When it comes to escapism, nothing beats the indulgent fantasy of a private island — no crowds, no schedules. Just you, the sea breeze and the soft murmur of solitude. For those who take their privacy as seriously as their champagne chilled, these five ultra-exclusive islands promise barefoot luxury, jaw-dropping settings and the kind of service where your needs are met before you know you have them.
Set in the shimmering Balearic Sea just 900 metres off the coast of Ibiza, Tagomago Island is the epitome of luxurious seclusion. Spanning 148 acres of pristine Mediterranean landscape, it boasts a single, ultra-modern villa with five suites, sprawling terraces and stunning pool. Alongside a private chef, the full-service team is ready to arrange everything from sunset yacht charters to VIP DJ sets. The panoramic sea views, wild natural beauty and lack of neighbours make it a discreet haven for royals, celebrities and tastemakers. It’s a paradox: within reach of the Ibiza party scene, yet completely serene.
If secret agents had wellness retreats, they might look like Voavah. Operated by Four Seasons, this five-acre private island in the Maldives’ UNESCO-listed Baa Atoll is a floating paradise available only for exclusive use. You – and up to 21 guests – get seven bedrooms, your own 19-metre luxury yacht, dive centre, resident pod of dolphins and award-winning spa pavilion, all steps away from white sand beaches and coral reefs teeming with manta rays. From guided snorkelling safaris to beach bonfires under the stars, every detail is bespoke. With no strangers, just your invited guests, Voavah offers privacy, freedom and luxury on a cinematic scale.
Necker Island, British Virgin Islands
Sir Richard Branson’s Necker Island is the crown jewel of the Caribbean — a 74-acre private island retreat that redefines indulgence. Hosting up to 48 guests across 24 rooms, it features Balinese-style villas, infinity pools, tennis courts and even a wildlife reserve home to flamingos and lemurs. Everything is tailored to celebration: floating sushi bars, fire-dancing beach parties and kite surfing in aquamarine waters. Powered largely by solar energy, it blends sustainability with high-octane glamour. Ideal for milestone life events or just escaping the world in style, Necker remains one of the planet’s most legendary private islands.
Hidden off the coast of Tanzania, Thanda Island is where quiet luxury meets purposeful conservation. This tiny private island accommodates just 10 guests in one opulent villa while two traditional, open-air Tanzanian bandas (beach chalets) are available to welcome up to eight more members of your group. Here, the Indian Ocean is your playground, from snorkelling vibrant coral reefs to swimming with whale sharks in season. The island doubles as a marine reserve, supporting turtle nesting and coral restoration. Thanda is about more than luxury; it’s about connecting deeply with nature, community and each other. It’s exclusive, intimate, and soulful — a sanctuary where time slows and the sea heals.
Tucked away in Panama’s Gulf of Chiriquí, Islas Secas is a private, solar-powered escape of 14 islands and just 24 guests. It is the epitome of laid-back luxury —beachside cocktails, jungle casita and epic diving in protected waters. Think: Robinson Crusoe vibes, but with Wi-Fi and wine. All in all, a truly perfect location for families, nature lovers and anyone craving remote, eco-chic bliss. From now until September, join the Marine Safari for expert-led adventures spotting whale sharks, humpbacks, manta rays and more. It’s timed with the whale migration and supports vital ocean conservation.
