According to one embodiment, in a semiconductor light emitting device, a first electrode is provided on a first surface of the semiconductor laminated body including a light emitting layer. A joint metal layer is provided on a second surface of the semiconductor laminated body opposed to the first surface of the semiconductor laminated body. A bonding metal layer covers a first surface of the joint metal layer on a side opposite to the semiconductor laminated body and is provided on a side of the second surface of the semiconductor laminated body. A substrate provided with a second electrode is bonded to the bonding metal layer. A layer having an etching resistance property to an etchant for etching the semiconductor laminated body is formed on a side of the surface of the bonding metal layer facing to the semiconductor laminated body.