10 Remote Islands You Can Only Access by Private Plane

Dreaming of a vacation where crowds don’t exist and pristine beaches are yours alone? Some of the world’s most exclusive island destinations are not just hard to reach but impossible to access without a private plane. These remote paradises offer complete privacy, untouched natural beauty, and luxurious experiences far from typical tourist trails.

Why These Islands Require Private Plane Access

Getting to these exclusive destinations is not only about luxury but often a practical necessity. Many remote islands lack the infrastructure for commercial aviation, with airstrips that are too small or short for standard passenger jets.

Private aircraft can navigate these challenges easily. Working with a private jet charter service, travelers can access compact runways, operate on flexible schedules, and enjoy direct point-to-point service that would be impossible through commercial hubs. This makes travel to remote areas more practical.

Their isolated locations mean no scheduled flight routes exist. Airlines can’t justify the cost of regular service to destinations with limited demand. Some islands intentionally limit access to preserve their exclusivity and protect delicate ecosystems. Here are ten extraordinary islands that commercial airlines simply cannot take you to.

1. Tetiaroa, French Polynesia

Marlon Brando’s former private retreat is now home to The Brando, one of the world’s most eco-conscious luxury resorts. A 20-minute private flight from Tahiti transports guests to this atoll paradise.

The resort features 35 beachfront villas powered by renewable energy. Guests enjoy pristine beaches, crystal-clear lagoons, and a strong commitment to sustainability without sacrificing luxury or comfort.

2. Private Islands in the Seychelles

While Seychelles International Airport on Mahé handles commercial flights, reaching truly remote private islands requires private terminals and charter connections. Streamlined customs for private travelers make island hopping effortless.

Short domestic charters transport guests to exclusive escapes on islands such as Praslin or La Digue. These granite islands feature UNESCO-protected nature and beaches that are consistently ranked among the world’s best, including some spectacular coral reef destinations for underwater exploration.

3. Petit St. Vincent, The Grenadines

Located 40 miles south of St. Vincent, this 115-acre island takes disconnection seriously. Accessible only by private plane and boat, the cottages have no TV or internet and offer pure Caribbean tranquility.

The unique flagpole service system lets guests communicate with staff discreetly. Raise a yellow flag for service, red for complete privacy. It’s barefoot luxury at its finest.

4. Necker Island, British Virgin Islands

Richard Branson’s legendary 74-acre private paradise sets the standard for exclusive island getaways. After landing at Beef Island Airport, guests take a short private plane or boat ride to reach this celebrity favorite.

The island accommodates up to 34 guests across multiple luxury properties. Expect world-class amenities, water sports, and complete privacy surrounded by crystal-clear Caribbean waters.

5. Calivigny Island, Grenada

This 80-acre private island off Grenada’s southern coast offers breathtaking views of both the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. Two magnificent villas accommodate up to 50 guests, though you must rent the entire island.

Perfect for destination weddings, corporate retreats, or multi-family vacations. The island provides complete seclusion with all the amenities of a five-star resort under your exclusive control.

6. Lanai, Hawaii

Known as “The Pineapple Island,” Lanai combines natural beauty with world-class hospitality at its exclusive Four Seasons resorts. Lanai Airport welcomes private charters, making this Hawaiian gem accessible for discerning travelers.

Explore pristine beaches, championship golf courses, and the otherworldly Garden of the Gods rock formations. This island offers seclusion without sacrificing sophisticated amenities.

What makes Lanai special:

• Two Four Seasons properties on one small island
• Dramatic volcanic landscapes and red rock formations
• Intimate island with only 3,000 residents

7. Miavana, Madagascar

Located on Nosy Ankao, this award-winning resort requires private connections from Madagascar’s capital, Antananarivo. Miavana combines architectural brilliance with Madagascar’s unique biodiversity.

Each villa features private pools and direct beach access. Rates start at $2,500 per night, all-inclusive. Guests can explore lemur habitats, pristine reefs, and Madagascar’s extraordinary endemic wildlife.

8. Bathurst and Melville Islands (Tiwi Islands), Australia

Known as the “Island of Smiles,” these islands sit 50 miles north of Darwin. Bathurst Island Airport accommodates private charters for visitors wanting authentic indigenous cultural experiences.

The Tiwi people welcome respectful visitors to experience traditional art, dance, and culture. This destination offers something rare: genuine cultural immersion in a remote island setting.

9. Remote Maldives Atolls

Beyond the well-known resort islands, the Maldives’ most exclusive properties occupy ultra-remote atolls accessible only by seaplane or private charter. These locations offer complete isolation in overwater villas.

Crystal-clear waters teem with marine life visible from your villa deck. Many resorts occupy entire atolls, ensuring you’ll never see another property or share your paradise with crowds.

Remote Maldives features:

• Some of the world’s clearest waters
• Overwater villas with glass floor panels
• World-class diving and snorkeling

10. Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands

Famous for The Baths, massive granite boulders that create natural tidal pools, Virgin Gorda combines natural wonders with luxury accommodations. Private charters land at Virgin Gorda Airport, allowing travelers to bypass crowded commercial terminals.

Five-star resorts dot this island’s coastline. World-class snorkeling, sailing, and beach experiences await. It’s the perfect blend of adventure and refined comfort.

What to Expect When Flying Private to Remote Islands

Private aviation transforms island travel into a seamless luxury experience. Flexible departure times mean no more 3 AM alarm clocks or rushing through security lines.

Direct access to small airstrips eliminates layovers and connections. VIP terminals provide personalized service without crowds or delays. Your luggage travels with you, never getting lost in airline systems.

The freedom to island-hop on your schedule lets you explore multiple destinations in one trip. Charter companies handle permits, landing arrangements, and ground transportation, making multi-island adventures effortless.

Ready to Travel?

These remote islands represent the pinnacle of exclusive travel, destinations where privacy, natural beauty, and luxury converge beyond the reach of commercial aviation. From Marlon Brando’s Polynesian paradise to Richard Branson’s Caribbean hideaway, private plane access unlocks experiences that cannot be replicated elsewhere. For travelers seeking a true escape, these islands offer paradise without compromise.

Featured image by Helen Crawford on Unsplash