Three Surprisingly Affordable (Semi-) Private Island Resorts – The Manual (blog)

The idea of a private island vacation is unthinkable for most mortal men (i.e. not Richard Branson). But, there are, in fact, several destinations around the world where average folk can secure a semi-private slice of tropical paradise. Here are just three of our favorites.

The British Virgin Islands are among the most beautiful tropical islands in the Caribbean. Peter Island Resort describes itself as paradise in paradise. Indeed, this 1,800-acre semi-private island offers an accessible form of luxury that feels just right for regular couples looking for a once-in-a-lifetime tropical vacation splurge. The massive island is home to no less than five long beaches one of which, Honeymoon Beach, is made available each day to a single couple who reserve in advance. Plus, theres a sea-view pool, two beautiful restaurants, a 10,000-square-foot spa overlooking a dramatic expanse of beach cliffs, and daily guided tours of the island. All these amenities are shared among just 53 rooms worth of guests. So, while the massive island isnt technically private, its easy to carve out a pristine stretch of sand all to yourself.

Pricing: deals can be found for just $450 USD/night per couple.

Anantara Medjumbe Island Resort/Facebook

Just off the northern coast of Mozambique, a handful of tiny, impossibly white islands dot the waters of the Quirimbas Archipelago. An hour from shore by prop plane, Medjumbe Island is just one mile long and, with only 13 rooms, its the closest most people will ever get to a real, private island escape. Guests of the islands only resort will find everything they need a gourmet restaurant, private hammocks, plunge pools, in-room spa treatments, and plenty of non-motorized watersports and nothing they dont (like cell phone reception). Plus, the island is minutes from some of the best diving and most beautiful coral reefs in the world. The best part: the island is exclusive to adults and children under 16 arent allowed.

Pricing: deals can be found for just $700 USD/night per couple.

In stark contrast to the over-the-top luxury found at most private island resorts, Hatchet Caye Resort offers a laid-back, toes-in-the-sand feel. The island is just a one-hour boat ride east of the touristic town of Placencia, but it feels worlds away from anywhere. The 12 villas are relaxed, but upscale, with flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and semi-private beaches with hammocks. Beyond that, this isnt your typical luxury getaway. Services on the tiny island are limited, but guests will find all the essentials an open-air restaurant/bar, a full PADI dive shop, and regular snorkeling and marine wildlife-watching tours to Belizes world-famous barrier reef just 30 minutes away.

Pricing: deals can be found for just $350 USD/night per couple.

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Three Surprisingly Affordable (Semi-) Private Island Resorts - The Manual (blog)