Solomon Kitano Mendana Hotel will temporarily close from 1 September as it begins a major renovation programme aimed at modernising the landmark Honiara property and bringing it up to contemporary international standards.
Hotel management said the phased redevelopment is expected to continue well into 2027 and will focus on upgrading essential infrastructure, improving guest facilities and enhancing the overall visitor experience.
The renovation programme will include upgrades to guest rooms, a modernised lobby and reception area, improvements to restaurant and bar facilities, refurbishment of pool and outdoor areas, and broader structural and safety improvements.
As part of the closure, the hotel’s popular Western-style restaurant, Capitana, will cease operations, while the closure schedule for the Hakubai Japanese Restaurant will be announced as construction progresses.
In a statement, Solomon Kitano Mendana Hotel management thanked its customers, partners and supporters for their continued patronage over the years.
The hotel said it looked forward to welcoming guests back to a significantly improved and more attractive facility once the renovation works are completed.
The redevelopment forms part of a wider expansion and upgrade of Honiara’s hospitality sector as the capital prepares for increased tourism, business activity and international events.
Several other major hotel developments are currently underway, including the expansion of Heritage Park Hotel, which is adding a new conference facility and additional rooms.
King Solomon Hotel is also expanding its accommodation capacity while upgrading its reception, main dining and restaurant areas.
Coral Sea Resort & Casino is undertaking an expansion that includes the addition of 100 new rooms.
Meanwhile, Pacific Crown Hotel continues to roll out upgrades across its entertainment, dining, fitness and accommodation facilities, following the operator’s broader investment programme, including the opening of Rua Koukomu Resort earlier this year.
The series of investments marks one of the biggest upgrades of Solomon Islands’ hospitality infrastructure in recent years, as the country seeks to strengthen its tourism and business sectors.
