The Private Islands of Old House Cay in Hilton Head, South Carolina (Sarah + Bill / Airbnb)
Even as the nation and the world continue to open up, responsible travel will still need to be considered as more Americans venture out to find some solitude or some fun this year. The idea of vacationing on an affordable private island is gaining popularity, as they provide great opportunities for safety. Here are seven such places you can rent around the nation.
Sands Island Refuge — Emerald Isle, North Carolina
Bedrooms: 2
Baths: 1 and 1/2 baths
Maximum Occupancy: 4
Price per night: $325
Located near Swansboro, North Carolina, the cottage is the lone structure sitting on 32 acres. You’ll have a private beach and nature trails. There is no air conditioning, but you’ll get cool breezes off the ocean and gorgeous sunsets. A minimum 3-night stay is required. Bringing your own kayak or canoe is recommended. If you don’t own your own, your host says they have plenty of outfitters to recommend. A water taxi or a local support boat will take you to and from the island.
Private Island Retreat In A State Forest — Douglas, Massachusetts
Bedrooms: 2
Baths: 1
Maximum Occupancy: 8
Price per night: $357
This island retreat features two cottages. The main cottage has one bedroom, a full kitchen with cooking implements and utensils, and a dining area. The bathroom is small but has a shower and sink. Please note there is no flushing toilet on the island, but the host has resurrected an old double-seater outhouse. The second cottage is more like sleeping quarters but has a large front deck, so you can relax along the edge of the lake. No towels or linens are provided, so plan ahead.
The Cabin On Coney Island — Hinton, West Virginia
Bedrooms: 3
Baths: 1 and 1/2 baths
Maximum Occupancy: 10
Price per night: $332
Located at the confluence of the New and Greenbrier Rivers is The Cabin on Coney Island. There’s a full kitchen for meal preparation. Dishes, silverware, microwave, and a coffee machine are all provided. The cabin has a full patio and wrap-around porches available for relaxing. The island is only accessible by boat, so you need to either have your own access to watercraft or hire a local ferry service.
Private Island A-Frame — Monmouth, Maine
Bedrooms: 1
Baths: 1/2 bath
Maximum Occupancy: 4
Price per night: $175
The A-frame and gazebo sit on 14 lush acres. There is a full kitchen to cook your favorite meals or cook outside under your gazebo on a gas camp stove. There is no flushing toilet, but there is a compost toilet nearby. Bed linens, towels, soap, kitchen utensils, dishes, a lantern, firewood, fire starter, matches, camp chairs, French press, tea, sugar, salt, and pepper are all provided.
Private Island With Lakefront Cabin — Juggler Lake, Minnesota
Bedrooms: 3
Baths: 2
Maximum Occupancy: 10
Price per night: $349
This gem is near the Itasca State Park. Here, you’ll relax and enjoy the beauty and serenity of Juggler Lake, which is known for its excellent fishing. The A-frame cabin has a jetted tub attached to the master bedroom, a full kitchen, barbecue grill, fireplace, and three gorgeous patients facing north, south, and west.
The Private Islands Of Old House Cay — Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Bedrooms: 3
Baths: 2 and a 1/2 baths
Maximum Occupancy: 6
Price per night: $521
Located in South Carolina’s Lowcountry, Old House Cay actually consists of three interconnected private islands that are only accessible by boat. Your hosts will take care of getting you on and off the island, and then it’s all up to you. You’ll sleep in a cozy, solar-powered, off-grid house and command 3 acres of island. Enjoy boating, fishing, kayaking, or just lounging around our private fire pit along the water.
Island Hunters Swansboro — Swansboro, North Carolina
Bedrooms: 1
Baths: 1/2 bath
Maximum Occupancy: 4
Price per night: $100
Admittedly not for everyone, as there is no drinking water or power on the island, the small cabin is a great place if you just want some privacy and to be one with nature. The small cabin does have a loft, and you’ll have your own private dock. Kayak and paddleboard rentals are available, allowing you to explore the popular waterfront restaurants and bars in the area.
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