COMO Laucala Island 

Overview

As one of the most iconic and exclusive private island resorts in the world, and the brainchild of Red Bull’s co-founder, Laucala Island is now under the COMO brand and remains one of the best tropical playgrounds imagineable. Excitingly, this ultra-luxury hideaway is perched on the edge of some of the world’s best dive sites so discerning travellers need not forego luxury to experience the famous Somosomo Strait or lesser-known local sites in the area. Guests stay on an all-inclusive basis that even includes diving on the closer reefs. 

In Depth

25 standalone homes are sporadically positioned across the resort, whether suspended over turquoise lagoons, nestled among emerald foliage or perched on a hilltop with outstanding views. Each home has its own large lounge space, a private pool, a spacious sundeck and an outdoor bath tub. The interiors are a clever blend of Fijian-inspired design and muted tones paired with local woods to create a tranquil haven. The lush gardens are humming with birdlife including jewel-bright kingfishers and bright green parrots. 

There is no shortage of dining opportunities, with a buzzy beach bar, a laidback cocktail spot that is ideal for sundowners, and a treetop restaurant and a classic plantation home amongst the five restaurant offerings on Laucala Island. With a 250-acre farm on the island, the produce is truly farm to table and local ingredients are championed in every dish. Wine connoisseurs must not miss the fine-dining wine pairing menu at the Plantation restaurant, whilst those who like a more laidback vibe can opt for a beach grill with their toes in the sand.  

The Diving

Up to three dives a day are possible and all will be arranged by your personal ‘Tau’ (friend in Fijian) with the in-house PADI dive centre. Inner reef dives are included within the stay price, and trip to the best dive sites further afield can also be arranged, including the Rainbow Reef and Great White Wall. Most guests dive with a private guide, from their own boat so the schedule is entirely created to each diver’s preference. A full contingent of PADI courses are on offer too for those looking to learn to dive. For more experienced divers, we recommend creating a bespoke diving itinerary to visit some of Laucala's more exploratory sites which can deliver exciting pelagic encounters. 

Beyond the Reef

With an impressive fleet of boats, an 18-hole golf course, a fully-equipped fitness centre and tennis courts, as well as a horse-riding stable, COMO Laucala is not short of facilities. Guests staying on this island playground can also enjoy a host of watersports and of course, COMO’s world class Shambhala Spa facilities. The experiences don’t finish at the island though, as day trips to Bouma National Park can be arranged for hiking trails to reach hidden waterfalls, or romantic sunset cruises on board Rere Ahi, the resort’s classic wooden sailing yacht. To get a taste of local culture, take part in a local kava ceremony, prepare some Fijian dishes in a cooking class or try your hand at traditional Fijian weaving and shell crafts.