Let’s be honest you didn’t slog through your inbox all year to fight for pool chairs with strangers. Africa’s private islands offer the luxury we all secretly crave: absolute ownership of the horizon.

Welcome to destinations where the only “crowds” are squadrons of tropical fish and sea creatures and “no shoes, no news” isn’t a slogan it’s the law of the land.

Whether you’re here to sip cocktails in a hammock (parenting counts as a wilderness survival skill), reenact your personal rom-com (sunset kisses strongly encouraged)

…these islands deliver paradise. 

Top 10 Private Island Getaways in Africa

1. &Beyond Mnemba Island – Tanzania

Mnemba Island is an exclusive barefoot island paradise off the northeast coast of Zanzibar. A romantic hideaway, Mnemba Island is an exclusive paradise featuring just 12 rustically chic beachside Bandas, including one Family Banda, for only 26 guests (and the dedicated staff caring for them), connected to the breathtaking Mnemba Atoll. 

What to Expect at Mnemba Island:

• Exclusive Accommodation: Just 12 beachside Bandas, including one Family Banda, accommodating only 26 guests for a truly private experience.

• Unspoiled Beaches & Marine Life: Relax on pristine white sands and swim in the turquoise waters of the Mnemba Atoll, a renowned marine conservation area.

• World-Class Snorkeling & Diving: Explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with tropical fish, dolphins, and even seasonal whale sharks.

• Personalized Service: Enjoy dedicated staff, private dining on the beach, and tailor-made experiences.

• Eco-Luxury & Sustainability: The lodge is committed to conservation, supporting marine protection and local communities.

A true barefoot paradise, Mnemba Island is the ultimate destination for seclusion, luxury, and natural beauty.

Want to plan your next trip to Tanzania? Start here

 

2. Manda Bay – Kenya

Tucked away on the pristine northern shores of Manda Island, this exclusive boutique hotel redefines barefoot luxury. With just twelve palm-thatched cottages dotting the powder-soft beach, this is a private property that is not open to the general public

What to Expect at Manda Bay:

• Exclusive Beachfront Accommodation: Stay in rustic yet elegant palm-thatched cottages with ocean views and direct beach access.

• Pristine Beaches & Crystal-Clear Waters: Relax on untouched white sands and swim in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean.

• Water & Wildlife Adventures: Enjoy deep-sea fishing, snorkeling, windsurfing, kayaking, and dhow sailing excursions.

• Rich Cultural & Historical Heritage: Explore nearby Lamu Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and immerse yourself in Swahili traditions.

• Luxury & Privacy: With only a handful of guests at a time, Manda Bay offers an intimate, peaceful retreat far from the crowds.

A hidden gem along Kenya’s coastline, Manda Bay is perfect for honeymooners, adventure seekers, and anyone looking for a tranquil, off-the-grid getaway.

3. Chale Island – Kenya

Chale Island is a breathtaking tropical paradise off the southern coast of Kenya, known for its pristine white sandy beaches, lush mangrove forests, and rich Swahili culture. Located just a short distance from Diani Beach, this private island offers an exclusive retreat for travelers seeking serenity, luxury, and adventure.

What to Expect at Chale Island:

• Luxury Beachfront Accommodation: Stay in overwater suites, beachfront bandas, or treehouse-style rooms surrounded by nature.

• Crystal-Clear Waters & Marine Life: Snorkel or dive in the turquoise waters, home to vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine species.

• Private & Romantic Setting: Enjoy an intimate, crowd-free atmosphere perfect for honeymoons and romantic getaways.

• Cultural & Wildlife Experiences: Explore nearby Mijikenda villages, take a mangrove boat tour, or spot colobus monkeys and exotic birds.

• Wellness & Relaxation: Rejuvenate with Swahili-inspired spa treatments, yoga sessions, and beachfront massages.

Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a romantic escape, Chale Island is one of Kenya’s most stunning hidden gems.

4. Azura Quilalea Private Island – Mozambique

Azura Quilalea Private Island is an exclusive, eco-luxury retreat nestled in the pristine Quirimbas Archipelago of Mozambique. Surrounded by crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and untouched natural beauty,this secluded paradise offers the ultimate barefoot luxury experience.

What to Expect at Azura Quilalea:

• Secluded Villas: Stay in one of the island’s luxurious beachfront villas, offering breathtaking ocean views and direct access to the beach.

• World-Class Diving & Snorkeling: Explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life in a protected marine sanctuary.

• Private Island Dining: Enjoy gourmet meals under the stars, on the beach, or in the comfort of your villa.

• Relaxation & Wellness: Indulge in spa treatments, yoga sessions, and sunset cruises.

• Adventure & Exploration: Go kayaking through mangroves, deep-sea fishing, or take guided nature walks around the island.

A hidden gem in the Indian Ocean, Azura Quilalea Private Island is perfect for honeymooners, nature lovers, and those seeking an exclusive escape in paradise.

5. ANANTARA MEDJUMBE ISLAND RESORT

A tiny coral island with just12 villas, Anantara Medjumbe is barefoot luxury defined. Dive with whale sharks, sail at sunset, or lounge in your overwater hammock. For couples and divers seeking intimacy.

What to Expect at Anantara Medjumbe:

• Secluded Beachfront Villas: Stay in just 12 thatched villas, each with a private plunge pool, direct beach access, and breathtaking ocean views.

• World-Class Diving & Snorkeling: Explore the protected marine sanctuary with colorful coral reefs, dolphins, turtles, and seasonal whale migrations.

• Romantic & Private Dining: Enjoy candlelit dinners on the beach, floating breakfasts in your plunge pool, or picnics on a deserted sandbank.

• Adventure & Water Sports: Try deep-sea fishing, kayaking, windsurfing, paddleboarding, or take a traditional dhow cruise at sunset.

• Exclusive, Adults-Only Tranquility: Designed for total relaxation, Medjumbe Island offers a spa, beachfront yoga, and zero crowds for ultimate serenity.

With its untouched beauty and five-star barefoot luxury, Anantara Medjumbe Island Resort is a dream destination for honeymooners and travelers craving an exclusive tropical retreat.

6. Anantara Hotel and Resort

On the dune-backed Bazaruto Archipelago, this Anantara outpost pairs Mozambican flair with five-star pampering. Ride horses on the beach, spa in a treetop cabana, or feast on fresh lobster. Family-friendly glamour.

What to Expect at Anantara Medjumbe:

• Secluded Beachfront Villas: Stay in just 12 thatched villas, each with a private plunge pool, direct beach access, and breathtaking ocean views.

• World-Class Diving & Snorkeling: Explore the protected marine sanctuary with colorful coral reefs, dolphins, turtles, and seasonal whale migrations.

• Romantic & Private Dining: Enjoy candlelit dinners on the beach, floating breakfasts in your plunge pool, or picnics on a deserted sandbank.

• Adventure & Water Sports: Try deep-sea fishing, kayaking, windsurfing, paddleboarding, or take a traditional dhow cruise at sunset.

• Exclusive, Adults-Only Tranquility: Designed for total relaxation, Medjumbe Island offers a spa, beachfront yoga, and zero crowds for ultimate serenity.

With its untouched beauty and five-star barefoot luxury, Anantara Medjumbe Island Resort is a dream destination for honeymooners and travelers craving an exclusive tropical retreat.

7. Chapwani Private Resort

Chapwani Private Island is a picturesque private island just off the coast of Zanzibar. Despite being located just a hop, skip and a jump away from Stone Town, the island is a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of the Zanzibari capital.

What to Expect at Chapwani Private Resort:

• Secluded Beachfront Accommodation: Stay in only 10 rustic-chic beachside lodges, each offering stunning ocean views and direct access to pristine white sands.

• Crystal-Clear Waters & Marine Life: Snorkel in vibrant coral reefs, swim in the warm Indian Ocean, or spot dolphins, tropical fish, and sea turtles.

• Romantic & Private Getaway: With a limited number of guests, the island guarantees a crowd-free, intimate atmosphere, ideal for honeymooners.

• Swahili & Seafood Dining: Savor fresh seafood and locally inspired dishes, served under the stars or at the resort’s charming beachfront restaurant.

• Nature & History Exploration: Take a guided tour of Stone Town, visit the old shipwreck nearby, or explore the island’s unique mangrove ecosystem.

With its laid-back elegance and natural charm, Chapwani Private Resort is a hidden gem, perfect for those seeking tranquility, romance, and an authentic island experience.

8. Bawe Private Island, Zanzibar

Escape to an exclusive paradise just minutes from Stone Town by helicopter. Bawe Island offers secluded villas nestled in tropical foliage, each with a private plunge pool and panoramic ocean views, four gourmet restaurants, including a romantic Teppanyaki experience under a 500-year-old baobab tree. 

What to Expect at Bawe Private Island:

• Secluded & Luxurious Villas: Stay in spacious oceanfront villas, each designed for ultimate privacy and featuring breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean.

• Incredible Snorkeling & Diving: Explore untouched coral reefs, home to a vibrant array of tropical fish, dolphins, and sea turtles.

• Private & Romantic Getaway: With a limited number of guests, the island ensures an intimate, peaceful escape—ideal for honeymooners and couples.

• Exclusive Beachside Dining: Indulge in freshly caught seafood and Swahili-inspired cuisine, served under the stars with panoramic ocean views.

• Adventure & Relaxation: Enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, deep-sea fishing, and sunset dhow cruises, or unwind with a beachfront massage.

With its untouched beauty and barefoot luxury, Bawe Private Island is the ultimate hidden gem for those seeking an exclusive and serene tropical retreat.

9. Denis Private Island – The Seychelles

What to Expect at Denis Private Island:

• Exclusive & Eco-Friendly Villas: Stay in spacious beachfront cottages, handcrafted from natural materials, with outdoor showers, private verandas, and direct beach access.

• World-Class Snorkeling & Diving: Explore protected coral reefs, swim with sea turtles, and spot reef sharks and manta rays in the island’s thriving marine sanctuary.

• Gourmet Farm-to-Table Dining: Savor freshly caught seafood, organic vegetables, and homemade delicacies from the island’s sustainable farm.

• Wildlife & Nature Exploration: Discover giant Aldabra tortoises, rare bird species, and lush nature trails on guided eco-tours.

• Unplugged Serenity: With no mobile signal or in-room WiFi, Denis Private Island offers a true digital detox, allowing guests to reconnect with nature.

10. Makunudu Island, Maldives

Just 50 minutes by speedboat from Malé’s bustling airport, discover an untouched island sanctuary where 36 handcrafted villas with traditional thatched roofs hide among swaying palms, Six acres of powder-soft beaches mean you’ll always find your perfect secluded spot, and The only footprints in the sand will be yours. 

What to Expect at Makunudu Island:

• Authentic Maldivian-Style Bungalows: Stay in rustic yet elegant beachfront villas, featuring wooden interiors, open-air showers, and private terraces just steps from the ocean.

• Pristine Beaches & Crystal-Clear Waters: Relax on powdery white sands, swim in the turquoise lagoon, or enjoy a peaceful sunset by the shore.

• Spectacular Snorkeling & Diving: Explore the island’s house reef, home to colorful coral gardens, tropical fish, turtles, and reef sharks.

• Personalized Dining Experiences: Savor Maldivian and international cuisine, indulge in a private candlelit dinner on the beach, or enjoy a sandbank picnic.

• Adventure & Relaxation: Try windsurfing, fishing, dolphin cruises, or unwind with rejuvenating spa treatments in a tranquil setting.

With its authentic charm, untouched beauty, and intimate atmosphere, Makunudu Island is the perfect retreat for honeymooners, nature lovers, and travelers seeking a peaceful Maldivian escape away from the crowds.

Conclusion

Planning a getaway soon? Wakanow is ever excited to help you plan your entire trip. From flights, to hotel accommodation, to protocol services, airport lounge access and more…

Wakanow is your personal assistant when planning any vacation of any kind. Start here