Tucked away in nature’s most breathtaking corners, these luxury islands offer more than just a getaway—they offer an elite experience. With high-end villas, private chefs, spa treatments, and exclusive yacht services, these islands are not for your average traveler. Only a select few around the globe can afford to indulge in such remote and extravagant luxury.
If you had a fortune at your fingertips, how would you spend it? Sure, you could splurge on luxury watches, high-end cars, mega yachts, opulent mansions—or even your own private jet. But nothing compares to the serenity and indulgence of owning or vacationing on a secluded private island surrounded by pristine waters and golden sands.
These islands are the crème de la crème of global luxury destinations. Hidden in isolation, they promise complete privacy, exclusive services, and top-tier amenities—only accessible to those who can pay the price.
Here are five of the world’s most luxurious private islands that only the wealthiest can afford.
1. Rang Yai Island, Thailand – $160 Million
Tucked within Thailand’s lush tropical archipelago, Rang Yai Island is a private paradise surrounded by jungle and sea. While modest in size, the island is a standout thanks to its modern infrastructure, including freshwater systems, electricity, and mobile coverage. It’s also linked to the neighboring Coconut Island and “The Village” resort.
Perfectly positioned between Phuket, Krabi, and Phang Nga, Rang Yai offers spectacular panoramic views and excellent accessibility. With just a 20-minute flight to Phuket or a quick 10-minute boat ride to the mainland, it’s the ideal location for developing a premium retreat—or simply escaping to your own private utopia.
2. Skorpios Island, Greece – $150 to $200 Million
Located in the Ionian Sea, just east of Lefkada, Skorpios is one of the most famous private islands in the world. Steeped in history, it was once home to Jacqueline Kennedy and Aristotle Onassis, who held their iconic wedding here in 1968. Back in 2011, only five people lived on the island.
In 2013, Russian billionaire Dmitry Rybolovlev purchased the island from Onassis’ granddaughter for a staggering $153 million. Since then, Skorpios has been on track for a $200 million transformation into a world-class luxury destination, featuring five-star resorts, vineyards, wellness spas, private villas, a helipad, a theater, and a yacht marina.
The island even sources its water from a nearby mountain—an investment estimated at over €100 million.
3. Lisbon Island, Portugal – $310 Million
Situated in central Portugal, Lisbon Island holds immense potential as an exclusive private retreat. Development plans are already underway to turn this hidden gem into a fully equipped luxury haven for the ultra-wealthy.
Its proximity to Lisbon, combined with vast open space, makes it attractive for premium real estate projects, including high-end residences and even a private golf course. The island’s value has fluctuated between $310 million and $350 million, making it one of the most expensive private islands ever listed.
This island promises a mix of adrenaline-fueled water sports and refined leisure, from spa experiences and exclusive golf to eco-tourism and wildlife preservation.
4. New Holland Island, Saint Petersburg – $400 Million
Originally constructed in the early 18th century under Peter the Great, New Holland Island in Saint Petersburg, Russia, was built as a naval timber storage site and later became a Russian military stronghold. One of its most iconic buildings, known as “The Bottle,” once served as a military prison.
In 2010, Russian tycoon Roman Abramovich acquired rights to the island through Millhouse LLC for an estimated $400 million. The redevelopment has since transformed the island into a cultural and commercial hub. Collaborating with artists and institutions like the Iris Foundation, the goal was to blend historical architecture with contemporary arts and lifestyle.
Today, New Holland Island is a triangular urban oasis near the Neva River, complete with restored classical buildings, a lush park, serene ponds, and upscale restaurants—blending heritage with modern luxury.
5. Lanai Island, Hawaii – $610 Million
Lanai, the sixth-largest island in Hawaii, is also known as “Pineapple Island” due to its former life as a sprawling pineapple plantation. In 1992, tech magnate Larry Ellison, founder of Oracle and one of the world’s richest individuals, purchased 98% of the island for an eye-watering $610 million.
Today, Lanai is hailed as the most expensive private island in the world. Home to three hotels—including two lavish Four Seasons resorts—Lanai offers guests five-star treatment, Polynesian-inspired art, luxurious amenities, and ocean-view penthouses priced at $21,000 per night.
The island’s lush surroundings feature botanical gardens, koi ponds, and state-of-the-art spas, making it a secluded paradise for the global elite.
These five jaw-dropping islands represent the ultimate playgrounds for billionaires. With prices ranging from $150 million to over $600 million, they go beyond simple luxury—they redefine it.
While most of us can only dream of visiting such places, they offer a glimpse into a world where privacy, exclusivity, and indulgence know no limits. For the ultra-wealthy, paradise isn’t just a destination—it’s privately owned.
