When it comes to luxury vacations, nothing comes close to a private island stay. From the scenic seaside views to the comfort found in isolation, vacationing on an island – especially in the tropics – is nothing short of a dream come true. Belize’s Caribbean coast, flanked by hundreds of offshore cayes, is the perfect place for that far-flung, ultra-private trip that you’ve been thinking of. It’s likely why a handful of the country’s islands (each of which guests can enjoy all to themselves, one group at a time) were recently spotlighted by Conde Nast Traveler. Included on the list were Placencia Caye’s The Enclave, the eco-friendly Little Harvest Caye, and the uber-exclusive (and romantic) Gladden Private Island. Today, Caribbean Culture + Lifestyle is taking a look at why these three Belize private islands are Conde Nast Traveler-approved.
A Grand Time for the Entire Family at The Enclave
The Enclave on Placencia Caye
Just a stone’s throw away from the Placencia Peninsula’s southern point lies Placencia Caye. This is where you’ll find The Enclave – a 2-acre private island retreat fit for grand family gatherings. That’s because this Belize private island, with a total of 7 individual cottages, can accommodate a group of up to 28 travelers.
Outfitted with a media and game room, a fishing pier, and a private pool, this luxurious private island has all the amenities of a resort – sans crowds. In fact, guests at The Enclave even get to enjoy the services of a private chef, concierge, boat captain, and housekeeper. It’s a private island stay that you can enjoy having all to yourself while still being close enough to all the action of the Placencia Peninsula (thanks to having a private shuttle boat at your disposal).
Ultimate Seclusion at Gladden Private Island
It’s the ultimate far-flung retreat that’s perfect for an intimate escape: Gladden Private Island consists of a “casually luxurious” 3,000-square-foot villa fit for two to four guests. As far as private islands go, it’s as exclusive as they get, with staff residing on another island a short distance away. In addition to being “Conde Nast Traveler approved” this secluded bolthole in the middle of the ocean has been hailed as one of the most private islands in the world.
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- Photo courtesy of Gecko Vacation Rentals
As a bonus, getting to Gladden is a part of the experience: guests are greeted by their concierge at the Philip Goldson International Airport and then get to enjoy a helicopter ride to the island, complete with views of the Belize Barrier Reef.
Leaning Into Island Life on Little Harvest Caye
Enjoy panoramic views and laidback relaxation on the high-end Belize private island that is Little Harvest Caye. This 1.5-acre gem off the coast of Placencia exudes the tropical atmosphere that one expects from a private island vacation in the Caribbean – from the colorful private suites right down to the thatched roofing of the main gathering area.
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Beyond being just an exclusive retreat for family and friends though, Little Harvest Caye is a slice of eco-conscious paradise. In fact, the entire island is off-grid and powered by a state-of-the-art 45,000-watt solar system. Little Harvest Caye can accommodate up to 14 guests, and like all the other private islands featured, is booked one group at a time.
Featured: An aerial of Little Harvest Caye. All photos courtesy of their respective properties.
