If you’re looking for a secluded and relaxing vacation that truly feels like getting away from it all, heading to a private island is the perfect answer. Yes, it may cost you a pretty penny, but it’s worth every penny if you love to escape. Some of these retreats provide some of the most luxurious accommodations, along with thoughtful hospitality and a laid back atmosphere. From the Maldives and British Virgin Islands to Florida Keys and England, here are 10 unique retreats you’ll want to visit on your next trip.
Song Saa Private Island, Cambodia
Though Cambodia’s coastline has a lesser-known reputation than its neighboring Thailand’s, it’s just as beautiful. Here is a bungalow at the Song Saa island resort (a twenty-four-room destination with a strong emphasis on sustainability) that offers something for everyone–spending time swimming in pools made from reclaimed timber and driftwood tables, hosting Buddhist ceremonies on site, or visiting nearby Prek Svay village.
Little Palm Island Resort & Spa, Florida
In the Florida Keys, stay in a luxury private island resort with stunning views. Once you’ve checked-in to the Shore Station, get settled into your own luxurious bungalow and put your phone on silent mode. We recommend unplugging and reading a book, cooking up a meal or doing some fishing in our 75-foot freshwater pool with an underwater fireplace, complete with floating lounge chairs and lush tropical landscape. The family hotel spa is another popular option at this relaxed retreat with plenty of day time activities—like napping by the pool or enjoying dolphin spotting.
Puerto Rico Resort, Turks and Caicos
In the West Indies, there is a total reset for your nervous system: a co-op-owned 800 acres of land surrounded by white sand. You’ll have access to some of the most beautiful and untouched beaches in the Caribbean at The Meridian Club, located just 150 feet from the ocean. There’s no need to drive a golf cart around on Pine Cay: these roads are all sand routes leading to secluded coves where you can look out for turtles and stingrays coming right up to shore!
The Brando, French Polynesia
Marlon Brando loved Polynesian culture so much that he decided to purchase an atoll in French Polynesia and made it into a private tropical island resort. His legacy is spread out over not only the resort itself, but also the research scientists who have been stationed there for decades. During your time here, explore the enchanted islets of Tetiʻaroa with a kayak, stand-up paddleboard, or outrigger canoe.
Islas Secas, Panama
There’s no better place to get acquainted with Panama’s Pacific Coast than the Islas Secas archipelago, a tropical archipelago composed of 14 volcanic islands–13 of them untouched and brimming with wildlife. In this intimate and personal environment, guests are afforded the opportunity to discover and experience Panama’s breathtaking natural beauty in a fun-filled, adventurous package. They also won’t want to miss exploring nearby Coiba Island National Park, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which features stunning coral reefs second only (highly) to those found at diverting depths of deep sea exploration.
Monkey Island Estate, England
The historic former retreat of monarchs, aristocrats, and artists is now a luxurious private island getaway. Located just a short distance from the London hubbub on the River Thames and close to Windsor Castle and Ascot Racecourse (home of the annual Royal Ascot horse race, held each June), Monkey Island offers guests elegant accommodations in the British countryside with a traditional Sunday roast hosted daily. FYI: Access to the island is via a footbridge with complimentary parking on the mainland; designated parking spaces for guests with disabilities are available as well.
Amila, Maldives
It’s hard to choose a standout Maldives private island paradise when one country spans over 1,000 islands. But Amilla Maldives Resort and Residences gets our vote. The resort is nestled within the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and ideally placed for exploring that 70% of the island consists of untouched rainforest and pristine beach. More than just the beauty of the destination, Amilla creates a personalized and surprising experience for every guest; including excursions such as ocean trips, romantic sandbank picnics, wellness workshops, and the resort’s glamping pods. The villas (including those with an overwater, poolside, or treetop option) are some of the biggest in all of the Maldives, but our choice would be bunking down in an inflatable pod set into untouched jungle surrounded by clear water and nature.
Lizard Island, Australia
If you’re visiting Australia, know that it’s not just the Great Barrier Reef that is on offer. You’ll want to check out Lizard Island, a unique destination for nature-lovers where you can go on guided nature walks or tours of the Lizard Island Research Station, and spend time snorkeling or fishing the surrounding waters. After a day of activities, relax at one of the many resort restaurants offering an excellent view of the reef or get pampered in their spa before heading off to bed. Make sure to put their on-site telescopes to good use by stargazing before turning in for the night.
The Lodge on Little St. Simons Island, Georgia
Little St. Simons Island is located on Georgia’s Golden Isles and boasts a practically untouched landscape of diverse wetland ecosystems, maritime forests, and sand dunes. You could take a guided tour or journey out with your own bird watching, fishing, boating activities — or simply relax on the beach. The island has limited accommodations and is ideal for groups of up to 32 guests across six rustic cabins that feature leather sofas, wood panels on the walls, wood-burning fireplaces and porch swings.
Moskito Island
On the island of Moskito, you’ll come across a magical estate and stay in your own private villas or homes. Tourists can choose from three prestigious estates: The Oasis Estate, a hilltop hideaway housing up to 18 people, with an infinity swimming pool and bar; The Branson Estate, three villas staying up to 22 guests each, with its own private cove; and The Point Estate, an oceanfront guest house hosting up to 14 adults and eight children each, with a hot tub and access to the island’s main beach. While there are plenty of activities within the boundaries of these exclusive estates (movie nights alfresco! Outer court games!), visitors can also take interest in options like hiking trails and tennis courts provided for them by the resort.