When it comes to the crème de la crème of luxury travel, private island resorts often reign supreme — especially for those who wish to experience real seclusion, intimacy, and exclusivity.
Accessible by speedboat or seaplane, these private islands boast unspoiled beauty and offer a sanctuary far removed from the everyday. If you want to get away from it all, book yourself into these five remote resorts that are the epitome of a tropical paradise:
Photo: Amanpulo
The Philippines: Amanpulo
With an archipelago boasting over 7,000 islands and islets, the Philippines is a prime hotspot for beach vacations. But for those seeking seclusion away from the crowds, Amanpulo is an excellent place to start, and #Amanjunkies — who are already familiar with the hospitality group’s supreme service — would certainly agree.
Tucked away on the serene island of Pamalican, this luxury resort comes with powdery white sands and vibrant coral gardens. Designed by the celebrated Filipino architect Francisco Mañosa, the resort features just 42 Casitas and 18 Villas, each a masterpiece of tropical elegance. If you're fortunate, you may even witness the magical sight of green and hawksbill turtle hatchlings making their journey under the moonlit sky to the vast ocean during nesting season from March to October.
Book Amanpulo on the MICHELIN Guide →
Photo: Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara
Qatar: Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara
Qatar may be renowned for its desert landscapes and dunes, but just a half-hour catamaran boat ride from Doha lies a crescent-shaped artificial island in the Gulf, home to the Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara.
The private luxury island getaway features 141 sea-view rooms, suites, beachfront, and overwater pool villas, alongside an impressive 800 metres of golden shoreline. With amenities like a surf pool, VIP cinema, bowling alley, mini golf course, and a world-class spa, guests will find endless activities to enjoy. It's also a family-friendly resort, ensuring kids have a blast with a variety of exciting and enjoyable activities available on the island every day, including arts and crafts, cooking classes, and even billiards.
Book Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara on the MICHELIN Guide →
Photo: COMO Maalifushi
The Maldives: COMO Maalifushi
With countless private island paradises to choose from in the Maldives, deciding where to stay can be daunting. However, at COMO Maalifushi, decision-making feels effortless — unpretentious yet sophisticated, this resort beckons with a welcoming charm matched only by its breathtaking beauty.
Located on the remote Thaa Atoll in the Maldives, the wellness-oriented resort is just a 60-minute seaplane ride from Malé, offering a scenic journey over the region's stunning array of atolls. Tropical minimalism sets the tone at this resort, characterised by thatched roofs and shades of blue, where encounters with marine life are a daily delight — from snorkelling among colourful fish and exploring vibrant coral reefs, to leisurely dolphin cruises and spotting turtles and friendly sharks near the restaurant at sunset. It's a remarkable and secluded getaway, with an option for added privacy: booking a fully catered picnic on a smaller, nearby private island arranged by the resort.
Book COMO Maalifushi on the MICHELIN Guide →
Photo: Song Saa Private Island
Cambodia: Song Saa Private Island
While Thailand's turquoise waters and sandy white beaches draw hordes of tourists these days, Cambodia's untouched and lesser-known islands are steadily gaining recognition as some of the most pristine and underrated gems in Asia.
Song Saa Private Island, nestled in Cambodia's Koh Rong archipelago, effortlessly encapsulates this natural beauty with its overwater villas on stilts and an array of water-based experiences.The brainchild of Australian couple Rory and Melita Hunter, the resort is also committed to supporting local communities, monitoring coral reefs, providing medical care, promoting effective waste management, and launching educational programmes. Now, sit back, relax, and soak it all in.
Book Song Saa Private Island on the MICHELIN Guide →
Photo: Raffles Udaipur
India: Raffles Udaipur
Nestled on its own private island, Raffles Udaipur is cocooned by the serene waters of Udai Sagar Lake and enveloped by the lush Aravalli Hills.
Since its debut in 2021 as the Singaporean hotel group’s inaugural venture in India, this property has been a resounding success. Spanning 21 acres on a lush island teeming with birdlife and exotic flora, the resort offers spacious rooms and suites that seamlessly blend Indian and European influences. Some accommodations feature private pools and gardens, providing a tranquil retreat with panoramic vistas of the Baroque garden and the lake. Expect to spend your days lounging by the pool, playing rounds of golf and cricket, or pampering yourself with the luxurious amenities of the 12,000 square foot spa.
Book Raffles Udaipur on the MICHELIN Guide →
These five-star resorts promise an unforgettable stay, where the soothing sounds of the sea, gentle breezes, and rustling palm leaves create a symphony of serenity.
