12 Affordable Private Island Resorts

Price: Doubles from $190, including meals.

What to Expect: The island nation of Papua New Guinea has some of the world’s greatest oceanic biodiversity; more than 175 species of fish alone surround 10-acre Lissenung Island, located 400 miles northwest of the main island. The resort’s four simple bungalows accommodate no more than 14 and are built in the local traditional style—on stilts, with thatched roofs and bamboo woven walls; each has a large veranda with comfortable chairs. A shallow reef—where guests have reported seeing all manner of sea life, from clown fish and pygmy sea horses to barracuda—spreads out in front of the dive shop. Chile mud crabs, a local specialty made with a savory stew of tomatoes, onion, and of course, chiles, is a popular dish at the restaurant; if you can’t get past the name “mud crab,” try the fresh tuna tataki, seared tuna fillets garnished with spring onions, ginger, soy sauce, and fresh lemon.

What to Do: After diving or snorkeling, grab a deck chair and a glass of wine, and head to the beach for a glorious sunset.

Getting There: Fly from Port Moresby to Kavieng on the island of New Ireland, where a resort staff member takes guests on the 20-minute boat ride to Lissenung Island.

Insider Tip: Rooms 3 and 4 are in the most private bungalow, which also has the biggest veranda and is closest to “sunset beach.”