The Best of the Best: Private Island Resorts & Lodges

Surrounded by the crystal-clear waters of the Seychelles, North Island is one of the world's most celebrated private island resorts, offering exceptional privacy in a setting of unspoilt natural beauty. Home to just 11 expansive handcrafted villas, each is thoughtfully positioned along the island's pristine beaches, blending seamlessly into the landscape while offering generous indoor and outdoor living spaces, private plunge pools and uninterrupted ocean views.

Every aspect of a stay is individually tailored, with dedicated villa attendants, personalised dining and complete flexibility allowing guests to experience the island entirely on their own terms. Days can be spent snorkelling vibrant coral reefs, hiking through restored forests, exploring secluded beaches or simply unwinding in the island's tranquil spa. North Island is renowned for its conservation work as much as its barefoot luxury.

Tucked away in the pristine Noonu Atoll, Velaa Private Island is one of the Maldives' most exclusive private island resorts, offering an unparalleled blend of privacy, luxury and personalised service. Home to a collection of beautifully designed beach villas, overwater residences and the spectacular Romantic Pool Residence, every accommodation option offers generous indoor and outdoor living spaces, many with private pools and direct access to the lagoon.

Service is at the heart of the Velaa experience, with dedicated butlers ensuring every stay is tailored to individual preferences. Guests can spend their days snorkelling vibrant coral reefs, unwinding in the award-winning spa, enjoying world-class dining across a choice of restaurants, or teeing off at the Maldives' only Troon-managed golf academy. 

Located on its own 219-hectare private island, around 20 minutes by helicopter from Mahé, Fregate Island has long been regarded as one of the Seychelles' most exclusive retreats. Renowned for its powder-soft beaches, free-roaming Aldabra giant tortoises and pioneering conservation efforts, the island offers a truly unique blend of barefoot luxury and untouched natural beauty. 

Following an extensive conservation-led transformation, Fregate Island is set to reopen in late 2026, unveiling a reimagined collection of ultra-luxurious private villas alongside enhanced wellness, dining and sustainability experiences. It's one of the most anticipated luxury hotel reopenings in the Indian Ocean and one we're incredibly excited to see welcome guests once again.

Located on the breathtaking private atoll of Tetiaroa, around 20 minutes by plane from Tahiti, The Brando is one of the world's most iconic private island resorts. Once Marlon Brando's personal retreat, the resort features just 35 spacious beachfront villas, each with a private plunge pool, direct beach access and complete seclusion amongst swaying palms.

Stays are all-inclusive, with exceptional dining, premium beverages and a carefully curated selection of island experiences. Days can be spent snorkelling vibrant reefs, exploring the atoll with naturalist guides, relaxing in the award-winning spa or discovering the island's pioneering conservation initiatives. The Brando experience also combines world-class luxury with a commitment to sustainability. 

Song Saa Private Island occupies two idyllic islands in Cambodia, linked by a picturesque footbridge and surrounded by a protected marine reserve. The resort features a collection of beautifully designed overwater, jungle and ocean-view villas, each with a private pool and crafted using reclaimed timber and natural materials that reflect the surrounding environment.

Everything here encourages guests to slow down and embrace island life, from snorkelling colourful coral reefs and kayaking through sheltered bays to enjoying sunset cruises or restorative treatments at the overwater spa. Sustainability sits at the heart of the experience, with pioneering conservation projects helping to protect the islands' marine ecosystems and local communities.