By Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon
CJ Travel Editor
Having a private island is the classic Caribbean dream. But the private island experience isn’t always as expensive as you think. We’ve found 5 private-island Paradises without over-the-top prices. Some are open only for day visits; others boast sumptuous accommodations you can settle into for a week-long escape from the everyday. But all offer that delicious sense of seclusion and the distinct castaway vibe that every island-seeker craves. Here’s our pick of some great affordable private island options in the Caribbean, all starting at less than $300 a night.
Saba Rock, British Virgin Islands This lively North Sound restaurant with eight surprisingly swanky suites (plus another debuting in time for the winter season) packs a whole lotta fun (including a tiny beach and one of the BVI’s best boutiques) into its quarter-acre footprint.
Yok Ha, Belize This resort consists of a collection of cabana-style accomodations, all with views of the beach and the sea and oceanfront verandahs.
Cooper Island Beach Club, British Virgin Islands Whether you’re a yachtie, diver or simply in search of some beachy R&R, you’ll love this 10-room “eco-luxe” retreat, where you’ll while away the day bouncing between the restaurant, the rum bar (one of the BVI’s best) and the splendid sands of Manchioneel Bay.
Urraca Private Island, Panama Set in the heart of the raw, beautiful Bocas del Toro archipelago off the Caribbean coast of Panama, this eco-lodge consists of overwater bungalows on a private mangrove island. It’s not the private island experience you’re used to — it’s something very, very different.
Hatchet Caye Resort, Belize Looking for a private island minus the pretension? Head for this oasis an hour east of Placencia, where a dozen rooms, as many beaches, and blissful seclusion are guaranteed.