PRIVATE ISLANDS

Exploring Paradise: My Journey to the World’s Top 10 Private Islands By Claudia Arwen, 37, Italy As a travel expert and lifelong lover of the sea, private islands have always held a special allure for me. The isolation, the pristine beauty, and the sense of stepping into another world—it’s a dream come true every time. Over the past few years, I’ve had the privilege of visiting some of the most exclusive private islands in the world. Today, I want to share my experiences with you and let you in on why these ten places are my absolute favorites. 1. The Brando, Tetiaroa Private Island – French Polynesia If heaven were a place on Earth, it might look like The Brando. This eco-luxury resort is located on Tetiaroa, a breathtaking atoll once owned by Marlon Brando. From the moment I stepped onto the island, I felt an overwhelming sense of serenity. The villas here are stunning, blending seamlessly with their natural surroundings. Each one has a private pool and direct access to the white sand beaches. I spent my days kayaking in the turquoise lagoon, indulging in the Polynesian-inspired spa treatments, and learning about the island’s impressive conservation efforts. The Brando is not just a vacation; it’s a lesson in how luxury and sustainability can coexist. 2. Four Seasons Resort Seychelles at Desroches Island – Seychelles Desroches Island feels like a secret world. This 14-kilometer stretch of untouched beauty is part of the stunning Seychelles archipelago, and it’s home to the Four Seasons Resort. What I loved most here was the sense of adventure. I cycled through jungle trails, explored the island’s hidden beaches, and snorkeled among vibrant coral reefs. My villa, complete with a private pool, was my sanctuary at the end of each day. The resort’s attention to detail is unmatched. Whether it’s the warm welcome from the staff or the locally inspired cuisine, everything here feels deeply personal. 3. Isla Palenque, Member of the Cayuga Collection – Panama Panama’s Isla Palenque is unlike any other island I’ve visited. With only eight beachfront casitas and one villa estate, it feels incredibly intimate and exclusive. What sets this island apart is its lush tropical forest. I spent hours hiking through its trails, discovering hidden beaches and spotting wildlife. The resort is eco-conscious, and everything from the design to the food reflects a deep respect for nature. One night, I joined a group for a stargazing experience on the beach. The Milky Way stretched across the sky, and for a moment, I forgot the rest of the world existed. 4. COMO Parrot Cay – Turks and Caicos COMO Parrot Cay is the definition of understated luxury. The resort sits on its own private island, surrounded by powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters. The wellness offerings here are exceptional. I started every morning with yoga overlooking the ocean and treated myself to holistic spa treatments that left me feeling rejuvenated. The food is light, fresh, and healthy, with plenty of seafood options that reflect the island’s surroundings. Parrot Cay is where you go to unplug and reconnect with yourself. 5. Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort – Mozambique I’ll never forget my time on Bazaruto Island. The journey to get there—a short flight followed by a boat ride—only added to the sense of adventure. The island itself is a paradise of golden dunes, vibrant coral reefs, and warm, welcoming locals. The activities here are endless: horseback riding along the beach, diving with dolphins, and even a thrilling helicopter ride over the archipelago. Anantara Bazaruto perfectly balances adventure and relaxation, making it a destination I can’t wait to return to. 6. Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas – Maldives There’s something magical about the Maldives, and Anantara Kihavah is one of its crowning jewels. My overwater villa was a dream—complete with an infinity pool, direct access to the ocean, and floor-to-ceiling windows that showcased the endless blue. The underwater restaurant, Sea, is an experience I’ll never forget. Dining while surrounded by marine life felt like something out of a movie. And the snorkeling? It’s like swimming in an aquarium, with colorful fish and coral at every turn. 7. Sailrock South Caicos – Oceanview Villas & Suites – Turks and Caicos South Caicos is quieter than some of the other islands in this list, but that’s what makes it so special. Sailrock Resort offers luxurious villas with jaw-dropping ocean views and a level of privacy that’s hard to find. I loved waking up early to watch the sunrise over the water, then spending my days kayaking through the mangroves and lounging on the secluded beaches. The service here is impeccable, with staff going above and beyond to ensure every moment is perfect. 8. Bawah Reserve – Indonesia Bawah Reserve is a hidden gem in Indonesia’s Anambas Islands. Accessible only by seaplane, this eco-resort is a sanctuary of natural beauty. The overwater and jungle suites are beautifully designed, and the activities are endless. I kayaked through mangroves, hiked to hidden viewpoints, and snorkeled in crystal-clear lagoons. What I appreciated most was the resort’s commitment to sustainability. Every detail, from the architecture to the locally sourced food, reflects a deep respect for the environment. 9. Kudadoo Maldives Private Island – Luxury All-Inclusive – Maldives Kudadoo redefines luxury. This adults-only, all-inclusive resort offers an unparalleled level of service. My personal butler was available 24/7 to arrange everything from private dinners to snorkeling excursions. The island’s exclusivity is its biggest draw. With only 15 residences, you feel like you have the entire island to yourself. The overwater villas are stunning, with infinity pools and direct access to the ocean. Kudadoo is for those who want nothing less than perfection. 10. Ambergris Cay Private Island – All-Inclusive – Turks and Caicos Ambergris Cay offers a true castaway experience. The all-inclusive resort includes luxurious beachfront villas, private pools, and exclusive amenities. One highlight of my stay was the PLS Island Hopper Flight, which offered breathtaking aerial views of the turquoise waters. The island is perfect for families, couples, or anyone looking to escape the everyday and immerse themselves in paradise. Why I Love Private Islands Each of these islands offers something unique, but they all share one thing in common: an unmatched sense of exclusivity and connection to nature. Whether you’re looking for adventure, wellness, or simply a place to relax, these destinations have it all. If you’re dreaming of your own island escape, visit Elite-Jetset-Escapes.com. We’ve partnered with the best in the business to bring you exclusive deals and direct access to these incredible destinations. Your paradise awaits. All you have to do is take the leap.