Many people dream of escaping the daily grind for a stress-free life on a tropical island, where days are spent finding the perfect fishing spot or sunbathing. Now, that fantasy can become reality by securing your own island in the Caribbean for less than the cost of a house in London.
Bikini Caye: A Rare Opportunity
Bikini Caye is currently listed for $600,000 (£445,491), offering a rare chance to own 'solid land' within one of the world's most sought-after and thriving marine ecosystems. Covering 0.39 acres along the Belize Barrier Reef, this undeveloped private island stands out from typical palm-fringed cays. Its dense pine vegetation provides a unique 'mainland-meets-maritime' atmosphere, and its high, dry ground offers a stable foundation for immediate development—whether a stylish eco-villa or a humble fishing lodge.
A Sportsman's Paradise
The island is a stone's throw from the South Water Caye Marine Reserve, a 17,875-acre protected area offering some of the best fishing and snorkelling spots in the region. Right at your doorstep, you can explore vibrant coral reefs or hunt for bonefish and tarpon across shallow flats. The island is also perfectly positioned for those seeking seclusion as well as connections to the mainland, situated nine to 12 miles off the coast of Dangriga town, also known as the 'Culture Capital of Belize'.
Mainland Access and Amenities
Formerly called Stann Creek Town, Dangriga is home to nearly 10,000 residents, with plenty of shopping centres, convenience stores, eateries, and an airport near the shore. The mainland can be reached via a scenic 45-minute boat ride, where you can easily stock up on supplies, access medical care, or catch a flight. Bikini Caye is also within easy reach of other island havens, including Thatch Caye, Coco Plum Caye, and Tobacco Caye.
Comparisons to London Property
For context, the majority of properties sold in London last year were flats, selling for an average of £513,624, according to Rightmove. So, a new life in the tropics might not seem like such a bad idea after all. For more details, check out Hesed Realty Belize, where the island is listed.
Alternative: Greek Island with a Catch
If the Caribbean seems too far, consider Greece, where a whole private island is being auctioned for less than the cost of a standard family home—though there is a catch. Makri is an uninhabited, largely untouched, 243-acre island in the Echinades archipelago, about 4km off the coast of mainland Greece and 30km east of Kefalonia. Virtually untouched by tourism, Makri boasts rugged hills, dense woodlands, and over 7km of pristine coastline. However, multiple attempts to sell the island have failed due to Greece's strict environmental laws, which render it a 'ghost asset' that cannot be developed.
