5 Islands You May Want to Move to This Year

If golden beaches, crystal clear bays, and tropical breezes are top-of-mind, turn mirages into reality with a taste of island living. Whether to serve as inspiration for permanent residency, or as a second property for easy vacationing, the homes found on these five coveted islands are the perfect getaways. 

Mallorca, Spain

Sandra Cosio, Mallorca Sotheby’s International Realty

The largest of Spain’s Balearic Islands, Mallorca offers the finest aspects of Mediterranean living. From historic sites of Roman and Moorish influence, to beaches with dramatic cliffside backdrops, to the city of Palma’s delectable cuisine and vibrant nightlife, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy Mallorca, and this five-bedroom contemporary villa in Port d’Andratx is the ideal base for exploration. Close to the harbor and sailing club, this three-story home offers ocean vistas throughout, including from the expansive terrace with swimming pool. Indoors, amenities include a heated pool, sauna, spa, gym, wine cellar, and cinema for endless entertainment. 

Crete, Greece

Despina Laou, Greece Sotheby’s International Realty

Head to Crete, Greece’s biggest island, for sun, sand, and signature Greek dishes and drinks served at lively tavernas and cafes. This charming six-bedroom Villa Phaedra is the perfect property for Greek island living, with an elevated vantage offering Aegean Sea views, a heated outdoor infinity pool and surrounding gardens, and a private beach mere minutes away. Inside, natural finishes and eco-friendly materials—including marble, Cretan stone, and wood—complement cool tones to create an upscale and tranquil atmosphere, ideal for unwinding.

British Virgin Islands

Lu Valade, British Virgin Islands Sotheby’s International Realty

The Beach House—a precisely named villa on the eight-square-mile Virgin Gorda, the third largest island in the British Virgin Islands—provides an opportunity for effortless Caribbean living. The six-bedroom property is steps away from Oil Nut Bay’s turquoise waters and palm-tree lined white sand beaches. Fancy a bit of island exploration? Follow the trails in Little Fort National Park, hike to Gorda Peak, snorkel through coral reefs, or visit Spanish Town for excellent shopping and fresh seafood dining. 

Mahé, Seychelles

Tobias Schulze, Cologne Sotheby’s International Realty

Twenty-seven bedrooms and bathrooms, 60,000 interior square feet, and almost 10 acres of natural coastline—this exquisite property on Mahé, the largest of Seychelles’ 115 archipelago islands, is the ultimate property for luxury vacationing and hosting. Bel Ombre is a Bali-inspired, secluded sanctuary featuring multiple natural stone swimming pools, a spa and wellness zone, chef-designed professional kitchen, and dramatic Indian Ocean views. It’s also surrounded by lush vegetation and is adjacent to Anse Majore National Park, where hiking and boating excursions lead to majestic wild beaches.

Koh Samui, Thailand

Chaiyuth Boonlert, List Sotheby’s International Realty

You can’t get closer to the water than at Sea Sunset Pool Villa on Thailand’s Koh Samui island—a coveted location with infamous beaches and wildlife. In addition to sea panoramas that come with exquisite sunrises and sunsets, the four-storey contemporary home offers a private salt pool system, garden, and cinema. Activities are plentiful too, including yoga, cooking classes, scuba diving, boating, and even golf.

Escaping to tropical climates becomes even more enticing knowing that properties like these await on incredible islands. Whether it’s quintessential Caribbean beaches, vast Mediterranean views, private verdant oases, or endless activities, island living is waiting to be enjoyed. 

For island living that’s easily accessible, go inside a Turks and Caicos property with a private runway.