There’s just something about an island getaway that feels like pure magic. The minute your feet hit the sand, real life melts away. You’re barefoot, the breeze is warm, and the only thing on your to-do list is deciding between a sunset cocktail or a beachside massage (or both). Whether you’re dreaming of a romantic hideaway, solo escape, or luxe adventure with friends, these stunning island stays are bringing their A-game in 2025.
We’ve rounded up some of the best boutique, eco-friendly, and seriously special island retreats—new hotspots and timeless favourites alike. Here’s where to go if you want your next trip to feel like a dream.
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Hotels, I use Agoda
Insurance: Cover-More
Rentals: Discover Cars
RVs: Motorhome Republic
Transfers: Welcome Pickups
SIM Cards: Simify
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1. Gundari – Folegandros, Greece
Perched on a cliff edge overlooking the Aegean, Gundari is Greece’s latest boutique showstopper. Opened in 2025, this ultra-luxury resort is all about eco-conscious minimalism—solar-powered infinity pools, earthy stone villas, and spa treatments made with wild herbs from the island.
It’s the kind of place you arrive at and immediately feel your shoulders drop. With only 27 suites and villas, it’s secluded, intimate, and effortlessly chic. And yes, the sunsets over the Med are exactly as ridiculous as you’re imagining.
Perfect for: Design lovers and slow-travel romantics.
Price: From €390 per night (around $660 AUD).
2. Hayman Island – Whitsundays, Queensland
If you’re after a classic, no-fuss luxury island experience with all the bells and whistles, Hayman Island still delivers. Following a major refurbishment, this InterContinental resort is looking better than ever—lush tropical gardens, a lagoon-style pool, swanky restaurants and access to the Great Barrier Reef on your doorstep.
It’s a perfect mix of polished service and natural beauty, ideal if you want reef adventures by day and gourmet food by night.
Perfect for: Families, couples and honeymooners wanting a stress-free luxe escape.
Price: From $700 AUD per night.
Book Whitsunday Apartments packages here.
3. Ambergris Cay – Turks & Caicos
Private island? Tick. Overwater spa? Tick. Butlers, beachside villas, and zero tourists? Big tick. Ambergris Cay is one of the Caribbean’s most exclusive island resorts, where everything from your gourmet meals to boat excursions are included.
There are just a few villas and bungalows, each with ocean views and plunge pools. It’s ultra-luxe without the pretense, and if you’re after a splurge that still feels warm and personal, you’ll love it.
Perfect for: Honeymooners, jetsetters, and anyone seeking true privacy.
Price: From $3,000 AUD+ per night (all-inclusive).
4. Anantara Seminyak – Bali, Indonesia
Bali has no shortage of beautiful places to stay, but Anantara Seminyak consistently nails it for location, luxury, and laid-back vibes. Set right on the beachfront in the heart of Seminyak, this stylish resort is perfect for lazy pool days, sundowners at their rooftop bar, and spa treatments you’ll daydream about for months.
The rooms are big and modern with outdoor baths, and you’re walking distance to some of Bali’s best cafes, shops and beach clubs.
Perfect for: Luxe-loving Bali regulars or first-time island dreamers.
Price: From $400 AUD per night.
Book Anantara Seminyak Resort and Spa packages here.
5. Song Saa – Cambodia
Tucked away in Cambodia’s Koh Rong archipelago, Song Saa is a luxury hideaway built with love and deep respect for the environment. Villas come with private pools and ocean decks, and the entire resort is run sustainably—with composting, solar power and a marine conservation centre.
It’s a soulful experience that goes beyond the surface. Think yoga at sunrise, locally sourced Khmer cuisine, and coral reef snorkelling on your doorstep.
Perfect for: Conscious travellers, couples, and those seeking meaning with their luxury.
Price: From $1,000 AUD+ per night.
6. Pumpkin Island – Southern Great Barrier Reef, QLD
This one’s for the low-key luxury crowd. Pumpkin Island is a carbon-neutral, self-catered eco-retreat near Yeppoon, with just 7 beachy bungalows scattered across the island. Powered by wind and solar, it offers simple pleasures done well—kayaking, snorkelling, sunset drinks and absolutely no crowds.
You rent the whole island or stay in one of the breezy bungalows and enjoy total disconnection. It’s perfect if you’re craving digital detox vibes without skimping on style.
Perfect for: Eco-minded travellers and friend/family groups.
Price: From $320 AUD per night per bungalow.
7. Nikoi Island – Indonesia
If barefoot luxury is your thing, Nikoi Island is where you’ll find your happy place. Located just off Bintan (a ferry ride from Singapore), this private island features elegant driftwood villas, a laid-back open-air bar, and pristine beaches with zero plastic.
The focus is on sustainable luxury—solar power, permaculture gardens, coral reef restoration—and it’s incredibly family-friendly without feeling like a resort. There’s even a kids club made entirely from bamboo!
Perfect for: Eco-travellers, families and conscious luxury seekers.
Price: From $450–600 AUD per night.
8. Sheraton Fiji Resort – Denarau Island, Fiji
A timeless classic, the Sheraton Fiji Resort on Denarau Island continues to be a favourite for travellers seeking luxury with all the creature comforts. There’s a reason it’s stayed on the list for so long—it’s just easy. Think swim-up bars, oceanfront dining, and lush gardens, with a bonus of world-class Fijian hospitality.
You’re also perfectly positioned for day trips to the Mamanuca Islands or diving adventures. It’s luxe made simple.
Perfect for: Families, couples and Fiji first-timers.
Price: From $450 AUD per night.
Book Sheraton Fiji Resort packages here.
9. The Brando – Tetiaroa, French Polynesia
And finally, the ultimate in luxury: The Brando. Once Marlon Brando’s private island, this all-inclusive resort blends Polynesian culture, environmental science, and outrageous luxury into one jaw-dropping experience.
Private villas, 24/7 room service, an on-site research centre, and some of the clearest waters you’ll ever see. It’s wildly expensive—but if you’re celebrating something huge (or someone huge), this is your moment.
Perfect for: The ultimate splurge.
Price: From $5,000 AUD+ per night.
Final thoughts
Whether you’re into barefoot eco retreats or five-star suites with 24-hour butlers, 2025 has delivered some seriously special places to soak up island life. The best bit? You can do it your way—simple, indulgent, wild, or all of the above. Just don’t forget to pack your swimmers, leave your emails behind, and make space for one more sunset drink.
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Hotels, I use Agoda
Insurance: Cover-More
Rentals: Discover Cars
RVs: Motorhome Republic
Transfers: Welcome Pickups
Rideshare: DiDi
Tours: TourRadar
SIM Cards: Simify
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Author: Matthew Turk
Matt is a Brisbane-based adventurer and content creator passionate about growth, fitness, creativity and travel. Matt loves crafting vibrant content that inspires and entertains.
