Kadavu Islands, Fiji - November 2024
We’re sitting at the Kokomo Private Island lounge at Nadi Airport and we already feel relaxed. There’s a beautiful Montessori inspired playroom for the kids and a Hamptons-chic lounge for the adults complimented with barista coffee and fresh pastries.
The helicopter is ready, and we effortlessly board with noise cancelling headphones at the ready. It’s a short 45 minute scenic journey, over the mainland’s misty mountains and then out to sea over brilliant coral, sand bars and lots of sea life.
Upon landing we’re whisked off in a buggy and can hear a beautiful chorus singing in anticipation of our arrival. It’s a joyous welcome and we instantly feel at home. We’ve already been checked-in so we can just take in the views at the Beach Shack, the island’s main lounge, restaurant and bar area. Fresh coconut’s in hand, we’re met with unspoiled white sand and crystal blue water.
Our three-bedroom sunrise villa is nestled amongst lush tropical landscaping, with direct beach access. It’s private, quiet and serene. The interiors are chic, with island touches. White linens adorn the beds, accented with rattan chairs and a plush white sofa. The rain shower is tiled with stone and it all sits under a thatched roof. It’s a beautiful interpretation of luxe pacific design. Stepping outside there’s a twinkling plunge pool, dining area and path leading out to the ocean.
We could easily stay in the villa all day, but there’s so much to do on the island. If you’re active there’s complimentary daily yoga classes in the morning and evening. There’s a private gym instructor and a world class tennis coach. Or head down to the Beach Shack and pick up a kayak, paddle board or join the daily snorkel tour. Not to mention fishing tours, scuba - you name it, the staff will go above and beyond to make it happen.
Kids are adored on Kokomo Private Island, with dedicated nannies, a sprawling kids club and pool, daily activities such as glass bottom boat trips and morning fish feeding. We loved taking out the kayaks and spotting large sea turtles - just magical for the whole family.
The food is outstanding, with Chef Caroline at the helm to whip up anything you desire. Her modern fusion creations are incredibly impressive and curry night at Walker d’Plank - an open air beach shack that has an authentic castaway feeling, is a must-do highlight. Breakfast is an elevated spread of artisan pastries, local fruit and a la carte menu featuring fresh eggs and produce from the island’s own garden.
It’s the little things however that make Kokomo Private Island really hard to top. A daily laundry service, perfectly folded and returned the next day to your villa is such a treat. 24/7 included room service for those days you just want to lounge about. But mostly, it’s the people who go the extra mile to make you feel at home.
Soulful singing by the Kokomo team bids us farewell as we walk down the jetty to our seaplane for departure, spotting sting rays and baby sharks in the rainbow coral. As we board, we can still hear the chorus singing and it's hard not to get emotional. Gliding up in to the air, a sea turtle bobs its head up with a final goodbye and to Kokomo we say vinaka.
We were guests of Kokomo Private Island.
https://www.kokomoislandfiji.com/