Our Top Private Islands

At Black Tomato, we know that privacy and exclusivity rank high on your list of holiday priorities. In response, we have compiled a list of the ultimate in extravagance with the top five private island resorts in the world. This is a list for those looking for something truly indulgent, discrete and luxurious. Tempted? Keep scrolling for all five. 

North Island, Seychelles

North Island has developed a reputation as the most luxurious destination in the Indian Ocean topping. Renting out the entire island grants you exclusive access to 11 villas, all boasting giant terraces with panoramic ocean views, a private butler and island buggy, with the piece de resistance being Villa 11, the 8,000 square foot, and completely isolated villa with an oversized bath made for two and the best views on the island – pure extravagance. Powdery, white-sand beaches line the east and west side of the island while a library, spa, gym, helipad and activity centre are all at your disposal. There are no menus when it comes to meals; instead a private chef meets with guest and creates meals based on their tastes and preferences. North Island offers high-end extravagance in a uniquely desert island environment – the true definition of barefoot luxury.

Motu Tane, French Polynesia

If a luxury resort in Bora Bora doesn’t quite meet your standards of exclusivity, a 10-minute boat ride from the main island, across the most beautiful lagoon in French Polynesia, brings you to the private island resort of Motu Tane. The tiny three-acre island is covered in tropical forest and completely surrounded by pristine white-sand beaches.

Motu Tane is exclusively rented out to one group at a time, allowing for accommodations of up to 26 people in a mix of impeccably designed thatched roofed master and guest suites. Island rental includes exclusive use of the hotel’s 36ft boat for exploring local islands, snorkelling the crystal clear waters and scuba diving through the pristine reefs of Bora Bora. Preparing all meals is your own private chef ready to arrange beach barbecues, torch-lit dinners and Tahitian feasts at your request.

Turtle Island, Fiji

500-acres and 14 beaches make up Turtle Island just 30 minutes by floatplane from the main island of Fiji. Each of Turtle Island’s 14 cottages or ‘bures’ is managed by a bure Mama who acts as a personal assistant and caretaker for guests. The luxury cottages overlook the tranquil waters of the island’s blue lagoon, a perfect natural cove for swimming. The resort provides guests with horses and mountain bikes to explore the vast landscape and diverse flora and fauna found on the island. Private meals on secluded beaches or family style dinners with your entire group are just some of your dining options, while a mountaintop dinner overlooking the entire island at sunset will have you feeling like the king/queen of your very own island nation.

Necker Island, British Virgin Islands

One of the largest of the British Virgin Islands, Necker Island is only available for hire during specially selected weeks of the year. The island’s 74 acres of pure white sand is topped by a tropical forest of emerald green palms.

Renting out the entire island ensures access to Temple House, Sir Richard Branson’s very own private home where you can drift in the huge freshwater infinity pool and enjoy the gorgeous sea view from your free-standing marble bath. The island even has its own 3-person submarine which you can take for a spin in the impossibly clear Caribbean waters. Michelin-trained chefs are at your beck and call, ready to provide gourmet dinners or champagne breakfasts anywhere, anytime.

Tagomago Island, Spain

Private islands are a rarity in the Mediterranean, but truly unique is a private island offering unparalleled peace and privacy just ten minutes from Ibiza. Tagomago Island, measuring just 1.5km by 0.87km and surrounded by breathtakingly turquoise waters is highlighted by a single, contemporary and spacious villa equipped to house no more than ten guests. The island is covered by an unspoiled nature and bird reserve with a landscape of rocky cliffs and wild pine trees. A pathway to the west side of the small island leads to a isolated beach perfect for swimming, snorkelling and all forms of water activities. The island’s private helipad and port make getting on and off the island uncomplicated. Spend nights taking in the legendary night life of Ibiza all the while knowing that your own private sanctuary is just minutes away.