Dreary weather and politics.
Today seems like a great day to plan a getaway.
One that doesn’t involve a lot of people. Or, in some cases, any people.
To help you escape, we’re taking a look at six amazing private islands you can rent in the Caribbean, starting now.
Top of the list? Something billed as “the most private island resort in the world.”
This 3,000-square-foot villa is owned by Chris Krolow — CEO of Private Islands Inc. and host of HGTV’s Island Hunters — and can be found on Gladden, a tiny island about 20 miles off the coast of Belize that’s swimming distance from the second longest reef in the world.
It’s an all-inclusive property (including spa treatments) and fully staffed — but your hospitality team is located on a nearby island that’s hidden from view. How private is it? You’ll have an actual “privacy meter” to warn you if anyone is approaching.
At nearly $3,100 per night and really built for just one or two couples, that privacy will cost you. But the sands are white as snow and the nearby waters crystal clear and surprisingly calm … although you may run into an occasional whale shark. It’s a perfect area for snorkeling and scuba diving.
Best of all? It’s only about a four-hour flight from Miami and then a quick private helicopter flight away. But hurry: As of press time, there were a few days in December available, and then nothing until July of next year.
If you can’t enjoy this Belize property now, a few other Caribbean-area private islands to consider:
For (small) parties: Little Harvest Caye
This 7,000-square-foot, solar-powered house near Belize is best for groups — it features five private suites, six bathrooms and sleeps up to 14 people. Plus, you and your guests will have access to a boat and driver, so you can hit the mainland, just five minutes away. (Via HomeAway)
For families: Pink Pearl Island
A 2.5-acre private resort full of coconut trees and surrounded by white sand, turquoise waters and some of the nicest reefs in the world is located three miles and a speedboat ride off the coast of Nicaragua. Perhaps not the first country you think of in the Caribbean, that fact just means you’ll get a lower price point ($500 per night), plus a range of included water activities, including kayaking, fishing and snorkeling. (Via TripAdvisor)
For DIY adventure: Bird Island
Ideal for a “self-catering Robinson Crusoe type” (as they say), this Belize island home — located inside a beautiful atoll — is a solar/wind-powered three-villa property ideal for up to six people. No staff, but if you can manage on your own, you’ll be able to fish, snorkel and take local excursions. (Via Airbnb)
For staying (literally) on the water: Ventanas
Not technically an entire island to rent, this Belize one-bedroom villa juts over the water and connects to the land via 150-foot long dock (it’s the only villa on Cayo Espanto not directly on the island itself). Comes with its own motorboat. (Via WheretoStay)
For non-beach luxury: Steele Point
Located at the tip of a private peninsula on Tortola’s West End, this 460 sq. meter private house blends into the surrounding cliffs. Rocky terrain, sure, but the property boasts huge bedroom suites, private sundecks, a cliffside pool and two private docks just a walk down on a spiral staircase. (For sale via Via Private Islands Inc., for rent via Vladi Private Islands)
Photos: (top to bottom) HomeAway (6); TripAdvisor; Airbnb; WheretoStay; Private Islands Inc.
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