Solomons Islands Takes Out Prestigious International Dive Award

New Orleans, United States – Shining the international spotlight well and truly on the Solomon Islands’ world-class dive offering, the Solomon Islands has been awarded a prestigious ‘Scuba Diving Magazine 2027 Readers Choice Award’ at the world’s largest SCUBA diving event, the 2026 Diving Equipment & Marketing Association (DEMA) event taking place in New Orleans.

Tourism Solomons’ Head of Sales & Marketing, Fiona Teama and Marketing Officer, Eldona Lokay were on hand in New Orleans to receive the award which places the Solomon Islands among the world’s top dive destinations.

Accepting the award from the PADI Media Group Director, Jeff Mondle, Ms Teama said she and her team were  immensely thankful to all the readers and passionate divers who voted for the Solomon Islands.

“This recognition means the world to us,” she said.

“The Solomon Islands have long been a sanctuary for underwater explorers – from our pristine, untouched coral reefs and historical WWIIs wrecks to our incredible marine biodiversity.

“Overall, what truly makes diving in the Solomon Islands special is our vibrant local communities, our dedicated dive operators and the warm hospitality of our people who work tirelessly to protect and share our ocean paradise.

“This award belongs to them.”

The  Solomon Islands is regularly voted into the top award tiers for its highly diverse marine ecosystems, pristine cave diving, and vibrant underwater photography hotspots.

Previous wins have been awarded in the ‘Best Wreck Diving’, ‘Best Shore Diving’, ‘Best Value’, and ‘Best Macro Life’ categories.

The Solomon Islands liveaboard vessels, Emperor Bilikiki and Solomons Master also regularly earn high placement in their specific classifications.