10 Countries Where You Can Buy Your Own Private Island
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An island of your very own might be the ultimate real estate fantasy. Some of us dream of a slice of tropical paradise; others imagine themselves on a Greek island, doing their best impression of Meryl Streep in Mama Mia. And while these dreams don’t come cheap, they aren't as expensive as you might think. You can buy your own island in these 10 countries for under $5 million—and one is less than a million. In other words, right around the same price as a tasteful townhouse in San Francisco.
Before you start shopping for an island abroad, it’s important to note that the rules of citizenship by investment are different in every country. While some countries are actively trying to encourage foreign investors to buy property, others have complicated legal systems and restrict visa applications. So before you slap a “sold” sign on your private island, be sure to check out the local rules for property ownership.
Italy
There’s a little island situated in the Tyrrhenian Sea, about 15 miles from the Palermo Airport, called “Isola delle Femmine”—the Island of Women. This 34-acre island, which is currently for sale for approximately $1.7 million, comes with a derelict watchtower and some fascinating lore. Legend has it that a ship full of Turkish women was set adrift at sea, and the women eventually landed on this island. There they lived in peace for seven years (hence the name). If ever there was an island meant for a chic women’s wellness retreat, I think we’ve found it.
Greece
If you, like me, have long pictured yourself living on a Greek island of your own like Donna from Mamma Mia, here’s your chance. The island of Panteleimona in the Chios Strait offers nine acres of unspoiled potential for a mere $4.2 million. The island is accessible by boat to the main settlement of Inousses in the Aegean Sea and boasts a road, a well for potable water, an electrical generator, and three small churches, each with their own unique history. Just imagine; you could live in a church while you build your dream house, as this island has already been approved for a development of up to 200 square meters.
Fiji
A private island of your own in Fiji, complete with a fully functional one bedroom cottage, waterfalls, coral reef, a natural spring, and an abundance of delicious fresh fruit for under $3 million? The island of Mai, just off the coast of the busy hub of Vanua Levu in the Macuata province of Fiji, is the very definition of paradise. Just bring your own hammock to swing on the porch and an appetite for coconuts, avocado, chocolate persimmons, and starfruit, all of which reportedly grow in abundance on this island.
Belize
For those looking for true solitude on their own white sand beaches for under $2 million, Belize is the place to go. There is currently an island for sale near Ambergris Caye for the bargain basement price of $1.3 million, and it’s close to Belize City. Now for this price you’ll have to build your own property on this five acre island, but there is already a little harbor and a canal so it’s almost like you’ll have your own version of Venice in Belize.
Ireland
Fans of the The Banshees of Inisherin rejoice, because that quaint Irish island life could be yours (minus Colin Farrell and Brendan Gleeson and, tragically, Jenny the donkey). Big Yellow Island off the coast of the bustling town of Athlone in central Ireland is for sale for just over $100,000. The island is situated 500 meters off the shore of Hodson Bay Hotel, Athlone Boat Club, and Lough Ree Yacht Club. Yes, you do need your own boat to get there as there are no amenities on the island at this point, but for that price it might well be worth the effort.
Panama
San Pedro Island in Panama really checks off every box. It's a massive, 4,655 acre island with a private tropical forest, multiple beaches, a gentle surf, and a fascinating array of wildlife, namely monkeys and sea turtles. That’s right, your own private island with wild monkeys for a cool $5 million. The island is only accessible by boat and sits 30 miles from shore, meaning it could really just be you and the monkeys once you develop the property.
Finland
What could be cozier than a private island on a freshwater lake in Finland? For just $4.4 million, you could build your own Hygge cabin with room to spare on popular Lake Saimaa. In fact, that money gets you a 256 acre island, a mainland area, and a small island in between in one of the most popular tourist destinations in Finland. As it’s not developed, why not think big and build your own town?
Canada
If you’re not worried about getting a bit rugged, this private island in Canada might be for you. Norway Island is a 30 acre forested sanctuary in the southern Gulf Islands, off the coast of British Columbia. It is accessible by float plane, boat, or ferry ride as it sits between the more populous Galiano and Thetis Islands. Norway Island has electricity, a 60-foot dock, and a rugged, rocky shoreline in the middle of the wild Pacific Ocean. Count your pennies and if you find you have around $4.3 million of them, you’re in.
Croatia
For those interested in something a bit more bijoux than a big island, consider Mali Komsac, a one acre property just off the coast of Split, Croatia, which is currently on the market for just $850,000. This island is close enough to Split, the second largest city in Croatia, to facilitate easy access to an international airport. But its rocky coast will be something of a challenge for boats and humans alike, so tread carefully.
Norway
Not everyone is up for creating structures from scratch on a private island—and you might not have to if you move to Norway. There is a beautiful, treed seven-acre island, complete with a truly impressive cottage, available for sale at Ustaoset, 100 miles from Bergen. It can be yours for a $1 million, with views of mountains stretching as far as the eye can see. The cottage boasts nine bedrooms, and if that’s not enough room, there are extra cabins on the island as well as a boathouse. Invite everyone over—or no one, depending on your mood.
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