Out of Town Blog
Banwa Private Island – Multi-Award-Winning Experience Gains Latest International Recognition
Manila, Philippines – Banwa Private Island, the ultra-exclusive private island in Palawan, Philippines, continues to strengthen its reputation among the world’s top luxury destinations with its third straight appearance on Robb Report’s 50 Greatest Luxury Hotels on Earth for 2025.
Banwa Private Island – Latest International Recognition
Established in 2023, Robb Report’s 50 Greatest Luxury Hotels on Earth celebrates the pinnacle of global hospitality. Published by Robb Report, a leading authority on luxury lifestyle since 1976, this list is meticulously curated by 26 Travel Masters—respected luxury travel specialists known for crafting extraordinary journeys for an elite clientele. Each expert nominates their top five exceptional properties, featuring both new openings and timeless icons across Europe, the Americas, Africa, and Asia. Among the esteemed nominees is Henry Cookson, founder of Cookson Adventures, who praised Banwa Private Island for its remarkable marine setting and ecological significance.
“This is one of the world’s most exclusive private islands. It’s set in a marine-protected sanctuary, and we love it for its incredible diving—it’s possible to scuba alongside whale sharks as well as encounter the rare Hawksbill turtle and black tip reef shark.”
Banwa Private Island Beach-front Villa with Private Infinity Pool
This latest recognition adds to Banwa Private Island’s growing list of international accolades, including the Editor’s Choice Award in The Gallivanter’s Guide 2024; being named “Private Island of the Year” by Destination Deluxe for three non-consecutive years (2020, 2022, and 2023); “Best Beach, Island or Upcountry Resort in the Philippines” by the Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific in 2023; “Best of the Best in Travel” by Robb Report Hong Kong in 2024; and “World’s Leading Luxury Private Island” by the World Travel Awards in 2019.
Banwa Private Island is a sought-after retreat for celebrities, heads of state, and private families who desire more than just privacy. Featuring only six contemporary beachfront villas, each villa boasts expansive interiors, private terraces and gardens, a jacuzzi, and a full-sized spring water pool. This unique destination emphasizes space, serenity, and sustainability, making it one of the largest and most luxurious private island resorts in the world. Guests enjoy rare comfort and complete seclusion, with discreet service staff available at a moment’s notice, yet never in view. Whether booked individually or as a full island charter, every stay is crafted to feel effortless, private, and deeply personalized.
Banwa Private Island – Diver Amongst Reef Balls
Banwa Private Island, located in the heart of the Sulu Sea, is surrounded by one of the Philippines’ most biodiverse marine corridors. Each guest’s stay supports vital conservation efforts through the Aquos Foundation, which focuses on habitat protection and scientific research in one of the country’s 10 Important Sharks and Rays Areas (ISRAs). In these protected waters, endangered species such as the Hawksbill turtle, blacktip reef shark, and whale shark thrive.
Sustainability is integral to daily life on Banwa Private Island. The island operates its own organic farm, providing fresh produce for its kitchens. A self-replenishing artesian well supplies natural water for drinking, bathing, and pools. Additionally, Banwa is uniquely mosquito-free, thanks to an entomologist-designed trapping system that effectively eliminates the need for chemical sprays while protecting the delicate ecosystem.
Banwa Private Island Elevates Filipino Hospitality
Dining at Banwa Private Island is a completely bespoke experience—there are no menus to browse or decisions to make. Each meal is carefully crafted by the island’s chef, who takes the time to understand every guest’s preferences and dietary needs. Utilizing the freshest ingredients from Banwa’s organic farm and surrounding seas, the chef designs personalized menus that surprise and delight. Meals are served in breathtaking locations, whether it’s a romantic dinner at Bantigue sandbar, sunset dining at the Platform, or an alfresco lunch by the pool.
Guests embark on a seamless, all-inclusive island journey that includes curated excursions, wellness treatments, and private aviation coordination. They can snorkel the vibrant house reef and explore UNESCO World Heritage sites, such as Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park and the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River. Each itinerary is designed to inspire discovery and foster a deep connection with nature.
BanwaPrivateIsland Privacy and Tranquility in The Villas
As The Gallivanter’s Guide noted in its 2024 review: “The meticulous attention to detail is what makes Banwa Private Island truly special. The presence of vibrant flower bouquets that are refreshed every other day, the discreet room servicing during breakfast times, and the continuous replenishment of ice buckets and welcome treats—all without having to reach for the phone.”
“Today’s luxury traveler seeks more than privacy—they seek purpose,” said Simon Turner, Director of Sales and Marketing at Banwa Private Island. “Banwa Private Island delivers that rare combination of meaningful travel, uncompromising comfort, and untouched natural beauty.”
Villa rates start at USD 3,050 per night, with a minimum stay of two nights. Full island buyouts are available upon request.
For more information, visit www.banwaprivateisland.com.
Palawan Travel Tour Packages You Should Try
Follow and Subscribe to OutofTownBlog.com on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, and YouTube for more Travel related updates.
Banwa Private Island – Multi-Award-Winning Experience Gains Latest International Recognition
Melo Villareal
Out of Town Blog