What’s a billionaire to do with all that extra cash?
If you’re Dietrich Mateschitz, founder of Red Bull, you buy a private island from another billionaire (Malcolm Forbes, in 2003), and turn it into an exclusive resort.
Understated luxury in a high-design environment is the theme of the laid-back Laucala resort.
Set on 3,500 stunning acres, the landscape ranges from volcanic mountains and lush rainforest to sweeping white beaches and coral reefs.
Here, the staff-to-villa ratio is 16:1 and no detail has been overlooked, from the coconuts that serve as “Do not disturb” signs outside each of the 25 villas to the fleet of 14 boats, available for exploring nearby islands or deep-sea fishing.
WHY
Few private-island retreats give you so many options.
We’re talking kitesurfing lessons, horseback riding jaunts, cooking classes, a golf course, a 90-minute welcome massage for every guest and more.
WORKING WELL
Although the resort suffered a hurricane last February and was forced to close until high summer, even the 18-hole par-72 golf course is back up and running. It’s sustainable living at its best, with French chef Jean Luc Amann sourcing everything from the island (you can even see the pigs and cows you might have for dinner up at the farm). And somehow, this Eden never runs out of supplies, and the Wi-Fi is swift and seamless in the villas, whether they’re on the beach or perched atop a mountain.
NEEDS WORK
The resort’s glass pool, which seems to float above the Pacific, must be the most photographed of any area on site, though there are plenty of photogenic settings, like the Rock Lounge overlooking Seagrass Bay. That said, the surrounding Lagoon Pool makes it difficult to find a place to park without walking through the shallows.
MUST TRY
A ride below the water’s surface in the DeepFlight Super Falcon submarine is part of the package (only one other resort in the world offers such a journey, Richard Branson’s Necker Island). Claustrophobes be warned: The cabin is tight. But few experiences can top angling around the reefs in your personal ($1.5 million) submersible.
BOTTOM LINE
It’s not easy to reach, but being cast away onto Mateschitz’ personal paradise is half the fun. If you’re seeking adventure, beauty and isolation — and a hefty price tag doesn’t scare you away — it doesn’t get much better than this. Note to brides-to-be: Elle MacPherson made this her wedding (well, vow-renewal) destination. We’re just sayin’.
DETAILS
Doubles from $4,800 per night for an all-inclusive stay plus a 90-minute spa treatment per guest; Laucala.com.