The jungle-covered slopes of Laucala Island look like a prehistoric lost world: a pristine wilderness ringed by white sand beaches flecked with black volcanic rocks and knots of mangroves hemmed in by the cerulean waters of the South Pacific. Owned by billionaire Red Bull co-founder Dietrich Mateschitz, Laucala has been a favourite among in-the-know jetsetters since opening in 2009, offering discretion and privacy across its 25 luxury Residences; available to rent individually or as part of a full island buy-out.
Spread out over 5.4 square miles, the 25 South Pacific-style villas are more like private estates, dotted across the northern half of island on rocky bluffs, private beaches and emerald lagoons, each with private pools, an abundance of outdoor space and the services of a private butler.
New signature COMO touches include COMO Shambhala Retreat, where natural herbs, spices, flowers and fruits are used in massages and body treatments alongside river stones, crystals and volcanic soils from the island, and a COMO Shambhala menu provides balanced nutrition for conscientious diners. A 240-acre organic farm supplies fresh produce and livestock including quail and wagyu beef, while local fishermen provide fresh fish daily.
After arriving on Laucala, either in their own private aircraft or a flight from Fiji’s international airport, guests can plot an itinerary that includes exploring the dramatic landscape on foot, mountain bike or horseback; diving and snorkelling in the cobalt-coloured waters; or chartering a vessel from the island’s fleet of yachts and catamarans.
Back on the island, there’s a David McLay Kidd championship 18-hole golf course and tennis courts for active guests, and a garage full of water sports gear and marine toys, including jet skis and underwater scooters. Residences at COMO Laucala Island start from US $5,600 per night.
Island buy out
offering a buyout that includes not just exclusive access to your own personal paradise, but also chartered flights aboard Fiji Airways’ new Airbus A350 – so you can satisfy your inner aviation geek while also indulging in one of the world’s most extravagant getaways. The package, includes a few show-stopping elements sure to wow even the most discerning (read: pickiest) of travelers.
As for the travel arrangements themselves, folks who reserve this will start their journey at P.S. (formerly the Private Suite) at LAX for pre-departure and post-arrival services, meaning they do not have to transit through the airport’s main terminals at all, and will have their security and customs and immigration processing handled privately before being chauffeured out to the plane. From there, they can expect the exclusive use of one of Fiji Airways’ recently delivered Airbus A350s, which feature the airline’s next-generation business-class seats. These Collins Aerospace Super Diamonds are the same roomy, reverse-herringbone fixtures as you’ll find aboard other major carriers like American Airlines and Virgin Australia.
Upon arriving in Nadi, groups will have access to Fiji Airways’ Premier Lounge, where they will go through arrival and departure formalities, and then take a private transfer on Laucala’s own King Air Private Jets to the resort itself. Then comes the villa lockdown, after which they can experience all of Laucala’s charms without worry.
Stays include all meals (so book your beach picnic and private, candlelit romantic repasts), chauffeurs to cart you around the island, nanny services, housekeeping, laundry and more. The staff are apparently so good at cosseting their charges that many travelers report not even seeing other guests during their stay. While there, though, vacationers can also partake in activities including golf, tennis, horseback riding, mountain biking, surfing, diving and fishing. They can also just relax poolside, with afternoon-long spa treatments, or take a tour of the island’s 240-acre farm, which grows the organic produce used in the hotel’s restaurants.
The price tag for all of this well-managed comfort? A cool $682,000, which breaks down to just $4,900 per person, per night at maximum capacity when you do the math. Renting out the entire island clocks in at $490,000 whether you have two or 20 people. The Fiji Airways flight is $182,000 for up to 10 passengers, and $192,000 for between 11 and 20 passengers. Of course, remember all your charters, transfers, meals, activities and services are included. So gather your 19 closest (and richest) pals, settle on some dates, and throw down that Amex Black Card to book this one-of-a-kind expedition. Sure beats the leaf-peeping road trip you probably had on your calendar.
Tour of the Island
Gather your 19 closest (and richest) pals, settle on some dates, and throw down that Amex Black Card to book this one-of-a-kind expedition
Drift around like never before
Develop your senses
Lounge In the most inviting bath
