Forget private beaches, the ultra-rich demand private islands. With opulent villas set on remote sandy atolls only reachable by sea plane, this is barefoot luxury at its finest – and most expensive. After all, who wants to share a butler or a sunset?
Bawah Reserve, Anambas, Indonesia
Ecologically sound and super-exclusive with just 35 villas – costing up to $3330 a night – this island paradise (pictured above) is just three hours from Singapore. Located amid a group of six islands, known to be the most beautiful in the Anambas archipeligo, the only decision guests have to make all day is which of the 13 beaches to laze upon. https://www.bawahreserve.com
Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, Alif Dhaal Atoll, Maldives
Think over-the-top Insta-worthy luxe fit for its most famous guests, the Kardashians. Set on two private islands joined by a footbridge, guests can choose from a private beach or above water villa. But if you have a spare $70,000 a night, the newly opened Muraka villa has the wow factor: underwater bedroom and living areas. https://www.conradmaldives.com
North Island, Seychelles
With just 11 guest villas boasting their own butler, private garden, plunge pools and outside lounge areas it’s easy to understand why Prince William and Kate Middleton chose this Indian Ocean eco-paradise for their 2011 honeymoon. For $8,000 a night you might spot one of the rare green and hawsbill turtles that nest here. https://www.north-island.com
Dolphin Island, Fiji
Only eight guests at a time can enjoy this private island’s 14-acre castaway experience. Pink and husband Carey Hart are among some lucky visitors who’ve paid $10,000 a night to ensure they can scuba dive and kayak in total privacy. https://www.dolphinislandfiji.com
Makepeace Island, Noosa River, Queensland
Richard Branson’s heart-shaped private island – visited by Justin Bieber and his entourage in 2017 – is home to three luxury villas available for private use at up to $18,000 a night. On the upside, 22 guests can be accommodated at one time and will get to enjoy the island’s pool, tennis court, yoga and meditation lawn and organic kitchen. https://www.makepeaceisland.com
Gladden Private Island, Belize
Why share your island paradise with other people? Gladden caye – a surprisingly affordable $2,950 a night – is less than an acre in size, houses just one two-bedroom villa and is dripping with understated luxury. And all staff are handily housed on a neighbouring island. https://www.gladdenprivateisland.com
Necker Island, British Virgin Islands
Another Richard Branson hideaway, the most expensive private island in the world costs $107,500 per night for up to 30 guests (get in quick, next year it goes up to $121,400). A long-time favourite of celebs, politicians and royals, Princess Diana holidayed here in 1990 with Harry and William. https://www.virginlimitededition.com/en/necker-island
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