Discover Solomon Islands: Poker, Events, and Gambling Laws

Solomon Islands has carved out a unique spot in the Pacific poker scene, largely thanks to its tourism-driven economy. Most gambling activity is concentrated in Honiara, where luxury resorts and dedicated card rooms offer a mix of traditional table games and modern electronic machines for both international visitors and local players.

Solomon Islands: The Land-Based Regulatory Pillar

• The Legal Bedrock: Gambling is governed by the Gaming and Lotteries Act, a piece of legislation with roots in the colonial era that has undergone several modernizing amendments. The law ensures that all physical gaming establishments are properly licensed and monitored.

• Regulatory Authority: The industry is overseen by the Gaming and Lotteries Board, alongside the Ministry of Finance and Treasury. This body is responsible for implementing laws, issuing licenses, and promoting responsible gaming practices across the archipelago.

• Digital Transition: In 2026, online poker remains in a "legal grey area" as legislation has not yet fully evolved to regulate offshore platforms. However, players can legally access international sites as there are no explicit prohibitions against residents playing on these platforms.

2026 Live Poker & Gaming Venues

The live scene is exclusively centered in Honiara, with venues offering high-stakes excitement in tropical settings:

Coral Sea Resort & Casino: This waterfront 5-star resort is the premier destination for gaming in the nation. The facility includes a sophisticated casino where guests can try their luck at various table games, including poker, amidst views of the Pacific Ocean.

Pacific Casino Hotel: A well-established 3-star venue located on the Kukum Highway. It is recognized for its vibrant casino atmosphere and has historically operated a dedicated poker room, blending strategic card play with island hospitality.

Honiara Central Action: Smaller gaming houses in the capital often feature electronic gaming machines and video poker, catering to a broader audience of local players and tourists.

Online Poker in Solomon Islands

Online Poker Legislation in the Solomon Islands

In 2026, the digital gaming market remains largely unregulated, with no domestic licensing scheme for online poker operators. This lack of specific legislation means that while residents can legally play on offshore platforms, the country lacks regulatory oversight for these transactions. Recent industry shifts, such as PokerStars announcing a withdrawal from the local market in early 2026 due to regulatory feasibility concerns, highlight the evolving and sometimes challenging nature of the regional iGaming environment.

Live Poker in Solomon Islands

Live Poker Legislation in the Solomon Islands

Live poker is fully legal when conducted within a licensed establishment under the Gaming and Lotteries Act. Operators must secure approvals from the National Gambling Control Board and follow strict rules regarding fairness and transparency. Operating a gaming house without a proper license is a serious offense that can lead to fines, imprisonment, and immediate closure of the premises.

Live Poker Venues in the Solomon Islands

Honiara serves as the sole anchor for live poker action, with the Coral Sea Resort & Casino and Pacific Casino Hotel being the primary destinations. These venues combine upscale accommodations with professional card rooms, providing a secure and regulated environment for No Limit Hold'em and other variations. Beyond the capital, traditional gambling action is nearly non-existent, making Honiara the definitive destination for any serious poker traveler in the region.