Review: laidback luxury at Vomo Island Fiji’s new Reef House
In the Press: EXECUTIVETRAVELLER.COM – Following the debut of its sixth residence, this long-adored resort has set a new gold standard for barefoot bliss.
Island vibes in no time
Strolling along the beach from Reef House to the main resort, warm waves occasionally lapping your feet and the gentle breeze gliding over your skin, it’s impossible not to feel relaxed – or start to wonder how you can keep this feeling going even longer.
Clear waves lapping lazily against a shell-lined shore, a string hammock tied between two palms, and a freshly-opened coconut resting in the sand alongside, ready to be scooped up and enjoyed.
This quintessential tropical scene may sound like a phone wallpaper, or perhaps the photo of the month on a calendar, but it’s actually the view from the breakfast table at Vomo Island – an all-inclusive Fijian hideaway which has welcomed travellers for almost 30 years.
Only 45 minutes by boat from Denarau Marina, the primary jump-off point for the Yasawa and Mamanuca chains leading west from the main island of Viti Levu, Vomo proudly ranks among the most luxurious resorts in the country.
As anyone who’s visited the islands of Fiji can attest, their enduring appeal is more than just skin deep. The warm and genuine spirit of its people, not to mention the opportunities to learn from and meaningfully engage with those you meet, are its greatest treasure. Vomo is no exception.
From the minute your boat idles up to the shore and guitar playing staff greet you with a lei and the words ‘Bula! Welcome home’ to waving a tearful final goodbye to the people you’ve formed a bond with, you become part of the extended family.
The Reef House: Experience
Completed in December 2022, Reef House is palatial in fit-out and scale, welcoming 10 guests and staffed by a dedicated butler to ensure every holiday is as memorable as possible.
Within the sprawling 100-metre-long footprint are five elegantly-furnished guest rooms – a spacious master at one end and four overlooking lush greenery at the other.
No expense has been spared in creating something as enchanting to look at as it is to spend time in.
Divided between two freestanding buildings, the four guest rooms at the far side of the pool each feature a separate entrance, ensuite and outdoor day bed tailor-made for soaking up the sunshine.
Inside you’ll find a comfortable king-size bed taking pride of place at its centre, a day lounge laden with pillows flanking one wall and a stunning indoor and outdoor bathroom housing a deep soaking tub and rain shower.
At the heart of the residence is a full kitchen, butler’s pantry and dining room, separated from an entertainment room by a large undercover lounge. Don’t let the kitchen worry you though – guests aren’t expected to BYO.
Full resort access is all part of the deal, including all-inclusive meals at restaurants, plus a well stocked fridge of soft drinks and water. Alcoholic drinks can be purchased also.
In-residence dining can also be arranged by your dedicated butler, be it a la carte breakfast, a delicious cheese platter, freshly-cut fruit or a charcuterie board to graze on by the pool.
But the star of the show has to be the 25-metre infinity edge swimming pool. It’s gorgeous, particularly in the late afternoon when the setting sun sets the area ablaze in golden light.
Lined with gleaming-white beach umbrellas and reclining sun lounges, and affording a dazzling view across the sea to Yasawa islands beyond, it’s the social heart and soul of the residence, and a perfect spot for sunset drinks.
