Jetting off to a far-flung island is one of our ultimate vacation fantasies, but not all of these locales are created equal. Living it up in a tropical paradise sounds amazing on paper — but the reality is that some gorgeous spots can be overrun with tourists during high season. For that extra bit of space and privacy, the rich and famous turn to private island resorts for their R&R needs.
Imagine strolling on a private beach, taking a dip in a secluded cove, and sipping on a sundowner concocted by your own personal bartender — this is the dream these secluded hotels are selling. And, let's face it: Life can't get any better than that.
We may not be billionaires or jackpot winners (yet), but we can certainly live vicariously through photos of these stunning retreats. Read on for our bucket list of intimate respites that are scenic, romantic, and just downright epic.
Amanpulo, Pamalican Island, Philippines
The Palawan region of the Philippines is one of the last unspoiled places on Earth, with Pamalican Island deservingly crowned the "Paradise Island" — and according to The Daily Mail, Beyoncé and Brad Pitt are fans. You can only get there via private chartered flights from Manila.
Photo: Courtesy of Amanpulo
Amanpulo, Pamalican Island, Philippines
The architecture of the resort is inspired by nipa huts, a traditional form of stilt housing in the Filipino countryside. There are 40 rustic casitas and 11 villas on the premises, all of which come with pitched roofs, wooden decks, and hammocks. The resort offers excursions to nearby pearl farms on seaplanes and helicopters.
Photo: Courtesy of Amanpulo
The Brando, Tetiaroa, French Polynesia
If the name sounds familiar to you, you've probably been paying attention to Pippa Middleton's whereabouts. Known as Marlon Brando's private island, this atoll was recently in the headlines as the bride's choice for her honeymoon getaway. The secluded villas are set further back from the beach to guarantee maximum privacy — a welcome feature even for those not related to a princess.
Photo: Courtesy of The Brando
The Brando, Tetiaroa, French Polynesia
The pièce de résistance of the resort is the Varua Polynesian Spa, which was built on the very site where the Tahitian royals received treatments. The cocoon-like Fare Manu suite is the best spot to enjoy the pampering experience.
Photo: Courtesy of The Brando
Peter Island Resort & Spa, British Virgin Islands
Peter Island is the largest private island in the region, but less than one-fifth of the land has been developed for hospitality purposes. Committed to preserving the island's natural habitat, the resort established at water-purifying system, windmill generators, and a recycling plan in order to reduce its carbon footprint.
Photo: Courtesy of Peter Island
Peter Island Resort & Spa, British Virgin Islands
There are five private beaches on the island, including the Honeymoon Beach, which is only available to one lucky couple each day. White Bay Beach is where you should be for sunbathing, Instagramming, and picnicking — which can be arranged by the resort's concierge.
Photo: Courtesy of Peter Island
Coco Plum Island Resort, Belize
If you are looking for a bit of partying with plenty fun in the sun, this Belizean resort will show you a great time. An all-inclusive package here will get you unlimited local beer, three meals a day, and a variety of cocktails made using local rum, vodka, and gin. But the best part might be the panoramic sea views you can enjoy from the hammock in your private cabana.
Photo: Courtesy of Coco Plum Island
Coco Plum Island Resort, Belize
You can take advantage of a variety of activities during your stay, including kayaking and snorkelling in the nearby coral reefs, zip-lining above the caves, or hiking up the Xunantunich, an ancient Mayan ruin surrounded by a rainforest.
Photo: Courtesy of Coco Plum Island
Nihitwatu, Sumba Island, Indonesia
Sumba Island is much more than a tropical escape — it feels like an undiscovered paradise. The beaches and forests here seem completely untouched, thanks to the resort's eco-friendly approach to sustainable hospitality. There are many ways to commune with nature on the island, from scuba diving to waterfall tours to horseback riding on the beach.
Photo: Courtesy of Nihiwatu
Nihitwatu, Sumba Island, Indonesia
Replete with views of the Indian Ocean, the Marangga Villa is perfect for high-flyers hoping to throw caution to the wind. Furnished with a king-sized bed and private plunge pool, this spectacular villa also comes with an outdoor bed for stargazing.
Photo: Courtesy of NihiwatuLike what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
The Most Instagrammable Places In London
Here's What The Louvre Had To Say About Beyoncé & Jay Z's Music Video