The 18 Best Private Island Resorts In The World

Ever fantasized about swapping the chaos of daily life for your own private island escape? Imagine waking up to nothing but the sound of waves, dining under the stars without another soul in sight, and being pampered like royalty. Private island resorts turn that dream into reality—with a heavy dose of luxury, of course.

From the coral-ringed havens of the Maldives to lush, jungle-cloaked sanctuaries in the South Pacific, these resorts are where A-listers and adventure seekers go when they want total seclusion and five-star everything.

Whether you’re planning a once-in-a-lifetime honeymoon or just daydreaming (hey, we all do it), these extraordinary destinations will redefine what “getting away” truly means. Ready to explore the kind of luxury that makes the world stop spinning for a while?

1. North Island, Seychelles

Barefoot luxury reaches its peak at North Island. This exclusive sanctuary in the Seychelles hosted Prince William and Kate Middleton on their honeymoon – and for good reason! The island’s commitment to conservation is matched only by its dedication to luxury.

Just 11 handcrafted villas blend seamlessly with the lush landscape, each offering direct beach access and private plunge pools. The island’s “barefoot luxury” philosophy means personalized experiences at every turn.

From customized menus using ingredients from the island’s garden to private picnics on secluded beaches, North Island delivers a level of service that makes even royalty feel at home.

2. Laucala Island, Fiji

Owned by Red Bull co-founder Dietrich Mateschitz, Laucala Island redefines extravagance in the South Pacific. The 25 Fijian-styled villas scattered across this 3,500-acre paradise each come with private pools and dedicated staff. What sets Laucala apart is its self-sustainability.

The resort operates its own farm with livestock and organic gardens, ensuring farm-to-table dining at its finest. Water sports enthusiasts will be thrilled by the DeepFlight Super Falcon submarine available for underwater exploration.

Though the price tag might make you gasp ($4,000+ per night), the experience of having your own tropical kingdom with five-star amenities makes it worth every penny for those who can afford it.

3. Necker Island, British Virgin Islands

Richard Branson’s famous Caribbean playground offers the ultimate celebrity escape. This 74-acre island can be rented entirely or by individual rooms during select “Celebration Weeks.”

The Balinese-inspired estate accommodates up to 48 guests in the Great House and individual villas. Days here are filled with tennis, sailing, and kite-surfing, while evenings feature beachside dinners under the stars. Wildlife enthusiasts will love the island’s conservation efforts – including flamingos, giant tortoises, and lemurs that roam freely.

For the adventure-seeker with deep pockets (approximately $105,000 per night for exclusive use), Necker Island delivers a once-in-a-lifetime experience where you’re treated like Branson’s personal guest.

4. Thanda Island, Tanzania

Off Tanzania’s coast lies a marine reserve hosting one perfect private island. Thanda combines East African charm with Italian design sensibilities in its single magnificent villa accommodating 10 adults. Marine conservation forms the heart of Thanda’s ethos.

Guests can swim with whale sharks, witness turtle hatching, or help with coral reef restoration projects. The island’s solar power system and careful water management reflect its eco-conscious approach.

If you tire of the pristine beaches (unlikely!), a traditional wooden dhow can transport you to nearby islands for cultural experiences. At $10,000-25,000 per night, Thanda delivers exclusivity with purpose – letting you enjoy paradise while helping preserve it for future generations.

5. Song Saa, Cambodia

“Song Saa” means “The Sweethearts” in Khmer – a fitting name for these twin islands connected by a footbridge in Cambodia’s Koh Rong Archipelago. This pioneering eco-resort features 24 jungle, overwater, and ocean-view villas built from reclaimed materials.

Australian owners Rory and Melita Hunter created more than just a luxury retreat. Their foundation works with local communities on marine conservation, education, and sustainable development projects. The resort’s wellness sanctuary offers Buddhist-inspired treatments amid tropical rainforest.

With its “always included” approach covering meals, drinks, and activities, Song Saa removes the stress of constantly signing bills, allowing guests to fully disconnect in this ethical paradise.

6. Kokomo Island, Fiji

Australian property developer Lang Walker created his dream island playground in Fiji’s pristine Kadavu Island Group. Kokomo’s 21 beachfront villas and five luxury residences offer direct access to the Great Astrolabe Reef – one of the world’s largest and most spectacular barrier reefs.

Families particularly love Kokomo for its excellent kids’ club and teen activities. The island’s five restaurants serve produce from the 5.5-acre organic farm and fresh seafood caught daily. Water enthusiasts can dive with manta rays, humpback whales, and tropical fish in the surrounding marine sanctuary.

Unlike many adults-only private islands, Kokomo welcomes children of all ages, making it perfect for multi-generational luxury vacations with rates starting around $2,500 per night.

7. Bawah Reserve, Indonesia

Six previously uninhabited islands, 13 beaches, and three lagoons form the spectacular Bawah Reserve in Indonesia’s remote Anambas Archipelago. Accessible only by seaplane from Singapore, this marine conservation area offers 35 beautifully designed bamboo suites and overwater bungalows.

The resort’s sustainable ethos shines through its solar power, rainwater collection, and zero-waste policy. Hiking trails through pristine forests reveal monitor lizards, butterflies, and native birds. Unlike many luxury resorts, Bawah includes daily spa treatments in its rates.

After a massage using local ingredients, guests can snorkel among vibrant coral gardens or paddleboard across crystal-clear lagoons. This harmonious blend of luxury and sustainability makes Bawah worth the journey.

8. The Brando, French Polynesia

Marlon Brando’s vision for a carbon-neutral paradise lives on at this extraordinary resort on Tetiaroa atoll. The actor purchased this former Tahitian royal retreat after falling in love with it while filming “Mutiny on the Bounty” in 1962. Today, 35 luxurious villas with private pools dot the pristine beaches.

The resort runs on renewable energy sources including solar power and coconut oil biofuel. Its innovative seawater air-conditioning system reduces energy consumption by nearly 70%. Scientists work at the on-site research station studying Polynesian ecosystems.

Guests can participate in conservation activities or simply enjoy world-class dining, spa treatments, and water sports. At around $3,500 per night, The Brando remains the gold standard for sustainable luxury.

9. Cayo Espanto, Belize

Just a short boat ride from San Pedro lies a four-acre island that’s been hosting celebrities and privacy-seekers since 1998. Cayo Espanto’s seven villas (including the spectacular overwater Casa Ventanas) offer an intimate experience with personalized service.

Each villa comes with a dedicated houseman who anticipates your every need. Chefs create custom menus based on your preferences, serving meals on your private veranda, on the beach, or wherever you desire.

The island’s proximity to the Belize Barrier Reef (the second-largest in the world) makes it perfect for snorkeling and diving adventures. For around $1,500-2,500 per night, Cayo Espanto delivers Caribbean luxury with remarkable attention to detail.

10. COMO Parrot Cay, Turks & Caicos

Celebrity neighbors including Donna Karan and Bruce Willis own homes on this 1,000-acre private island paradise. COMO Parrot Cay offers 60 rooms and villas plus larger private estates available for rent. Health-conscious travelers appreciate the resort’s wellness focus.

The award-winning COMO Shambhala Retreat offers Asian-inspired treatments, yoga pavilions, and Japanese baths. Dining emphasizes clean, nutritious ingredients without sacrificing flavor. Miles of pristine beach provide perfect seclusion.

Though larger than many private island resorts, Parrot Cay maintains an intimate feel while offering more accessible luxury (rooms from $950 per night). The resort strikes an ideal balance between exclusivity and amenities that’s hard to find elsewhere.

11. Mnemba Island, Zanzibar

Just off Zanzibar’s northeast coast floats a tiny coral atoll surrounded by an outstanding marine reserve. Mnemba Island hosts just 12 handwoven bandas (beach huts) tucked into the casuarina pine forest, accommodating a maximum of 24 guests.

Despite their rustic appearance, these bandas offer five-star luxury with private verandas, direct beach access, and dedicated butlers. The surrounding protected reef provides a snorkeling paradise where dolphins, turtles, and over 430 fish species thrive.

Days follow the rhythm of the tides with kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and sunset dhow cruises. Managed by &Beyond, the island blends luxury with conservation, protecting both the marine environment and endangered Ader’s duiker antelope that roam the island.

12. Fregate Island, Seychelles

Conservation success stories don’t get more luxurious than Fregate Island. This granite island sanctuary has restored natural habitats, increasing the population of rare Seychelles magpie-robins from just 14 birds to over 100. The island’s 17 villas blend into the landscape, each with private infinity pools and direct beach access.

Seven beaches offer complete privacy – including the famous Anse Victorin, often voted among the world’s most beautiful beaches. Guests can participate in conservation efforts like turtle monitoring or simply enjoy the fruits of these programs – spotting giant Aldabra tortoises that roam freely around the property.

With rates starting around $3,500 per night, Fregate offers guilt-free luxury where indulgence and environmental stewardship coexist beautifully.

13. Nukutepipi Island, French Polynesia

Cirque du Soleil founder Guy Laliberté created this ultra-exclusive retreat on a remote atoll in the Tuamotu Archipelago. Nukutepipi can only be rented in its entirety, accommodating up to 52 guests in 16 beachfront villas and bungalows.

The island combines French Polynesian beauty with artistic flair. Laliberté’s personal art collection decorates the spaces, while the observatory allows for spectacular stargazing far from light pollution. A 25-person staff caters to guests’ every whim.

Activities range from kitesurfing and deep-sea fishing to spa treatments and gourmet dining. At approximately $1 million per week, Nukutepipi represents the pinnacle of privacy for corporate retreats, family gatherings, or those seeking the ultimate exclusive escape.

14. Tagomago Island, Spain

Mediterranean privacy reaches its peak on Tagomago, a 148-acre private island just 900 meters off Ibiza’s coast. Unlike most tropical island retreats, this rocky Mediterranean gem offers European sophistication in a single five-bedroom villa with staff.

The island features hiking trails, a historic lighthouse, and spectacular cliffs overlooking turquoise waters. Despite feeling worlds away, Ibiza’s famous restaurants and nightlife are just minutes away by boat.

Celebrities including Cristiano Ronaldo and Rolling Stones guitarist Ronnie Wood have chosen Tagomago for its rare combination of seclusion and convenience. At approximately €30,000 per night during peak season, it offers an exclusive Mediterranean experience unlike anywhere else in Europe.

15. Isla Palenque, Panama

Jungle luxury defines Isla Palenque, a 400-acre private island in Panama’s Gulf of Chiriquí. The intimate resort features just eight beachfront casitas and one villa tucked between primary rainforest and seven pristine beaches. Adventure seekers love the island’s natural offerings.

Guests can hike through jungle trails spotting howler monkeys, kayak through mangroves, or fish with local techniques. The island’s ancient history includes pre-Columbian artifacts dating back 5,000 years.

Unlike many private islands requiring hefty budgets, Isla Palenque offers accessible luxury with casitas starting around $800 per night. This Cayuga Collection property demonstrates how sustainability and luxury can coexist, using solar power, local materials, and employing staff from nearby communities.

16. Velaa Private Island, Maldives

Named after the sea turtles (velaa in local language) that inhabit the area, this Maldivian gem was created by Czech billionaire Jiří Šmejc as “the best island in the world.” The resort’s 47 villas include spectacular residences built over the lagoon and a romantic “Romantic Pool Residence” accessible only by boat.

Golf enthusiasts appreciate the Velaa Golf Academy designed by José María Olazábal. The island also boasts the Maldives’ only snow room in its spa and an impressive wine cellar with rare vintages. Children enjoy the kids’ club with water activities and cultural experiences.

With its exceptional amenities and attention to detail, Velaa represents the evolution of Maldivian luxury beyond the typical honeymoon experience.

17. Petit St. Vincent, Grenadines

Old-school luxury thrives at Petit St. Vincent, a 115-acre private island resort in the Grenadines. The 22 cottages and villas have no TVs, phones, or Wi-Fi – communication happens via a flag system (yellow for service, red for privacy). This intentional disconnection creates a rare opportunity to truly escape.

Built from native bluebitch stone with vaulted wooden ceilings, the accommodations blend naturally into the hillsides and beaches. The island’s Jean-Michel Cousteau dive center offers exceptional underwater experiences in the pristine Caribbean waters.

With two restaurants, a hillside spa, and seven beaches, PSV (as regulars call it) has cultivated a loyal following who return year after year for its authentic, unpretentious luxury.

18. Turtle Island, Fiji

Made famous as the filming location for “The Blue Lagoon,” Turtle Island offers an authentic Fijian experience with just 14 handcrafted beachfront bures (traditional Fijian villas). This adults-only island typically hosts just 28 guests at a time across 500 acres and 12 private beaches.

The communal dining experience distinguishes Turtle Island from more anonymous luxury resorts. Guests share stories over long-table dinners featuring fresh seafood and produce from the island’s 5-acre organic garden.

American owner Richard Evanson purchased the island in 1972 and has created deep connections with neighboring communities. Cultural experiences include kava ceremonies, meke performances, and visits with local artisans, making Turtle Island as culturally rich as it is naturally beautiful.