Mustique has long been an island steeped in both mystery and intrigue. It’s just a stone’s throw from Saint Lucia, yet few know much about this tiny enclave celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. A chic escape for celebrities, royals and stylish jet-setters alike, here’s what to know about the luxurious hideaway in the Caribbean known as Mustique.

Seriously, Where Is Mustique?

Unless you’ve been under a rock, you’ve noticed that Mustique has been all over the tabloids as of late thanks to a royal family holiday in July to celebrate Prince George’s 5th birthday, which led us to wonder, where exactly is this island? Located in the Southern Caribbean, this lush 1,400-acre private island is part of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. It’s owned by the Mustique Company, which sounds extra secretive and adds to the allure of this secluded Caribbean getaway that’s best reached by way of the island’s fleet of 18-seater aircraft.

It All Started With Princess Margaret

So you know that the royals have a fondness for Mustique, but it was Prince William’s great aunt, the late Princess Margaret, who made a name for Mustique. She spent three decades living it up at her private hideaway, Les Jolies Eaux, which occupies a sprawling 10-acre parcel of land on the southernmost tip of Mustique. This opulent villa boasts five ensuite bedrooms, two swimming pools, and a household staff of five. Even better, you can rent out this villa for just $20,500 a week. During the off-season, of course. Mick Jagger, Bryan Adams and Tommy Hilfiger also own villas on Mustique that can be booked by the week.

A Private Chef to Call Your Own

Mustique may be luxurious, but it’s not entirely exclusive. There are 75 glamorous villas spread out across the island that can be rented out by holiday-goers. Villas range from two to 10 bedrooms and boast every thinkable amenity and convenience, like plunge pools, mosquito nets and Kawasaki Mules (4x4 ATVs to get around the island). Every villa comes with a staff of at least three, including a private chef. The island also has two boutique hotels, including the seven-room Firefly and the newly renovated 18-room Cotton House.

Beyond Lounging on the Beach

Macaroni Beach on the east side of the island is by far the best-known beach on Mustique. Reserve a picnic shelter on this sandy white beach and watch the dramatic turquoise waves. For snorkeling, head to Lagoon Bay or Gallicaux Bay to explore colorful coral reefs that surround Mustique (don’t forget your reef-safe sunscreen). Sailing, horseback riding, beach yoga and scuba diving are other popular activities. Multiple hiking trails lead guests around the island, including North Point and Rutland Bay. It’s also a snap to arrange custom activities, like paddling excursions and private beach picnics.

And Then There’s the Nightlife

Basil’s Bar is where anyone who’s anyone (or wants to be someone) goes to dance and drink the night away on Mustique. Kate and William were even spotted there on their recent vacation, reveling in a much-deserved date night. You’ll find live music nearly every night of the week, including a jazz band that performs Sunday evenings. At Cotton House, settle in for drinks at the Beach Café or Great Room. Mix and mingle over cocktails. You may even be able to score an invite to a private house party, a popular nightlife option among the younger set.

No Pictures, Please

Mustique prides itself on the level of privacy it’s able to offer its guests, which is one reason why this island has become an escape for celebs and royals alike. It’s not like we actually saw a single photo of the royals spending family time on the island. Drones are not permitted on Mustique, and at times, cameras are prohibited from being used on the island. While visitors can sail over from neighboring islands to spend the day on Mustique, they are relegated to a special section of the island. Overnight guests must show proof of accommodation.

So, How Much Will this Cost?

There are lots of islands in the Caribbean that cut across all price points, but yes, a vacation in Mustique will cost you more than say, a vacation at a budget all-inclusive in the Bahamas. A stay at Firefly, for example, starts at $595 per room and includes breakfast. Or book a stay with all meals included for $695 per night. Again, that’s in the off-season. Meantime, a getaway in one of the luxury villas on the island can run from $5,000-$50,000 (or more) per week.