From Runway to Paradise: Top Exotic Island Destinations by Private Jet

19.06.2025

The most exclusive island getaways by private jet

There’s something special about landing on a remote island, stepping off the plane and knowing the beach is just minutes away - no crowded terminals, no delays, just peace, privacy and stunning views!

But why fly private? Flying private means you’re not tied to big commercial hubs or inflexible routes. It gives you direct access to hidden gems across the globe!

In this blog, we’re sharing some of our favorite exotic islands that are easier to get to than you might think when you’re flying private. Whether you’re planning your next big escape or just daydreaming for now, these destinations are guaranteed to inspire.

1. St. Barts - Caribbean charm and effortless glamour

St. Barts island (Saint Barthélemy) is the ultimate mix of French-Caribbean elegance, turquoise waters and boutique luxury. It’s accessible, exclusive and just steps from the sand!

Gustaf III Airport (SBH) features a runway of just 646 metres (2,120 feet), one of the shortest commercial runways in the world. For safety reasons, only specially qualified pilots and aircraft such as the Pilatus PC‑12 and Twin Otter are allowed. Few locations feel as intimate as landing at St. Barts: you literally land at the edge of the beach!

Unable to land by commercial jet, most visitors rely on ferries or connecting flights from larger islands and airports like Sint Maarten or Puerto Rico. But private aviation gets you direct to SBH: You step off the plane and walk to your villa or beach club within minutes - no waiting, no crowd, no stress.

Once on the ground, you’ll find renowned hotels like Cheval Blanc and Eden Rock just a short drive away. The island’s culinary and retail scene - boutiques, galleries, gourmet restaurants - unfolds around the airport. It’s a world-class getaway that feels both spontaneous and refined!

2. Maldives - barefoot luxury in the Indian Ocean

Turquoise lagoons, white‑sand beaches and overwater villas: it’s hard to imagine a more dreamy island retreat. But what makes the Maldives truly private‑jet friendly is accessibility paired with exclusivity.

You can land at Malé International Airport (MLE), which has a runway of about 3,400 metres, accommodating everything from midsize to heavy private jets. From there, island resorts are reached by seaplane or speedboat - and many top resorts arrange these transfers seamlessly for private‑jet guests.

Commercial flights are available, but often congested, especially during peak season (November to April). With private aviation, you skip the queue, land on your schedule and enjoy privacy from the moment you touch down. Your resort transfer is coordinated in advance, so you're whisked away in comfort - no waiting, no hassle.

Imagine landing in Malé, stepping into a luxurious seaplane, and minutes later touching down in your personal villa. Here, private aviation meets private island paradise!

3. Laucala Island, Fiji - ultimate private island experience

For those seeking an unforgettable tropical retreat, Laucala Island offers absolute exclusivity, and the logistics to match.

This luxury resort has its own private airstrip, with a 1,141 m concrete runway capable of handling midsize jets up to 40 tonnes. Guests flying in by private jet land directly at the island - no seaplanes or boat transfers needed.

Laucala isn’t just remote, it’s intentionally exclusive. With villas nestled in rainforests, on volcanic slopes or beside quiet beaches, the experience starts the moment your aircraft touches down. Commercial trips via Nadi (NAN) require seaplanes or turboprops, but private flying drops you steps from your villa. It’s privacy and convenience, without compromise.

Once on the island, a dedicated team manages everything: from luggage handling to private car or buggy transport. Activities range from organic farm tours and equestrian rides to golf, spa treatments and, of course, fine dining. With just 25 villas and a fully inclusive ethos, this feels less like a resort and more like a secluded paradise.

4. Seychelles - nature, privacy and Indian Ocean elegance

If you’re after pristine beaches, lush forests and an island-hopping dream (all with total privacy), the Seychelles is a perfect choice. And thanks to its airport infrastructure, it’s more accessible by private jet than you might think.

Seychelles International Airport (SEZ) on Mahé Island is suitable for most private aircraft. The airport includes private terminals (FBOs) offering streamlined customs, VIP lounges, dedicated crew spaces and fast-track services.

Once landed, you’re just a short drive from luxury resorts on Mahé, or you can book a domestic charter to smaller islands like Praslin, La Digue or even more remote private escapes.

Commercial flights to Seychelles are available but often crowded and tied to set schedules. A private jet gives you flexibility and privacy from start to finish. You land at SEZ, pass through private terminal procedures, and can be on your way in minutes - no lines, no delay.

For guests looking to explore beyond Mahé, private charters offer direct access to smaller islands like Praslin (PRI) or Denis and Frégate, some of which have their own private airstrips ranging from 500 to 1,200 metres. That’s when island-hopping hits a whole new level!

Imagine landing at SEZ, then taking a 30‑minute flight to a private airstrip on Frégate or Alphonse Island - setting foot on your own secluded beach moments later. No ferry, no crowds. Just you, nature, and absolute peace!

5. Turks and Caicos - crystal waters and exclusive resorts

Dreaming of turquoise seas and white-sand beaches? Turks and Caicos delivers!

Providenciales International Airport (PLS) is the region’s private aviation gateway. It boasts a 2,804‑metre / 9,199‑ft runway, long enough to accommodate everything from light jets to heavy Gulfstreams and Globals. The airport features multiple FBOs, offering VIP arrivals, fast-track immigration, luxurious lounges and concierge services.

Despite its airport capacity, commercial terminals can get hectic during peak season. A private jet clears customs quickly, offers full flexibility and places you steps from luxury yachts or SUVs heading to secluded resorts like Amanyara or Parrot Cay.

For those seeking true seclusion, look no further than Big Ambergris Cay: a private island with its own 5,700‑ft runway, the longest private airstrip in the Caribbean. You can land your jet and walk straight onto the beach, with just a handful of villas waiting. Only around 100 private flights land there each year, making it the ultimate in low-key luxury.

6. Lanai, Hawaii - quiet luxury off the tourist track

While most travelers to Hawaii flock to Oahu or Maui, the island of Lanai offers something much more private, and it’s one of the best-kept secrets for private jet flyers.

Lanai Airport (LNY) has a 1,524-metre (5,000 ft) runway, which can accommodate light and midsize jets comfortably. The airport is uncrowded and calm, making it ideal for travelers seeking a more peaceful start to their Hawaiian escape.

Unlike Honolulu or Kahului, Lanai’s airport is not served by international commercial flights. That means you either transfer via another Hawaiian island, or fly in directly with a private jet. By choosing the latter, you skip the airport shuffle and land just 10 minutes away from the island’s two luxurious Four Seasons resorts.

With only around 3,000 residents and no traffic lights, Lanai is a world apart from the usual tourist-heavy Hawaiian islands. Think horseback rides, private spa villas, off-road adventures and stunning coastal views - all without the crowds.

7. Corsica - a Mediterranean escape with edge

Corsica combines French sophistication with raw Mediterranean beauty: dramatic cliffs, pine forests, turquoise coves and charming villages - all easily reached by private jet.

Corsica offers several excellent private jet–friendly airports, including:

  • Figari-Sud Corse Airport (FSC) in the south, near Porto-Vecchio and Bonifacio

  • Calvi-Sainte-Catherine Airport (CLY) in the northwest, close to Calvi’s beaches and citadel

  • Ajaccio (AJA) and Bastia (BIA) for central or east coast access

All these airports accommodate light to heavy jets and offer FBO services for smooth, private arrivals.

During summer, Corsica’s commercial flights are often full, with limited direct international routes. Private jets offer the freedom to land closer to your final destination, and on your own schedule, whether you’re heading to a beach villa or a remote mountain retreat.

Once on the island, it’s all about contrast: glamorous marinas in the south, wild hiking trails in the interior and sleepy fishing villages along the coast. It’s the kind of place where you can start your day at a beach club and end it at a vineyard in the hills.

8. Mustique - understated luxury in the Grenadines

If you're looking for a destination that feels more like a private club than an island, Mustique might be the perfect fit. Discreet, unspoiled and famously low-profile, it’s been a favorite of royalty and rock stars for decades.

Mustique Airport (MQS) has a small 992-metre (3,255 ft) runway, making it suitable only for turboprops and smaller aircraft like the Pilatus PC-12 or Twin Otter. If you’re flying in from farther afield on a private jet, the most common route is to land at Canouan (CIW) or Bequia (BQU) and transfer by a short charter hop or boat.

Commercial access to Mustique is limited and often involves multiple transfers. Flying private allows for a streamlined journey; your jet brings you close to the Grenadines and from there it’s a short, scenic flight to Mustique.

There are no resorts on Mustique - only private villas, a handful of boutique hotels and a community that values privacy above all. There are no cruise ships or tour buses - just peaceful beaches, horseback riding trails and the occasional cocktail at Basil’s Bar!

9. Madagascar - raw beauty and off-grid experiences

Madagascar is unlike anywhere else on Earth. With its otherworldly landscapes, rare wildlife and empty beaches, it offers true adventure but with the privacy and access that private aviation can provide.

Ivato International Airport (TNR) in Antananarivo is the main entry point and accommodates all sizes of private jets. From there, private travelers often connect via short hops to coastal or island airstrips, such as Nosy Be (NOS) or private airfields on islands like Nosy Ankao.

Madagascar’s domestic transport infrastructure is limited. Commercial flights can be infrequent and unreliable. With private aviation, you can fly directly to remote corners of the island, or connect seamlessly with bush airstrips or helicopter transfers. It’s the best way to explore a country that remains largely off the tourist radar!

From the Baobab-lined Avenue in the west to luxurious eco-resorts like Miavana on Nosy Ankao, Madagascar offers once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

10. Zanzibar - spice, culture and Indian Ocean sunsets

Off the coast of Tanzania, Zanzibar offers a mix of white-sand beaches, rich culture and warm hospitality - all wrapped in an air of exotic escape. It's an ideal destination for those wanting something different from the usual Caribbean or Mediterranean hot spots.

Zanzibar Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) features a 3,007-metre (9,865 ft) runway, making it fully capable of handling mid-size to long-range private jets. The airport includes VIP services and fast-track options, ensuring a smooth arrival experience.

Commercial flights to Zanzibar often require multiple connections, especially if you’re coming from Europe or the US. With private aviation, you can fly direct or with fewer stops, and bypass crowded airport terminals altogether. Upon arrival, a private ground transfer can take you directly to your beachfront villa or boutique resort.

Beyond the beaches, Zanzibar’s appeal lies in its blend of cultures: African, Arab, Indian and European influences all mix in Stone Town’s architecture, cuisine and history. Spend your days snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, touring spice farms or simply soaking in the stillness from a luxury resort like Mnemba Island Lodge.

Conclusion

Reaching remote islands is one thing, but doing it without delays, layovers or crowds? That’s where private aviation truly shines.

Flying private gives you full control over your schedule, lets you land closer to your final destination and offers an onboard experience that’s tailored to you. No queues, no baggage stress, no adjusting your plans around a fixed airline timetable.

We’ve flown clients to some of the most remote runways in the world, and we’re happy to do the same for you. Just let us know where you're headed - or ask us for a few suggestions. We'll take care of the rest!

Want to dive deeper into the benefits? We break down the endless benefits of traveling by private jet in our other blog: https://www.the-aviation-factory.com/en/blog/reasons-why-flying-private-is-worth-it/ 

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