16 of the Best Overwater Bungalows in the World

by | Aug 8, 2018 | Asia, Caribbean, Oceania | 9 comments

(Last Updated On: January 5, 2020)

Have you ever stayed in an overwater bungalow? It should be on everyone’s bucketlist. There are some gorgeous overwater bungalows all over, but contrary to popular belief, there are lots of countries that have overwater bungalows now, not just in Bora Bora or the Maldives. Most people assume overwater bungalows are really expensive, and usually they are, but we’ve also added some affordable overwater bunglows! If you’re looking for the best places to travel this year, we’ve asked some other travel professionals to give you 16 of the best overwater bungalows in the world!

The Best Overwater Bungalows in the World For All Budgets

The best overwater bungalows in the world, including the Caribbean, Bora Bora, Maldives and the Philippines fittwotravel.com

Overwater Bungalows in the Caribbean

 

1. Aruba Ocean Villas

Recommended by A Taste for Travel

While Aruba’s large all-inclusive resorts and brand-name hotels are already world-famous, this Dutch Caribbean island has a fresh new crop of small hideaways that are quickly drawing independently-minded luxury travellers.  One of the best luxury boutique hotels in Aruba is Aruba Ocean Villas, a hideaway tucked on a secluded beach in Savaneta, that includes Aruba’s very first collection of Tahitian style overwater bungalows. This boutique hotel features three eco-chic beach villas and three overwater bungalows set over crystalline Caribbean waters. I loved waking up to the sound of lapping waves each morning and enjoying coffee on the wrap around deck watching heron dive for fish. My overwater bungalow featured an outdoor shower (complete with a conch shell faucet) yet offered all the comforts of a luxury stay such as AC, a wine fridge, premium linens and a soaking tub with a view of blue sky and sea. Pure magic.

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best overwater bungalows Aruba Ocean Villas

2. Sandals Royal Caribbean Jamaica

Recommended by Follow Me Away

The overwater bungalows at Sandals Royal Caribbean are some of the best bungalows in the world because they are beautiful, brand new and very easily accessible. To get to these overwater bungalows, you fly into Jamaica at the Montego Bay airport. The airport is less than a 10 minute drive away from these stunning overwater bungalows! They are in a heart shape which is ever so romantic as well. The bungalows either face the mainland of Jamaica or out into the ocean so you can choose which view you like best!

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best overwater bungalows Caribbean

3. Sandals South Coast Jamaica

Recommended by Fit Two Travel

The first overwater bungalows in the Caribbean, the bungalows at Sandals South Coast are beautiful and romantic. Located on the south coast of Jamaica, in Whitehouse, the bungalows have a gorgeous view of the Caribbean Sea. With total luxury, including private plunge pools, over the water hammocks, see-through glass floor, tranquility soaking tub, and personalized butler service. The bungalows at Sandals South Coast are some of the best overwater bungalows in the world. There are 12 overwater bungalows all shaped in a nice heart. The heart shape is romantic, but also gives the bungalows their own privacy. Not only does Sandals South Coast have five star service but they also have some of the only all inclusive overwater bungalows in the world. The bungalows in Jamaica are definitely the perfect destination for a honeymoon, wedding, or any celebration!

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How to find the best snorkel mask for your next tropical vacation

 

Overwater bungalows Jamaica South Coast

See also  Why You Should Choose a Sandals Resort for Your Next Romantic Getaway

Overwater Bungalows in the South Pacific

Bora Bora

 

4. Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora

Recommended by Nom List

If you’re looking for the ultimate overwater bungalow experience, look no further than Bora Bora. You’re in for a once in a lifetime experience at the Four Seasons Bora Bora in French Polynesia. The waters are clear and the landscapes are idyllic and this resort only has overwater bungalows available. Each villa comes with a sizable bedroom, bar area, living room, spacious bathroom, and a hot tub. The exterior patio area features a huge deck and a dock area that is ideal for taking a dip in the ocean. The bungalows are so deep that you can’t touch the bottom of the ocean, which was amazing. The Four Seasons Bora Bora is a five-star hotel and is located west of Tahiti, just a 50 mile flight away. There are over 100 overwater villas and plenty of water activities available, including paddle-boarding, snorkeling, and excursions the on-site marine biologists. It’s a long flight from the US but this resort is particularly popular with Americans. I super recommend making this a bucket list destination.

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best overwater bungalows bora bora four seasons

5. Le Meridien Bora Bora

Recommended by Honeymoon Always

Located on the northern tip of Motu Piti A’au, a small islet that sits along the eastern coral reef, Le Méridien Bora Bora is a luxury resort with amazing overwater bungalows. Each overwater bungalow provides privacy and tranquility above the turquoise waters of the lagoon and has a gorgeous view of the iconic Mount Otemanu. Unique to these bungalows is the glass-bottom floor allowing you to look down to see turtles and fishes swimming below from the comfort of your air-conditioned bungalow. If you want to take a break from the lagoon, you can go for a swim in one of the two infinity pools. Also available are complimentary snorkeling equipment, kayaks, outrigger canoe, windsurf, badminton and beach volleyball. You can also use the traditional Polynesian pirogue to float around the lagoon on or if you have a need for speed, you can rent a wave runner or boat.

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best overwater bungalows Bora Bora Le Meridien

6. Intercontinental Bora Bora

Choosing where to stay in Bora Bora is a tough task. There are so many amazing luxury properties that it can be quite daunting. Even though I originally chose to stay at the Intercontinental because I had points for the hotel chain, I could not have been happier with my decision. The villas are large, the location is pristine and the facilities are abundant. You have the choice of taking part in water sports in the ocean, lazing with a cocktail on a beach lounger or swimming in the crystal clear lagoon with the curious little fishes.

 

The overwater bungalows at the Intercontinental Bora Bora are extremely spacious. And because the resort removed its beach villas a while back and only has overwater bungalows, you are guaranteed one on your stay. They are very large. Each bungalow comes with a bathroom, bedroom, living room and outdoor deck. The large window in front of the tub adds an extra sense of space and romance. The toilet is separate from the bathroom, which also adds a bit of privacy. The walk in closet and glass floor under the table, looking into the lagoon, enhances the feeling of spaciousness.

 

You can also choose from three distinct views: the beach looking away from Mt Otemanu, the villas facing West which are perfect for sunsets, and those facing the the St Regis and the hotel’s jetty. I would recommend choosing a villa at the end of the pontoon away from the resort’s pier if you can.
best overwater bungalows Bora Bora intercontinental

7. Aitutaki Lagoon Resort Cook Islands

Recommended by Fit Two Travel 

The Aitutaki Lagoon Resort is the Cook Islands only overwater bungalows. Aitutaki is rated as the msot beautiful lagoon in the world, and the overwater bungalows are right bove this gorgeous lagoon. Aitutaki Lagoon Resort is an adults-only resort lacoted on a private island, meaning its completely secluded. The overwater bungalows at Aitutaki Lagoon Resort have the best location, as they overlook the crystal blue lagoon. With top-notch luxury and service, it’s considered one of the most romantic places on earth! There are 7 overwater villas at the resort, all with a private view of the lagoon, open-air showers, and just a few steps into the inviting water.

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See also  A First Timers Guide to Visiting Aitutaki

8. L’Escapade Ilot Maitre New Caledonia

Recommended by Out Chasing Stars

Nestled in New Caledonia, just off the capital of Noumea, lies Ilot Maitre, and the l’Escapade Resort.  New Caledonia is an overseas territory of France, and is the largest lagoon in the world.  Thanks to the biodiversity, the lagoon is a UNESCO World Heritage site.  At Ilot Maitre, over the clear blue water, are 25 luxury bungalows. The rooms are gorgeous, but the prime attraction is the water.  New Caledonia has protected much of their reefs and islands, so marine life flourishes.  We swam with sea turtles, octopuses, and large schools of fish.  Walking around the island, we encountered osprey, starfish, and heaps of interesting shells.  The southwest side of the island is a wide sandbar, full of seagrass and very shallow at low tide.  You can walk out to the lighthouse at low tide, or take kitesurfing lessons at high tide.  At the resort, guests can relax by the pool, get massaged, or enjoy some of the watersports like paddleboarding or jetskiing.

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overwater bungalows Escapade Ilot Maitre

Overwater Bungalows in Asia

Maldives

 

9. Adaaran Vadoo Maldives

Recommended by My Adventures Across the World

Adaaran Prestige Vadoo is one of the most beautiful resorts in the Maldives. It’s main perk is that it only has overwater bungalows, so that each and every guest feels very special. All bungalows are great: there’s a very large and comfortable room, with a big veranda with plunge pool and direct access to water. The bathroom is simply huge, and there’s a jacuzzi at the back. Some bungalows are slightly bigger and others are a bit more isolated, perfect for honeymooners. Some face the island and get sunrise views, yet I feel the best ones are those facing the other way, for they get the most incredible sunset views. Either way, the experience of staying at an overwater bungalow at Adaaran Prestige Vadoo is just incredible.

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overwater bungalows maldives Adaaran Prestige Vadoo

10. Kandolhu Maldives

Recommended by Swedish Nomad 

Kandolhu is a true paradise island in the Maldives. It has everything that a big resort island can offer, but it takes less than 10 minutes to walk across the whole island. I’ve been to a few islands in the Maldives, and this is by far my favorite. Kandolhu gives you a luxury version of an isolated island in the middle of no where. Become Robinson Crusoe for a day, but still have access to pools, restaurants and some really beautiful overwater bungalows. And of course, the magical turquoise water and white sand of the Maldives. In their Overwater bungalows, you can enjoy an outdoor pool, bathtub, and have your own private stair down to the water. Inside, you have a big luxurious king-size bed and all amenities needed for a wonderful vacation or honeymoon.

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best overwater bungalows kandolhu island resort maldives

11. Robinson Club Noonu Maldives

Recommended by Our Kind of Crazy

It was always a dream of ours to stay in an overwater bungalow, and even more of a dream to do it in Maldives. We checked that one off the bucket list when we stayed at ROBINSON Club Noonu. We were beyond excited to head to this all inclusive resort, and were surprised when we walked in our room. There was a huge outdoor bathroom that had a hammock over the water, and outdoor shower and huge bath tub. But on the back patio, on the sunset side, we saw we had our very own infinity pool. All the overwater bungalows at Robinson Club Noonu have private infinity pools on the deck. Ours had 2 lounge chairs and a huge round couch. We enjoyed every night watching the sunset in this awesome pool overlooking the water. We even watched some sharks breeding from the deck and saw lots of rays.
Each day, we would climb down our ladder and go snorkeling around the bungalows, and saw some awesome sea life. Staying in an overwater bungalow is definitely a bucket list item, and totally worth it. We had all inclusive meals and drinks every day with tons of activities going on around the island.
best overwater bungalows maldives Robinson Club

 

12. Bawah Reserve Indonesia

Recommended by Singapore n Beyond

 

Bawah Reserve is one of the latest and most luxurious overwater bungalows in Southeast Asia and one of the few that is only accessible via seaplane. The resort offers all inclusive villas, on the beach and overwater, that are fabulous. The food is fantastic, house drinks are also included in the price and there is unlimited spa treatments and activities, so a real treat. To get there, you have to fly to Singapore, take a 40min ferry to Batam and then drive to the nearby airport from where you will board a private seaplane for the one hour scenic ride to Bawah Island where the resort is located.

 

What makes Bawah extra special (apart from being one of the most luxurious resorts in Asia with rates starting at USD 1,800 a night) is the fact that it is not just an island but a collection of islands next to each other with multitude of activities. The all-inclusive premium approach also ensure that you are not constantly worrying about extra fees.
overwater bungalows bawah reserve

 

13. The Grand Lexis Malaysia

Recommended by Simpler and Smarter
The Grand Lexis is located in Port Dickson, a short drive from Kuala Lumpur airport which makes this ideal for a short stopover in Malaysia or as part of a bigger holiday. The Grand Lexis is a big resort with many facilities such as a big pool, playgrounds, games rooms, gym, day spa and activities such as archery. There are also multiple restaurants. The best part of this resort though is definitely the overwater bungalows. They are unreal!

 

There are a range of types but most come with their own swimming pool. So you can swim on top of the ocean! The pools are great and definitely a highlight but the villas are also large, with a separate kitchenette area and both indoor and outdoor showers. They come with two queen beds so they are also great if you are a family. The bar fridge comes with some complimentary drinks.
One of the highlights of the bedroom area is a glass panel in the floor – so you can see to the sea below. The room is a high standard, comfortable and has everything you need. With the private pool, it is hard to want to leave. The final bonus of the Grand Lexis is that it’s a very good price and it’s possible to get these villas for less than US$200 a night.
overwater bungalows in malaysia grand lexis

14. Apulit Resort El Nido Philippines

Recommended by For Two, Please

Take your tropical vacation to the next level at Apulit Island Resort in El Nido, Philippines. This eco-adventure island resort is located in the blissfully quiet part of Palawan in the north-east., With a 60-meter limestone cliff in the background, holds a spectacular natural setting for lovebirds and honeymoon couples! The all-inclusive resort features 50 luxurious overwater bungalows in the traditional Filipino-style. Each of the overwater bungalows has a private veranda that looks out straight to the ocean. On the island, there are even a few loft-style bungalows that comes with extra space and a staircase that ends right in the ocean! Apulit’s quiet and secluded location makes it ideal for a relaxing holiday. But to maximize your time on the island, take advantage of the many fun and exhilarating activities the resort offers. You can go paddle-boarding to get close to the marine life, wander through the different caves, and even rappel off the limestone cliff – perfect for the thrill seekers!

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overwater bungalows Apulit Resort El Nido

15. Nguyen Shack Vietnam

Recommended by Thrifty Family Travels

The Nguyen Shack is the ideal spot for those wanting to experience an authentic family friendly home-stay on the water ways of the Mekong Delta, located 6 kilometres from the city centre of Can Tho. Accommodation is in individual rustic bungalows with balconies right over the Ong Tim River on the Mekong Delta.  Whilst the rooms appear basic they are full of all the modern necessities like wi-fi, fridge and fans. The outdoor modern shower was a realy hit with my family. We absolutely loved staying here, chilling out on our back deck in the hammocks watching the locals come past in their little long boats, kids swimming in the water and locals simply going about their way of life which is so foreign to us coming from Australia. The guys at the Nguyen Shack are super friendly and provide a variety of tours for guest to explore the Mekong Delta including a tour to the famous floating markets.

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best overwater bungalows vietnam nguyen shack

16. Six Senses Ninh Van Bay Vietnam

Recommended by Independent Travel Cats

 

Six Senses Ninh Van Bay is a luxury beach resort located just north of Nha Trang Vietnam. It has its own private beach and is only accessible by boat, which has made it popular with celebrity guests and royals. The setting is idyllic with a long stretch of golden sandy beach, calm waters, and rocky cliffs.

 

The resort has a several different types of guest villas which include beachfront villas, hilltop villas, and water villas nestled among the rock formations. All come with private plunge pools, butler services, and lots of amenities. Although it feels a bit like being on a deserted island and the villas are a bit rustic, you have all the comforts of home including a TV, WiFi, minifridge, coffeemaker, air conditioning in the bedroom, telephones, and even scented pillows. There is of course a private bathroom in each villa and ours had an outdoor shower and a wooden bathtub.

 

The resort has three restaurants, and you can choose to have you meals how you want them whether that is buffet style, a la carte, or a private dinner on the beach. Activities at the resort include swimming, kayaking, biking, cooking classes, wind surfing, hiking, badminton, yoga, fishing, and spa services.
We had a wonderful stay here from the boat transfer to the check out and wish we could have stayed longer. We hope to return some day! If you are interested, you can read all about our experience staying at Six Senses Ninh Van Bay on our trip to Vietnam.
overwater bungalows Six Senses Ninh Van Bay

 

There are so many beautiful overwater bungalows in the world. We would love to visit all of these bungalows to compare them all. It can’t be a bad stay when you have a bungalow overlooking the orgeous water.

 

So which one of these are you dying to stay in? Have you ever stayed in an overwater bungalow? Where is your favorite overwater bungalow in the world?

 

Note: This post contains affiliate links. That means if you make a booking through one of my links, I make a small commission which helps towards the upkeep of this blog! Thank you for reading. 🙂
Tip and Tarah of Fit Two Travel

Tip and Tarah of Fit Two Travel

Tip and Tarah are the founders of Fit Two Travel. Since getting married in 2013, they have traveled to 26 countries and 22 states together. They are true Oregonian natives, and love to explore the outdoors, enjoy the food and drink, and spend time with their 2 dogs. They help others plan their international and local trips.

9 Comments

  1. Mary Beth

    Yassssss! This came at just the right time. I’m dying to have a bungalow-over-the-water experience… I keep researching, but now I have just one resource I can refer to! You have no idea how helpful this is. Pinning!

    Reply
  2. Renee Hahnel

    Wow! Serious bucket list goals here. Would be a dream to stay in some of those bungalows!

    Reply
  3. Jen

    I have never stayed at an over-water bungalow, but now I’m pretty sure it MUST be added to my bucket list. Thank you for the excellent suggestions!

    Reply
  4. Patti

    What a great list. I’ve always wanted to stay at an overwater bungalow – happy to see there are now some options in the Caribbean too.

    Reply
  5. Megan Jones

    Oh wow, these look amazing. I’m not sure if I’ll ever get to experience one but a few nights in an overwater bungalow is absolutely on the bucket list. Do you have a favorite?

    Reply
  6. Stephen

    Wow amazing. Definitely out of my budget though! 🙁

    Reply
  7. Carolyn

    I too think I need to add this experience to my bucket list. It sounds like my idea of paradise

    Reply
  8. Jamie Irwin

    Thanks for this super in-depth post 🙂

    We did something similar. We have a team of field experts who camped near the water, put them up, took them down and had a bit of a laugh while reviewing. Either way, keep up the awesome work.

    Reply
  9. Sharon McKenzie

    Hi Guys,

    Overwater bungalows. Never thought of doing this before. Sounds a little expensive, but looks like considering. Some great bungalows there.

    Cheers Sharon…

    Reply

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