Necker Island

When it comes to activities, Necker isn’t just busy, it’s an adventure playground disguised as a resort. There’s something for every vibe and every energy level.

On land, you’ve got two full-size floodlit tennis courts, a pickleball court and, of course, our beloved padel court (more on that later). Rackets, balls, coaching - it’s all here, and all world-class. There’s also a gorgeous jungle gym with custom wooden workout stations, plus a fully kitted-out indoor gym overlooking the sea. From Cardio Tennis to Tipsy Tennis (a cocktail-fuelled tournament classic), there’s no shortage of ways to break a sweat and have a laugh while doing it.

For wellness seekers, the Samudra Spa offers beachside treatments using all-natural Sodashi skincare, while daily fitness classes take place in truly Instagrammable settings. Fancy SUP Yoga on the sea? Inversion workshops? A “Workout Crawl” that combines scenic jogs with pop-up HIIT stations? All are available along with many other wellness programs. You’ll leave the island stronger, bendier, and definitely more zen.

There are four infinity pools scattered around the island - some with hot tubs and swim-up bars - and even a “seacuzzi”, a natural ocean rockpool that turns into a bubbly bathtub when the waves hit just right. There’s also an icy cold plunge pool (for those brave enough), miles of trails to hike or wander, and two main beaches to choose from: Main Beach, where the action happens, and Turtle Beach, the serene hammock-strewn corner of calm.

On the water, it’s a literal toy box. We’re talking eFoiling, seabobbing, wakesurfing, paddleboarding, Hobie Cat sailing, scuba and SNUBA diving, kayaking, jet-skiing, inflatable SUP races and deep-sea fishing. And for the more laid-back days? Snorkelling right off the shore, or a relaxing boat trip to nearby islands - think beach bars, underwater caves, and conch fritters at local legends like Anegada and Cooper Island.

Still not enough? Enter the famous ‘Beach Olympics’. Necker’s twist on team bonding involves paddleboard digging challenges, duck-themed water races, and a few buckets of ice-cold hilarity. It’s impossible not to get involved. Trust us, this isn’t just a holiday; it’s a full-on, curated, adrenaline-meets-luxury experience.

There’s a word for how you feel here: untouchable. Like you’ve slipped into a lifestyle montage. The staff – many of whom have worked here for years – make you feel like part of the island family. You’ll eat dinner with your toes in the sand one night and then glam up for a Bond-themed casino soirée the next.

Necker's magic lies in its contradictions. One minute you’re in a hammock on Turtle Beach reading a book, the next you’re on a Hobie Cat slicing through the surf. You might wake up with sunrise yoga and end the day dancing barefoot under the stars as fireworks light up the sky.

We’d apologise for the clichés – “you’ll never want to leave” and all that – but in this case, it’s entirely justified. Life just feels... better here.

Let’s just say you won’t go hungry or thirsty on Necker. Every meal is included, every cocktail is crafted, and no one will bat an eyelid if you ask for another round of sushi in the pool. (Pro tip: don’t miss the Floating Sushi Kayak - it’s iconic.)

There’s formal dining on the rooftop terrace of the Great House, relaxed beach lunches under the sail at the Beach House, and themed dinners that range from barefoot BBQs to seven-course Caribbean feasts. And if you want pizza by the sea, they’ve got a wood-fired oven on Turtle Beach for that too.

The Painkiller – a Caribbean rum punch with a twist

Think private island, minus the pretension. From Branson’s hand-picked hosts to the water sports crew and tennis pros, the Necker team are more like your impossibly cool, well-travelled cousins. Need a mojito? They’re on it. Forgot your grip tape? Already replaced. Want to organise a surprise sunset proposal on the Crow’s Nest deck? Say no more.

Their blend of friendly warmth and five-star service is what turns guests into return visitors - and it’s what makes Necker feel like a home, not just a hotel

Just the one. But the location really makes up for this. Set just behind the beach and surrounded by lush greenery, Necker’s padel court is an oasis of cool-blue turf and ocean breeze. Fully floodlit and secluded, it’s the kind of place where a rally feels like a mini movie scene.

Avoid the midday heat with an evening knockaround with a view. It’s a bucket-list tick that doesn’t feel like one - until you look back and wonder if it really happened. Yes, it did.

Now here’s the kicker: Necker doesn’t just give you a court - they give you the tools to up your game. With two resident tennis coaches on the island (who also coach padel and pickleball), you’ll find expert lessons available at your convenience, whether you’re a total beginner or a tournament regular.

Prefer something a little more social? Group clinics, high-energy cardio sessions, and themed tournaments are hosted throughout the week. And if you need to burn off last night’s seven-course extravaganza, there’s always the infamous “Workout Crawl” - island HIIT, with a view.

The padel scene on Necker is growing fast. From casual games to structured sessions, it’s all built around fun, fitness and good company. Tournaments and match-ups can be arranged on request. And remember, you’re playing padel in paradise. Whether you win, lose, or accidentally volley the ball into the Caribbean, it’s all part of the island charm.