Jay-Z and Beyoncé - $4 Million, The Bahamas
Jay-Z and Beyoncé are among the world’s most powerful showbiz couples, and with their combined net worth of over $1 billion, it’s easy to see why. The pair has been in the music and fashion industries for a while, making a vast fortune and spending it lavishly.
For their fifth anniversary, Jay-Z decided to gift his wife an island so that they could vacation in peace without having to worry about the cost of renting out a place. Located in the Bahamas, the isle spans 360 acres, and interestingly, it isn’t the only one the family has. It’s the second addition to the ever-growing luxuries the couple has purchased, and who can blame them? They can afford it!
Mel Gibson - $15 Million, Mago Island, Fiji
What do you do when you have over $400 million in the bank and want a place you can call your own, away from all the hustle and bustle? Well, Mel Gibson decided to dip into his pockets and spend over $15 million on acquiring a private island down in Fiji.
The sprawling piece of land is beautifully round and is over 5400 acres big. While many celebrities buy islands and transform them into luxurious getaways, the ‘Passion of Christ’ producer has not massively developed his isle. Gibson has set his eyes on making the area his personal space with only a couple of caretakers handling the property.
Pamela Anderson - Dubai
When Pamela Anderson made her Hollywood debut in 1989, we doubt she expected to become such a superstar. Nevertheless, the actress has appeared in numerous critically acclaimed films and television shows, including ‘Baywatch’ and ‘V.I.P,’ both of which were major successes.
Anderson has earned the big bucks for all her work in showbiz, but it was her ex-husband Tommy Lee that gifted her an island in Dubai in 2007. While it isn’t yet clear what the actress intends to do with the piece of land, it is possible that she’ll develop it in the future, put up some lavish hotels and add to her already bulging bank account.
Steven Spielberg - Madeira Archipelago
Steven Spielberg is one of the greatest filmmakers of all time, with his productions bringing in billions of dollars in revenue. It seems after doing the massively successful movie ‘Jurassic Park,’ the director got the inspiration to own an island, and off he went and bought two at the Madeira Archipelago.
The producer uses the isles mainly for his family vacations and has kept the area largely private. With a jaw-dropping net worth of over $7 billion, it isn’t surprising that Spielberg would move from one island to the other in his mega yacht, and maybe someday he might give us a visual masterpiece produced on this lavish property.
Louis Bacon - $11 Million, Robins Island
While many celebrities purchase islands to build their private getaways or set up high-end resorts for them to make more money, some, like Louis Bacon, are different. The hedge fund manager who made his wealth through shrewd investments bought Robins Island back in 1993 and kept it as it is, providing sanctuary for birds.
Many people couldn’t understand why Bacon decided not to develop the area considering its high value, but the businessman is known for his philanthropy, and it isn’t the first time he’s donated land for the conservancy. The investor is among the wealthiest people on the planet, and we bet if he wanted an island to live on, he wouldn’t be short of options.
Tyler Perry – White Bay Cay, Bahamas
You might know Tyler Perry, as Madea from his numerous stage plays and films, but did you know the actor is an island owner? The famed performer followed the celebrity trend and got himself some sea property down in the Bahamas, and while he hasn’t revealed how much it cost, it must have set him back a couple of millions.
With a massive bank balance of $800 million, the writer didn’t spare any expense when developing the land, building a 14,000sq.ft mansion, as well as a spa, luxurious guest cottages, and a marina. This is the perfect getaway for Perry when he wants to take a break from the Hollywood pressures.
Gene Hackman – British Columbia
Many people love privacy, and celebrities are no different, most of them want to dwell where there are no cameras, and they can have some peace of mind. Gene Hackman loves his personal space so much that when he felt his Fawn Island was a bit too exposed, he sold it and bought a more hidden one in British Columbia.
The retired actor now enjoys his downtime surrounded by sun, sand, and sea, and considering his long successful career in Hollywood, he deserves all the good things he can get. Hackman made a colossal fortune for himself, mainly from the acting gigs, but he made some more bucks from his literary work when he called it quits in showbiz.
Roger Waters - $16 Million, Bahamas
Rarely do we hear of celebrities teaming up to buy an island, so Roger Waters and Shakira definitely make the news when it comes to their Bahamas Bonds Cay island. The two stars contributed $16 million each to buy Bonds Cay in 2011 to make it an artists' getaway.
Seeing that the 550-acre island was worth $140 million, Roger Waters got lucky to find another interested party to purchase it with. Its sad none of the plans have been accomplished, and the island is now up for sale despite the stars remaining quiet about it since its purchase.
Diana Ross - Tahitian Island
We all want the good things in life, and Diana Ross is no different. The acclaimed songstress purchased a Tahitian island with her former husband Arne Naess Jr. after they spent their wedding anniversary in the country—and since they could afford it, why not?
Favored with turquoise waters, white, sandy beaches, and fantastic landscape, the island is a beauty to behold, and we see why the couple bought it in the first place. Yet after their separation in 2000, Ross decided to put the isle up for sale, as neither she nor her husband wanted to keep it. We bet a couple of millionaires are eyeing the property, as it looks like the perfect vacation heaven!
Lenny Kravitz - Eleuthera, Bahamas
With over 40 million records sold and songs that transcend several music genres including blues, soul, rap, and jazz among others, Lenny Kravitz is an undoubted musical genius. The star has an exciting work ethic and process, and when he wants some time to create in solitude, he heads to his home at Eleuthera in the Bahamas.
Like many celebrities, Kravitz owns a small, private, undeveloped island in the Caribbean country, but he spends most of his time at a villa in Eleuthera. The singer also has a fully equipped studio space for when he wants to belt out some tunes, and for someone who has over $80 million in his coffers, that is quite an interesting lifestyle.
Ricky Martin - $8 Million, Brazil
Widely regarded as the ‘King of Latin Pop,’ Ricky Martin is a singer who hails from Puerto Rico. After gaining popularity at the age of 12 through his boy band ’Menudo,’ Martin’s music career has skyrocketed since the 1990s, making him one of the wealthiest artists ever.
Of course, owning so much wealth, he likes to spend some of it on his luxury too, which was proven when he bought an island worth $8 million in Angra Dos Reis in 2008. Also, being a public figure, sometimes celebrities need an escape, and there is no better place than having a whole island to yourself to spend your alone time.
The Barclay Brothers - $4.3 Million, Brecqhou
Apart from running various retail and media businesses, the Barclay brothers are also known for their active investment in properties. So, it was not surprising when these billionaire twins decided to acquire yet another asset in the form of Brecqhou island, costing them $4.3Million in 1993.
Later in 2015, they built a £60 million mansion, which must have doubled its total worth. Although David Barclay may have left this world, his brother Frederick still owns the island, and it’s the best place for him to cherish the old memories he spent with him.
Ted Turner- $4.9 Million, South Carolina
CNN founder Ted Turner is not just an ordinary American entrepreneur but is also known for investing in several other things in the past like 'Ted's Montana Grill.' So, being a wealthy personality, Turner didn't hold himself back from spending some on his luxury and once owned St. Phillips Island.
The businessman even built a house there and did some grooming of the greenery surrounding it. After spending most of his quality time there, he later sold the island to the state of Carolina for $4.9 million. The good thing is that it's open to the public and people can book their stay there. Of course, only if they could afford it!
David Copperfield - $50 Million, Bahamas
Having over 40 years of experience and being one of the most successful magicians globally, it is pretty apparent that David Copperfield earned a fortune from his career. Perhaps that’s the only way to explain how he was able to buy an island called Musha Cay.
The island, located in the Bahamas, has a 700-acre area and is purely a natural marvel. So, smartly, Copperfield didn’t keep it private, and by paying a hefty amount, anyone can come for a vacation there, which makes us wonder, what could be his potential income from it?
John Wayne – Taborcillo Island
John Wayne belonged to the 'Golden Age of Hollywood' and became a famous icon for his roles in Westerns and war movies. Outside of his strong onscreen presence, he was also steadfast in his political principles, which earned him a private island called 'Taborcillo Island,' a gift from the Panamanian leader, Omar Torrijos.
Locals also call it "John Wayne Island" for its many John Wayne-themed eateries and shops. A tourist destination now, the area also houses a resort hotel, a theme park, and a bird sanctuary. The property is currently owned by Australian businessman Ralph Hubner.
Julia Roberts - Bahamas
It won’t be wrong to say that Julia Roberts is one of the most successful and famous actresses of all time. Of course, this success has also translated into a massive fortune for her, amounting to about $250 million so far.
The actress is among those Hollywood stars that own private islands; however, since Julia is very protective of her privacy, unlike most actors, she hasn’t shared any information about her property or its location. What we do know is that the island is located somewhere in the breathtaking beauty of the Bahamas and is only used as a family vacation destination.
Eric Clapton - $14 Million, Island of Antigua
Considered among the “Greatest Guitarists of All Time,” Eric Clapton enjoys a luxurious lifestyle on his private island that houses his lavish home called ‘Standfast Point.’ The property covers an area of 10,000 square feet and faces the ocean towards the islands of ‘Montserrat’ and ‘Guadeloupe.’
The celebrated musician considers the island a special refuge for him and likes to share his sanctuary and its serenity with those fighting drug and alcohol addiction through his wellness center, ‘Crossroads.’ Eric’s mansion is also available for lease at $50,000 for a week’s worth of stay.
Dietrich Mateschitz - $10 Million, Fiji
Billionaire business magnate Dietrich Mateschitz, the founder of ‘Red Bull,’ decided to invest a portion of his massive wealth into purchasing an island in Laucala, Fiji. Then, he turned it into an ultra-exclusive luxury resort that has become a hideaway for the rich and famous.
The island has 3,500 acres of gorgeous tropical paradise, with 25 villas for guests, five restaurants, bars, a spa, an 18-hole golf course, and plenty of activities such as horseback riding, hiking trails, sailing boats, and watercraft. The island even has its own organic farm where most of its food comes from!
Bernard Arnault - $35 Million, Indigo Island
For Bernard Arnault, the head of the luxury goods company ‘LVMH,’ the exorbitant price tag of Indigo Island is a mere drop in the bucket. This island retreat located in the Bahamas has about 135 acres of land, and it offers vacation packages for around $300,000 per week to willing takers.
What’s there to see in this getaway destination? Aside from luxurious villas owned by wealthy celebrities, the pristine waters, warm climate, and powder-fine sand attract the ultra-wealthy to spend their much-needed vacation away from the tourist crowds of other destinations.
Isabel Goldsmith-Patino - Las Alamandas, Manzanillo, Mexico
Isabel Goldsmith-Patino was born into immense wealth. She is the daughter of renowned British financier Sir James Goldsmith. Before his demise, her grandfather, Don Antenor Patino, passed on this beautiful Pacific coast property, which she turned into an ultra-exclusive resort.
It is so exclusive that only 35 guests at a time can be accommodated. The resort features 70 acres of oceanfront land with six villas, all with private terraces, Mexican-inspired interior design and arts, and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Most guests are well-heeled enough to arrive here by private plane.
Pierce Brosnan – Kauai Island
The ever-iconic ‘James Bond’ actor carved out his own little paradise on Kauai Island, an island in Hawaii. With a long list of TV shows, film, and video game voice acting credits to his name, the actor has amassed a net worth of a whopping $200 million.
In an interview with Joyann Jeffrey, he expressed his joy about getting to spend quality time with his wife and children on his five-acre property. They take complete advantage of their surroundings, spending time swimming in the ocean or exploring the nearby private forest. The property itself is beautifully decorated and fits well with its lush, gorgeous surroundings.
Leonardo DiCaprio – $1.75 Million, Blackadore Caye
Being an incredibly versatile actor and having starred in blockbuster movies like ‘Titanic’ and ‘Django Unchained,’ Leonardo DiCaprio has amassed himself a net worth of $260 million. He is also dedicated to protecting the environment and often raises awareness about issues related to climate change.
It is hardly surprising that Leonardo bought the Blackadore Caye island in Belize along with a partner to turn it into an ‘eco-resort’. He aims to provide all those who visit the island with a healing experience. Since the island faces illegal deforestation amongst other environmental issues, his resort will simultaneously focus on restoring the surrounding environment.
Richard Branson - $180k, Necker Island
With a whopping $4.4 Billion to his name Richard Branson, is an accomplished businessman and author. He mainly lives on the beautiful Necker Island, a property he bought in 1978. Located in the Caribbean, the island is stunning, featuring unspoiled and breathtaking landscapes.
The island is now open to bookings year-round and even offers a special package for the entire island exclusively. Individual rooms are available for reservation during selected weeks of the year, for a minimum of seven days. According to the island’s website, it is Richard Branson’s ‘home and favorite hideaway’ and an ‘idyllic island paradise.’
Roman Abramovich – $90 Million, St. Bart's
Owner of the 'Chelsea Football Club' Roman Abramovich, is a widely renowned businessman and politician. Having a net worth of 14.6 billion, he has an immensely successful career. Amongst his many possessions is his $90 million estate on St Bart's, an island in Saint Barthélemy.
The estate is beautiful and surrounded by wonderfully warm waters and crystalline beaches. It is designed with Balinese architecture in mind, having big bungalows with tennis courts, swimming pools and of course, incredible ocean views. St Bart's is one of the most expensive private homes ever sold, further emphasizing how exquisite the property truly is!
Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani- $11 Million, Greek Islands
As a former ruler of Qatar, Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani has a net worth of $2.5 Billion, making him one of the world’s wealthiest men. According to ‘The Guardian,’ the islands caught his attention when his yacht floated through the dazzling waters. He was awestruck by the view and decided to buy six of the islands.
Sources close to Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani have said that the islands will be reserved entirely for the personal use of the former ruler. One can safely assume that his family shall thoroughly enjoy staying at these gorgeous islands. A luxurious little paradise indeed!
Scarlett Johansson - Florida
Little Palm is a luxury hotel located on 'Little Torch Key Island' in Florida. Since this island is only accessible by charter plane or boat, it is unreachable for most people and has become the favorite holiday destination of many stars.
Scarlett Johansson favors this island because of the privacy it affords. The fact that there is no internet or phone signal on this island adds to the charm of this place as Johansson can truly unwind and heal without any interruptions from the world outside of the island itself. Something that the actress truly deserves.
Martha Stewart - Seal Harbor Maine
Martha Stewart, the famous writer, chef, and television personality, gained tremendous financial success through her various businesses. She is an idol for all aspiring chefs, and rightly so, seeing as her wholesome cooking has brought joy to millions of people.
Martha put her wealth to good use by buying a property named 'Skylands' in Seal Harbor, Maine. The culinary expert purchased this mansion from Edsel Ford, and at the time, she was seventy-two years old. The estate is spread across 35,000-square-foot of land and has twelve bedrooms and a stunning view of the Harbor.
George Clooney - $13.6 Million, Italy
George Clooney, the triple Golden Globe Award and double Academy Award-winning actor, producer, and philanthropist, has etched his name as one of the best actors in Hollywood. His work brought him great fame, recognition as well as financial success.
Clooney bought a kingly mansion in Lake Como, Italy, a grand mansion built in the 18th Century. It holds an outdoor theatre, and a large garage, in addition to its twenty-five bedrooms. According to reports, the property was valued at $13.6 million when purchased in 2002 and has greatly appreciated since.
Oprah - $5.3 Million, Hawaii
Named as the richest African-American of the 20th century, it's easy for Oprah to get anything she wants and her Hawaii estate is a huge steal. 'The Oprah Winfrey Show' host and media proprietor bought the remote Hawaii property at $5.3 million in 2003 after her trainer-turned-property manager Bob Green made the suggestion.
The TV icon seems to love Maui as she has bought up acres of land and buildings there, spending a total of $60 million. Oprah's estate has a farmhouse, which she uses for her escape with family and friends. She also grows fruits, vegetables, and flowers as it has fertile ground and a great climate.
John Malone - $38 Million, Florida
No one beats John Malone when it comes to making media deals and huge corporate moves whose dawn traces back to his cable television venture in the 90s - most assuredly why his bank account is a dream for most people, as his net worth stands at $8.2 billion.
The Liberty Media mogul owns a Jupiter Island property previously owned by late German toymaker Horst Brandstätter. Malone purchased the Florida property, comprising 9 acres of land, a main and guesthouse for $38 million. The 8,400 sq ft main house has three bedrooms, floor-to-ceiling windows, and a large inviting pool.
Bill Gates - $25 Million, Belize
When one is Bill Gates, they can own whatever property they want because money is at their convenience. It's thus no shocker that the fourth richest man in the world with a $132 million net worth owns the 'Grand Bogue Caye' private island in Belize.
The island which he bought in 2016 is one of his most valued assets, stretching over 314 acres. It is located about 24 miles east of Belize City and is said to be the largest in Turneffe Atoll. According to 'Wealth X,' Grand Bogue Caye's estimated worth is a whopping $25 million.
Mick Jagger - $65K, Caribbean
'Rolling Stones' star Mick Jagger's beachfront villa home is on Mustique Island in the West Indies. The island is the property of the celebrities with homes in it, under 'the Mustique Company.'
Mick's Japanese-styled home, which he uses as a vacation site, features six bedrooms, a den, fitness room, media lounge, Billiard table, tennis court, and a pool. The price for renting the house ranges between $16K and $30K a week, and the good news is a jeep is part of the package! Driving around an island with a jeep or playing snooker on a baize-topped table would be most folks' dream come true, no lie.
Naomi Campbell - Turkey
Naomi Campbell knows how to sweep guys off their feet and make them do insane things for love. Case in point: her former billionaire boyfriend gifted her an island vacation home in Turkey for her 41st birthday.
The masterpiece dome, which embodies the ancient Egyptian symbol of protection, royal power, and good health, was Architect Luis de Garrido’s creation. It is energy, water, and food sufficient with more than 25 bedrooms and five lounges and boasts of a constant flow of light, heat, and air as well. Don’t we all agree that the supermodel should show us her ways?
Jiri Smejc - $200 Million, Maldives
Czech businessman Jiri Smejc is the owner of one of the most luxurious destinations in the world, Velaa Island. The Maldivian resort was a passion project with his wife, which cost them a staggering $200 million without factoring in its yearly renovations.
Middle Eastern travelers can’t seem to get enough of the 47-villa property with its mix of beach pool villas, houses, and a residence. It also has several food and beverage outlets and a spa. While a stay on the island costs a little bit on the higher end, you can be sure of an extraordinary experience on the island.
Georges Cohen - Calivingy Island
Situated at the Southern tip of Grenada, the breathtakingly beautiful Calivingy Island is owned by the French entrepreneur Georges Cohen, the founder of the IT services company 'Transiciel.' Before setting up his own company, Cohen worked at Cap Gemini and, with time, walked his way to the leading panel.
Amassing a net worth of $500 million following the sale of Transiciel, the tycoon bought the 80 acres of tropical bliss, Calivingy, when it caught the eyes of his wife, Martine Cohen. The couple has transformed the island into a luxury resort that often attracts celebrities such as Justin Bieber and the Kardashians.
Angelina Jolie & Brad Pitt - $ 12.2 Million, Petra Island
The now separated Hollywood power couple, Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt, have an extensive base of shippers still hoping for their reconciliation. They co-starred in numerous super hit movies & TV series and have a combined net worth of more than $400 million thanks to their acting supremacy.
Jolie, as Mrs. Pitt bought a magnificent heart-shaped island just off the coast of the New York mainland for Brad's 50th birthday. It was indeed too extravagant a present but made sense for the fortune they have built. The 11-acre lush-green property, aside from the heavenly scenery, features two grand houses planned by Frank Lloyd Wright, Brad's most liked interior designer.
Larry Page - $ 7 Million, California
The co-founder of Google, Larry Page, is one such celeb entrepreneur who can buy almost any property without making much of a dent in his bank balance. Page, worth more than a staggering $ 120 billion, owns a lush estate in California, among many others.
The mansion boasts an array of eco-friendly features with solar panels and a rooftop garden. Encircled by beautiful, diverse trees, it offers Page a much-needed solace from the busy life he leads. His other posh possessions include a modern New York apartment and a magnificent yacht beaming with luxury!
DJ Khaled - $ 3.84 Million, Island Estates
Superstar singer and songwriter DJ Khaled has given fans many chart-busters since his debut with 'Listen...the Album.' Khaled, who started out in his career as a disc jockey, has always loved spending on luxurious properties, and we aren't surprised as he is worth a whopping USD 75 million.
In the early 2010s, the American DJ bought a lavish mansion on the Island Estates in Adventura and went on to invest another $ 2.5 million in remodeling the property, which lies adjacent to calming waters and stellar views. However, Khaled, after acquiring another deluxe estate in Miami, sold the former off.
North West & Kim Kardashian - $ 60 Million, Hidden Hills
Reality TV star Kim Kardashian and her kids live in an affluent all-white mansion in California's Hidden Hills. The hefty $ 60 million grand estate looks like a vision in white with its minimalistic design and handpicked statement pieces.
Kim's abode, as she calls it 'a minimal monastery, boasts of a private theatre, a walk-in closet, and a two-story play area for North and her siblings. Along with her ex-husband Kanye West, she bought the property in the mid-2010s and has brought to life the house with a calming, warm aesthetic. But, interestingly, the 3.5-acre mansion has its own vineyard!
Larry Ellison – $300 Million, Lanai Island
The success of his company, 'Oracle Corporation,' afforded Larry Ellison many luxuries in life, including the beautiful 'Lanai Island' in Hawaii. The renowned businessman and entrepreneur procured the property for a whopping $300 million back in 2012.
The island houses two four seasons hotels, ' Nobu Matsuhisa' restaurants, and many serene beaches. Larry moved to the island full time during the pandemic situation and now plans to turn the island into a vacation destination and first of its kind affordable, 100 percent green community, basically a prototype "health utopia." Well, with a net worth of $113.3 billion, that dream is very much within grasp for Larry.
Billy Joel - $32.5 Million, Long Island
The genius behind the enduring hits ‘Piano Man’ and ‘Uptown Girl,’ Billy Joel, owns a beautiful piece of real estate in Long Island, New York. The property has 14.6 acres of land and a mansion with 14,273 square feet of living space. After the singer bought the property, he made a number of significant changes to it.
Billy’s residence is now listed for sale, and it features three staff rooms, two guest cottages, five bedrooms, a bowling alley, tennis court, indoor and outdoor swimming pool, and a dock for boats. With 1,500 feet of waterfront access, it’s definitely a stunner.
Johnny Depp - $3.6 Million, Bahamas
The story begins back in 2003 when while shooting for ‘Pirates of the Caribbean,’ Johnny Depp’s eyes fell on an island, and mesmerized by its beauty, he ended up buying it. Known by the name ‘Little Halls Pond Cay,’ the property has a 45-acre area and cost him $3.6 million back in 2004, which we know he can afford.
Later, the actor spent millions on building a ranch-style house which certainly added more beauty to it. The island being very close to his heart, Depp even named its beaches after his children Lily-Rose and Jack and is often found vacationing there with his family.
Tim McGraw & Faith Hill – $1.2 Million, Goat Cay Island
Famous country music singers and couple Tim McGraw and Faith Hill fell in love with one of the islands in the Bahamas called 'Goat Cay' and paid a hefty sum of money to buy it and make it habitable.
The transformation of the underdeveloped land took over a decade to complete. The couple renamed the island 'L'ile d'Anges,' meaning "isle of angles" in French. The property is a stretch of 19.77 acres and houses a massive main house covering 6517 square feet, two beaches, and a small jungle of palm trees. The island is now on the market for $35 million.
Jennifer Lopez - $10 Million, Hamptons, New York
Among her numerous million-dollar homes and properties in different upscale locations, Jennifer Lopez considers her house in the Hamptons to be her favorite. Well, one look at the surroundings and the interior of this home explains why it is the favorite of the singer-actress.
The luxurious home is the focal point of the 3-acre estate, with eight bathrooms, seven and a half bathrooms, and two storeys of ‘Gambrel’-inspired architecture. Jennifer’s dream home has its own spa, media room, sauna, outdoor shower, and heated pool, among many other amenities fit for a celebrity of her stature.
Dean Kamen - $2.5 Million, North Dumpling
Dean Kamen has made an enormous fortune as a successful innovator, with ‘Segway’ and ‘iBOT’ bringing him loads of money. The businessman sure does know how to spend his hard-earned wealth, spending on numerous luxuries including an island located in New York.
Called the ‘North Dumpling,’ the isle is just over two acres big, and one of its landmarks is the Stonehenge monument replica that is as beautiful as the rest of the constructions on the land. Kamen also gets to enjoy a lighthouse, something many kids only dream of when growing up, and impressively, the island is mostly carbon-free, with wind turbines providing the power needed to run it.