When you just want to get away from it all, nothing beats a private island escape where secluded peace is promised, stunning views are provided and every need is taken care of by a dedicated team. The keys to paradise come from only some of the most exclusive islands, where if you know, you know. From a vacation island that’s a favourite of royalties and A-listers to a private island that accommodates only 48 guests, these are some of the world’s most expensive islands you should add to your bucket list.
Cocoa Island, Maldives
Best time to visit: June to August
Take a 40-minute speedboat ride from Malé International Airport (MLE), and you’ll find yourself in one of the most secluded and romantic private island paradises. Boasting white sandy beaches complemented by the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, Cocoa Island in the Maldives offers a luxurious escape where guests can enjoy world-class diving, snorkelling, deep-sea fishing and island picnics. The clear waters make it easy to spot turtles and manta rays, though you can opt for dolphin-watching cruises too. There’s only one resort on the island: COMO Cocoa Island, where the average nightly rate can set you back US$1,600.
Fregate Island, Seychelles
Best time to visit: April to May, October to November
Once upon a time, in the 17th century, Fregate Island in the Seychelles was a pirates’ base against the British East India Company. Today, it’s a one-of-a-kind conservation hideaway with luxurious villas amid the Indian Ocean, forested with indigenous trees and flora. Seven of the world’s most beautiful beaches surround the private island, each with its own unique character but all offering the most stunning views. One lets you privatise the entire beach, with a private assistant on standby, by flipping a ‘Beach Occupied’ sign, while another is a prime snorkelling spot. As you explore the island, you might even run into giant tortoises free-roaming, possibly heading for their favourite mud baths.
*Fregate Island is currently closed for redevelopment and will reopen in 2025.
Mustique Island, West Indies
Best time to visit: December to April
If the name sounds familiar, then you might have heard it in Netflix’s The Crown. It is, historically, Princess Margaret’s frequent escape, where she even had a five-bedroom villa built as her vacation home. Naming it Les Jolies Eaux (which means beautiful waters), the villa is one of the many available for guests to rent. The private island has since gained a steady clientele of the celebrity elite, such as Mick Jagger, David Bowie, Taylor Swift, Victoria Beckham, Daniel Craig, and even Prince William, Kate Middleton and their family. The idyllic Mustique Island takes pride in its unspoilt beauty—cerulean waters, palm-fringed sandy beaches and dramatic hilltops—and gentle climate, but what keeps the A-listers coming back is the privacy it offers. There’s a no-paparazzi policy, and you can only get there via the Mustique Company’s private air shuttle. Now, that’s luxury.
Laucala Island, Fiji
Best time to visit: October
More than 300 islands make up Fiji, and among them is a beautiful private island called Laucala Island, spread over 3,000 acres of lush mountainous land and jungle forests. Surrounded by cobalt-blue Melanesian waters and pristine beaches, the island’s resort features the perfect setting for both play and relaxation. Adventurers at heart can trek rainforests, enjoy horseback rides or participate in watersports like jetskiing and windsurfing. Take advantage of the island’s world-class 18-hole gold course on easy-breezy days, embark on a sailing excursion or join a local farm tour. Retreat to the luxury resort’s fantastical villas and its plethora of dining options when all is said and done. Fun fact: Laucala Island is owned by Red Bull’s co-founder, Dietrich Mateschitz.
Calivigny Island, Grenada
Best time to visit: September to October
A slice of paradise awaits on the private Calivigny Island, where a night’s stay can easily go up to US$165,000. Accommodating only up to 48 guests at one time, the 80-acre island offers 25 spectacular suites and cottages, each perfectly built on one of the three beachfront locations. Guest’s needs are all well taken care of by a dedicated team, which includes Michelin-starred chefs, a butler and a maid. Promising an intimate escape, magical views of the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea, and white sunkissed beaches, Calivigny Island is made purely for those who enjoy the finest things in life.
