Johann Hunt
You don’t necessarily have to give up your desire to live in a beautiful, peaceful place in search of affordability. In fact, these 10 hidden islands offer a chance to own property for under $100K along with a slower pace of life, proving that tropical escapes aren’t just for the wealthy. Let’s take a look!
Middle Caicos, Turks And Caicos
Middle Caicos combines scenic appeal with rare affordability as land plots under $100K come with freehold title and zero ownership restrictions for foreigners. Its limestone cliffs and vast cave network even rival Mediterranean lands, and despite being the largest island in the Turks and Caicos, it’s home to just under 300 residents—ideal for peaceful living.
Secret Beach, Belize
Buyers can still find lots under $100K near Secret Beach, less than a mile from the coast. The area’s swimmable waters and famous sunsets continue to attract interest, and as nearby development expands, values are expected to rise. This makes it a compelling opportunity for early buyers.
San Fermin, Playa Del Carmen, Mexico
In Playa del Carmen’s San Fermin community, buyers can find land under $100K with cenote access and modern comforts. It’s situated in the Riviera Maya jungle, yet minutes from beaches and downtown nightlife. With yoga platforms, permaculture gardens, and flexible financing, the area offers both tranquility and long-term potential.
Ambergris Caye, Belize
Tourists love Ambergris Caye, but the northern tip? Still peaceful and untouched. In Palm Bay Club, beachfront lots go for under $100K, right by the reef and the Bacalar Chico channel. Residents enjoy daily snorkeling and diving, with the added rare chance to spot manatees in the wild.
Isla Bastimentos, Panama
If affordability meets paradise, it’s at Isla Bastimentos in Panama’s Bocas del Toro archipelago. Here, titled land and homes start as low as $39, and waterfront lots are available for under $100K. Beyond its affordability, the island flaunts the stunning Red Frog Beach and Parque Nacional Marino, famed for vibrant strawberry poison-dart frogs.
Las Terrenas, Dominican Republic
Check out Las Terrenas, Dominican Republic, for budget-friendly Caribbean living. Pre-construction condos and homes near Playa Punta Popy cost less than $100K, and beachfront lots start at approximately $8K. Expect a lively expat community, eco-chic amenities, easy access to kite surfing, jungle hikes, and charming local bakeries.
Isla Cozumel, Mexico
Cozumel may be a tourist hotspot, but it can also be an affordable living opportunity. Neighborhoods such as Repobladores and Altamar offer affordable land and fixer-upper homes under $100K. Known primarily as a cruise port, Cozumel surprises visitors with vibrant coral reefs and cycling routes circling the island’s perimeter.
Bocas Del Toro, Panama
Bocas del Toro, Panama, provides affordable paradise, with mainland and island lots from just $29K and numerous titled properties under $100K. Famous for charming overwater bungalows, Afro-Caribbean traditions, and organic chocolate farms, this car-free destination is ideal for those craving bohemian simplicity, traversable exclusively by bike or boat.
Corn Islands, Nicaragua
If you’re looking for an escape that’s somewhere truly off-grid, Nicaragua’s Corn Islands might be calling. Although rare online, affordable properties under $100K are confirmed by locals. Both islands flaunt turquoise seas on top of zero cars and super-low living costs. Little Corn doesn’t even have an airport—you arrive by boat!
Utila, Honduras
Want an affordable slice of oceanfront paradise? Utila, Honduras, has beachfront land and homes from $30K, plus lots under $100K where the reef’s your backyard. It is also known for amazing whale shark dives and 60+ incredible dive spots, along with a one-of-a-kind iguana species.