24 hours at Belize’s Most Private Island

In the heart of the Caribbean, just off the coast of Belize, there is a dreamy, secluded retreat that promises luxury, privacy, and exclusivity.  Dubbed the most private island resort in the world, Gladden is one of the most coveted properties in the region and has become the talk of the travel world, offering the kind of getaway many only dream of: an entire island to yourself. But is it really worth the hype?

I decided to find out by spending 24 hours at Gladden Private Island to see if this slice of paradise lives up to its legendary status. Here’s how my experience unfolded.

The journey to Gladden Private Island begins long before you set foot on its pristine shores. After an international flight into the country’s singular airport you’ll need to make the journey down to Placencia, a cute and quirky coastal village at the tip of a narrow 14-mile long peninsula jutting off the mainland of southern Belize.  The trip entails either an adventurous drive through the countryside and jungle-shrouded mountains or a short puddle jumper flight down the coast to Placencia’s local airstrip. This is the jumping off point to finally reach your secluded retreat.  The island’s captain will welcome you aboard for the 45-min boat ride over glistening turquoise waters and vibrant coral reef; weaving past dozens of other tiny islands in the archipelago, you’ll marvel at the navigation skills required to careen the channels between coral outcrops and sandy flats.  With the mainland and most of the cayes left behind, I could see it—the island, my private sanctuary for the next 24 hours!  Surrounded by a dozen shades of blue, the approach was like a picture straight out of a travel magazine.  Of course, you can skip this journey all together if you are extra eager to get your vacation started straightaway.  Many of Gladden’s guests choose to charter a private helicopter transfer from the airport directly to the island.

We pulled up to the dock in a deep channel between Gladden’s two tiny islands—one for the staff and one entirely just for us.  We were greeted by the smiling faces of island’s team offering us cold towels, fresh juice, and a quick tour of the open-air lounge and dining area. Gladden isn’t just any resort; it’s an experience. One that begins the moment you arrive.

The island is tiny, just large enough to accommodate the one villa, but it’s bursting with charm. My home for the night featured lots of natural light thanks to the large windows and wall of glass doors affording uninterrupted views of the Caribbean Sea.  A sprawling rooftop lounge area contained day beds while the ground floor’s open-plan space included a sun deck, plunge pool, and fully stocked kitchen and minibar.  Inside there are two bedrooms with the softest linens, ensuites with massive rainfall showers, and a curated selection of books and local art.  There’s no shortage of comfort here, but it’s not over-the-top. Gladden is quiet luxury—elegant, refined, and deeply connected to the island’s natural beauty.

It’s the seclusion that sets Gladden apart from other luxury resorts in the region. The entire island is yours, and that sense of exclusivity extends to every aspect of the stay. There’s no loud poolside chatter, no crowds at the bar, and no waiting for a sun lounger. Just peace, solitude, and the occasional soft sound of the waves lapping against the shore. The staff is discreet, present when you need them but never intrusive, tending to your every request while allowing you to savor the serenity.

Dining at Gladden Private Island is a true treat.  With a focus on fresh, local ingredients, every meal feels like a celebration of Belize’s rich culinary heritage. Healthy, wholesome, gourmet meals and snacks are prepared by the island’s executive chef based upon your preferences and the day’s catch.  Tropical fruit, freshly baked pastries, pan-seared snapper or tart shrimp ceviche, everything is delicious, but the highlight of the day was our lobster dinner.  The wine list was extensive, but I opted for a chilled local rum cocktail, perfectly complementing the island’s laid-back vibe.

Gladden’s appeal doesn’t just lie in its breathtaking beauty and isolation—it also offers a range of activities for those looking to be more active. Situated along the Belize Barrie Reef, an UNESCO World Heritage Site, stunning coral gardens are merely a few fin kicks away from your doorstep.  Spend your day kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkeling, diving, and fishing the turquoise waters. The water was warm and inviting, and the coral was as pristine as any I’ve seen in the Caribbean. The resort also offers exclusive guided trips to the nearby Gladden Split, a whale shark hotspot and a once-in-a-lifetime experience for anyone lucky enough to be there during migration season and catch a glimpse of these gentle giants.

I wanted to do it all!  That said, one of the true highlights for me was the opportunity to just do nothing. There’s something deeply restorative about the stillness of the island. With no one around to rush you, you can simply relax, read, nap, or enjoy a sunset cocktail in total tranquility.

After 24 hours at Gladden Private Island, I can confidently say it lives up to its reputation. The luxury is undeniable, the privacy is unrivaled, and the natural beauty of the island is simply stunning. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a private retreat, or a place to escape from the pressures of daily life, Gladden offers an unparalleled experience that feels both indulgent and soul-soothing.

Is it worth the price? The cost of a stay here certainly reflects the exclusivity and attention to detail, but if you’re seeking the ultimate private island experience, the answer is a resounding yes. Gladden Private Island isn’t just a resort—it’s a personal sanctuary, an island getaway unlike any other. And once you experience it, you’ll find it hard to imagine anything else quite as perfect.

If you’re looking for the ultimate in Caribbean luxury, privacy, and tranquility, Gladden Private Island offers an unforgettable escape. It’s not just worth the hype—it may very well exceed it.