Taste

These Are The Most Expensive Private Islands

29 augustus 2024Door Fleur de Jong4 min lezenTRAVEL & LEISURE

The Dutch sun seems to have passed its peak, but there is still hope for those looking for some extra sun rays and a good dose of peace. On these private islands, a paradise setting is guaranteed. And a deep pocket, by the way.

Calivigny Island | Grenada

From Grenada, you can be on your own private island in just five minutes, complete with two beaches and breathtaking views of both the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. With space for 40 guests, you can choose from a variety of accommodations, including the ten-suite main residence, a nine-bedroom villa, or three beachfront cottages with private Jacuzzis.

But what do you do all day on such an exclusive island? Simple: take to the sea with one of the twelve boats or go all out with a trip on the 53-metre Perini Navi sailing yacht. The island's relaxed atmosphere has not gone unnoticed by celebrities either. Melinda Gates chose it as her retreat after her divorce from Bill Gates. An exclusive island charter for up to 40 guests is available from €118.272 per night.

Necker Island | British Virginislands

This desirable mini-paradise is owned by entrepreneur Sir Richard Branson, who initially had the island decorated to his own taste to live there himself. Later he decided to open it up to others.

Necker Island offers more than just luxury: with over 140 species of animals, it has the highest biodiversity in the British Virgin Islands, making it a surprising place for nature lovers. You’ll find ring-tailed lemurs, sea turtles and a flamboyant flock of flamingos that give the island its iconic Caribbean vibe. The island is surrounded by sandy beaches, including the famous Turtle Beach, where you can go kayaking, windsurfing, snorkelling and diving. You can also take part in yoga sessions, play tennis or hike through the tropical landscape.

The exclusive island has a rich history of celebrity guests, including Princess Diana with her young sons, Barack Obama after his presidency, and Mariah Carey, who showed her stay on MTV Cribs. For a romantic getaway, you can book a room for two people. However, if you can get 47 friends excited, you can share the island with everyone, and according to the platform, that will be Travel and Leisure down to a reasonable price of €114.670 per night for a total of 24 rooms. 

Banwa Private Island | Philippines

Banwa Private Island in Palawan is located in one of the most idyllic regions of the Philippines. The secluded island offers unparalleled luxury with six villas that are all located directly on the beach. Each villa has its own infinity pool, personal chef and butler service. Banwa is known for its protected sea turtles, rare birds and the colorful coral reef that surrounds the coast. The water is crystal clear and therefore excellent for snorkeling or diving. In addition to water sports, you can also kayak through the mangroves, or take a helicopter ride to admire the beauty of the island from the air. Rent the entire island? For 48 people, a night at Banwa costs the equivalent of € 89.504. That does include the entire staff of top chefs who cook a meal every day with fresh vegetables from the organic farm on the island and fish that comes straight from the surrounding Sulu Sea. The premium wines with a possible price tag of € 32.000 are not included... 

InstagramA post shared by Banwa Private Island (@banwaprivateisland)Bekijk het bericht

Musha Cay | Bahamas

Musha Cay is the private island of illusionist David Copperfield. Located in the Bahamas, the island can accommodate up to 24 guests, spread across five luxury villas. 

In addition to relaxing in style, the island offers a variety of unique experiences. For example, you can enjoy a private cinema on the beach, spectacular fireworks shows or a treasure hunt created by – yes – Copperfield himself. For the sporty types, there are opportunities to kayak, windsurf or dive in the crystal clear waters surrounding the island. 

The island was once rented for the wedding of Google founder Sergey Brin, and Oprah Winfrey is rumored to have celebrated her 60th birthday there. According to Musha Cay’s website, rental rates start at $51.026 per night for groups of up to 12, with a minimum stay of five nights. 

InstagramA post shared by Musha Cay (@mushacayarchipelago)Bekijk het bericht

Laucala Island | Fiji

Laucala has 25 villas spread across lagoons, hilltops, rainforests and the beach. Each villa has a lounge, private pool and spacious sun deck. All this is complemented by a private landing strip for private planes, so you can arrive in style.

On Laucala, you can not only relax, but also unleash your inner adventurer. Horseback riding along the beach? Check. Golfing on an 18-hole course? That too. And the icing on the cake is that you can even explore the ocean in your own private submarine. For those who value sustainability: the island has its own farms and grows coral to protect the underwater world. Celebrities such as Oprah Winfrey and Elle Macpherson are often spotted on the island. According to Forbes costs a night in Laucala for up to 70 people, € 206.754.