Jamie Isbell, the pioneer who gave vision to the surfing destination of Tavarua Island Resort, and helped surfers to explore the surf breaks like the ‘Cloudbreak’ and ‘Restaurants’ passed away in her sleep on October 13. She helped build a surf resort on Tavarua and welcomed surfers from around the globe to explore the culture and famous surf breaks of the small heart-shaped island. “[Jamie Isbell] has been a staple in so many of our lives for decades on [Tavarua Island Resort],” said Kelly Slater, who has always defined Tavarua as his “favorite escape.”

Taking to his Instagram, Slater shared a post by surfing photographer Ryan Miller on his Story. The picture showed Isbell walking the jungle-like path of the island alongside 11x WSL champion Kelly Slater and the three-time world champion, John John Florence. In the caption, Slater penned, “It was painful to hear of her passing a few days ago. The saving grace is that she lived so much life in her years with the people she loved in the places she wanted to be. You are and will always be sorely missed by your worldwide family. 💔”

Isbell’s daughter, Madison Isbell, took to social media to announce the sad news. She revealed that Isbell passed away peacefully in her sleep, after a beautiful day on the island on Monday. She was surrounded by her loved ones and at one of her favorite places on Earth. Right now, the family is taking their time to honor Jamie Isbell with nearly the same grace and warmth that she brought to the island of Tavarua. 

Talking about the special spot for the island in his heart, Slater once said, “I fell in love with the small island of Tavarua a long time ago, and I go back a few times every year. It’s definitely my favorite escape and may be home to the happiest people on earth.” And the reasons are many – The preference of waves to break, the food, the tropical environment… But most importantly, it was Jamie Isbell who made sure that the surfers enjoyed their time on the island.

What makes Tavarua so special for surfers

When Ryan Miller penned a eulogy for Isbell, he took a moment to write his encomium about what made the island so special. He added, “From the first time I set foot on Tavarua I knew you had it. An electric energy that could light up the whole island. I was always thankful for your little tips on where on the reef was good for snorkeling or sunset conversations over a bottle of wine and you teaching me about life.” 

For Isbell, it was the warmth of the Fijians that pulled her towards the island, even though she grew up in Seal Beach, California. For decades, she welcomed surfers, travelers, and families from around the world to Tavarua. Her easy laugh, kindness, and steady presence made Tavarua more than just a surf destination. It became a community. 

Isbell’s passing leaves a deep void, but her spirit remains woven into every sunset surf session, every shared meal, and every smile exchanged on that heart-shaped island she helped define.