Buy the Island (For a Night): Affordable Private Rentals

Richard Branson has Necker Island. You have… well, actually, you have options too. Renting a private island is the ultimate travel flex. And surprisingly, it doesn’t always require a helicopter budget.

In 2026, the rise of Airbnb and boutique rentals means you can rent an entire island for the price of a few hotel rooms. Gather your friends, split the cost, and be the king/queen of your own domain.

1. Brother Island, Philippines (El Nido)

  • The Deal: A stunning tropical island with white sand, coconut trees, and a full staff (cook, housekeeper).
  • Capacity: Sleeps up to 16.
  • The Cost: Approx $150-200 per person/night (if full). Includes 3 meals a day.
  • Why: It’s in El Nido, one of the most beautiful places on earth. You get the location without the crowds.

2. Bird Island, Belize

  • The Deal: A tiny atoll inside a coral reef. It’s essentially a house on stilts in the middle of the ocean.
  • Capacity: Sleeps 6.
  • The Cost: Approx $700/night total ($116 per person).
  • Why: The snorkeling is right off your deck. It is completely self-catering (bring your own food). It’s Robinson Crusoe with wifi.

3. Urraca Private Island, Panama (Bocas del Toro)

  • The Deal: An eco-lodge built on stilts over the mangroves. It is famous for its glowing bioluminescent waters at night.
  • Capacity: Various bungalows. You can rent the whole place.
  • The Vibe: Eco-rustic. Saltwater showers, solar power.
  • Why: The monkey rescue center on-site means you are sharing the island with monkeys.

4. Thousand Islands, Canada/USA

  • The Deal: The St. Lawrence River is dotted with tiny islands, some just big enough for a single cabin.
  • Capacity: Usually couples or small families (2-4).
  • The Cost: Can be as low as $200-300/night.
  • Why: It’s accessible. You just rent a boat or take a water taxi. Perfect for a summer BBQ escape.

5. Area 51, Ship Channel Cay, Bahamas

  • The Deal: A rustic cottage on a private cay in the Exumas.
  • Capacity: Sleeps 4-6.
  • The Cost: Around $400-500/night.
  • Why: The Exumas have the clearest water in the Caribbean. You are close to the famous swimming pigs.

6. Private Island in Hvaler, Norway

  • The Deal: A tiny rocky island with a traditional red cabin.
  • Capacity: Sleeps 2-4.
  • The Cost: Approx $250/night.
  • Why: Scandi-cool. You get a small motorboat included to go shopping on the mainland. Sauna and sea dips.

What to Know Before You Rent

  1. Logistics: Getting there is the hard part. Does the price include the boat transfer? If not, a water taxi can be expensive.
  2. Food: Most affordable islands are self-catering. You need to buy everything (salt, oil, ice, beer) on the mainland and haul it with you.
  3. Electricity: Many are off-grid (solar/generator). Don’t expect to run AC 24/7 or use hair dryers.
  4. Isolation: You are alone. If you get hurt, help is far away. Bring a first aid kit.
  5. Staff: “Private” usually means you + a caretaker who lives in a separate shack to fix the generator and ensure security.

7. Gladden Private Island, Belize

  • The Deal: A swanky villa for just one couple. It is located directly on the reef.
  • Capacity: 2 people.
  • The Cost: This is the splurge option ($3,000/night). But included is a helicopter transfer!
  • Why: Complete privacy. The staff live on a separate island behind you.

8. Brother Island, Indonesia (Nusa Lembongan area)

  • The Deal: Not the whole island, but exclusive “private villas” on tiny islets near Nusa Ceningan.
  • Cost: $150-200.
  • Vibe: Jungle chic.

Packing for a Private Island

  • Medication: If you get a headache, there is no pharmacy. Bring a full kit.
  • Entertainment: Board games, downloaded movies, books. Evenings are long and quiet.
  • Snorkel Gear: The best reef is usually right off your deck. Don’t rely on the rental gear fitting.

9. Isla El Peñón, Colombia (Guatape)

  • The Deal: A modern luxury house on a private islet in the Guatape reservoir.
  • Capacity: Sleeps 10-12.
  • Cost: Approx $300-400/night.
  • Why: It’s not the ocean (it’s a lake), but the views of the famous Peñol rock are incredible.

10. Private Island, Vesterålen, Norway

  • The Deal: “Tiny House” living on a skerry in the Arctic circle.
  • Capacity: 2 people.
  • Cost: $200/night.
  • Why: Midnight sun in summer, Northern Lights in winter. You row your boat to the supermarket.

11. Kanu Private Island, Belize

  • The Deal: Ultra-luxury all-inclusive for groups.
  • Capacity: Sleeps 10 adults + 10 kids.
  • Cost: Expensive per night ($4,000+), but if split between 5 families, it becomes comparable to a Disney vacation, but with a private chef and boat captain.

Renting an island changes your perspective. You realize that luxury isn’t about gold taps; it’s about having no neighbors.