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For the world’s elite, privacy isn’t just a preference; it’s a necessity. And nothing offers seclusion quite like a private island. From Hawaiian paradises owned by tech titans to Mediterranean retreats favoured by Russian oligarchs, these islands aren’t just trophies. They’re statements of taste, legacy, and lifestyle.
1. Lanai, Hawaii – Larry Ellison
Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison owns 98% of Lanai, Hawaii’s sixth-largest island, purchased for a reported $300 million in 2012. Far from being a vanity project, Ellison has invested heavily to transform Lanai into a sustainable haven. Two Four Seasons resorts, solar-powered infrastructure, organic farms, and advanced water filtration systems underscore a commitment to eco-luxury. For the discerning traveller, Lanai offers a rare blend of rustic Hawaiian charm and sophisticated comfort.
2. Necker Island, British Virgin Islands – Sir Richard Branson
Bought in 1979 for just $180,000, Necker Island has become the embodiment of Branson’s flamboyant hospitality vision. This 74-acre Caribbean retreat can host up to 40 guests, featuring Balinese-style villas, an infinity pool with panoramic views, and curated experiences such as kite-surfing with world champions. Regularly booked out by celebrities and business magnates, it’s a sanctuary of barefoot luxury.
3. Moskito Island, British Virgin Islands – Sir Richard Branson
Just a short boat ride from Necker, Moskito Island was acquired by Branson in 2007 for approximately £10 million. The island is divided into estates, including The Branson Estate and other privately owned compounds by billionaires. It combines the exclusivity of ownership with the conveniences of a high-end resort, offering shared amenities such as a Beach House, bar, and wellness centre.
4. Musha Cay, Bahamas – David Copperfield
Owned by illusionist David Copperfield, Musha Cay spans 700 acres and offers five guest houses, each with its own private beach. The island is styled as an old-world Caribbean escape, complete with a beachfront movie theatre, treasure hunts, and a full-time staff of 30. With a weekly rate north of $300,000, it appeals to ultra-high-net-worth individuals seeking theatrical, highly curated privacy.
5. Velaa Private Island, Maldives – Jiří Šmejc
Developed by Czech billionaire Jiří Šmejc, Velaa Private Island in the Maldives is a purpose-built luxury resort. It features 43 villas (many overwater), a golf academy designed by José María Olazábal, and a spa offering treatments with Dr. Burgener Switzerland products. Its level of service is almost invisible, ensuring guests feel as though they own the island during their stay.
6. Skorpios Island, Greece – Dmitry Rybolovlev
Purchased in 2013 by Russian billionaire Dmitry Rybolovlev for his daughter, Skorpios Island is transforming into an elite resort. The island, once owned by Aristotle Onassis, carries considerable historical cachet. Rybolovlev’s plans include a wellness centre, marina, and six-star lodgings, with total investments projected at €184 million. It’s poised to become the crown jewel of the Ionian Sea.
7. Cayo Norte, Puerto Rico – Larry Page
Google co-founder Larry Page acquired Cayo Norte for $32 million in 2018. The 1.2 km² island is mostly undeveloped, prized for its biodiversity and seclusion, and ideal for those drawn to conservation and solitude. Page’s low-profile ownership style contrasts with the ostentation of others, but the island’s value as a natural haven speaks volumes.
8. New Holland Island, Russia – Roman Abramovich
Roman Abramovich’s New Holland Island in St. Petersburg is not your typical tropical retreat. Once a military base, it’s being transformed into a cultural quarter with art galleries, performance venues, and Michelin-starred dining. The project reflects Abramovich’s passion for culture and urban regeneration, marrying exclusivity with accessibility.
9. Kauai Estate, Hawaii – Mark Zuckerberg
While not an island per se, Zuckerberg’s 1,500-acre estate on Kauai is an enclave unto itself. Acquired over several years for more than $260 million, the compound includes multiple residences, a high-tech security system, and even an underground bunker. The property exemplifies how the new tech elite interpret luxury: privacy, permanence, and preparedness.
10. Calivigny Island, Grenada – George Cohen
Calivigny Island operates as a private resort with the trappings of a billionaire’s playground. The 80-acre island is available for exclusive rental and includes a 107,000-square-foot main residence, yacht-style guesthouses, and a professional culinary team. Owned by billionaire investor George Cohen, the experience is tailored for those accustomed to absolute discretion.
For the ultra-wealthy, these islands offer more than just privacy; they are personal universes, curated down to the last palm frond. Whether it’s a self-sufficient eco-paradise or a cultural landmark, each is a reflection of its owner’s aspirations and philosophies on luxury living.
