Rent the Whole Place: 5 Private Islands in the US You Can Actually Afford

Renting a private island always sounded like a fantasy to me—something reserved for celebrities or lottery winners. But, honestly, it’s not as out of reach as you might think.

You can actually rent an entire private island in the US for as little as $47 to $100 per person per night if you split the cost with friends or family. These hidden gems are scattered across places like Florida, Maine, New York, and Minnesota, and you can book them right now on popular rental platforms.

I’ve spent hours scrolling through listings and comparing dozens of private islands that won’t empty your bank account. Most of these affordable islands accommodate 4 to 20 guests, so the total nightly price isn’t as scary when you divide it up.

Some offer rustic cottages powered by solar panels, while others have full homes with hot tubs, docks, and kitchens that make cooking together part of the fun.

The best part? These islands give you real privacy and experiences you just can’t get at a typical hotel or rental. Kayaking, fishing, swimming, wandering through wild nature—no crowds, no strangers, just your group and the outdoors.

Key Takeaways

• Private islands in the US can go for $47-$100 per person per night when you split the bill with a group.
• You’ll find these affordable options in several states and can book them on Airbnb, Vrbo, and similar sites.
• Accommodations range from simple solar-powered cottages to fully equipped homes with hot tubs and docks.

What Makes a Private Island Rental Affordable?

Private island rentals become budget-friendly when you team up with friends or family and pick places with simple amenities in accessible locations. The trick is finding islands that feel exclusive but don’t come with a luxury price tag.

Typical Cost Ranges and Group Savings

I’ve seen affordable private island rentals in the US go for anywhere from $100 to $521 per night. Split that among a group, and suddenly the price per person drops a lot.

For instance, a $349-per-night island that sleeps 10 works out to just $35 each. That’s less than most hotel rooms. Even smaller properties can still be budget-friendly. A $175-per-night spot for four people comes to about $44 per person.

Booking islands with higher occupancy limits gives you the best bang for your buck. Bring your extended family or your whole friend group, and the experience (and cost) gets better. Most affordable islands host 6-10 guests, perfect for group adventures.

Just keep in mind, some places require a minimum stay of 2-3 nights, so factor that into your budget planning.

Comparing Amenities and Value

Affordable private islands usually stick to the basics. You’ll often get a full kitchen, which helps save money on meals. Sleeping arrangements tend to be simple—think A-frame cabins or small cottages with a handful of bedrooms.

Utilities can be limited. Some places skip air conditioning, flushing toilets, or even running water. Compost toilets and outdoor showers are common. You might need to bring your own linens and towels.

But honestly, the trade-off is worth it. You get exclusive access to acres of land, beaches, and trails. Kayaking, fishing, and campfires are usually on the menu. Some places even throw in fire pits, outdoor grills, and basic furniture.

Location and Accessibility Factors

Where the island sits plays a big role in the price. Islands in Maine, Massachusetts, Minnesota, and North Carolina tend to cost less than those in tropical hot spots. You’ll often find these affordable picks in lakes, rivers, or along the coast—places that don’t require expensive flights.

How you get there matters too. Most affordable islands are only reachable by boat. Sometimes the host provides a water taxi, but often you’ll need to arrange your own ride or rent a kayak. That boat-only access keeps prices down, though it adds a little extra hassle.

Islands closer to town make things easier. You can grab groceries or rent gear nearby. If you go for a remote spot, you might save on nightly rates but spend more getting there and stocking up.

Top 5 Private Islands in the US You Can Actually Afford

Here are five islands that keep things affordable and deliver a totally unique experience. Each one costs under $100 per person per night if you fill every bed.

Old House Cay, South Carolina: Eco-Friendly Off-Grid Retreat

Old House Cay is just a 10-minute boat ride from Hilton Head Island. You’re not just getting one island here—there are actually several connected by walkways.

The main island has an off-grid house that sleeps up to six guests.

Nightly Rate: Starting at $589 (about $98 per guest)

You can wander from the main island to two smaller ones via wooden paths. One leads to the boat dock, the other lets you explore a bit more. I loved hanging out on the patio and soaking in the intercoastal waterway views.

Fishing and crabbing right off the dock? Absolutely. You can cook your catch for dinner. Swimming’s popular too. Sure, you’ll rely on alternative power, but the house covers all the essentials for a comfortable stay.

Sands Island Refuge, North Carolina: Kayaker’s Hideaway

Locals also call Sands Island Refuge “Ski Beach.” It sits just off Cedar Point, surrounded by salt marshes. You can only get there by canoe or kayak, so it’s a dream for paddlers.

Nightly Rate: Starting at $325 (about $81 per guest)

A two-bedroom, solar-powered cottage is the only building on the island. It sleeps up to four people. If you’ve got a kayak, launch from the NC Wildlife Boat Ramp. No kayak? Swansboro has rentals.

Those marshes create a super peaceful vibe, and the wildlife watching is top-notch. The cottage keeps things simple, running entirely on solar power.

Strand Island, Minnesota: Family-Friendly Lake Escape

Strand Island covers 45 acres on Pelican Lake near Orr, Minnesota. It’s the biggest island on this list and, surprisingly, one of the cheapest per person. Up to 20 guests can stay across two cabins.

Nightly Rate: Starting at $930 (about $47 per guest)

The main cabin is over a century old but has been totally remodeled. It’s got eight bedrooms. There’s also a smaller, 75-year-old log cabin for extra space. Most of the island is wild forest—plenty of room to roam.

Fishing from the dock is a favorite here. You can kayak around the island or paddle to Big Island, a state-managed preserve. It’s a solid pick for big family gatherings or friend reunions.

Juggler Lake Near Itasca State Park, Minnesota: Nature Lover’s Dream

Minnesota has several private island rentals, but this one near Itasca State Park is a standout for anyone who loves nature. It puts you close to one of the state’s most famous parks, but you still get your own private retreat.

Starting Rate: Under $100 per person (depends on season and group size)

Itasca State Park is where the Mississippi River begins, which adds a cool twist to your trip. Take a day to explore the park’s trails and history, then return to your quiet island.

You can fish, swim, and watch for wildlife right from your doorstep. The area is known for loons, eagles, and all sorts of birds. The forested setting feels like classic north woods.

Island Lake Retreat in Poulsbo, Washington: Accessible Northwest Getaway

From the shore, this private island on Island Lake looks like a cluster of pine trees. Hidden among them, there’s a three-bedroom house that sleeps up to six.

Nightly Rate: Starting at $339 (about $57 per guest)

The best part? You get true island seclusion but you’re still close to Poulsbo for supplies or a little exploring.

Kayaking is the main event on Island Lake. Fishing’s great, too. I really like that you can grill your catch over a campfire at night. This island gives you a real escape without needing to trek deep into the wilderness.

Experiences and Activities for Island Guests

Private island rentals in the US often come with watercraft and outdoor gear, so you can explore at your own pace. Most include kayaks, rowboats, or canoes in the rental price. Some even offer pontoon boats or motorboats for a fee.

Boating and Fishing Opportunities

I’ve noticed that lots of private islands throw in basic watercraft like rowboats or jon boats for free. Places like Juggler Lake and Strand Island rent out pontoon boats for around $200 per stay. That gives you the freedom to cruise bigger waters and find fishing spots you can’t reach from shore.

Most spots don’t provide fishing gear, so bring your own rods and tackle. Lakes like Pelican and Birch Island Lake are known for solid fishing. If you’ve got your own boat, many islands have docks where you can tie up.

Kayaking and Paddleboarding

Most rentals include at least two kayaks. Places in Bremen, Maine and Poulsbo, Washington, for example, provide kayaks so you can explore nearby coves. Some islands near coastal towns are close enough to paddle to a restaurant or shop—how’s that for a grocery run?

Paddleboard rentals aren’t always on-site, but if you’re near touristy areas like Swansboro, North Carolina, you can rent one nearby. The calm waters around these islands are perfect for beginners. Some, like Dodd Island in Massachusetts, sit on clear, shallow reservoirs—great for learning water sports.

Wildlife Watching and Hiking

If you love wildlife, look for islands near protected areas. Holly Bluff Island in Virginia is home to eagles, ospreys, and even seals in certain seasons. Islands near state forests often have trails for hiking.

Heavily wooded spots like Republic Island in Michigan have trails through old-growth forests. With water and woods, you’ll spot everything from aquatic birds to deer or foxes during early morning walks.

Essential Tips for Booking an Affordable Private Island

Booking a private island takes some planning, but it’s totally doable. You’ll get the best deal when you fill every bed, and factors like transportation and seasonal timing can make a big difference.

How to Maximize Group Size for Cost Savings

Fill every available bed—seriously. A $930-per-night island that sleeps 20 works out to just $46.50 per person. If you only bring four people, the price jumps to $232.50 each.

Splitting costs with friends or family usually makes private islands cheaper than hotels. Most charge a flat nightly rate no matter how many people stay, so the more the merrier.

It’s smart to set up a cost-sharing agreement before you book. List the nightly rate, transportation, and any extra fees like boat rentals or cleaning. This keeps everyone on the same page and avoids awkward money talks later.

Evaluating Transportation and Access

Check how you’ll get to the island before booking. Some rentals include a ferry or boat, while others expect you to figure it out.

Islands close to shore—just a 10-minute kayak or rowboat ride—keep transportation costs low. I usually skip places that require pricey water taxis or special boat rentals unless it fits my budget.

I also look at how far the island is from airports or big cities. Being near Hilton Head or Burlington makes things easier than somewhere that needs multiple connections. The journey to the island matters as much as the nightly rate.

Reviewing Island Policies and Seasonal Considerations

Always read the fine print. Some affordable islands don’t have running water or electricity, which can be a dealbreaker for some. Others include WiFi and hot water.

Check what’s included and what costs extra. Kayaks and rowboats are often free, but pontoon boats or ATVs can run $200 or more per day.

Booking during off-peak seasons can save you a lot. Spring and fall are usually cheaper than summer, and weekdays beat weekends for deals. Pet policies vary, too—some islands charge extra for pets, while others don’t allow them at all.

Amenities and Comforts to Expect

When you rent a private island in the US, you’ll discover a surprising mix of comforts and rustic charm. Most places offer essential water gear and power solutions, so you get to soak up the wild without losing out on the basics.

Off-Grid and Eco-Friendly Features

A lot of affordable private island rentals run off-grid. I’ve seen solar lights everywhere on islands that don’t have regular electricity. Some hosts toss in a generator for those moments when you really need power.

In Rhode Island and North Carolina, you’ll find that rustic vibe. Instead of full electrical systems, you get gas grills and wood-burning stoves. Sometimes there’s no running water, so you’ll either collect rainwater or haul in your own supply.

Other islands manage to blend comfort and nature better. I’ve stayed at spots in Washington and Michigan that have WiFi and heated bathroom floors—definitely a treat after a chilly swim. Vermont’s rentals usually offer both indoor and outdoor showers, plus safe drinking water.

Rental Equipment: Boats and Water Gear

Most private island rentals toss in kayaks and boats as part of the deal. I’ve noticed two kayaks seem to be the standard. Rowboats often come with the property too, making it easy to get back to the mainland.

Minnesota rentals sometimes offer pontoon boats, but you’ll usually pay about $200 extra for those. Maine islands might give you three kayaks, with options to rent ATVs or powerboats if you’re feeling adventurous.

Wisconsin’s packages often include pontoon rentals. In Michigan, hosts usually toss in Jon boats and basic pontoons at no extra charge. Having this water gear means you can explore, fish, or just float around without worrying about extra transport.

Accommodation Styles: Cottages, Lodges, and Cabins

You’ll spot three main types of buildings on private islands. Log cabins pop up a lot in Maine and Minnesota, usually with high ceilings and stone fireplaces. Most have 3-5 bedrooms—plenty of space for a group.

A-frame cabins are a thing in Minnesota and Wisconsin. They feel open and modern, with big kitchens and porches for lazy afternoons. Some even come with jetted tubs or screened-in nooks.

Traditional cottages show up in Massachusetts and other New England spots. These cozy buildings often sit right on the water and keep things simple but comfy. West Virginia mixes cottage charm with modern perks like wrap-around porches and full kitchens.

Frequently Asked Questions

Renting a private island brings up a bunch of practical questions—costs, amenities, logistics. The answers really depend on where you’re headed and how many people you’re bringing.