How Much to Buy an Island? The 4 Most Expensive Islands in the World

It can cost just under a million to over one hundred million dollars to purchase one of the most expensive islands in the world. The price on these lots does fluctuate a little bit as currency exchange rates change. So, how much does it cost to buy an island?

Our top four islands are tropical hotspots with the opportunity to see a wide array of animals due to nearby coral reefs and the warm temperatures of the water. Most are a short boat ride from a town or a city on a major island tourist destination.

These islands offer up the opportunity for any of us to own a piece of paradise if we can afford it. Not only do you need to be able to afford the asking price, but the priciest island on our list also needs to be developed as well.

It’s worth it to some investors, however, because the return on investment in these fabulous locations can be immense if these projects are undertaken correctly or if the present amenities are appropriately maintained.

What are the four most expensive islands in the world? Let’s look at the most expensive islands for purchase right now.

The 4 Most Expensive Islands to Buy

These are four of the most expensive islands you can buy:

1. A particular private island in Thailand for $148,671,195.
2. Ifuru Resort in the Maldives for $65,000,000.
3. An unnamed private island in the Bahamas for $60,000,000.
4. Crown Pigeon Island for $44,495,000.

1. Private Island in Thailand

This private island in southern Thailand is selling for $148,671,195. It’s in the Andaman Sea, and it’s 110 acres of unspoiled terrain. Like most of the 155 islands in the Andaman Sea, this island is currently uninhabited.

The Andaman Sea used to be known as the Burma Sea, and it’s in the northeastern Indian Ocean. This sea is known for its coral reefs, which have recovered since this area was profoundly impacted by the 2004 tsunami.

Since the Andaman Sea is sheltered against some monsoons, the best time to plan a snorkeling or diving trip on this island is November through April. It’s possible to plan underwater activities from May to October, but the water won’t be as clear.

This island is near Phuket and Coconut Island, and while it’s mostly undeveloped, it’s poised for development. It already has a generator, fresh water, and mobile services. It boasts tropical forests and white sand beaches.

Cobras are common on Phuket and the islands nearby, so developers of this particular island will need to keep watch for these venomous snakes. Along with the amazing migratory animals and abundant sea life, there are also centipedes and scorpions that need to be heeded.

2. Ifuru Resort in the Maldives

This island goes for $65,000,000, and it’s in the Raa Atoll. Tourism was banned here until the 1990s, but a policy change opened this region up to the tourist industry.

The Raa Atoll is home to corals, fish, sharks, turtles, rays, and Napoleon wrasses. Smaller creatures include sea stars, sea urchins, and sea cucumbers. Birds and fish use this region in their migratory patterns.

This island has a lease that lasts 50 years. Coming in at just under 140 acres, Ifuru Resort has an airport. The resort on the property has 150 villas that sleep 300 people. There is also room for further expansion.

3. Private Island in the Bahamas

At $60,000,000, this is one of the most expensive islands for sale globally. It’s north of Musha Cay, Exuma. There are 38 buildings on the property suitable for a commercial small island retreat, including a clubhouse and a restaurant. It also has a private airport.

While on this island, you may spot iguanas, starfish as big as a human head, sharks, stingrays, bonefish, and reef life. Bonefish are rare to spot, but they’re closest to shore during the incoming tide. They feed on what comes in with the waves.

The stuff that comes in with the tide attracts marine life that likes to feed on crab, shrimp, mollusks, crustaceans, fish fry, and worms. If you’re a sports fisherman, this island will provide you with the environment you need.

This private island has a deep-water harbor and a private marina. It has self-sufficient power, water, and sewage. It has caves and white sand beaches, and the main house was built with wonderful views in mind.

The island comes with six staff members who are permanent residents. Not only does the island come decked to the nines with ready-to-go amenities, but it also comes with a barge so you can easily haul supplies to and from the island.

4. Crown Pigeon Island and Cays in the Bahamas

At $44,495,000, this Crown Pigeon Island has 12,000 feet of developed luxury accommodations in the form of homes, cottages, and other facilities. It costs around 3700 dollars per square foot. There are facilities right on the beach to accommodate an event.

There’s a harbor on the west side of the island where sea turtles are often spotted. The marina is well equipped to handle regular use. The mainland is Eleuthera, and this island is tied to its power grid. This power grid has been built up enough that it’s prepared to handle future development.

This private island for sale is a ten-minute boat ride from Harbor Island to the east while also boasting three natural beaches of its own. The sands are white, and the water is clear. The neighboring Harbor Island is a tourism hotspot because of the island’s rare pink sand beaches. These beaches are pink because of one-celled organisms called foraminifera which look pink in mass quantities.

The reefs around Harbor Island are known for being a frequented spot for sea turtles, so a quick excursion from this island up for grabs can offer an array of activities either on the island or nearby.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © musicman/Shutterstock.com