When it comes to luxury escapes, private island resorts are in a league of their own, offering a level of seclusion that transforms an ordinary vacation into a haven of luxury and relaxation. Imagine this: you’re on an island where the only footprints in the sand are your own, and where “crowded” is a term that simply doesn’t apply. From drifting in your heated pool to dining on a secluded sandbar as the sun sets, with a personal chef preparing gourmet delights just for you and a suite of amenities designed to make you feel like royalty, the experiences are tailored to offer the utmost in exclusivity. And the best part? You’re never more than a step away from stunning natural beauty, whether it’s vibrant coral reefs, lush tropical landscapes, or pristine beaches.
Here we have rounded up the 7 most exclusive and private island resorts to consider for your next vacation! Take a look!
1. The Brando, French Polynesia
The former private retreat of the legendary actor Marlon Brando in French Polynesia greets you with hyper-exclusivity and eco-luxury. The resort is all-inclusive, meaning your package will include all meals, snacks, most beverages—including wines, champagnes, and spirits—and in-villa dining, as well as daily spa and activities. Relax in one of 35 stylish, palm-thatched villas, enjoy island bike rides, treatments in the stickwork cocoons of the Varua te Ora Polynesian Spa, French-tinged and Polynesian-influenced dining by French celebrity chef Jean Imbert, and nature tours led by in-house researchers.
2. Orpheus Island Lodge, Australia
Days of sun, surf and, most importantly, seclusion are what you’ll be getting once you reach the Orpheus Island Lodge. Nestled in the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, the resort holds up its reputation of being an ultra-exclusive reputation with a remote, certified national park location that can only be accessed via private helicopter or seaplane. With a maximum of 28 guests permitted on the island, be spoilt by boutique service and make the most of the alfresco Pavillion Bar, quaint reading room, restorative Gwandalan Spa and twinkling infinity pool. When you’re not lounging by the gleaming water, explore the island’s walking tracks, make use of the complimentary catamaran, paddleboards, and kayaks, or join a thrilling day trip to the reef.
3. COMO Maalifushi, Maldives
If you’re dreaming of a secluded paradise, COMO Maalifushi in the Maldives should be on your radar. Imagine waking up in an overwater villa with direct access to crystal-clear waters, where the only sounds you hear are the gentle waves lapping against your private deck. Start your day with a sunrise yoga session on the beach. For those with an adventurous spirit, COMO Maalifushi offers world-class diving and snorkelling among vibrant coral reefs. If you prefer to stay above the water, take a guided fishing trip or a thrilling dolphin-watching excursion. Back on land, unwind with a soothing massage at the COMO Shambhala Retreat. You can also explore the island’s lush tropical landscape on a bicycle or simply lounge by the infinity pool.
4. Little Palm Island Resort, Florida
Little Palm Island Resort & Spa is America’s only private island resort with only 30 suites and a max occupancy of just 60 guests. With ultra-luxurious suites, world-class dining, and an array of adventure and water activities, everything you need for a quiet and relaxing visit can be found right on the island. The resort’s spa, SpaTerre, offers indulgent treatments like the Madrugada, an over-the-ocean massage experience and Romantic Turndown services like decadent hot-drawn baths for two and amenities like chocolate-covered strawberries with champagne. The Dining Room extends an exclusive dinner opportunity where you can dine out in the water on one of the island’s sandbars, which is always serene during sunset.
5. The St. Regis Red Sea Resort
If you’re seeking a slice of luxury that feels both exclusive and eco-conscious, look no further than The St. Regis Red Sea Resort—Saudi Arabia’s first private island retreat. Nestled on Ummahat Island in the stunning Al Wajh Lagoon, the resort is only accessible by a chartered boat or seaplane. Once you touch down, you’ll be greeted by 90 beachfront and overwater villas, designed by the celebrated architect Kengo Kuma. You can savour the finesse of Japanese-inspired dishes at Gishiki 45 or indulge in Levantine flavours at Nesma. And when it’s time to unwind, the St. Regis Spa offers an array of treatments. The resort also boasts several pools, a tennis court, and workout classes, ensuring that your fitness routine stays on track while you’re soaking up the luxury.
6. Four Seasons Resort, Desroches Island, Seychelles
Just a tiny 1.5-square-mile jewel in the Indian Ocean, the Four Seasons Resort Seychelles is a lush, tropical haven with 9 miles of pristine sandy beaches and a dense, forested interior. This secluded paradise is a sanctuary for endangered bird and turtle species, and its crystal-clear waters are perfect for everything from surfing to sportfishing. Spend your days feeding the resident giant Aldabra tortoises, relaxing in your villa’s private pool, diving with majestic manta rays, or enjoying Seychellois rum-tasting sessions at the bar.
7. Ambergris Cay, Turks and Caicos
Ambergris Cay, a hidden gem in the Turks and Caicos, is your ticket to an exclusive tropical escape. With just 17 bungalows and 9 villas available on an all-inclusive basis, it delivers that intimate, luxury boutique vibe amidst a vast and diverse backdrop. Each bungalow comes with a heated private pool, a butler, a dedicated mobile device for contacting said butler, and a golf cart. The six-bedroom oceanfront villa Dream Pavillion comes with a private chef. When you’re not indulging in gourmet meals, you can stay active with yoga classes, guided nature walks, tennis, non-motorised water sports, or onshore fishing. You can also fly directly to the island by a private plane, as Ambergris Cay offers one of the longest runways in the Caribbean!
Cover Credits: Little Palm Island, Resort and Spa
