Beachfront Retreats Time + Tide Miavana 📍Nosy Ankao, Madagascar 🛏 14 Price: $$$$$ Miavana by Time + Tide is Madagascar’s most exclusive private island retreat, where turquoise waters, untamed nature, and refined design come together in perfect harmony. Why We Love This Retreat Set on a private island in the Indian Ocean, Miavana redefines barefoot luxury with total exclusivity and privacy. Each villa opens directly onto the beach, blending ocean views with sophisticated, island-inspired design. Adventures abound: helicopter excursions over Madagascar’s wild landscapes, lemur tracking, diving, and kite surfing. Cuisine celebrates local seafood and tropical produce, paired with world-class wines. Sustainability drives the resort’s ethos, from reef protection to community empowerment through Time + Tide Foundation. Ideal for honeymooners, families, and high-end travelers seeking total seclusion in one of Africa’s most extraordinary island settings. Shanti Maurice 📍 Saint Felix, Mauritius 🛏 61 Price: $$$$ Between the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean and lush sugarcane fields, Shanti Maurice Resort & Spa offers refined island luxury. From its world-class spa to private pool villas, an oasis of barefoot elegance Why We Love This Retreat Idyllic beachfront setting with panoramic ocean views Some of the largest private pool villas in Mauritius Award-winning spa and wellness programmes Authentic Mauritian hospitality with a modern luxury touch Dining experiences that celebrate local flavours and ingredients Perfect blend of seclusion and adventure Fundu Lagoon 📍 Pemba Island, Tanzania 🛏 18 Price: $$$ Tucked into the jungle on remote Pemba Island, Fundu Lagoon is a barefoot-luxury retreat offering total seclusion, overwater adventures, and off-grid tranquility. Why We Love This Retreat Wild, natural and remote barefoot luxury Only accessible by boat Unique destination with a cool and laid-back vibe Fantastic cocktails and amazing food Friendly, authentic staff and great service Total seclusion with stunning natural surroundings World-class diving and snorkeling on untouched reefs Relaxed atmosphere perfect for couples or solo travelers Incredible sunsets and peaceful beachfront moments Xanadu Villas 📍 Dongwe, Zanzibar 🛏 7 Price: 💸 $$$$ A striking blend of architecture and indulgence, Xanadu Villas offers private plunge pools, fine dining, and curated experiences along Zanzibar’s serene southeast coast. Why We Love This Retreat Distinctive domed villas with private plunge pools Dedicated private butlers and in-villa dining Exceptional gourmet cuisine with daily changing menus Steps from the Indian Ocean and coral reef lagoons Tailored excursions: sailing, snorkeling, and spice tours Infinity Beach Boutique Hotel & Spa 📍 Watamu, Kenya 🛏 16 Price: 💸 $$ A tranquil beachfront escape on the Kenyan coast, offering barefoot luxury, ocean-facing rooms, and a serene spa nestled between tropical gardens. Why We Love This Retreat Direct beach access and private sunbeds Elegant coastal design with a laid-back vibe Wellness spa offering massages and beauty rituals Walking distance to Watamu Marine Park and restaurants The Zubeida 📍 Diani Beach, Kenya 🛏 8 Price: 💸 $$$ A beachfront oasis on the white sands of Diani, The Zubeida offers barefoot luxury, coastal charm, and privacy steps away from the Indian Ocean. Why We Love This Retreat Prime beachfront location with direct ocean views Elegant Swahili-inspired villas with private verandas Intimate and peaceful—ideal for romantic getaways Easy access to snorkeling, diving, and kite surfing