Dreaming of your own slice of paradise? Whether you want to buy an island outright or rent one for a luxurious getaway, there are stunning private islands around the world available for those seeking ultimate seclusion.
Here’s your guide to buying or renting a private island, including costs, locations, and what to expect—from budget-friendly retreats to millionaire playgrounds.
🏝️ 5 Islands You Can BUY Right Now
1. Cayo Espanto, Belize – Celebrity Hideaway
📍 Location: Near Ambergris Caye
💰 Price: $15 million (for the entire island)
🏠 What’s Included?
- 4 private villas with butler service
- Pristine coral reefs for diving
- Used by stars like Leonardo DiCaprio & Bill Gates
✔ Why Buy? Turn it into a luxury resort or keep it private.
2. Sirenuse Island, Italy – Mediterranean Gem
📍 Location: Amalfi Coast
💰 Price: €25 million
🏠 What’s Included?
- 5-acre island with historic villa
- 360° views of Positano
- Helipad & private dock
✔ Why Buy? Perfect for a European summer retreat.
3. Dunbar Rock, Honduras – Caribbean Castle
📍 Location: Guanaja, Honduras
💰 Price: $10 million
🏠 What’s Included?
- A 4-story villa shaped like a ship’s prow
- Private beaches & dive sites
- Fully staffed
✔ Why Buy? Already set up as a luxury rental property.
4. Little Whale Cay, Bahamas – Old Hollywood Glam
📍 Location: Berry Islands, Bahamas
💰 Price: $12 million
🏠 What’s Included?
- 1930s Art Deco mansion
- Private airstrip
- Once owned by a Vanderbilt heiress
✔ Why Buy? A turnkey historic estate.
5. Musha Cay, Bahamas – Magical Private World
📍 Location: Exuma Cays
💰 Price: $75 million (owned by David Copperfield)
🏠 What’s Included?
- 11 beaches & a “Mermaid Spa”
- Staff of 40+
- Used for VIP events
✔ Why Buy? The ultimate billionaire’s playground.
🏖️ 5 Islands You Can RENT for a Vacation
1. Necker Island, British Virgin Islands – Branson’s Paradise
📍 Location: Caribbean
💰 Rent For: $100,000–$150,000 per week (sleeps 34)
✨ Perks:
- Owned by Richard Branson
- Watersports, spa, flamingos roaming free
- Fully staffed
✔ Best For: Epic group getaways.
2. Coco Privé, Maldives – Ultra-Luxury Escape
📍 Location: North Malé Atoll
💰 Rent For: $50,000–$80,000 per night
✨ Perks:
- 6-bedroom overwater villas
- Private submarine & yacht
- Michelin-star dining
✔ Best For: A once-in-a-lifetime splurge.
3. Laucala Island, Fiji – Tropical Fantasy
📍 Location: Fiji
💰 Rent For: $45,000 per night (minimum stay)
✨ Perks:
- 25 villas, horse stables, golf course
- Owned by Red Bull’s billionaire founder
- Farm-to-table cuisine
✔ Best For: Eco-luxury lovers.
4. Calala Island, Nicaragua – Affordable Paradise
📍 Location: Caribbean Coast
💰 Rent For: $5,000–$8,000 per night (all-inclusive)
✨ Perks:
- 4 private beachfront suites
- Snorkeling & fishing included
- Far cheaper than Maldives/Bahamas
✔ Best For: A budget private island experience.
5. Thanda Island, Tanzania – African Eden
📍 Location: Indian Ocean
💰 Rent For: $33,000 per night
✨ Perks:
- 5-star eco-resort with marine reserve access
- Whale shark & dolphin encounters
- All proceeds fund conservation
✔ Best For: Wildlife + luxury combo.
💡 How to Buy or Rent a Private Island
Buying an Island:
✔ Costs: $500K–$100M+ (plus maintenance, staff, permits).
✔ Where to Look: Private Islands Inc., Vladi Private Islands.
✔ Hidden Costs: Infrastructure (water, electricity), taxes, security.
Renting an Island:
✔ Best Sites: Luxury Retreats, Elite Havens.
✔ Tip: Rent in shoulder season for discounts.
✔ Ask About: Staff, food, activities included.
⚠️ Risks & Challenges
- No Resale Market – Islands can be hard to sell.
- Maintenance – Storms, erosion, and repairs add up.
- Isolation – Medical emergencies can be risky.
🌴 Final Thoughts: Is a Private Island Worth It?
✅ For Rentals: Absolutely! A bucket-list experience.
✅ For Buying: Only if you’re ready for high costs & responsibility.
