This Exclusive Caribbean Island Is Usually Only Available for Buyouts — but Now You Can Rent a Room for the Holidays

Sir Richard Branson's Necker Island, in the British Virgin Islands, is now open for hotel-like stays in December 2023. Here's how to book.

At Necker Island, the 73-acre private island paradise in the British Virgin Islands owned by Sir Richard Branson, a night could run for as much as $107,500. The Caribbean retreat is usually available for buyouts only, but a few times a year, the property functions more like a hotel and is available for individual stays.

For the first time in its history, travelers can rent one or more rooms in December during two periods, including Christmas, and enjoy the holiday in one of the world's most private and upscale destinations.

The first stay takes place between December 11-20, for which rates start from $5,400 per night and include all meals, drinks, activities, and airport transfers from and to the island (from Virgin Gorda or Beef Island airports). Guests can keep busy with various water sports, boat rides, wellness classes, and tennis, or explore the island's flora and fauna on guided hikes.

You can also opt for a very special Christmas celebration and book a stay between December 20-26. The holiday programming for that period includes gingerbread house building, a "Carol-oke," rum tastings, sports on the beach, and a Santa meet-and-greet. Guests will also have the opportunity to experience the island's signature sushi kayaks, where fresh sushi rolls are served on floating kayaks in the pool. Rates for the Christmas itinerary start from $5,850 per night.

The festive stays include many child-friendly activities like pirate hat-making, tennis, and wildlife viewing.

Necker Island was severely damaged by Hurricane Irma in 2017 and underwent a complete two-year renovation. It reopened in 2021 with private pools in the Bali villas and a new Bali Hi complex with an extended pool and more outdoor lounges. One thousand and two hundred solar panels were also added, which help the island run almost entirely on renewable energy. The island has 24 guest rooms and can accommodate up to 48 people.

To make a reservation for the holidays, visit Necker Island's booking platform.

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