Part 1 of our private islands featured stunning secluded resorts in Cambodia, Thailand, Australia and Africa (read it here). Read on for part 2 of our guide to the most private places you’ll find away from your superyacht
Mnemba, Zanzibar
Ten traditional beachside bandas (cottages) make up &Beyond Memba Island Lodge – a maximum of 20 guests can stay here. Each has a relaxing outdoor veranda and a beach sala with sunbeds. As a marine lodge, wildlife is taken seriously here: endangered green turtles nest on the beaches and Ader’s duiker (the rarest antelope species in Africa) roam around. Snorkelling, swimming with dolphins, scuba diving, windsurfing and kayaking are on offer and guests can also spend the day sipping cocktails and taking in the scenery on a traditional dhow. Alternatively, just have a massage on your day bed.
Guana Island, British Virgin Islands
Despite its size, Guana Island (just north of Tortola) remains very private, with a maximum of 30 guests accommodated in 18 rooms. Six types are available, from two-person pool cottages with breathtaking sea views to villas for families – one with onsite staff, another with its own private beach where meals can be served. Staff on the island have worked here for an average of 18 years serving the owning family, so guest service is excellent. Snorkel the reefs off Guana’s seven pristine beaches, windsurf, sail or play tennis or croquet at the resort. There are 12 miles of hiking trails on the island. The resort also has a 68ft Sunseeker for exploring the area.
Taprobane, Sri Lanka
This may be the only island in the world that can be accessed by elephant or sedan chair, or on foot if
you’re not keen on grand entrances. The central octagonal pavilion sleeps ten in four doubles and
a twin, all with private terraces. The house is surrounded by tropical gardens featuring an infinity pool that laps the Indian Ocean. A staff of five is also provided for guests. Staff can arrange games of
cricket or fireball hockey with locals on the beach, while elephant polo tournaments, balls and parties can be planned on the island. Surfing, diving, dancing and shopping trips as well as rainforest encounters take place on the nearby mainland. www.taprobaneisland.com
Vahine, French Polynesia
Almost invisible on the map, Motu Tu Vahine lies in the Society Islands archipelago just north of Taha’a. With only nine bungalows or farés, this is the ultimate private paradise. Each comfortable faré sits either on stilts over the water or on the beach, backing on to coconut groves and manicured lawns. Views of Bora Bora make this the perfect place to explore from the water, and guests can row in the resort’s flat-bottomed Polynesian pirogues to cruise the lagoon. Two private coral gardens are great for snorkelling. You can also learn to weave coconut leaves, fish in the reef and take nature tours.
