025, and the refurbished Raiders Hotel & Dive on Tulagi Island. Additionally, the Zaru Hotel in Gizo and the Parangiju Mountain Lodge in Guadalcanal have further expanded accommodation options. The Nafinua Surf Retreat on Santa Ana Island has also opened, significantly boosting the country’s surf tourism offerings and attracting enthusiasts from around the globe.
