The seaplane descends toward a verdant emerald set in a ring of white sand and impossibly blue water. As you approach Kokomo Private Island Fiji, the Great Astrolabe Reef unfolds beneath you—a living, breathing marvel that cradles this 140-acre sanctuary in the Celestial Kaduva Island Group. This isn’t just another luxury resort; it’s a deeply personal vision come to life. The family-run retreat has captured global attention, earning a coveted position on The World’s 50 Best Hotels 2024 through its distinctive blend of understated elegance and genuine connection to place.
Unlike the corporate-backed resorts that populate many island destinations, Kokomo Private Island Fiji stands apart as a deeply personal venture – a self-described “love letter to the South Pacific” that maintains an intimate connection to its surroundings. This 140-acre paradise, ringed by coral reefs and fringed with powder-white sand, offers an exclusive experience that begins with your arrival via seaplane, helicopter, or boat just 45 minutes from Nadi International Airport.
A private paradise designed with purpose
The accommodation options at Kokomo Private Island Fiji strike a perfect balance between privacy and space. Twenty-one open-plan villas are thoughtfully positioned along the shoreline, each with private pools that rank among the largest in the region. For larger groups, five expansive residences sit perched on hilltops, offering three to five bedrooms and panoramic views that capture the island’s breathtaking beauty.
What distinguishes the aesthetic at Kokomo is its restrained approach to luxury. The design incorporates Fijian elements and works from an artist in residence, creating spaces that feel connected to their location rather than imposed upon it. Interiors showcase local materials, including cinnamon-tree hardwood, Fijian mahogany, and traditional magi magi matting, reflecting a commitment to authenticity and sustainability that runs throughout the property.
Marine adventures on your doorstep
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The island’s location within one of the world’s most spectacular reef systems makes it a paradise for underwater enthusiasts. The PADI Certified Marine Centre provides access to 30 unique diving spots, with a fleet of 15 boats ensuring guests can explore at their leisure. Regular sightings of rare fish, dolphins, pilot whales, turtles, and manta rays make each excursion memorable.
Beyond diving, guests can engage with the marine environment through conservation projects led by the resort’s in-house marine biologist. These initiatives include a coral nursery and programmes focused on manta ray and turtle protection, offering visitors the chance to contribute meaningfully to the preservation of this delicate ecosystem.
Sustainable luxury at the core of Kokomo Private Island Fiji
Sustainability isn’t an afterthought at Kokomo Private Island Fiji; it’s fundamental to the resort’s identity. Every element of the build has been considered through an environmental lens, from the use of repurposed plantation pines to the implementation of comprehensive waste reduction programmes.
The resort’s five-acre kitchen garden supplies its restaurants with fresh, organic produce, complementing the daily catch delivered by local fishermen. This farm-to-table—or ocean-to-plate—approach minimises food miles while ensuring exceptional quality and flavour, creating a dining experience that’s both responsible and refined.
Culinary excellence with island flair
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Dining at Kokomo Private Island Fiji elevates the resort experience beyond the typical luxury offering. The flagship restaurant, Walker d’Plank, serves sophisticated Asian-Fijian fusion dishes that showcase local ingredients in innovative ways. The more casual Beach Shack offers relaxed seaside dining, while the Kokocabana Pool Club provides the perfect setting for sunset cocktails.
Beverages receive the same attention to detail as the food, with drink menus featuring house-made tinctures, syrups, and elixirs created from island herbs and plants. This commitment to craftsmanship extends throughout the culinary programme, reflecting the resort’s dedication to excellence in every aspect of the guest experience.
A complete island experience
Beyond the beaches and reefs, Kokomo offers a wealth of amenities designed to enhance your stay. Wellness enthusiasts can enjoy private yoga sessions or indulge in treatments at the expansive spa. For those seeking more active pursuits, tennis and basketball courts provide sporting options, while floating pontoons and a large pool offer alternative locations for relaxation.
Families are particularly well-catered for, with activities and facilities designed to engage guests of all ages. This inclusivity – unusual among ultra-luxury properties – reflects the resort’s origins as a family venture and its commitment to creating meaningful experiences for every visitor.
With just 26 rooms in total and rates starting from $3,500 per night, Kokomo Private Island Fiji offers exclusivity without pretension – a rare combination in today’s luxury travel landscape. For those seeking an exceptional escape that honours its surroundings while providing world-class service and amenities, Kokomo Private Island Fiji delivers on every level.
