Caribbean’s Record-Breaking Sales: Landmark Deals That Redefined Island Luxury

The Caribbean has long been a playground for the world’s elite. Renowned for its laidback lifestyle, endless array of private beaches, and lush landscapes, it’s no wonder the region hosts some of the most opulent properties ever sold.​

For high-net-worth individuals seeking more than just a tropical getaway, these remarkable transactions set the benchmark for exclusivity, privacy, and luxury. Here, we take a closer look at three record-breaking Caribbean property sales that continue to captivate the imagination of the ultra-wealthy.​

Prince’s Turks and Caicos Estate—Sold for $10.8 Million​

In a fitting tribute to the late pop legend Prince, his six-acre beachfront estate in Turks and Caicos made waves when it sold for $10.8 million in 2019. Purchased by Prince in 2011, the star expanded his Caribbean retreat over the years by acquiring two adjacent properties, creating a sprawling sanctuary on the island’s northern coast. Known for its purple-hued driveway and an extravagant home theater draped in purple velour, the estate is a striking reflection of the artist’s eccentric style.​

The buyer was North Carolina businessman Tom Barnes—a lifelong fan of the pop icon. Barnes vowed to maintain many of Prince’s original touches, including the signature purple driveway, and described how surreal it felt to own the property of an artist he had idolized as a teenager.​

David Copperfield’s “Islands of Copperfield Bay”—Purchased for $50 Million​

When it comes to private island and luxury real estate ownership in the Caribbean, few rival the legendary magician David Copperfield, who owns 11 islands in the Exuma chain of the Bahamas. These aren’t just any islands—Copperfield spent five years and an additional $40 million after buying them to transform the properties into the epitome of luxury. He succeeded in turning his Caribbean domain into a private haven for some of the world’s most famous personalities, including Oprah Winfrey and Bill Gates.​

The main island, Musha Cay, is the crown jewel of the “Islands of Copperfield Bay” and can be rented for around $60,000 per night. Spanning over 700 acres, it boasts five meticulously designed guest houses, a theater, and extravagant amenities such as private beaches, world-class dining, and a 30-person staff. Copperfield originally bought Musha Cay in 2006 for $50 million, and extensive remodeling has pushed the property’s value to new heights.​

Johnny Depp’s Private Island in the Bahamas—Purchased for $3.6 Million​

In 2004, Hollywood star Johnny Depp purchased Little Hall’s Pond Cay in the Bahamas for $3.6 million. Situated in the pristine Exuma archipelago, the 45-acre island offers a blend of white-sand beaches and lush tropical foliage.​

For Depp, the island became a personal retreat where he could escape the Hollywood spotlight and enjoy a quiet life with family and friends. Inspired by his work on Pirates of the Caribbean, he designed the island to emphasize privacy and seclusion. It features six private beaches, each named after people close to him, including his children Lily-Rose and Jack, and former partner Vanessa Paradis.​

While the original purchase price of $3.6 million may seem modest compared to today’s soaring ultra-luxury property values, it is the emotional value and bespoke design that make the island truly unique. When Depp’s marriage to Amber Heard deteriorated, the island was reportedly sold within minutes for $75 million.​

For high-net-worth individuals, these transactions illustrate how an island or signature property can serve as both a personal sanctuary and a powerful symbol of glamour and success.