
The Most Expensive Island Getaways for Ultra-Rich
For the world’s wealthy, fleeing to a private island is a statement of unmatched luxury rather than merely a holiday. These exclusive retreats redefine luxury by providing complete solitude, tailored service, and facilities so lavish. From tropical paradise to billionaire-owned atolls, these are the most costly island escapes where money is no problem.
1. British Virgin Islands’ Necker Island
Possessed by: Sir Richard Branson
The best playground available for billionaires is this 74-acre Caribbean island. For up to 48 people ($105,000+ per night), rent the whole island and savor a crew of 100 including private cooks, watersports instructors, and spa professionals. Highlights include Balinese-style homes, a cliff-top infinity pool, and a flamingo flock.
Indices of Luxury:
- Personal underwater trips over coral reefs.
- Under the stars, fire dance events.
- Sessions of yoga under local gurus.
2. Musha Cay (Bahamas)
Owned by: David Copperfield
Magician David Copperfield’s 700-acre private island in the Exumas is a dream realized. Rent it for $495,000 per night (minimum five nights) then discover secret beaches, a “Pirates of the Caribbean” treasure cove, and a massive sandcastle cinema.
Indices of Luxury:
- A “Mystery House” with optical illusions.
- Designed treasure hunts specifically for visitors.
- Private events with A-list performers (as requested).
3. Laucala Island (Fiji)
Owned by: Dietrich Mateschitz, Co-Founder of Red Bull
With its 3,500-acre Eden, eco-luxury meets shockingly extravagant luxury. Stay in thatched homes with private pools carved from volcanic rocks, enjoy a PGA-level golf course, savor organic cuisine made on the island, and explore underwater excursions.
Indices of Luxury:
- Riding horseback over coconut farms.
- Tibetan sound baths at a highland healing resort.
- A fleet of ships and helicopters for island hopping.
4. Cayo Espanto (Belize)
Location: Near Ambergris Caye, Belize
With just seven homes on an ultra-private island, complete with a chef and a personal butler, Cayo Espanto’s “no shoes, no news” approach appeals to visitors like Leonardo DiCaprio and Bill Gates.
Indices of Luxury:
- Customized dinners with freshly caught lobster.
- Private yoga pavilions scattered around the Caribbean.
- Sunrise massages from a floating dock.
5. Velaa Private Island (Maldives)
Owned by: A Czech Millionaire
This 22-acre refuge in the Maldives redefines luxury. While the island’s golf school is headed by a Masters winner, its overwater villas feature glass-bottom baths and lavish amenities.
Opulence Benefits:
- A wine cellar holding Romanée-Conti bottles valued at about $250,000.
- A personal submarine for investigating shipwrecks.
- Customized fragrances created by a local “scent artist.”
6. Lanai (Hawaii)
Owned by: Larry Ellison, Oracle Co-Founder
Although not entirely private, Larry Ellison owns 98% of Lanai in Hawaii. Stay at the Four Seasons Resort Lanai where suites are available for $15,000+ per night, and enjoy unspoiled beaches, health pods reminiscent of UFOs, and biodynamic vineyards.
Opulence Benefits:
- Helicopter excursions over coastal cliffs and secret waterfalls.
- A Nobu restaurant featuring dishes with omakase priced at $1,000+.
- Access to Ellison’s personal art collection.
7. The Brando (French Polynesia)
Site: Tetiaroa Atoll
Formerly a private island owned by Marlon Brando, The Brando is now a 35-villa, carbon-neutral resort. Notably, Bill Gates once leased the whole island for his daughter’s wedding.
Luxury Rewards:
- Private lagoon trips accompanied by marine researchers.
- Firelight Polynesian dancing performances.
- Spa treatments featuring black pearl extract.
8. Calivigny Island (Grenada)
Also Known as: “Billionaire’s Island”
This 80-acre Caribbean haven has welcomed Russian oligarchs and Google founders alike. Starting at $150,000 per night, the island offers five houses ideal for sailboat regattas, deep-sea fishing, or tennis events.
Luxury Rewards:
- A 100-foot waterslide plunging toward the ocean.
- A private concert stage for live events.
- On-site pastry chef and sommelier services.
9. North Island (Seychelles)
Location: Seychelles (UNESCO-Listed Island)
With 11 exclusive villas, this eco-resort caters to royalty and Hollywood elite—including Prince William and Kate Middleton—with a nightly rate of $10,000.
Comforts of Luxury:
- “No menus” dining where chefs create anything you desire.
- Private beaches where giant tortoise sightings are common.
- Dives supporting coral regeneration efforts.
10. Darwin Island (Galápagos, Ecuador)
Note: Although Not Privately Owned
This ultra-exclusive destination caters to the wealthy through opulent boat rentals priced at over $500,000. Dive with hammerhead sharks and indulge in responsibly harvested seafood prepared by Michelin-trained chefs.
Luxury Rewards:
- Private jet arrivals to the Galápagos.
- Guided trips led by evolutionary scientists.
- Underwater photography classes.
Why Are These Islands Worth the Cost?
- Complete privacy: No cameras or crowds—just you and your group.
- Bespoke experiences: Menus, schedules, even scents are tailored to your tastes.
- Exclusivity: Many require membership in a covert travel club or years of advance reservations.
Last Views
These islands are kingdoms where every need is anticipated and satisfied before it is even expressed. Whether it’s diving the Galápagos from a mega-yacht, stargazing in Fiji, or racing boats in Grenada, these paradises prove that ultimate luxury comes with a significant price tag—and they’re worth every cent.
Should money be no issue, which island would you purchase? Tell us in the comments, please.