Click through the gallery above to view our favourite private islands to hire…
The most amazing private islands for hire
If you're over drab grey January skies already we suggest getting yourself over to a Crusoe-like desert island to up your chill factor. Just don't forget to pack your wallet – these private islands don't come cheap, ya know…

For VIP honeymooners: Matangi
This 240-acre horseshoe shaped Fijan island is about as dreamlike as it gets: think clear waters fringed by coral reefs and thick tropical rainforest hanging over fluffy pearly sand. The island is surrounded by countless famous dive sites, while those more interested in their bellies can fill up from a gourmet daily-changing menu filled with fresh fish caught by local fishermen and locally grown vegetables and tropical fruit. The island's beachfront villas have been handcrafted using local wood, bamboo, lava rock and coconut palm thatch, while the lavish, hidden treehouse with outdoor lava rock shower and Jacuzzi is one for honeymooners seeking 'quiet time'.

Matangi
The island paradise of Matangi

For post-rave revellers: Tagomago
Tagomago offers the perfect respite for those who have hit it too hard in neighbouring Ibiza and are hankering after some downtime. The only accommodation option is the island’s mansion, which features five double suites, a swimming pool and a LED lighting system which aims to bring an Ibiza-like house party atmosphere if you get bored of flopping out in the sunshine. On the west coast of the island there’s a beach where you can make use of the island’s toys, including a Mangusta yacht and 2 boats. Hop on the yacht and you’ll be lounging on the gorgeous white sands of Formentera in less than 30 minutes, while a cheeky night out in Ibiza is only 5 minutes away. Rude not to, surely.

For sea life lovers: Thanda Island
Off the east coast of Tanzania is Thanda Island, whose surrounding topaz waters form their own private marine reserve which is home to whale sharks, barracuda, dugongs and sea turtles. After you’ve spent the day bobbing along in the water with your snorkel or hiring a boat to explore the area, it’s time to kick back in your massive beach house, which sleeps up to 26 people. You’ll have an entire team of staff, plus plenty of luxurious distractions to keep you interested including an indoor aquarium, a Steinway grand piano, a glass rim swimming pool and wrap-around dining area with 180-degree view of the ocean. Oh, and a massive wine collection to work your way through. We’ll drink to that…

Thanda Island
Luxurious accommodation options at Thanda