The island is named after John F. Kennedy, who later became president of the United States. As a young naval officer, he swam to this island for safety after his boat was hit in the Pacific, and local Solomon Islander scouts helped rescue him and his crew. Kennedy never forgot the Solomon Islanders' generosity and kindness.
Today Kennedy Island is a peaceful, beautiful spot. Snorkellers come to explore the coral reefs surrounding it, and the clear blue water around the island teems with reef fish, sea turtles, and colourful sea slugs called nudibranchs. Day-trippers from nearby Gizo often kayak out to the island for a picnic under the coconut palms.
For the people of Gizo and the Western Province, Kennedy Island is a symbol of the friendship between Solomon Islanders and people from far away. The story reminds everyone how important it is to help others, and how the kindness of ordinary people can be remembered for generations.