Royal Davui Island Resort, Fiji, reveals stunning, multi-million-dollar revamp

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Edited by Travel Weekly


Royal Davui Island Resort has unveiled a stunning, multi-million-dollar new look, seven months after refurbishment began, with the resort now leading the way in redefining luxury and exclusivity in the South Pacific.

Nestled on a private island in the world-famous Beqa Lagoon, the resort is celebrating its 20-year legacy with this significant milestone, enhancing its reputation as the premier adults-only retreat in Fiji.

Unlike many other resorts in the area, Royal Davui Island Resort is Fijian owned and operated, with the owners on-site and personally welcoming and bidding farewell to every guest that grace its shores, along with the resort’s hospitable local staff.

Under owner and fifth-generation Fijian Christopher Southwick, the resort has undergone a remarkable transformation in the first half of 2024, marrying modern sophistication with the rich cultural heritage of Fiji.

The renovations have included a comprehensive overhaul of the resort’s iconic Banyan Bar & Restaurant, its 16 luxurious villas all with private plunge pools, and general spaces, ensuring that every facet of the resort offers unparalleled comfort and tranquility.

The resort’s philosophy around responsible luxury remains strong, with all new designs blending seamlessly with the island’s natural setting and old-growth trees, including the 400-plus-year-old Banyan tree and “heart of the island”, around which the resort’s restaurant is built and guests gather daily. Royal Davui’s location within a marine sanctuary in Beqa Lagoon also offers world-class snorkeling and diving experiences.

Key highlights of the refurbishment include:

  • Banyan Bar & Restaurant: Complete transformation with all-new dining, bar, and lounge furnishings, featuring custom-made 3m wide cascading rattan chandeliers and a unique 3D artwork of the local frigate birds, designed by Christopher Southwick.
  • Luxurious Villas: Each villa, boasting its own private plunge pool, now features new bedroom and living room furniture, artwork, and drapery, creating a seamless flow from indoor to outdoor living. The revitalised outdoor lounging areas allow guests to feel cocooned in their private island oasis.
  • Main Signature Pool: Upgraded with new pool lounges and cabanas, surrounded by new sculptures, overgrown pots, and foliage, enhancing the natural beauty of the island.

“The unveiling of this refurbishment marks an exciting milestone in our ongoing mission to offer unforgettable experiences to our guests, many of whom we welcome back year after year,” Southwick said.

“Our vision is to create a sanctuary that celebrates our heritage and the incredible beauty of the island, while providing all the modern comforts with heightened luxury. As an adults-only oasis, we aim to facilitate convivial social spaces where guests can mingle, while also offering a private, intimate haven for retreat.

“The new furnishings and designs evoke a sense of tranquility and serenity, perfectly complementing the natural beauty of the island,” Southwick said.

“This transformation not only marks a significant evolution in our resort’s story but also reaffirms our commitment to delivering personalised attention and authentic Fijian spirit that our guests cherish.”

Tourism Fiji CEO Brent Hill also congratulated the resort on its revamp.

“Congratulations to the team at Royal Davui Island Resort ~ Fiji on completion of their multi-million-dollar refurbishment,” he posted. “On its own private island, the 16 luxury villas at Royal Davui evoke all the elegance and sophistication you want at a luxury resort, yet paired with the rich cultural heritage of Fiji.

“If you’re a foodie, the Banyan tree restaurant is to die for, or an experience lover, you must do the private sand cay experience. Fijian owned, this is a very special island – congratulations Christopher Southwick, Grant Seylhouwer and team. Wananavu!”

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