Experience the Luxury of Necker Island
A stay on Richard Branson’s private Caribbean island, Necker Island, lets you vacation like a billionaire.
I can’t say Sir Richard Branson was the most present host when I visited Necker Island this past summer. Though he had planned to greet me and a few other lucky guests at his legendary British Virgin Islands residence, he abruptly changed plans to make a historic flight into space. Essentially, the billionaire maverick gave us the keys to his private island pad, allowing us to make ourselves at home — the same destination where Princess Diana and her young sons built sandcastles, where Barack Obama retreated post-presidency, and where Mariah Carey had her memorable getaway.
Luxury Experience on Necker Island
Necker Island, under Sir Branson’s exclusive Virgin Limited Edition portfolio, is one of those mythic destinations that most people only dream about. Known as one of the most famous private islands globally, the island accommodates the world’s elite and comes with steep prices (renting it outright now costs $107,500 per night for up to 40 guests across 20 rooms or $128,000 for up to 48 guests in 24 rooms). Following devastation by Hurricane Irma in 2017, the iconic property is newly rebuilt with an added villa and a fresh eye for sustainability.
Getting There
Reaching this exclusive paradise in the British Virgin Islands involves navigating the complexities of pandemic-era travel, including multiple forms and required COVID-19 testing. As of January 2022, vaccinated travelers will not need a rapid antigen test upon arrival.
There are no direct flights from the continental U.S. to the British Virgin Islands, so my group flew through San Juan, Puerto Rico. Awaiting us at San Juan’s airport was our private jet via Tradewind Aviation, a premium airline with charter and scheduled shuttle flights in the Caribbean and North America. After a brief refreshment and required travel document checks, we were ready for our 40-minute flight to the BVI’s international airport in Tortola.
Island Attractions
It was thrilling to spot Necker Island from our plane as we made our descent. Upon landing, we took our antigen test at the airport, collected our bags, and met with the Necker arrivals team, who escorted us to a speedboat — our final segment before officially stepping onto the fabled island.
As we toured Necker via electric buggy, it was hard to believe that this paradise, now adorned with handsome thatched-roof villas, was once a disaster site. The main residence, Great House, has been restored magnificently, offering breathtaking views. Beloved wildlife, including flamingos and pink-feathered scarlet ibis, has returned to the grounds.
New additions include the Bali Hi complex, featuring a Balinese-style villa that offers luxurious amenities paired with beautiful private plunge pools. Strict health measures remain in place, providing peace of mind for guests throughout their stay.
Necker Island is not merely a party destination; it prides itself on offering a serene environment perfect for relaxation. True to Branson’s Virgin ethos, the ambience is relaxed and casual, representing “barefoot luxury” at its finest.
Visitors will find a plethora of activities, from snorkeling and stand-up paddling to kitesurfing and scuba diving. For those who prefer a leisurely pace, massage treatments at the beachfront spa, relaxing by the pools, or soaking in hot tubs present serene alternatives.
Necker Island’s culinary program, led by executive chef Guillaume Galvez, infuses French flavors with Caribbean cuisine, making dining an exquisite experience. Signature events, such as the floating sushi bar in the Beach Pool, provide unique and memorable dining moments.
The island is committed to sustainability; bamboo straws have replaced plastics, and new wind turbines and solar panels contribute to a mission of running on renewable energy. This commitment extends to wildlife conservation efforts that rehabilitate endangered species, from giant tortoises to critically endangered lemurs, ensuring an enriching experience for nature enthusiasts.
On our final night, dinner in the Great House preceded Necker’s famed White Party, a lively celebration where guests joyfully danced the night away. The experiences on Necker Island prove it is truly a place of comfort and luxury, where guests feel not just welcomed, but also at home.
