True Exclusivity: Private Islands Await Your Arrival

Over the years the perception of luxury travel and its mere definition has changed. To some, luxury travel is an abundance of recognition, private access to lesser-known places, and elevated comforts without limits. So, in our modern world where luxury knows no bounds, more and more individuals find themselves drawn to a realm of travel exclusivity and seclusion that transcends imagination.

Modern-day voyagers are not merely seeking an escape; they are in pursuit of the luxury of privacy and one-of-a-kind experiences that resonate with their deepest desires. Ownership of a private island that is exclusively yours for a few days or even weeks is the ultimate privilege.

Private islands were once emblems of extravagant luxury or tax havens, and these private places generally operated under the radar and often with little regard for the local environment, indigenous cultures, or the benefits of sustainable technology. However, today’s modern-day nomads not only have a heightened sense of security and privacy, but they also feel a commitment to responsible stewardship of the natural world and its’ inhabitants.

The modern interpretation of a private island escape comes with a vast array of options including all-inclusive amenities, 24/7 services, cultural and personalized experiences, new-age therapies, and bespoke dining that mirror your personal preferences. While there is no “one-size-fits-all” when it comes to the world’s top private islands, there are a few unique places that offer a discreet, culturally rich, and tranquil destination to reconnect with friends and family to celebrate life’s milestones, and in some cases mark your professional achievements in a very memorable and distinctive way.

Explore the realms of pure enchantment with some of my favorite private islands around the world. From the turquoise waters of the Belize to the undersea kaleidoscope that is the Maldives, and the warmth and hospitality of Polynesian people, we have redefined the very essence of the world’s perfect private islands.

| GLADDEN CAYE: A WATER LOVER’S DREAM

Belize is home to the longest barrier reef system in the Northern and Western Hemispheres, and its stunning central section lies directly in Gladden Island’s backyard. From April through June, whale sharks congregate in this protected area, offering the rare chance to swim with these gentle giants. The snorkeling and sportfishing in this part of the world is exceptional, as is PADI-certified scuba diving.

"Once you arrive, Gladden Caye’s villa opens her arms to embrace you with a 3,000 square foot (279 square meters) single-level Mayan-style beach villa which accommodates just four special guests in two master bedrooms for a truly memorable private island experience"

Gladden Caye is owned by David Keener, CEO of Vision Properties, and is located 20 miles off the coast of Placencia, Belize. Guests can fly non-stop from Miami into Belize City, just a two-hour flight, and upon arrival into Belize City you board a private helicopter for the spectacular 35-minute flight to Gladden Caye. Round-trip transportation is included in your nightly all-inclusive resort fee. Once you arrive, Gladden Caye’s villa opens her arms to embrace you with a 3,000 square foot (279 square meters) single-level Mayan-style beach villa which accommodates just four special guests in two master bedrooms for a truly memorable private island experience. Head to the rooftop deck for spectacular 360-degree reef views or the most dramatic and colorful sunsets. On Gladden Caye there are no neighbors to invade your white sand beaches. Even the Gladden Caye staff are located on a separate, adjacent island located just 2 minutes by boat and completely out of sight, appearing quietly as needed. Your fully dedicated House Manager, private Chef and Concierge staff are there to elevate your experiences and everything is tailored to your liking and prepared according to your personal schedule, as you would expect with any ultra-luxe resort.

Enjoy a daily massage with the in-house massage therapist, take a dip in your private pool, or explore by boat nearby Hatchet Caye or any of the nearby islands for a casual lunch or dinner. If your circle is small and your idea of a private escape is a relaxing and undisturbed connection to the natural world, then Gladden Caye is a private island destination that should definitely be on your bucket list.

In the heart of the captivating Tetiaroa Atoll, an oasis of Polynesian history, tranquility and environmental stewardship awaits – The Brando. Once the cherished retreat of Pomare royalty, then home to legendary actor Marlon Brando in the 1960’s and 1970’s, this lush, palm-fringed sanctuary has gracefully evolved into an exclusive haven for travelers who yearn for rejuvenation, seclusion, and one-of-a-kind experiences.

With just 36 total villas on an atoll covering over 585 hectares, Tetiaroa is the perfect size for a private island exclusive and not as remote as one would think. The journey to The Brando begins from Los Angeles or San Francisco, with just an 8-hour non-stop flight to Papeete, Tahiti. Upon arrival in Tahiti, the flight to The Brando is just 20 minutes via Air Tetiaroa Twin Otter aircraft. Tetiaroa atoll sits just below the Equator which guarantees perfectly warm weather year-round. No hurricane season or unpleasant sea kelp deluge to ruin our idyllic white sand beaches and turquoise lagoon. The journey to The Brando and Tetiaroa is by Air Tetiaroa’s private Twin Otter 15-seat aircraft which guarantees guest privacy as no outside guests are ever permitted, and the 20-minute flight from Papeete, Tahiti offers spectacular aerial views and a hint of the grandeur that unfolds upon arrival.

| MALDIVES' CROWN JEWEL OF SECLUSION

If you need a bit more space or have more friends that you wish to spoil, then Voavah situated in the heart of the Indian Ocean, is an ethereal gem emerging from the turquoise expanse. This private island sanctuary redefines luxury, intimacy, and boundless adventure, and is a testament to the grandeur of nature's canvas. Voavah is not just a destination, but a world that exists solely for you and your twenty special guests. Accessible by a 35-minute private seaplane from Male or private boat from the nearby Four Seasons Resort Landaa Giraavaru, Voavah embodies the true essence of a secluded retreat.

Voavah island is part of the Baa Atoll located in the northern islands group. A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve renowned for its rich marine biodiversity and pristine natural beauty. If crafting a private island experience that transcends imagination is your goal, this exclusive haven is a world of luxury and tranquility, where time slows down, and every moment is tailored to exceed expectations.

At the heart of Voavah lies an expansive, three-bedroom Beach House which serves as a communal gathering place for guests for meals and group activities. The Beach House is complemented by an adjacent three-bedroom beach villa and a spectacular two-bedroom water villa. Each villa and suite fully embracing the essence of tropical indoor & outdoor living. A fully dedicated wellness center and island activity teams are at your disposal to create opportunities for adventure no matter your age. Embark on marine conservation expeditions to track dolphin pods, scuba dive amidst a coral forest, and unique to this region is Hanifaru Bay, home of the mobula ray migration which happens June thru October when the plankton levels in Hanifaru Bay triple and the rays come by the hundreds to feed. This UNESCO Biosphere is not to be missed as it is rich in marine life including whale sharks and nothing is more dramatic than to snorkel and observe hundreds of mobula rays dancing in unison.

Every moment on Voavah is an exploration of the extraordinary. Should you desire a realm of exclusivity for you and your guests, Voavah can deliver on this promise. And should you be feeling the desire to stretch your legs and expand your horizons beyond Voavah, you have a dedicated 19-meter yacht Voavah Summer and captain at your disposal that can take you on various excursions, sport-fishing, or stop by the nearby Four Seasons Resort Landaa Giraavaru for even more culinary dining options and a world-class spa.

Voavah is a testament to the fact that luxury is not defined merely by the extravagance of the present, but by the legacy of stewardship that one leaves for the future. A journey to this private island is a pledge to embrace the wonders of the world and to cherish them for generations to come.

| THE BRANDO: A SUSTAINABLE GEM IN POLYNESIA

Each One, Two- & Three-Bedroom villa at The Brando is an embodiment of opulent living, a personal haven replete with private plunge pools and direct access to the pristine white sand beaches that frame the island. The interplay between luxury and nature is a symphony of perfection, where vibrant coral reefs meet powdery white sands, and the azure Pacific Ocean stretches beyond the horizon. To immerse oneself fully, the Varua Polynesian Spa beckons, a refuge of rejuvenation and serenity where ancient traditions harmonize with modern wellness practices like cold plunge therapy. And when the time comes to savor culinary delights, The Brando's three restaurants and two lounges boast menus designed by Michelin star chef Jean Imbert, crafting a symphony of flavors that celebrate the journey of Polynesian explorers while embracing the global influences that have enriched its culture.

The Brando is not simply an escape; it is a celebration of life's most exquisite moments with your most cherished family and friends. Imagine fly-fishing in a century old lagoon with Marlon Brando’s son, Simon Teihotu, to challenge yourself against the local bonefish or trevally population. Learn the fine art of creating poisson cru, the Polynesian version of ceviche made with limes, coconut milk, and freshly caught blue fin tuna. Kayak to Tetiaroa’s pristine bird island to meet the local wildlife. Over 18 different historic, cultural and sport activities abound for guests to choose from, including our Lagoon School which features island activities specifically designed for our younger travelers. Here, luxury is a promise that is meticulously fulfilled in every detail and interaction, setting the stage for memories that shimmer like the sun-kissed waters that embrace Tetiaroa.

"The interplay between luxury and nature is a symphony of perfection, where vibrant coral reefs meet powdery white sands, and the azure Pacific Ocean stretches beyond the horizon... The Brando is not simply an escape; it is a celebration of life's most exquisite moments with your most cherished family and friends"

| CRAFTING YOUR UNFORGETTABLE GETAWAY

So, for those who seek the zenith of luxury, the allure of a private island escape is nothing short of intoxicating. Island exclusives or “buy-outs” can be negotiated from a minimum of a 3-night stay to upward of 3 months or longer. Most private islands offer an all-inclusive package to include your guests’ island flights, daily meals, beverages, activities, and spa treatments which creates an overall ease from the minute you step on the island. Special catering for birthdays or milestone events can be customized to include everything from local entertainment, cultural décor, pool party with DJ, and even special gifting that supports small island businesses.

From the Polynesian mana of The Brando to the timeless elegance of Voavah and the intimacy of Gladden Caye, these island sanctuaries beckon to you, the discerning traveler, offering a unique canvas upon which unforgettable moments are painted. A tropical realm where luxury and exclusivity know no bounds – welcome to the world of private islands, where the days are yours to design!

The Brando has been widely awarded by well-known institutions such as the Condé Nast Traveler, Forbes Travel Guide, World Travel Awards, Luxury Travel Advisor or Travel-Leisure.