What makes an island experience perfect? It could be the setting, perhaps palm trees are a requirement for some; it could be what the island offers, maybe a spa and a world-class restaurant; or, it may be the accommodations, whether it’s a bed and breakfast or a luxury resort. Whatever your island requirements are, we think we have you covered with this short list of our favorite private island experiences from which to choose.
Zaya Nurai Island, Abu Dhabi
One of the 200 natural islands in Abu Dhabi, Zaya Nurai is more than a beautiful island, it is now a modern Asian-style resort. The Zaya Nurai Island Resort (the only resort on the two-mile-long island) opened in 2015 and its development evolution continues. It’s the ideal island experience. While it can really only be classified as semi-private from the traveler’s experience since you’ll see other guests on the island, the luxury of the resort overshadows that issue because you’ll be staying in one of their 32 beach villas. They also promise a top spa and five restaurants serving line-caught fish, biodynamic wines, and locally grown organic fruit and vegetables. Explore the resort and the island: Zaya Nurai Island Resort.
Inn at Cuckolds Lighthouse, Maine
When the lighthouse was decommissioned in 1974 after having been in service since 1892, the future of The Cuckolds Lighthouse looked bleak. The non-profit Cuckolds Island Fog Signal and Light Station Council was formed. They submitted a proposal to take over the defunct property. Once approved, the non-profit rebuilt the keepers’ house and created a private island experience billed as a luxury retreat. A true escape, The Inn at Cuckolds Lighthouse describes their accommodations noting that each suite is scenically stunning with panoramic ocean views – whether tranquil or tumultuous. Those views also feature the incomparable beauty of Maine’s Atlantic coastline and nearby islands. Filled with original art that is stunning and memorable, the tranquil suites are also finished with custom woodwork. This island experience is an all-American original and The Inn at Cuckolds Lighthouse is a perfect destination.
Private Island Retreat, Greece
Our next island is situated off the coast of Greece at the beginning of the Cycladic Islands and a short jaunt from the island of Evia. Once you arrive, you’d find it hard to believe you’re only 45 minutes from Athens. The property’s owner and manager, Maria, describes the Private Island Retreat in an interview for Welcome Beyond:
The only way I could describe it would be to compare it to a dream, because unless you’ve experienced it, you cannot even imagine that it’s possible to have a house in such a location all to yourself.
Your welcome begins with a basket of organic fruit fresh from the island. Maria and her husband have been living on the island since 2008, though it’s been in Maria’s family since the early 20th century. Gather eight to twenty-two of your favorite friends and family and book your stay at the relaxing and comfortable Private Island Retreat in Greece.
Will you go for Abu Dabi opulence, all-American Maine traditional, or Greek rusticity? For even more island vacations, be sure to see our article Private Island Vacation Homes to Rent.
