Renting An Island In Belize: Is It Possible?

Renting a private island in Belize is a possibility, and it might be more affordable than you think. There are several islands available for rent, with prices depending on the size of the island, the number of guests, and the amenities included. Some islands offer all-inclusive packages with meals, drinks, and activities, while others provide more flexibility. These islands are typically located just off the coast of Belize and can be accessed by boat or helicopter. So, if you're dreaming of a private island getaway with white sand beaches, palm trees, and turquoise waters, it might be time to start planning your trip to Belize!

Private island rental costs

The cost of renting a private island in Belize varies depending on the size of the island, the number of guests it can accommodate, the location, and the amenities included. Here is a breakdown of the costs mentioned in the sources:

Coco Plum Island

Coco Plum Island is an adult-only resort that can accommodate approximately 36 guests. They offer an exclusive island rental package that starts at $112,392 for 7 nights during the low season. This package includes daily meals, unlimited local drinks, accommodations, local airfare, adventure tours, and taxes. Please note that this price is for a group of 36 people, so the cost per person will be significantly lower.

Ray Caye

Ray Caye offers a whole island rental package that includes accommodation for up to 40 guests, meals, drinks, snorkelling gear, and various water activities. The rate for this package is USD $20,000 per night from November through May, with a minimum stay requirement of three nights.

Little Harvest Caye

Little Harvest Caye is a private island off the coast of Placencia Peninsula. While they do not mention the price, they state that the cost is affordable, especially when split between guests. The island can accommodate up to 14 guests, and the package includes most amenities and transfers, but food and drinks are paid separately.

The Enclave

The Enclave is a 2-acre private island located just off the shore of Placencia. They do not mention specific prices, but they state that the cost is affordable for large groups. The island can accommodate up to 18 adults and 10 children, and the package includes meals, drinks, and various water activities.

Gladden Caye Private Island

Gladden Caye is a secluded resort located 20 miles off the east coast of Belize. The villa is designed for couples, accommodating up to 4 guests. While they do not mention specific prices, they emphasise that the staff provides all the expected services, including cooking, cleaning, and concierge. The price includes spa facilities and various water activities.

Kanu Private Island

Kanu Private Island can accommodate up to 20 guests and is located just 15 minutes off the Placencia Peninsula. They do not mention specific prices, but they highlight that the island features five 1,000-square-foot villas and an on-site chef.

Little Peter Oasis

Little Peter Oasis is located less than 6 miles from the Belize City coastline. The 3-acre property can accommodate up to 4 guests and includes 3 meals per day prepared by an on-site chef, local alcoholic drinks, and caretaker service. They do not mention specific prices, but they emphasise the inclusion of a private lagoon and various water activities.

Royal Belize

Royal Belize is a luxury private island located less than 10 miles from the coastal town of Dangriga. The island can accommodate between 10 to 16 guests and includes tailored dining, snacks, non-alcoholic and local alcoholic drinks, and a team of staff members. Airport transfers and various water activities are also included in the package. They do not mention specific prices, but they highlight the luxury nature of the island.

Cayo Espanto

Cayo Espanto is a 4-acre private island located a few minutes off the coast of San Pedro. They do not mention specific prices, but they state that the all-inclusive rates include personal butler service, 3 meals per day, drinks (excluding wine and champagne), airport greeting, boat launch to/from San Pedro, and non-motorised activities. The island can accommodate up to 18 guests if booked entirely.

Coral Caye

Coral Caye is a 2-acre island located 8 miles from Placencia. They do not mention specific prices, but they emphasise the simplicity of the island experience. The rate includes round-trip boat transfers, meals, a private chef, and a personal attendant. The houses are equipped for activities such as fishing, snorkelling, and picnics, and additional tours can be booked separately.

What's included in the package

Renting an island in Belize can be a dream come true, and there are many options to choose from. Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway, a family reunion, or a group vacation, you can find the perfect private island rental that suits your needs. Here's what's typically included in the package when you rent an island in Belize:

Accommodations

The number of accommodations varies depending on the island you choose. Some islands offer multiple villas or cabanas, while others provide a single large residence. For example, Coco Plum Island offers 18 standalone cabanas, each with a king-sized bed, and premium suite options that can accommodate additional guests. Little Harvest Caye features five private suites, while Ray Caye offers various units, including island houses, oceanfront cabanas, villas, and honeymoon suites.

Meals and Drinks

Most island rental packages include meals and drinks. You can expect three meals a day, typically prepared by an on-site chef, along with bar snacks and unlimited local beverages. Some packages may also include packed lunches for tours. Imported cocktails and wines are usually available for purchase and may not be included in the package price.

Transportation

Transportation to and from the island is typically included in the package. This may include local airport transfers, such as round-trip flights between Philip Goldson International Airport in Belize City and Dangriga, as well as boat transfers to and from the island. Some islands, like Manta Island, offer meet-and-greet services at the airport to facilitate transportation to the resort.

Activities and Amenities

Private islands in Belize offer a range of activities and amenities to enhance your stay. Many packages include complimentary use of water sports equipment, such as kayaks, snorkel gear, stand-up paddle boards, and small boats. Some islands also provide exclusive access to beautiful beaches, yoga palapas, and marine reserves for snorkelling. Additionally, you may find islands that offer special tours, such as the Mayan Ruins of Xunantunich or zip-lining and cave tubing in the Belize rainforest.

Staff and Services

Belize's private islands typically come with a dedicated staff to cater to your needs. This includes chefs, housekeeping staff, and concierge services. Some islands may also provide a licensed boat captain and an on-site manager. Staff members are usually discreet and reside on separate parts of the island or on nearby islands to ensure your privacy.

Additional Services

Depending on the island and package you choose, you may have the option to add on special services or request customisations. This could include private candlelit dinners, massage services, wedding packages, adventure tours, and more.

When renting an island in Belize, be sure to carefully review the package inclusions and fine print to understand exactly what is and isn't included in the price. Each island offers a unique experience, so you can find the perfect one that suits your preferences and budget.

How to book

Booking a private island in Belize is easier than you might think. There are a variety of options available, depending on your budget and the size of your party.

Most private islands in Belize can be booked through either Airbnb or Vrbo. Some islands, such as Coco Plum Island, require you to book directly with their reservation team. It is recommended that you reserve your chosen island at least six months to two years in advance of your stay.

Payment

A deposit is usually required at the time of reservation, typically around 25% of the total cost. The remaining balance is then due between 120 days and one month before your arrival. Payments are usually made via check or wire transfer.

What's Included

The cost of renting a private island in Belize typically includes accommodation, meals, drinks, transportation to and from the island, and use of any water sports equipment. Some islands also offer additional tours and activities, such as snorkelling trips, jungle tours, and zip-lining, which may be included in the package price or available to add on for an extra cost.

Example Booking Process

• Contact the reservation team via the website, email, or phone.
• Choose between a whole island rental or a half-island rental.
• Select your preferred accommodation options from the list provided.
• Pay the required deposit and remaining balance by the specified due dates.
• Arrive at your chosen island and enjoy your stay!

Island amenities

Coco Plum Island

Coco Plum Island is an adult-only resort that accommodates approximately 36 guests. It offers two types of cabanas: standard and premium suite-style. The package includes daily meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), unlimited local bar beverages, local airfare, adventure tours, hotel and sales taxes, and exclusive use of the island's beaches.

Ray Caye

Ray Caye offers a full-service restaurant and bar, a library of non-motorized water toys, and the option to add adventure tours. The whole island rental includes ground transfer to/from Placencia Airport, a boat ride to the island, accommodation in various units, meals (breakfast, lunch, and 3-course dinner), drinks (including local beers and rums), personal snorkel gear, a snorkel tour to Silk Caye Marine Reserve, and use of kayaks, paddleboards, and Hobie Cat.

Little Harvest Caye

Little Harvest Caye features a main living area with a bar and kitchen, as well as five separate suites that can accommodate up to 14 guests. The package includes round-trip boat transfers, meals, and drinks, but food and drinks are paid separately. The island has an on-island team for housekeeping, catering, and other activities.

The Enclave

The Enclave adjoins Placencia Caye and can accommodate up to 18 adults and 10 children. It features two main living areas and seven beachfront bedrooms. The package includes meals, concierge services, and cleaning, with on-island staff to assist.

Gladden Caye Private Island

Gladden Caye is a secluded resort geared towards couples (up to 4 guests) seeking peace and quiet. The staff reside on an adjacent island and offer cooking, cleaning, and concierge services. The package includes spa facilities, snorkeling, scuba diving, and transfer to and from the island.

Kanu Private Island

Kanu Private Island accommodates up to 20 people and features five 1,000-square-foot villas with a central area that includes a living room, kitchen, freshwater swimming pool, and bar. The package includes meals prepared by in-house chefs who respect your privacy by staying on adjacent islands.

Little Peter Oasis

Little Peter Oasis is located less than 6 miles from the Belize City coastline and features a semi-overwater bungalow that can accommodate up to 4 people. The package includes three meals per day prepared by an on-site chef, local alcoholic drinks, and caretaker service. The island also has its own 30-foot deep private lagoon, and paddle boarding, snorkeling, and fishing activities are available.

These are just a few examples of the amenities offered by private islands in Belize. Each island provides a unique experience with a range of inclusions to make your stay enjoyable and memorable.

Island location

Belize is home to a number of private islands that can be rented, most of which lie far south of Belize City, somewhere between Placencia/Coco Plum Island and the Belize Barrier Reef. The Belize Barrier Reef is the world's second-longest barrier reef system, so if you're looking for a tropical island paradise, this is it!

One of the most private islands you can rent is Gladden Private Island, located 20 miles off the coast of Placencia, just behind the barrier reef. This exclusive 1-acre private island can accommodate up to 4 people and is designed with a couple in mind. The staff resides on an island behind Gladden, so they can be on hand to help but will remain unseen during your stay.

If you're looking for something a little more affordable, Bird Island Belize is a tiny private island that accommodates up to 6 guests in a 1200-square-foot lodge. This island sits upon a pristine coral atoll 6 miles from the mainland and offers privacy and reef snorkelling at a surprisingly low price.

For larger groups, there are a number of islands that can accommodate up to 30 or more guests. Coco Plum Island, for example, can be rented out for exclusive use and comfortably accommodates approximately 36 guests. Ray Caye can host up to 50 guests and features a full-service restaurant and bar, a library of non-motorized water toys, and the availability of add-on adventure tours.

For something a little more luxurious, Royal Belize is a private island located less than 10 miles from the coastal town of Dangriga. The island features three villas and can accommodate between 10 and 16 people. As part of the all-inclusive deal, guests can tailor their dining experience and get access to a range of snacks, non-alcoholic drinks, and local alcoholic drinks.

So, if you're dreaming of renting your own private island in Belize, there are plenty of options to choose from, whether you're looking for a romantic getaway for two or a large group celebration.

Frequently asked questions