Necker Island in the British Virgin Islands

Jutting headlands are punctuated by beautiful sandy beaches and panoramic hillsides are topped by cactus-studded ridges . . . clear, pristine waters . . . almost completely encircled by coral reefs. So wrote Richard Branson, world adventurer and head of Virgin Airlines, upon buying Necker Island..

Sea Entrance to the
British Virgin Islands

Uniquely located at its namesake Necker Passage, the sea entrance to the Sir Francis Drake Channel, Necker Island, adjoins the Anegada Passage, the Atlantic entrance into the Caribbean itself.

Originally developed as a retreat for family and friends, Necker Island (email)(Interview with Richard Branson in Villa magazine) has become one of the most exclusive and luxurious vacation spots in the world (see Necker Island Accommodations). Necker Island Mansion Burns in Fire.

Paradise Built. The main walls were built from the stone hewn out of Devil's Hill, but the roof of this Balinese Great House was pre-fabricated in Brazil. Much of the furniture and fabric was handmade in Bali.

Five white sand beaches as well as rocky cliffs ring its shores. Paths lined with tropical blossoms lead to hidden hammocks and a Hindu meditation hut.

Nature. Pelicans, doves and hummingbirds are abundant on Necker, freshwater from its desalination plant has increased the number of species and part of the island has been designated a bird sanctuary.

Lizards and greckos thrive in this dry, sunny habitat. The extensive reefs support numberous tropical fish and blue marlin have been caught surprisingly close to its shores.