Laucala

The beautiful tropical island of Laucala floats in the cerulean sea off the north-eastern coast of Taveuni, Fiji’s third-largest island. The exclusive, private Laucala resort sits on the island's northern coast.

Robinson Crusoe meets uber-luxurious contemporary style in the 25 Fijian-style beachfront bures at Laucala: natural materials of mahogany and coral-sand plaster, generous indoor/outdoor space and sumptuous design come together to create the feeling of your very own eco-conscious island abode that’s perfectly in tune with its surroundings. 

In each villa, the James Bond-esque infinity pools fall away to spectacular views of the sea; sunken outdoor stone tubs are filled with Laucala’s trademark bath salts and hibiscus petals; and the palm-sheathed sundeck is a prime spot for an exquisite private evening meal.

Almost everything on the menu at Laucala is grown and farmed on the island itself or caught in its perfectly clear waters, and the team of globally-acclaimed chefs put the organic produce to excellent use in the seasonal, refined dishes served up at the island’s five restaurants.

We like lounging in the cushy bed-style chairs with a fresh coconut water at the thatched Pool Bar during the afternoon, and when it’s time to watch the sun go down, ascend the rocky steps climbing the tropical hillside to the sheltered Rock Lounge, where the cocktails flow and the reclining chairs are positioned to take in the spectacular Seagrass Bay.

The island’s home-grown herbs, spices and volcanic soil blend to form the scents and oils used in Laucala’s hilltop spa, where authentic Fijian therapies, scrubs and massages take place in the soothing treatment villas.

The flawless waters surrounding Laucala beckon – board a luxury yacht to navigate around the neighbouring islets; float amongst hawksbill turtles and angelfish with some snorkelling or diving; tee off on the resort’s championship golf course, designed by the renowned David McLay Kidd; or day-trip beyond the lagoons to catch some wahoo or yellowfin tuna on a game-fishing outing.

Back on dry land, trot through tropical rainforest and coconut plantations on horseback or just kick back by the main pool, with swim-up cocktails at hand in the Pool Bar to keep you sufficiently refreshed.