Why Cayo Espanto is probably the most private resort within the Caribbean

Sometimes you should go where no one knows your name, and a tiny private island where you possibly can stay incognito for some time is likely to be just what’s called for. 

Enter Cayo Espanto: Not even a speck on the map, this exclusive, all-inclusive resort sits 3 miles off the coast of San Pedro, on the peninsula of Belize. 

With just seven dwellings that dot the perimeters of the tiny island — starting from cozy one bedrooms to an overwater bungalow with glass floor — its maximum capability is barely 18 guests.

If you happen to’re a celeb, you’ll arrive by helicopter from Belize City, otherwise by boat from San Pedro, a brief half-hour plane ride from the capital, pulling as much as your personal private dock — no lobby check-in needed, since there isn’t one. 

The casas’ decor is the epitome of barefoot elegance, with cement floors, louvered shutters, outdoor showers, hammocks and, generally, your personal little beach and infinity plunge pool. 

But you won’t be a stranger to five-star service. A private houseman is at all times on call via walkie-talkie to deliver that emergency pitcher of margaritas.

In what seems to be a sublime twist, there’s no restaurant here, or some other communal premises, for that matter. After consulting with you in regards to the day’s customizable menu each morning, dining is catered and served in your deck or in surprise locations across the island — say under the palms with tiki torches, or on the lawn by a hearth pit. 

And it’s the food here that’s truly exceptional. 

Belizean chef Richard Gillette has been with the corporate since 2005 and was recently appointed executive chef. He’s pulling in accolades for his fusion of local Belizean specialties, fresh seafood, local produce and world flavors, helping the resort to top the lists for Caribbean food on foodie and travel sites.

Having honed his skills in other local luxury resorts across Belize, Gillette’s team of 5 talented chefs craft delectable dishes that arrive as if by magic to your table. Standouts are the cashew crusted snapper with charred corn quinoa, and the crab claw platter — not to say desserts like pina colada cake, and key lime tart with a shot of margarita sorbet.

Since a stroll around the island would take about two minutes, you’ll be taking a look at seafaring sports and activities to work off the cocktails and good food. Kayak or paddle across the mangroves, take a snorkeling trip to swim with the nurse sharks nearby, try some fly fishing, visit the barrier reef at Ambergris Caye or scuba dive within the mysterious Great Blue Hole. The resort’s luxury yacht will also be hired for bespoke adventures. You can even sail by that island on the horizon; Blackadore Caye and its owned by Leonardo di Caprio.

Day trips to Xunantunich via small plane will also be arranged to see Mayan ruins, with 26 temples and palaces, followed by tubing through underground river caves. Must you tire of not being recognized, the resort’s water taxi offers a shuttle to San Pedro where shopping and nightlife awaits.

But higher to enjoy the luxurious isolation with an in-room massage or facial as a substitute.

Rates from $2,095 for 2, all-inclusive; APrivateIsland.com