The serene island of Mustique has become the ultimate sanctuary for Prince William and Kate Middleton, offering them what celebrities crave most—privacy. Since 2008, this exclusive Caribbean gem has captured the hearts of the royal couple, who return time and again to its pristine shores with their three children.
Why royalty keeps returning to this exclusive paradise
The Wales family most recently escaped to Mustique in February 2025, during their children’s half-term break. The private island offers what London cannot—freedom from prying eyes and paparazzi lenses. “Mustique represents one of the few places where the family can truly relax without security concerns dominating their experience,” notes royal correspondent Elizabeth James.
Unlike other celebrity destinations that merely promise privacy, Mustique delivers it through extraordinary measures. The island enforces a strict no-fly zone when high-profile guests visit, preventing unauthorized drone photography that plagues royals elsewhere.
Inside their luxurious island accommodations
The royal family has previously stayed at Villa Antilles, owned by William’s friend Andrew Dunn. This oceanfront haven is like a private kingdom within an already exclusive island—featuring butlers, chefs, and a stunning infinity pool overlooking the Caribbean Sea.
Similar to how Eddie Murphy created his island sanctuary in the Bahamas, the Wales family finds perfect solace in Mustique’s natural beauty and seclusion.
Family traditions and multigenerational appeal
Kate’s mother, Carole Middleton, often joins their Mustique holidays, creating cherished family memories across generations. “These trips allow Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis to experience normal childhood joys—building sandcastles, swimming, and exploring nature without the weight of royal expectations,” shares former royal aide James Wilson.
The island serves as their familial anchor, much like how Paul McCartney’s Caribbean retreat offers him respite from public life.
Royal-approved island activities
When not relaxing at their villa, the family enjoys:
- Scuba diving in crystal-clear waters
- Tennis matches on private courts
- Casual dinners at the famous Basil’s Bar
- Horseback riding along pristine beaches
The royal Mustique connection through generations
The Wales family follows a royal tradition established by Princess Margaret, who received a plot on Mustique as a wedding gift in 1960. The island became her escape from royal duties and public scrutiny—a sanctuary William and Kate have now claimed as their own.
Unlike Mark Zuckerberg’s controversial Hawaiian property, Mustique enjoys positive relationships with locals and visitors alike.
A healing paradise during difficult times
Their recent visit gained special significance as Kate continues recovery from cancer treatment. Mustique has become their healing sanctuary—like a personal wellness retreat where sea breezes and sunshine work better than any prescription.
Even celebrities with vast resources like Drake’s Turks and Caicos getaway recognize the therapeutic value of Caribbean escapes.
Security measures that set Mustique apart
- Ex-Scotland Yard officials leading security operations
- Comprehensive visitor registration system
- Complete ban on journalists and photographers
- Private arrivals through Saint Lucia
What makes their Caribbean escape different?
Unlike Kevin Costner’s luxury Aspen retreat, Mustique offers the rarest luxury of all—normality. For a family constantly in the spotlight, the ability to grocery shop, dine out, and build sandcastles without security hovering visibly transforms Mustique from merely a vacation spot into a second home.
For the Wales family, Mustique isn’t just an island—it’s where they can momentarily step away from being royals and simply be a family making memories together on a breathtaking Caribbean shore.