Dreaming of escaping to a private island where turquoise waves lap at pristine shores, and the only sounds are rustling palm trees or distant birds?
It might sound like a fantasy reserved for the ultra-wealthy, but you’d be surprised—there are private islands you can rent for under $100 per person per night.
From tropical havens in Belize to rustic retreats in the USA, these budget-friendly islands prove you don’t need a fortune to live the castaway dream. Here are ten private islands you can book in 2025 without breaking the bank.
Each offers a unique slice of paradise—some with overwater bungalows, others with cozy cabins—and all come with experiences that make you feel like you’ve stumbled into a postcard.
1. Brother Island, El Nido, Philippines
Tucked in the stunning archipelago of El Nido, Brother Island is a tropical gem with powdery white beaches and coconut palms swaying in the breeze. The island’s two-story beachfront house sleeps up to 10, making it ideal for groups.
For about $381 per night, that’s roughly $38 per person. You get a full staff—housekeeper, chef, and all meals included—plus massage services, hiking trails, and snorkeling gear.
Spend your days island-hopping, trekking through a mini rainforest, or savoring fresh seafood grilled by your chef. It’s the kind of place where you forget what a deadline feels like.
2. Whiskey Island, New York, USA
Straddling the New York-Canada border in the St. Lawrence River, Whiskey Island is a three-acre retreat steeped in history—once a Prohibition-era smuggling hub.
Today, it’s a rustic escape for up to 15 guests at around $1,450 per night, or about $97 per person when split. The off-grid house is charmingly simple, with no heat, so it’s best for warm seasons.
Swim, fish, or crab off the dock, or just soak in the views of the intercoastal waterway. It’s a no-frills paradise for those who love nature with a side of adventure.
3. Margisle, Maine, USA
Set in Maine’s Pemaquid Pond, Margisle is a tranquil lakeside island with a cozy log cabin for up to six guests at $150 per night—about $25 per person. Kayak across the pond, cast a line for fish, or wander the wooded trails.
The cabin’s simplicity is its charm—no Wi-Fi, just nature. It’s the kind of place where you’ll spend evenings by a firepit, swapping stories under a starlit sky, feeling like you’ve stepped into a quieter era.
4. Old House Cay, Hilton Head, South Carolina, USA
Just a 10-minute boat ride from Hilton Head, Old House Cay isn’t one island but three, connected by scenic walkways.
For $589 per night, up to six guests can enjoy this off-grid haven—about $98 per person. The modern home is sustainable yet cozy, with a private boat dock for fishing or crabbing.
Swim in the Intracoastal Waterway or watch dolphins glide by. It’s a Lowcountry escape that feels worlds away from the mainland’s bustle, perfect for a quiet family getaway.
5. Hideaway Caye, Belize
Nestled in Belize’s South Water Caye Marine Reserve, Hideaway Caye offers an overwater bungalow experience for about $350 per night, accommodating up to four guests—roughly $88 per person.
The bungalows sit above a sheltered lagoon, surrounded by vibrant coral reefs. Snorkel, fish, or paddle through crystal waters teeming with marine life.
It’s a barefoot luxury vibe, where the biggest decision is whether to watch the sunset from your deck or the beach.
6. Bird Island, Belize
Four hours from Belize’s mainland, Bird Island is a remote stunner surrounded by clear waters and blue skies. For $795 per night, it hosts up to eight guests—about $99 per person.
Snorkel over coral reefs, kayak to nearby cays, or grill your fresh catch in the island’s kitchen. No air conditioning, and hermit crabs might wander through, but the trade-off is pure tranquility.
It’s a bucket-list escape for those who don’t mind a little ruggedness for big rewards.
7. Estrada Island, Lake Nicaragua, Nicaragua
Near Granada in Lake Nicaragua, Estrada Island offers a tropical escape for $150 per night, housing up to six guests—around $25 per person. The private villa overlooks the lake, with kayaks for exploring its waters or swimming to cool off.
The island’s lush surroundings and vibrant birdlife make it a haven for nature lovers. It’s a laid-back retreat where you can sip coffee on the porch and pretend the world’s far away.
8. Little Raccoon Key, Georgia, USA
Off Georgia’s coast, Little Raccoon Key is a hidden oasis in a marine reserve, costing about $525 per night for up to four guests—around $131 per person (slightly over $100, but worth mentioning for its charm).
Stay in an overwater bungalow surrounded by pristine waters. Snorkel, fish, or explore the reserve’s ecosystems. It’s a secluded spot where the ocean sets the rhythm, and you’ll feel like you’ve claimed a secret corner of the world.
9. Little Peter Oasis, Belize
Off Belize’s coast, Little Peter Oasis is a coral-fringed haven perfect for a tropical escape. This private island, ideal for couples or small groups, offers a cozy cabin for up to four at $280 per night—about $70 per person.
Snorkel in vibrant reefs, kayak through turquoise waters, or unwind on powdery beaches. Located near the Belize Barrier Reef, it’s a paradise for marine lovers. With no staff, it’s just you and nature, making it a dreamy, budget-friendly retreat.
10. Plocica Island, Croatia
Nestled between Korcula and Hvar in Croatia’s Adriatic, Plocica Island offers solitude at the historic Plocica Lighthouse, built in 1887.
The lighthouse sleeps 14 in two apartments for $260 per night—around $19 per person. Dive or fish in clear waters, relax on sandy northern beaches, or soak in views under ancient fig trees.
A 10-25 minute boat ride from Prigradica (extra $130 roundtrip) gets you there. Off-grid with no shops, it’s a perfect castaway escape on a budget.
Why These Islands Are Worth It
Renting a private island for under $100 per person per night isn’t just about affordability—it’s about the experience. Whether it’s snorkeling in Belize’s marine reserves, hiking Maine’s wooded trails, or feasting on fresh seafood in the Philippines, these islands deliver memories that far outweigh their cost.
Many, like Brother Island or Blackbird Island, offer rates as low as $25-$38 per person when split among a group, making them cheaper than some urban hotels. Others, like Hideaway Caye, lean into tropical luxury without the hefty price tag.
A few tips: book early, as these hidden gems fill up fast, especially in peak seasons. Check for minimum stay requirements (some, like Brother Island, ask for two nights).
And don’t shy away from off-grid options—they often come with the lowest prices and the most authentic vibes. Whether you’re craving a rustic cabin or an overwater bungalow, there’s an island here calling your name.
So, gather your friends, pack your swimsuit, and pick your paradise. These ten islands prove you don’t need a billionaire’s budget to live the private island dream. Where will you escape to first?
**Please note that this post may contain affiliate links. When booking through one of our links, we earn a small kickback at no extra cost to you and it’s a big help to keep the site up and running.
