We’ve all heard Airbnb nightmares from disappointed travellers who opt for a room in a stranger’s home…
So next time you book a trip away, why not book your own private island?! Um yeah, you heard that right. Thanks to Islands.com for curating this to-die-for list of private island rentals. It’s so great, we just had to share it with you, our tribe of Freedom Hackers. Here goes…
1) Popa Island, Panama
The Urraca Private Island Eco-Lodge is so far off the beaten path that the only way to get there is by boat. With 9 beds and room for 14 guests, it is the perfect place to escape with your adventure squad. Tucked in the Amazon wilderness, this eco-gem offers an authentic Bocatorenian vibe, complete with Toutie, the capuchin monkey, and Maki, the squirrel monkey, who will greet you upon arrival. Powered by solar energy, this eco-lodge offers the perfect blend of nature and comfortable amenities… including wifi, a sun-bathing deck, bar, tapas restaurant, and your very own swimming pool located approximately 360 degrees around your bungalow. Nightly rate: ~ $175USD. Photo courtesy of Airbnb user, Francine.
2) El Nido, Philippines
When the zombie apocalypse hits, I’m pretty sure this is exactly where I want to be. This Brother Island escape can house up to 10 guests and comes with it’s own staff (including a masseuse). The island, located in the Sulu Sea, is about 2,000 square meters in size. One third of the island is covered with white silky sand and coconut trees. The rest of the island is covered by a small rainforest with various jungle paths, a hilltop banyan house for “secluded experiences” (hint, hint). Food is included in your nightly rate and includes healthy Philippino cuisine. Since you’ll be the only guests staying on the island, they do not have a menu but will prepare whatever you’d like to eat! How cool is that? Drinks are not included but can be purchased with cash, so be sure to bring plenty of it. Nightly rate: ~ $442USD. Photo courtesy of Airbnb user, Alfred Lee.
3) Vesterøy, Østfold, Norway
To answer your question… YES! You CAN rent a private island in the beautiful archipelago of Hvaler in Norway. This marina-side beauty has 2 beds and hosts up to 5 guests (hm, that’s cozy!) and even comes with it’s own boat! It’s completely off the grid but don’t fret Instagrammers, there is a solar-powered 12v power supply available for charging your phone/iPad. Unfortunately, you will have charge your laptop at a nearby grocery store or restaurant. Also, there is no wifi… so if you’re a digital nomad, this might not be the place for you. Unless you plan to totally unplug and not shower for a few days. Did I mention there is no running water? Ah, a small price to pay for complete relaxation and peace, I say! Bring 4 friends along and you’ll pay only $23.80USD/night. Fun Fact: This island has the highest number of sunny days per year in Norway! Nightly rate: ~ $119USD. Photo courtesy of Airbnb user, Eivind.
4) Port Vila, Shefa Province, Vanuatu
Oooooo so fancy. Now this is what I’m talking about. Endless stretches of white sandy beach, delicious farm-to-table home cooked meals, a full time staff, and a luxury lodge that accommodates up to 12! Yes please! And before you go scoffing at the price, they do offer weekly and monthly deals. This bad ass piece of Vanuatu land located in the Coral Sea (which is between Australia and Fiji btw) can be yours for 30 whole nights for just $24000USD. Nightly rate: ~ $1500USD. Photo courtesy of Airbnb user, Amy.
5) Ilha Grande, Brazil
Ok, so I lied. This is actually TWO private islands, connected by a bamboo foot bridge. My bad. Ilha Grande is a beautiful tropical island off the coast of Angra Dos Reis, Brazil (2 hours from Rio de Janeiro). An exquisite home nestled in the natural flora and fauna, this piece of Brazilian paradise is the perfect getaway. The home has 4 bedrooms, each with their own bathrooms. 5 canoes are available to explore the islands and hammocks hang in the veranda for quiet afternoons with a good book and tasty cocktail prepared for you by some Brazilian goddess who goes by the name of Ana Paula. Um, hello. What more could you ask for? Nightly rate: ~ $887USD. Photo courtesy of Airbnb user, Francesca.
6) Bird Island, Belize
Ok, this one takes the cake as our fave! It’s like a Mermaid’s Paradise. Bird Island is just 20 minutes away from the village of Placencia, Belize. It is a small island that sits inside a coral-reef, making it’s beautiful protected waters absolutely glorious for swimming, kayaking and snorkeling. There’s a well-stocked pantry but you do need to bring your own meals and drinks. There’s a fire pit, BBQ and wifi! AH-MAZE-BALLS. Nightly rate: ~ $350USD. Photo courtesy of Airbnb user, Fred.
So there you have it! 6 Private Islands you can rent on Airbnb TODAY to travel the world like a millionaire, for as little as $23.80/night! Boom.
You’re welcome.
The Freedom Team
