Article
Strategi Pengembangan Wisata Permandian Air Panas Sonai
Jurnal Penelitian Pendidikan Geografi, Vol. 11 No. 2 (2026), hlm. 223–237
Abstrak
Sonai Hot Springs, located in Puriala District, Konawe Regency, is a natural tourism potential with a main attraction of natural hot springs believed to have health benefits. This potential has not been optimally managed due to limited infrastructure, inadequate accessibility, lack of promotion, and low community involvement. This study aims to identify tourism potential and formulate development strategies to increase tourism attractiveness and community welfare. The research method employs a qualitative approach with descriptive analysis. Data collection was conducted through observation, interviews, and documentation, which were subsequently analyzed using a SWOT analysis. The SWOT analysis results formulated four main strategies, namely the SO, ST, WO, and WT strategies. The most relevant and feasible strategy to implement is the WO strategy, which utilizes tourism development opportunities to overcome various internal weaknesses. This step is implemented through infrastructure improvement, human resource quality enhancement, and tourism promotion optimization. Tourism development based on local potential and sustainability is expected to become a driving force for the regional economy.