Snorkelling in crystalline waters, relaxing under a towering palm tree, wandering hand-in-hand along the beach – it’s hard to resist daydreaming of a loved-up tropical island getaway. Seeking somewhere new and heavenly to escape to? We’ve gathered a collection of just-opened (and soon-to-be-opened) hideaways that are sure to impress…
Related article: 5 of the best South Pacific islands for a romantic getaway
Mamasa Private Island from Ratua Island Resort & Spa, Vanuatu
If you’re planning a group getaway or an OTT, all-out escape, this new offering is for you. Just launched by luxury Vanuatu resort Ratua Island Resort & Spa, the 2.6-acre Mamasa Private Island is serious screensaver stuff.
Blessed with sugar-white sands and palm-dotted emerald gardens, this enchanting hideaway is utterly tranquil – you definitely won’t be fighting the crowds here for a decent waterfront spot. Instead, you’ll be treated to deserted beaches and lavish holiday home-style accommodation. And with Ratua Island Resort & Spa only a scenic five-minute speedboat ride away, getting here alone is a dreamy experience.
The Apurva Kempinski Bali
A go-to destination for an amazing island escape, Bali has welcomed another sumptuous resort in its beachy paradise of Nusa Dua. With breathtaking Indian Ocean views and seriously luxe accommodation, The Apurva Kempinski Bali is perfect for couples wanting to discover one of Bali’s most-loved regions.
With all the charms of a five-star resort (think a wide array of fabulous dining options and activities, and a marvellous spa), this high-end hideaway boasts stylish rooms, suites and villas, most with their own private plunge pool. A postcard-ready beach and a sleek 60-metre pool complete the tropical getaway idyll – poolside mojito, anyone?
LUX* North Male Atoll, Maldives
When you think ‘island retreat’, chances are you picture the jaw-droppingly beautiful Maldives (we wouldn’t blame you). Here, a fresh new resort is taking the fantasy to the next level. With 67 double-storey penthouse residences (some spread across shockingly turquoise waters), LUX* North Male Atoll is oh-so glamorous.
A mix of Maldivian culture and South Beach-inspired style, the resort ticks all the right boxes – expect a slew of fantastic dining options, an over-lagoon spa and exquisite scenery. There’s everything from jet ski adventures and diving to yacht cruises and SUP-ing on offer, but you could easily spend a stay here chilling out on the island’s powder-soft sands – life’s tough.
Elysian Retreat, Australia
Perfect for a short break or romantic getaway, Queensland’s new Elysian Retreat on Long Island is one to add to the travel wishlist. Welcoming its first guests in March, this sensational Whitsundays escape actually operates totally off the grid – a stay here is certainly one wonderful way to help the planet!
Run off solar power and using only organic and earth-friendly products and amenities, Elysian Retreat promises couples a truly intimate getaway. Available for only 20 guests at a time, it’s a winner for privacy and luxury. Lap up the romance with an indulgent spa treatment, explore the world-famous Great Barrier Reef or enjoy excellent chef-prepared cuisine for an incredible sojourn.
Hayman Island by InterContinental, Australia
It seems Queensland’s Whitsundays is really having a moment right now, with the new Hayman Island by InterContinental opening in July. Affording some of the destination’s most captivating views, the opulent resort makes the idea of an island getaway all the more tempting.
Making the most of its beachfront location, a collection of suites, villas and lagoon and poolside guest rooms look out over the island’s azure surrounds. Whichever you choose, couples are spoiled with world-class restaurants and bars, specially tailored spa treatments and extraordinary activities. Scenic seaplane flights over the Great Barrier Reef, exhilarating watersports, discovering secluded beach coves – they’re all experiences you’ll love when you stay at Hayman Island by InterContinental Resort.
