What is Fiji's most expensive resort?

The Pinnacle of Paradise: What is Fiji's most expensive resort?

ByLuxury Adventures

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The Pinnacle of Paradise: What is Fiji's most expensive resort?

Fiji, a jewel of the South Pacific, is renowned for its stunning crystal clear waters, powdery white sand beaches, and warm hospitality. Among its many luxurious offerings, one resort stands out as the epitome of opulence and exclusivity: COMO Laucala Island Resort. This private island sanctuary represents the pinnacle of indulgence, providing a secluded paradise for discerning travellers seeking an extraordinary escape. Let’s dive into the unparalleled experience Laucala offers and why it deserves its reputation. COMO Laucala Island Resort is Fiji’s most expensive resort. Lets find out why.

Welcome to Laucala Island: A Private Haven

Nestled in the pristine waters of Fiji’s Northern Lau Archipelago, Laucala Island is a private island spanning 3,500 acres of unspoiled tropical beauty. Once owned by billionaire Malcolm Forbes, the island was transformed into an elite retreat by Austrian businessman Dietrich Mateschitz, the co-founder of Red Bull. The resort is designed to harmonize luxury with sustainability, blending seamlessly with its lush natural surroundings.

Laucala Island is not just a resort; it’s a world of its own. COMO Laucala Island is a private island in the Cakaudrove province where private charters can land directly. COMO Laucala Island also has a private lounge at Nadi International Airport, where guests can wait with refreshments, fully taken care of by the team. The resort’s private jet sets the tone for what’s to come: the ultimate in privacy, exclusivity, and breathtaking beauty.

Accommodation: A Masterpiece of Luxury and Design

Laucala Island boasts 25 spectacular villas, each offering a unique blend of traditional Fijian architecture and modern comfort. These villas are scattered across the island, ensuring complete privacy for guests. Each is crafted with natural materials such as local timber, thatch, and stone, creating a harmonious connection with the environment.

Highlights of the Villas

Udu Residence: This peninsula villa has 800sqm of private space and is surrounded by green hills and turquoise ocean on its rocky perch – with access to a private beach set within a cove. 1 x King Bed for upto two guests, this is the perfect spot for couples. This Residence is our most secluded, with 220-degree views of the ocean and neighbouring islands. Enjoy the best sunset view in the resort, while lounging in Udu’s built-in hammock, before dinner at the Seagrass Restaurant nearby.

Plateau Residence: Plateau Residences sit on a hilltop ridge, the tropical architecture blurring the boundary between the homes and the lush greenery. These Residences have panoramic views of the surrounding nature, and their location is closer to our golf course, tennis courts, spa and herb gardens. 3x One-bedroom Plateau Residences (1 King Bed / 2 guests / From 1,500sqm) 1 x Two-bedroom Plateau Residence (1 King Bed per bedroom / 4 guests including up to 2 children / 2,000sqm)

Seagrass Residence: Seagrass Residences are nestled in lush vegetation, with wood and rock finishes that connect the interior spaces to the bay coastline they overlook. Hedges provide soft separation between these Residences, making them ideal for group bookings. Seagrass Residences are also in an area that sees more of our unique island birds, adding a liveliness to their already playful design. 4x One-bedroom Seagrass Residences (1 King Bed / 2 guests / From 2,000sqm) 2x Two-bedroom Seagrass Residences (1 King Bed per bedroom / 4 guests including up to 2 children / From 3,000sqm) 1x Three-bedroom Seagrass Residence (2 King and 2 Single Beds in total / 6 guests including up to 3 children / 8,000sqm)

Plantation Residences: Plantation Residences are located on their own stretches of white-sand beach, with spacious, open-plan living areas and spectacular sea views. They’re located on our Copra Plantation, within easy reach of the resort’s restaurants, bars and activity areas. These Residences enjoy abundant sunlight, great sunset views and an uncompromised spaciousness. 6x One-bedroom Plantation Residences (1 King Bed / 2 guests / From 2,000sqm) 4x Two-bedroom Plantation Residences (1 King Bed per bedroom / 4 guests including up to 2 children / From 3,000sqm) 1x Three-bedroom Plantation Residence (2 King and 2 Single Beds in total / 6 guests including up to 3 children / 8,000sqm)

Each residence comes with its own buggy for exploring the island, a private infinity pool, and personal butler service to cater to every whim.

Fine Dining: Choosing your gastronomy

At Laucala Island, dining is an experience centred around taste, health, wellbeing and sustainability. The resort offers a farm-to-table philosophy, with much of the produce sourced from its organic farms, hydroponic gardens, and local waters. Every meal is crafted to perfection, tailored to guests’ preferences, with menu changes daily.

Dining Venues at COMO Laucala

Plantation House Restaurant: Plantation House embodies COMO Laucala’s dedication to farm-to-fork and ocean-to-earth dining, driven by Chef Daniel’s passion for fresh, sustainable cuisine. This primary dining venue is perched on a grassy slope above palm groves that stretch to the ocean’s edge. Surrounded by mature mango, mountain apple, and cinnamon trees, the restaurant exudes elegance with its white wood walls, pale leather, and rattan furnishings, complemented by the gentle rhythm of overhead fans. Doors open to a verandah-style terrace, capturing the morning breeze, while a private dining room accommodates up to 16 guests for intimate gatherings. This colonial-style building is the heart of fine dining on the island, offering a sophisticated menu inspired by international and Fijian cuisines.

Seagrass Lounge & Restaurant: The Thai-influenced, pan-Asian gastronomy of this dramatic cliff-top restaurant is a beautiful place to watch the sun go down over Qamea Island’s forested ridge. The two most highly sought-after tables include the live-cooking Teppanyaki Bar, seating six, and ‘The Lookout’, which is a private dining platform for honeymoons and intimate celebrations. Nestled along the coastline, this venue specializes in Asian-inspired dishes with an emphasis on fresh seafood.

Beach Bar: The Beach Bar embraces a fresh and straightforward philosophy, highlighting local ingredients and influences. Set in a laid-back beachfront ambiance, it features two distinct bars: an open ocean view sit-up bar and a poolside bar with loungers, daybeds, and cabanas. Guests can enjoy COMO Shambhala juices and island-inspired cocktails throughout the day. Perfect for a relaxed meal, the Beach Bar serves up wood-fired pizzas and grilled seafood amongst others.

The Rock Lounge: Offering a serene setting for guests to enjoy pre-dinner cocktails and post-dinner aperitifs, accompanied by soothing beats, and the sound of ocean waves. Blending seamlessly with its surroundings, it feels intertwined with the ocean, black basalt rocks, and lush forest, where palms and banyans emerge from the crevices.

Guests can also request bespoke dining experiences, such as a candlelit dinner on the beach or a picnic atop a mountain, perhaps you’d like to dine in the comfort of your residence. The choice is yours.

Things to do whilst staying at COMO Laucala

Immerse yourself in water activities

Surrounded by coral reefs and turquoise waters, COMO Laucala is a haven for water enthusiasts:

Snorkelling and Scuba Diving: Diving in Fiji is considered some of the best in the world. Explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with colourful marine life.
Deep-Sea Fishing: Try your hand at catching blue or black marlin, mahi-mahi, giant trevally or yellow fin tuna with expert guides.
Water Sports: Enjoy paddleboarding, jet skiing, kayaking, water skiing, wind surfing, surfing and sunset sailing…just to name a few!

Explore the Island’s Natural Beauty

COMO Laucala’s vast landscapes offer activities for every adventurer:

Horseback Riding: Explore pristine beaches, lush tropical forests, and rolling hills, guided by the gentle companionship of our well-trained horses.
Hiking and Biking: The mountain biking trail is perfect for adventure seekers (kids bikes available). The route features steep climbs and thrilling downhills across cobblestones, gravel, grass, and hard sand. Riders will traverse stunning landscapes, from palm-lined beaches to mangroves, dense forests, and grassy paths bordered by banyan trees draped over black basalt rocks. If you prefer to walk, explore three hiking trails: the Advanced Summit Hike (2 hours), Tower Hike (1 hour), and Round-the-Island Hike (4 hours).
Fitness Centre and Tennis Court : The fitness centre offers state-of-the-art cardio equipment, including treadmills, bikes, elliptical trainers, and rowing machines. Complimenting the facility are machines, free weights, a stretching area, yoga mats, and Pilates gear. A personal trainer is available at no extra charge. Two tennis courts, are a short buggy ride away, and if you’d like guidance or a hitting partner, our resident pro, Rupeni, is ready to assist.

Play a Round of Golf on Fiji’s number 1 ranked golf course

Challenge yourself on the resort’s 18-hole championship golf course designed by David McLay Kidd. This immaculate course weaves through coconut plantations and offers stunning ocean views. Ranked the No.1 course in Fiji and the South Pacific Islands but few get to play it due to its exclusivity.

Partake in Cultural Activities

Dive into the rich traditions of Fijian culture:

Village Visits: Meet locals and learn about their way of life.
Cultural Performances: Witness traditional dances, firewalking, and music.
Cooking Classes: Learn to prepare Fijian dishes using local ingredients. Visit the island’s boutique to find handcrafted items, jewellry, and art created by local artisans. Many pieces reflect Fiji’s vibrant culture and natural beauty.

Family Adventures and Activities

While COMO Laucala is ideal for romantic getaways, families are also warmly welcomed:

Children can participate in supervised activities like treasure hunts, snorkelling lessons, or arts and crafts.
Family-friendly excursions, including picnics and beach outings, are available.

COMO Shambhala Laucala Island: Wellness in Fiji

With an expert-led approach, COMO Shambhala meets you wherever you are on your wellness journey — whether it’s furthering your practice in yoga and fitness, meditation and breathing or for a restorative facial or massage. Indulge in the ultimate wellness in Fiji

Weddings: Can I get married at COMO Laucala Fiji?

Weddings at COMO Laucala Island are bespoke celebrations of love set in one of Fiji’s most breathtaking islands. With four ceremony locations, couples can exchange vows on pristine beaches, atop scenic hilltops, or amidst lush tropical gardens, with every detail tailored by the island’s expert team. From stunning floral arrangements and personalised menus to cultural touches like Fijian kava ceremonies and meke dances, each element reflects the couple’s unique vision. Luxurious private villas provide a serene retreat for couples and guests, while activities above enhance the experience. Thinking of a wedding ceremony on COMO Laucala? Let us assist you with your requirements.

Who Stays at Laucala Island?

Laucala’s exclusivity attracts celebrities, royals, and high-net-worth individuals. Previous guests are rumored to include Oprah Winfrey, George Clooney, and members of European royal families. The resort’s privacy and discretion make it a haven for those who value seclusion and anonymity.

What’s included when staying at COMO Laucala?

A stay at COMO Laucala Island is an all-inclusive luxury experience, featuring private villas with pools, personalized butler service, and farm-to-table dining at five gourmet venues with premium beverages (excluding top shelf). Guests enjoy unlimited access to non-motorized and motorized water sports, scuba diving, an 18-hole championship golf course, and guided land adventures like nature walks and horseback riding. Wellness offerings include access to the COMO Shambhala Retreat, daily yoga, and spa treatments. Cultural experiences, island exploration tours, and family-friendly activities are seamlessly integrated, while exclusive options like outer reef deep sea fishing and private yacht charters elevate the experience. Private plane transfers, high-speed Wi-Fi, and tailored service ensure every detail is flawlessly managed.

How do I get to COMO Laucala Fiji?

Flights to Fiji

Fiji’s main international entry point is Nadi International Airport (NAN) on the island of Viti Levu. Direct flights are available from several major cities worldwide:

From the United States: Fiji Airways offers direct flights from Los Angeles (11 hours), San Francisco (11 hours), and Honolulu (6 hours). A new direct route from Dallas-Fort Worth (13 hours) begins December 2024.
From Australia: Frequent direct flights are available from Sydney (4 hours), Brisbane (3.5 hours), and Melbourne (5 hours) via Fiji Airways, Qantas, and Jetstar.
From New Zealand: Direct flights from Auckland (3 hours) are available through Air New Zealand and Fiji Airways.
From Asia: Singapore Airlines and Fiji Airways provide direct flights from Singapore (10 hours), and other connections are available from Tokyo and Hong Kong.

Reaching COMO Laucala Island

Once in Nadi, COMO Laucala Island is accessible via a private charter flight. The island operates its own airstrip, and the scenic journey from Nadi takes approximately 50 minutes by air. These transfers can be arranged directly with us as part of your booking.

Final Thoughts: A Luxury Adventure at COMO Laucala Fiji

COMO Laucala Island Fiji is high-end luxury with few peers. With the convenience of direct flights from all over the world into Fiji, this private island is the epidemy of exclusivity and privacy. Indulge in the ultimate tropical escape. Immerse yourself in luxury, relaxation, and adventure in one of the world’s most luxurious resorts. A favourite with celebrities, VIP’s and high net-worth families and individuals, COMO Laucala Island Fiji is the ultra-luxe destination.

Get in touch with us today to include this in your ultimate Fiji luxury itinerary.

If you would like to know more, you can click here or email info@luxuryadventures.co.nz

This article was written by Luxury Adventures Director Steve McKean