Surf Cat

By Jennifer Brunton

What could be more fabulous than renting an entire island for a family retreat? 

If you’re looking for a paradise all to yourself, these amazing private island rentals can make your dreams come true.

From the Caribbean to Scandinavia, South America to the South Pacific, your very own isle awaits.

Urraca Island, Panama

Just off Panama’s stunning Caribbean coast lies a mangrove islet that’s bursting with wonders. Urraca Island offers lodging for up to 14 adults in charming bungalows perched on stilts over the water. 

Snorkel and swim amid coral reefs. Explore by kayak. Or just relax on an observation deck. At night, marvel at the bioluminescent waters beneath your home away from home.

Lucky visitors will appreciate the ecological sensitivity and respect for the local culture that are part of Urraca Island’s business model. 

And with luxuries like fresh-caught seafood and outdoor massages, Urraca offers lots of posh pleasures, too. 

Motu Tetaraire, French Polynesia

A short flight and gentle boat ride will bring you to a South Pacific island that’ll amaze you at every turn. Swaying palm trees, balmy breezes and crystal-clear waters make this an ideal tropical destination.

The property’s open-air pavilions and beachfront decks are perfect for lounging and sipping a cold beverage provided by the attentive staff. 

Take in the ocean vistas over the barrier reef that surrounds this peaceful place. Or head out to sea for windsurfing, paddle boarding, fishing and more. 

Motu Tetaraire’s main residence and guest bungalow can accommodate six adults and up to four children. 

A private chef and an activities guide are part of your all-inclusive stay. 

Fordypningsrommet, Norway

Also known as the Arctic Hideaway, this collection of tiny, ultra-modern structures is just an hour-long charter or public ferry ride from the charming seacoast town of Bodø. 

The award-winning, architect-designed cabins nestle into the island’s rugged terrain. 

Sleeping spaces are all in close proximity to the property’s sauna pier. Yes, on Fordypningsrommet, you can hop out of bed, indulge in the next-door sauna and then jump directly into the ocean.

You can cook your own food or hire a private chef from the mainland. Opt for excursions, such as a boat tour of the area—or stay put and soak up the tranquility. 

You might even see the northern lights shimmering over the horizon.

Little Harvest Caye, Belize

Little Harvest Caye is your destination for both five-star amenities and natural splendor. Encircled by the turquoise Caribbean, this little 1.5-acre slice of nirvana is easy to access. It’s hard to leave, too.

Onsite staff will meet your every need. That includes a round-the-clock boat and driver—for sightseeing, shopping or celebrating in town. 

Pleasures abound. Gather the gang for some good times in the spacious thatch-roofed main building. Or wander along your own pristine coastline in precious solitude. 

Five private bedroom suites—sited to make the most of astounding ocean and mountain views—sleep up to 14. All this, and the area has some of the best diving and fly fishing on earth. 

Deepwater Island, Ontario, Canada

If sleeping perched atop a pink granite island with only a few pines for company sounds romantic to you, Deepwater Island should be on your radar. This striking rental is perfect for couples who seek privacy and the utmost in natural beauty.

Grill your catch of the day on the barbecue or whip up a meal in the renovated kitchen. This unique getaway may be self-service, but it’s fully stocked with key amenities. 

For entertainment, paddle along your island’s rocky shores in the included canoe or kayak. Then snuggle up near the fire in the soaring stone fireplace. Or simply enjoy your 360-degree lake water views. 

Located a two-hour drive from Toronto on a quiet bay in Ontario’s protected Massasauga Provincial Park, this .75-acre gem is sure to exceed your expectations in the serenity department. 

Japao Island, Brazil

West of Rio de Janeiro lies Brazil’s enchanting “Green Coast,” Angra dos Reis. Here, amid the region’s jungle-shrouded hills and sparkling waters, you’ll find lovely Japao Island. 

Gorgeous lodgings and all-inclusive services make this personal paradise well worth the trip.

On verdant Japao, outdoor living spaces abound. Towering palms stand sentry over your pool and balconies offer views of endless blue and green. After your daily massage (included), sink into the jacuzzi and watch the sunset over Ilha Grande Bay. 

The Balinese-style main villa, duplex master suite and sea-view bungalows were all built by hand from Brazilian hardwoods and stone. They share a deluxe aesthetic that will make you and up to seven other guests feel like royalty. 

Custom meals, infused with regional flavors and prepared to your tastes with local produce and seafood, will add to that impression. Work off all that indulgence with a yoga or surfing lesson, a visit to the spa or a hike in the rainforest.

Whether you’re drawn to a remote seascape or a tropical idyll, there’s a private island for you. And choosing the perfect spot is a big part of the luxurious fun. 

A former academic turned freelance writer and editor, Jennifer Brunton lives and works in Vermont.

This article is for educational purposes only, and is not intended to provide medical or legal advice, or to indicate the availability or suitability of any product or service for your unique circumstances.

Capital One does not provide, endorse, or guarantee any third-party product, service, information or recommendation listed above. The third parties listed are solely responsible for their products and services, and all trademarks listed are the property of their respective owners.