16 Best Resorts on Private Islands for an Ultra-Exclusive Getaway

From the Maldives to the US Virgin Islands, here's where to escape when you don't want to see another soul.Courtesy Cempedak IslandFor many, true relaxation looks like dropping off the map—settling down on a secluded, sparsely populated island where no one knows anything about you, save for your favorite tropical cocktail. The very best private island resorts balance downtime and adventure; personal space and hospitality; rugged, natural beauty and state-of-the-art facilities. Scattered across the turquoise waters of Indonesia, the Maldives, and Turks and Caicos, some of these properties are wonderfully far-flung, while others, like Little Palm Island Resort & Spa in Florida and Lovango Resort and Beach Club in the US Virgin Islands, don’t even require a US passport.No matter where you decide to book your bungalow, you can rest assured that exclusivity and quietude take top priority at the properties on this list. Offering everything from fresh meals tailored to your preferences to bespoke spa treatments, these resorts are built on the idea that it’s all for you. Whether you’re seeking an open-air villa that floats above crystal-clear water, a luxury ecolodge powered by wind turbines, or a safari-style escape where jungle hikes are always on the table, these are the world’s best private island resorts—each the very definition of paradise.The BrandoLocation: Tetiaroa, French PolynesiaActor Marlon Brando’s legacy lives on at his former private getaway in French Polynesia, now a hyper-exclusive, eco-minded retreat where travelers come to escape it all. Relax in one of 35 stylish, palm-thatched villas, each a grand fusion of indoor and outdoor space, the beach just footsteps away (alternatively, go even bigger with the island’s sole over-the-top residence). Enjoy island bike rides, treatments in the stickwork cocoons of the Varua te Ora Polynesian Spa, and French-tinged, Polynesian-influenced dining by French celebrity chef Jean Imbert.Nature tours led by in-house researchers offer a deeper connection to the island, while daily cultural experiences like Polynesian dance classes, ukulele lessons, and traditional weaving sessions introduce guests to local traditions. Make sure to save time to explore the other islands of the Tetiaroa Atoll, which also belong to the Brando family, where untouched beaches, preserved reefs, and thriving seabird colonies are as gorgeous as when Brando first encountered the location in 1960. All meals, libations (including Champagne), in-room dining, and daily spa treatments are bundled into the all-inclusive rate, allowing for carefree indulgence at every turn. And although The Brando immerses guests in barefoot ultra-luxury, it also quietly stands as one of the world’s most sustainable resorts—powered by solar energy and cooled by innovative seawater systems—preserving the paradise Brando so deeply loved for generations to come. —Antonia QuirkeRead Full ReviewLittle Palm Island Resort & SpaLocation: Little Torch Key, FloridaThis adults-only private island is a study in tropical chic, redefining the castaway fantasy right on American soil. There are a total of 30 thatched-roof bungalow suites (some freestanding, some within larger bungalows) across the four-acre island, many with four-poster beds and outdoor copper bathtubs. Thanks to a smart layout and smarter landscaping, you’ll encounter other people less often than you’d expect (a strict cap at 60 guests helps). All suites have water views, outdoor showers, and furnished decks; most also overlook private slivers of white-sand beach and are kitted out with hammocks, loungers, and firepits.The Dining Room has sweeping sea views, and the spectacular SpaTerre complex is underscored by a breezy two-story atrium. Paddleboard or kayak through mangrove mazes as eagle rays swim by, laze the day away on a beachfront hammock, or simply enjoy the day resting on a poolside lounger. Also, don’t miss a snorkeling trip to Looe Key Reef, part of the third-largest living coral reef in the world and site of ongoing reef restoration efforts by MOTE Marine Laboratory & Aquarium, a Florida-based nonprofit marine research institution. Little Palm Island has partnered with the organization to create the “Paradise with a Purpose” package, which includes a half-day in Looe Key Reef, a donation to MOTE Marine, accommodations, and breakfast. —Paul RubioRead Full ReviewKokomo Private Island ResortLocation: Yaukuve Levu Island, FijiLocated in the untouched Kadavu Islands, a 45-minute seaplane flight from Nadi International Airport, this private island balances romance and multigenerational travel in Fiji. Straddling the renowned Great Astrolabe Reef, the waters near Kokomo teem with colorful fish, manta rays, sea turtles, and thriving coral gardens, making underwater exploration a must for any visit (don’t miss the marine biologist–led manta snorkel excursion). Twenty-one beachfront villas range in size from a couples-friendly one-bedroom to larger two- and three-bedrooms, each with a private plunge pool, private walled garden with outdoor shower, and direct beach access. Meanwhile, five hilltop luxury Grand Residences welcome larger families to multi-bedroom homes, inclusive of a private butler and nanny. Guests can also anticipate other water activities like sailing and kayaking, and three memorable meals daily, made of locally sourced produce from Kokomo’s 5.5-acre farm and hydroponics garden, and seafood from a sustainable, caught-to-order island initiative. —Adam H. GrahamRead Full ReviewBawah ReserveLocation: Anambas, IndonesiaThere are drop-dead gorgeous private island resorts, and then there’s Bawah, an entire nature and marine reserve comprising 6 islands, 3 blue lagoons, and 13 unspoiled white beaches in the heart of Indonesia’s Anambas Archipelago. Sustainability lies at the core of the reserve with no compromises on luxury. In fact, the entire resort was constructed by hand using sustainable bamboo and locally sourced natural building materials, and decorated with works from local artisans. The reserve oozes natural splendor, which can be enjoyed from the comfort of a swoon-worthy rustic-chic tented suite, overwater bungalow, or pool villa. Come here for Indonesian coastal cuisine perfected, dinners in the treetops, spectacular sunsets, hikes through the jungle, island-hopping via transparent kayaks, and sublime snorkeling. To access Bawah’s remote location with ease, the reserve offers a door-to-door transfer from Singapore airport with short components by road and ferry, followed by a 75-minute seaplane that lands directly in paradise. —Michelle Jana ChanRead Full ReviewPeter Island ResortLocation: Peter Island, British Virgin IslandsFrom the moment the resort’s yacht glides into the serene waters of Yacht Harbor in Sprat Bay, the transition from passenger to prized guest is practically instantaneous. Peter Island, the largest private island in the British Virgin Islands, turns up the volume on the wellness-minded, pastoral strains of Caribbean life, and in no time, you might just find yourself humming along to the tune. With just 52 rooms and 2 villas, you’ll never have to battle for privacy and discretion, yet the company of fellow guests is always welcome. In 2017, Hurricane Irma tragically destroyed homes and upended lives throughout the Virgin Islands. The resort strives to be as sustainable as possible; it has a reverse osmosis water purification plant and two wind turbines that can generate up to 75% of the island's power. And yet Peter Island still doesn't mess with what works, and leans into a familial flavor of hospitality that feels like you’re at your favorite aunt and uncle’s for the holidays. —Kat ChenRead Full ReviewandBeyond Mnemba IslandLocation: Mnemba Island, TanzaniaJust shy of two miles off the coast of Zanzibar’s main island, Mnemba is a tiny, casuarina-forested sanctuary surrounded by a private marine reserve. Home to just 12 shell-shaped, thatched bandas, designed with understated elegance by Fox Browne Creative and Jack Alexander Studio, it’s the antithesis of bling. A seven-month rebuild in 2024 expanded the villas into curvaceous, nautilus-like spaces, blending natural materials with breezy open-air design. Guests can explore turquoise shallows on catamarans, dive vibrant reefs, or simply lounge in private beach bandas watching noddies and plovers whirl above the sandspit.The spa, yoga deck, and Oceans Without Borders education center enrich the experience, while chefs curate custom menus that range from sushi boxes to lobster ravioli served under the stars. Service is impeccable, with a charming butler, a jovial bar team, and Tanzania’s first local dive master leading ocean explorations. Despite Zanzibar’s tourism boom, Mnemba feels like a world apart—exclusive, untouched, and deeply serene. With a staff-to-guest ratio of over 3:1, every detail is handled, leaving you to do exactly what you’re meant to here: absolutely nothing. —Lisa GraingerRead Full ReviewMiavana by Time + TideLocation: Nosy Ankao, MadagascarA nothing-is-impossible hideaway for adventurous high-fliers, Miavana by Time + Tide is set on remote Nosy Ankao in northern Madagascar, only reachable by helicopter. With ease, the private island merges barefoot luxury and a deep commitment to conservation and community support. Just 14 villas, built from sun-bleached Malagasy wood and hand-hewn limestone, sprawl across private gardens and powder-soft beaches. Interiors channel a beachy Palm Springs vibe, with sunken bathtubs, pastel Smeg appliances, and fully stocked kitchens, offering a luxurious home-away-from-home feeling.The central Piazza serves farm-fresh menus that change daily, while off-menu requests are happily fulfilled. Though there’s no stand-alone spa, therapists deliver seashell massages and herbal body wraps directly to your villa. Service is breezy yet impeccable, with butlers anticipating every need—whether folding laundry, crafting green juices, or lending sunglasses. Miavana by Time + Tide’s eco-efforts are serious: villas rely on natural ventilation, solar panels power much of the resort, and local conservation programs protect turtles, lemurs, and coral reefs. While private island life is great, take time to explore mainland Madagascar’s iconic baobab forests or Tsingy formations (both can be arranged by helicopter safari from the island). —Chris SchalkxRead Full ReviewIslas SecasLocation: Islas Secas, PanamaSet within the jungle-cloaked splendor of Panama’s Gulf of Chiriquí, Islas Secas offers an exclusive, eco-friendly escape across a private archipelago of 14 untouched islands. At its heart, the resort’s eight light-footed accommodations—including casitas, safari-style tents, and open-air mansion Casa Cavada—blend flawlessly into the landscape, each with sweeping hilltop views and living spaces that celebrate the outdoors. Guests have exclusive access to this entire island chain, blanketed in tropical flora and fringed by white- and gold-sand beaches. Days unfold as you please across the various islands: kayak through emerald waters, snorkel vibrant coral gardens, hike jungle trails to ancient artifacts, or island-hop to wide, sparkling beaches where staff can arrange private beach barbecues. Water adventures abound, too, from fun on pricey water toys like hydrofoils, flyboards, and Seabobs, to fishing and whale-watching, all included in the resort’s personalized, all-inclusive program. On the main island of Isla Cavada, find a stunning open-air beachfront restaurant, a swoon-worthy jungle spa, a Hemingway-inspired bar, and an infinity pool perched high above the rainforest coastline. —Andrea WhittleRead Full ReviewNecker IslandLocation: Necker Island, British Virgin IslandsNecker Island is the creation of Virgin Group founder Sir Richard Branson, who has transformed what was once a scrubby, 74-acre British Virgin Island cay into a fortress of lush greenery, serene Balinese villas, exotic animals ranging from local flamingos to endangered lemurs and tortoises, and solar panels and wind turbines that make the island self-sustaining. The resort is accessible only by boat from nearby Tortola—no private-plane runway here—which makes it feel more approachable and refuge-like, especially compared to some other private-island hospitality projects. Every inch of the place feels like a Bond hideaway: Tropical canopies give way to white-sand beaches all your own, lagoons filled with flamingos, infinity-pooled suites, and cozy lounges. A sprawling hilltop Great House has far-flung views of the azure waters around the island; there's also a billiards table, board games, a bar (just one of many on the island, including the self-serve one in your own villa), and dining nooks with incredible views where five-star, family-style dinners and healthy à la carte breakfasts are served. —Shannon McMahonRead Full ReviewAmbergris CayLocation: Turks and CaicosLocated off the main chain of Turks and Caicos, Ambergris Cay achieves billionaire-level relaxation with its serene azure waters, rugged nature, and waterfront villas. The 1,100-acre island is home to a collection of expansive villas, from 1-bedroom beachfront bungalows to 10-bedroom homes. All meals and house beverages are included, meaning you’ll never go hungry—or thirsty—with cocktails made from fresh ingredients and a floating rum bar called The Hangover accessible only by boat. Suites sit on the sugar-sand beach leading into the Caribbean Sea, while sprawling villas are perched on craggy hilltops overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Interiors are beach house chic, with wood-plank floors and shiplap walls. Guests roam the island via golf cart between the spa, tennis courts, beach activities, and state-of-the-art fitness center encased in 180 degrees of glass. Service is breezy but attentive, with 24/7 concierge support via WhatsApp. The private island resort also houses one of the longest runways in the region, making it easy for outdoor-minded billionaires and professional athletes to arrive in private jets for instant immersion into the tropical good life. —S.M.Read Full ReviewLovango Resort and Beach ClubLocation: Lovango Cay, US Virgin IslandsLocated across St. John’s legendary Caneel Bay on an island all its own, this unpretentious seasonal resort (open December through July) features the USVI’s only private island beach club and eco-chic accommodation in the form of wooden treehouses, explorer-style tents, and one- to three-bedroom villas. Views of the surrounding jewel-toned waters abound, peaking at Treetops Lobby Tent, where bird's-eye views of St. John proper and St. Thomas can be admired in a single panorama. Indulge in island cuisine and rum-spiked fun at the resort’s Waterfront Restaurant (get the smoked pineapple old- fashioned and the signature Caribbean lobster paillard) or its fast-casual counterpart, Sand Pit, which services Lovango’s Beach Club and its cabana-lined swimming pool. For active and gastronomic pursuits in greater St. John, take the ferry to Cruz Bay, which runs regularly; for another incarnation of beach bliss, hop on the five-minute ferry to St. John’s Honeymoon Beach, which runs on select days. —Todd PlummerRead Full ReviewKudadoo Private IslandLocation: Lhaviyani Atoll, MaldivesThis Yuji Yamazaki–designed property in the Maldives’s Lhaviyani Atoll is a next-generation ultra-luxury experience like no other, underscored by a mind-blowing “Anything, Anytime, Anywhere” fixed price policy, where few things are off-limits—nor cost extra—from floating breakfasts to most top-shelf Champagne to private fitness training. The island’s 15 ryokan-inspired overwater residences epitomize contemporary Japanese ocean elegance, offering ample room to relax and play against the backdrop of the Maldives’ lazuline beauty (units start at 3,300 square feet).At Kudadoo’s core lies The Retreat, an impressive open-air minimalist overwater pagoda crowned by 984 solar panels (that power the resort in its entirety) and housing the island’s bar, restaurant, spa, fitness facilities, and lounge areas. Thanks to the Anything, Anytime, Anywhere policy, your residence, The Retreat, and the surrounding nature become your muses for fulfilling the utmost island fantasies. Request to be marooned on nearby Dream Island for a luxury-draped Robinson Crusoe experience or ask for a private toes-in-the-sand beach lunch on Kudadoo itself. Snorkel with giant mantas alongside a marine biologist or try your hand at jet-skiing, parasailing, or fishing. Pencil in plenty of time for spa treatments—they are unlimited, after all—before or after you figure out how to manage an entire staff of butlers, cooks, personal trainers, and yoga masters at your beck and call. Suffice to say, Kudadoo is the ultimate castaway narrative come to life—and the script is yours to write. —L.G.Read Full ReviewMoskito IslandLocation: Moskito Island, British Virgin IslandsWhile everyone knows about billionaire Richard Branson’s original private retreat, Necker Island, the Virgin founder purchased another exclusive playground just two miles away called Moskito Island. But instead of using it for himself and his high-powered pals, the mogul built a home and sold nine other plots for others to build their dream beach houses. While most are only inhabited by the estate owners themselves, three of the remarkable properties—The Branson Estate, The Oasis Estate, and The Point Estate—became available for rent in October 2021. Although more expensive than your average luxury hotel, Moskito Island makes living the life of a billionaire a tiny bit more accessible. Five-star restaurants are swapped for private chefs, hotel suites for exclusive estates, and concierges for dedicated house managers capable of making nearly anything you want possible. The only guests in sight are those in your immediate party—that is, unless you decide to venture to the communal Manchioneel Beach, complete with a floating trampoline and bartenders at the ready, or the Beach House, a community recreational area where you can play a round of tennis and mingle with estate owners (you may even spot Richard Branson himself). —Jordi Lippe-McGrawRead Full ReviewCOMO Parrot CayGold ListGold List 2018, 2019, 2020Readers' ChoiceReaders' Choice Awards 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025Location: Turks and CaicosAs COMO’s sole property in the Americas, Parrot Cay's renowned luxury experience makes it an unrivaled property in Turks and Caicos. The pinnacle of bespoke solitude, it's located on a private island enmeshed in the wilderness. You arrive after a 15-minute chauffeured drive from Providenciales International Airport, then a 20-minute panoramic boat ride through cays and turquoise waves hugged by mangroves. It’s primeval in nature and worlds away, despite its ease of access from the main island. The private, white-sand beach—with miles of clear-water sandbars inviting you to walk across, float around, and laze about for ages—is the main reason why the property has been dubbed by locals as "the Maldives of the Americas," despite being entirely singular in the impression it makes. If you’re seeking a romantic getaway inspired by an itch for an immersive nature escape, this is the place to go—and I recommend booking a private beach house with your own plunge pool for the full immersive experience. —Bridget KnowlesRead Full ReviewFAQ:How we choose the best private island resorts in the worldEvery resort on this list has been selected independently by our editors and written by a Condé Nast Traveler journalist who knows the destination and has visited that property. When choosing hotels, our editors consider properties across price points that offer an authentic and insider experience of a destination, keeping design, location, service, and sustainability credentials top of mind.This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.Travel journalist, photographer, and content creator Paul Rubio is a Miami native (and current resident) who has lived in nine countries and traveled to 137 (and counting). After graduating Harvard with a Master of Economics and a Master of Public Administration, Paul strayed from a logical career path and embraced ... Read MoreJessica Sulima is a Commerce Writer at Condé Nast Traveler, where she covers hotel and booking content, as well as travel deals. Originally from New Jersey, she attended the University of Pennsylvania, where she holds a Bachelor’s degree in English with minors in Spanish and Art History. Previously at Thrillist, ... Read More