Renting a Private Island That You Can Actually Afford
January 26th, 2011 by Margo Millure

If someone told you that you could rent Eagle Island, an entire private island off the coast of Georgia, there would be no reason not to believe them. Many people already know that coastal Georgia is dotted with barrier islands of various shapes and sizes. Additionally the region has a reputation of being an exclusive, somewhat mysterious enclave; of playing host to the most private of gatherings including G8 meetings and Kennedy weddings. So it only makes sense that the Trumps and Bransons and Oprahs of the world would be interested in just such a place in what is regarded one of the most private, beautiful and photogenic areas of the east coast.

Now, if they had gone on to say that such an island was not just available, but that it could be rented for less than the price of a comparably sized oceanfront house almost anywhere on the east coast, you would most likely be wary.

But it’s true.

Introducing Eagle Island, Georgia

A visit to Eagle Island starts in the quaint fishing port of Darien, Georgia. With its docks lined with shrimp boats, the town fills the role nicely of transition spot between real world and vacation. The friendly locals are more than willing to share some information about the area and their seafaring livelihoods, sprinkled with lively banter rich in area colloquialisms. If opportunity allows before setting out for your private island, soak up some of town’s easygoing atmosphere and perhaps stop in for lunch at locals’ favorite, Skippers Fish Camp.

Even though you may find yourself already unwinding, this vacation has a firm line of demarcation: It is crossed the moment you step aboard the boat for the fifteen minute boat ride over to Eagle Island with owner and host, Captain Andy Hill at the helm.

Here, Let Me Get That For You…

When you pull up to the deep water dock of the 10 acre island, one thing becomes clear: everything has been thought of by Hill, owner of Private Islands of Georgia. Thoughtful attention to detail, while maintaining a friendly and relaxed atmosphere is no easy task, but here it appears to be a seamless feat. Heinekens (or whatever you have informed Hill and company is your beverage of choice) appear in hands, luggage mysteriously arrives ahead of you, and the news just keeps getting better as you wend your way from dock to your accommodations for the week. The development shows the highest respect for the environment, with much of the house and style elements being constructed using reclaimed materials.

Georgia’s Barrier islands consist of 8 main islands, but an uncounted number of smaller ones such as Eagle Island. 2/3 of these areas are national parks and protected areas. Narrow strips of sand, the islands are not connected to the mainland and are constantly changing due to various forces of nature, including wind, currents and tides.

Operating in much the same way you would expect a five star resort, Hill individually plans with his guests according to their needs, while addressing any individual concerns. A bit of a golden boy about town and these waters, he can make pretty much anything happen. Private kayak tour? Deep sea fishing? Dockside pedicure? Guests can arrange to rent one of Hill’s motorboats for the week, and part of the deal is either Hill or someone on his staff will take them for a spin to familiarize them with the surrounding and pristine waters, and make them aware of potential field trips. Designated grocery shoppers will appreciate that food shopping is done online ahead of time, so you arrive to a fully stocked kitchen.

What is Life Like on Your Own Private Island?

These things all make Eagle Island, Georgia an option for many kinds of vacationers. Families will enjoy the many outdoor and water-sport options available. Hill owns several other nearby spots worthy of exploration, including a small island immediately adjacent to Eagle Island, set up with a tent and hammock, where any child, young or old, with a bit of imagination could make enough memories for a lifetime all within a week. Couples will appreciate the privacy and amenities such as the heated outdoor shower and the hot tub on the wrap around porch. The many options for shared activity and conducive atmosphere for relaxing together would make for a great vacation spot for groups of friends.

An Eagle Island vacation is far from roughing it. With a well stocked gourmet kitchen, as well as an outdoor kitchen, cooks both serious and not, have the option to cook and entertain to their hearts’ content. The surrounding waters are known for their rich bounty of shellfish, and guests are encouraged to prepare crabs they catch themselves in the crab traps that are left baited at the end of the dock. However anyone who wants to be let off cooking duty for the night or celebrate a special event, arrangements can be made for Hill’s staff to come prepare various seasonal specialties, such as low country boil or traditional oyster roast.

Amenities you wouldn’t automatically expect on an island are also available. A well maintained hiking path complete with a hammock at the far end is a prime place to view the sunset. For those who have no interest in completely unplugging, Direct TV and wireless internet service are both provided at the house. It’s most likely that any cellphones will work as well.

With its natural and private environment, a visit to this island is a unique and unforgettable travel experience that may be more within reach than you thought. And in case you’re wondering, “Eagle Island, Georgia” isn’t just a name pulled out of the marsh water. A nest with two bald eagles is located on the island and visible from the porch. They are particularly active at dusk and dawn, making it most likely you will hear them, and as if you could get any luckier, you may even catch a glimpse.

www.privateIslandsofGeorgia.com