Saint-Tropez? Not their thing. When Prince William and Kate Middleton head out for vacation, they traditionally opt for seclusion over flash, avoiding some of the favorite getaways of the well-to-do. No way are they going to be seen rubbing shoulders with American tech tycoons or Russian oligarchs on the French Riviera. The Prince and Princess of Wales have repeatedly sought refuge in the Caribbean, on a small island called Mustique.
The royal couple and their three children—Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and young Prince Louis—have made it a habit to spend their vacations on the island of Mustique, in the heart of the Grenadines archipelago, far from prying eyes and the hustle and bustle of London. They chose the spot in 2019 to celebrate eldest child George’s sixth birthday in a luxury villa rented for over 30,000 euros a week. Since then, the family has returned several times, most recently in February 2025.
The island has everything to appeal to the prince and his family: white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and absolute privacy. It is said that this haven of peace guarantees total privacy for its visitors and residents. The island is reportedly subject to a no-fly zone during the stays of members of the royal family or high-ranking officials, preventing any drones from taking unauthorized photos of the Windsors’ family vacations.
The choice of this destination is no coincidence. William and Kate were both familiar with this corner of paradise well before traveling there together: Before marrying William, the Princess of Wales used to visit the island regularly with her family. As for William, his great-aunt, Princess Margaret, owned a villa there.
A plot of land on the island had been given to Elizabeth II’s sister as a wedding gift. The princess had a residence built there, designed by artist and designer Oliver Messel, which she named Les Jolies Eaux. Even though that house no longer belongs to the royal family (and is available for rent), it seems the royals’ connection to and fondness for the island remain.
William and Kate continue to spend their vacations there. Sometimes they even rub shoulders on the island of Mustique with other British celebrities, such as rocker Mick Jagger, who owns a home there.
Originally published in Vanity Fair France.
