Private islands are the ultimate indulgence, more than luxury hotels, expensive London or New York homes, gourmet meals at the most expensive restaurants and so on. The most expensive private islands for sale are even more of an indulgence. Even ultra high net worth individuals would think twice or thrice before inking a deal. The most expensive private island on this list costs an almost unbelievable $110 million. But even the cheapest one – Barnard Island which costs $55,000 – is no bargain. If you are looking to buy an island, and money is not an issue, take a look at the 11 most expensive private islands for sale today.
1. Cave Cay
Where: Exuma Cays, The Bahamas
Price: $110 million
If you are thinking of buying an island, chances are that budget is not a factor. However, Cave Cay in Exuma Cays is no ordinary private island. It is arguably the most expensive private island for sale in the world. The $110 million list price will leave even millionaires wondering about whether or not they can afford it. Located in the Bahamas, in the waters just southeast of Nassau, Cave Cay is one of the most expensive private islands that money can buy. The 250-acre island has a harbor and a runway, which makes traveling to other islands a breeze. Cave Cay houses a number of buildings, though many remain incomplete. Sadly, the private island has been on the market for over a year now. Maybe it’s the price tag?
2. Private Island Paradise
Where: Exuma Cays, The Bahamas
Price: $75 million
The name says it all! This 38-acre private island in Central Bahamas is a true paradise. Not only is it surrounded by a blue ocean and incredible natural beauty, but Private Island Paradise also houses all the modern amenities that a luxury buyer might require. The main residence is a beautiful manor house with spacious verandahs. Additionally, there is a cottage by the beach, the so-called Harbormaster House and a pair of guesthouses. It is the perfect holiday destination for large families of up to 22 members. There are also staff quarters that can accommodate 29 people. There is also a working lighthouse, a helipad and docks. At $75 million, this may well be one of the most expensive private islands for sale, but it seems worth the price.
3. Children’s Bay Cay
Where: Exuma Cays, The Bahamas
Price: $37.5 million
The 365-island archipelago of Exuma Cays is known for its remote and uninhabited islands. You will find plenty of natural beauty, but few pulsating nightclubs and Michelin-star restaurants. Many of the islands lack even airport facilities. While many would baulk at the remoteness of the islands, business tycoons and wealthy celebrities are flocking to the region, in the hope of buying a private island. Among the most expensive private islands for sale here and anywhere else is the Children’s Bay Cay. Heirs of the Johnson & Johnson family are the current owners of this beautiful island. The island had its tryst with Hollywood in the 1950s and 1960s, when actors Jessica Tandy and Hume Cronyn treated it as their favorite holiday destination.
4. Allan Island
Where: San Juan, Puerto Rico
Price: $13.5 million
Technology tycoons are among the richest people in today’s world. And being super-wealthy involves flaunting your wealth in every possible way, including buying the most expensive private islands for sale. Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen did just that. But he is now looking to sell the so-called Allan Island. The 292-acre island is located to the south-west of Washington. Allen purchased the island in 1992 and carried out extensive construction and renovations. This beach paradise now houses a wooden holiday home, an airstrip and a dock. According to reports, Allen is planning to sell this island and buy another one. The island had appeared on the market in 2005 with an asking price of $25 million. It was withdrawn for lack of buyers. The private island is currently listed at $13.5 million.
5. East Sister Rock Island
Where: Florida Keys, USA
Price: $12 million
Located only a quarter mile away from the city of Marathon and two hours from Miami, the secluded East Sister Rock Island enjoys the best of both worlds – it is both well-connected and private. This most expensive private island for sale houses a spacious residence with over 5,000 square feet of living space (including a 2,700-square-foot verandah). The island also has a boat dock and a helipad. The island is surrounded by coral reef and is a nature lover’s delight. Snorkeling, scuba diving and various other water sports are a given. You could also go fishing on the 21-foot Carolina skiff, which is included in the sale.
6. Pearl Island
Where: Panama
Price: $800,000 to $2 million
Pearl Island is located only 20 minutes from Panama City, yet they boast of incredible natural beauty. The 6,000-year-old island is currently being developed by Dolphin Capital Investors and Panamanian Grupo Eleta. If the developers have their way, Pearl Island is set to become a luxury getaway that the world’s superrich will love. It will house private villas of two to four bedrooms spread over 1 to 2 acres. The island will also house a spa, tennis courts, a beach club and an equestrian center, among other things. But the USP is the island’s untouched ecosystem. Humpback whales, turtles and hundred of species of fish can be spotted here.
7. Isla Paraiso
Where: Chile
Price: $850,000
If you are looking for one of the most expensive private islands for sale, head to exotic Chile. The South American nation is home to the aptly named Isla Paraiso. Spread over 4.9 acres, this beautiful island is located on the waters of the spectacular Lake Calafquen. The living quarters are just as beautiful. On the island stands a fully-furnished three-bedroom house. And unlike some of the entries on this list, the island has electricity. The island comes with a motorboat and a rowboat to ensure that you remain linked to the bustle of civilization.
8. 42 Birch Island
Where: Greenville, Maine, USA
Price: $650,000
Why should you buy 42 Birch Island now? Because it is selling at a hugely discounted price! When the island first hit the markets it was priced at a staggering $1.5 million. We are looking at a discount of over 50 percent. The island, which is situated on scenic Moose Lake, is spread over six acres. It houses a main residence with two bedrooms and a bath. There is also a one-bedroom guesthouse on the island. One big disadvantage is the lack of electricity, but the island has telephone access. There are also two motorboats and a canoe if you should like to sail out at anytime.
9. Diamond Cay
Where: Honduras
Price: $650,000
Diamond Cay has the same list price as 42 Birch Island. But if you go by the price per acre, Diamond Cay is more expensive; for while 42 Birch Islands boasts of six acres, Diamond Cay offers only 1.4 acres. However, if you are looking to get away from it all, this secluded island is the perfect investment. As one of the most expensive private islands for sale, Diamond Cay is also well located. For all its remoteness, the island is only 20 minutes away from the East Harbor of Honduras. It is also close to Utila island, which has an airport. Unfortunately, Diamond Cay lacks running water and electricity. But the natural scenic beauty and coral reefs make up for everything. The island houses rustic cabins that make for a unique living experience.
10. Dokis Marina Island
Where: Ontario, Canada
Price: $237,000
The Dokis Marina Island is probably the tiniest of the most expensive private islands for sale mentioned in this article. Measuring in at only half an acre, this Canadian private island is situated in the French Lake-Lake Nipissing area. If you want to get to the mainland, the Dokis Marina is only a short boat ride away. The island may be tiny, but it has a picturesque charm. The one-bedroom cottage on Dokis Marina Island is equipped with propane heating. And if you want to bring guests over, there is an additional guesthouse that can accommodate four people. If you ask me, this is a great vacation getaway for just the family.
11. Barnard Island
Where: Citrus County, Florida, USA
Price: $55,000
Even the least expensive entry on our list of the most expensive private islands for sale is by no means affordable. The asking price of $55,000 ensures that only the supremely wealthy could consider buying it. Yet, this is a considerably marked down price. When Barnard Island first hit the market, it was listed at $93,000. The 5.2-acre island is located in the Tsala Apoka Lake near Hernando. Its location is a big plus, for Walt Disney World is only 45 minutes away. Developers especially stand to benefit from investing in Barnard Island. There is plenty of area on which to build. I would not be surprised to see this private island transformed into a luxury island resort some years from now.
Private islands like these can only be afforded by the ultra-wealthy. But even you could start saving or get ready to win the sweepstakes. Which of these most expensive private islands for sale sets your heart racing?
