While most overwater bungalows are located in far-flung island chains, there are some that are more easily accessible, including a few within all-inclusive resorts in Mexico and the Caribbean. Enjoy scenic views and relaxing atmospheres at these resorts. Here is a list of the top 10 best and cheapest overwater bungalows in the world: 1. The resort's overwater bungalows are known for offering spacious outdoor verandas, sun loungers and soaking tubs with 360-degree water views. Samoa | Overwater Bungalows Home Destinations Samoa Destination travel guide for Samoa WHEN VISITING ANY DESTINATION IT'S ALWAYS GOOD TO PREPARE FOR YOUR HOLIDAY. Sandals South Coast, Jamaica. Its island of Tahiti has a few overwater bungalows, but Moorea, Tahaa, and Bora Bora are far better. Youll find the best overwater bungalows in this island nation. The over-the-water bungalows at Sandals Grande St. Lucian convey an intimate connection to the beautiful Caribbean waters and rich marine life. The first overwater bungalows were constructed on the French Polynesian island of Ra'itea in 1967 by three American hotel owners, Jay Carlisle, Donald McCallum and Hugh Kelley. As long as you follow proper precautions and choose hotels that promote the health and safety of guests, you can travel with little risk, especially if you are vaccinated. Ever since photos of the first overwater bungalows appeared in Time magazine in 1962, they've sparked wanderlust the definition of inspirational travel way before Instagram was even a thing. The St. Regis does allow children, but given its focus on romance and privacy, we think its best for couples and tend to recommend the Four Seasons more for families. this overwater bungalow includes glass bottom floors, direct ladder access to the ocean, private infinity pool, spacious terrace with wooden lounge chairs, our signature Private outdoor showers, and other top-of-the line amenities like Jacuzzi tub in room! Learn more about this architectural marvel on a guided tour. However, they could be ideal for adventurous families who want large resorts with lots to do in a remote less-touristed island location. Nightly rates for winter 2022 start at $1,260 for double occupancy. Couples can lounge on plush furniture as they take in their tropical. Price: Base Rate From: Baltimore, Houston, New Orleans, Orlando & Fort Lauderdale/Miami. El Nido Resorts' Eco-Sanctuary island resort comes with the densest forest perched over limestone, surrounded by 45 islands and islets scattered throughout Bacuit Bay. Coconuts Beach Club features Samoa's only, exclusive, Over-the-Water Fales. Whether youre coming from Phoenix or Winnipeg or in-between, we can assist you with a dream vacation staying in one of the best overwater bungalows in the South Pacific. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content. The Coco Beach Spa at Coconuts offers a full range of massage, therapy and beauty treatments, all performed by internationally trained personnel. Most of its overwater villas have their own private pools, and some feature multiple floors and outdoor whirlpools. Sign up for our monthly Overwater Bungalows newsletter. The resort also features a spa and two restaurants. If you don't want to splurge on the Muraka Suite, consider dining at the Ithaa Undersea Restaurant, which offers lunch and dinner 16 feet below the surface of the ocean. The environment includes pink sand beaches, wild coconut groves, and a stunning tropical garden. Both resorts have coral underneath the bungalows, making for more entertaining viewing than if they just had sand, but both tend to have fairly shallow waters that make it harder to jump right in. Read our full hotel review of Conrad Maldives Rangali Island. Bluetooth speakers; a massive, airy bathroom; and private terrace make it easy to unwind. This shading could result in a decreased survival rate, or at least promote behavioural changes in various components of the biological community. What's Unique: Sandals has introduced overwater bungalows at three of their caribbean resorts: South Coast in Whitehouse Jamaica . Overwater bungalow reservations for 2022 start at around $2,500 per night for double occupancy. For winter 2022 reservations, nightly rates for overwater rooms at this Waldorf Astoria start at $2,694. They're pricier, but all-inclusive options add serious value. The Maldives, Mexico and the Caribbean are a few popular regions where you can find hotels with overwater bungalows. These bungalows offer all the benefits of staying in an all-inclusive resort, plus extras like private transfers, butler service and a private infinity pool, hammock and outdoor living space. Teetering atop the reef at the northern headland of a crescent shaped cove, 10 bungalows are styled on a traditional Fijian village. If being all the way in the water is important to you, then ensure your bungalow wont have one side sitting on land. In other words, you may always find an overwater bungalow Belize that suits your budget. If you buy them, we may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our partners. The tides move a lot in Fiji, hence why their coral is so vibrant, so Fiji is not famous for its overwater bungalows. Butler service is also included for a truly luxe stay. These newly built overwater bungalows deliver an immersive journey of the Caribbean's finest turquoise waters. Vahine Island Private Island Resort South Pacific, Le Tikehau By Pearl Resorts South Pacific, Check online specials for the Aga Reef Resort, Entertainment system: 32 Flatscreen TV with 20 channels, Low season online specials from US$293 per night, High season online specials from US$294 per night. January 10, 2020. Hawaii often has various quantities of precipitation and year-round warmth. To be considered one of the best, they had to be truly over the water. That means the entire bungalow must be suspended on stilts in the water, not with the back of the bungalow touching land. Megan Johnson and Sharael KolbergMarch 3, 2023, Holly Johnson and Erin EvansMarch 1, 2023, Holly Johnson and Erin EvansFeb. Coconuts offers Samoan-inspired accommodation, including Samoa's only Over-the-Water Fales. In my last blog post, I gave an introduction to what they are, how long to stay, what to do, and where to go. The oddball idea became an instant phenomenon: Now known as an overwater bungalow, the design became the hotel's signature detail and helped establish French Polynesia as a tropical getaway. On-site amenities: Pool, fitness center, restaurant, spa, activities. Glass floor panels and lit water ensure you can enjoy undersea views at any time. These stunning islands rival the South Pacific in terms of reputation for coveted ultra-luxury accommodations and otherworldly scenery. Overwater bungalows offer the ultimate in luxury, romance, and privacy, in most instances. Some resorts are on the main central island around the extinct volcano, including several overwater bungalows. Nightly rates for double occupancy in early 2022 start at $2,250. The overwater bungalows are a dream, with soaking tubs and indulgent comforts opening up to serene waters. Youll need to fly to Faleolo Airport, which is the main international airport on Samoa, and from there the hotel will pick you up in their van for the 45-minute drive to the resort, any time of day or night as long as they know you are coming. And if you opt for true luxury resorts, they likely will inch closer to $1,000, especially if you opt for all-inclusive or full-board packages and travel during popular times of the year and holidays. Glass panels in the floor as well as the bathroom . We got such a suprise when we entered the room It was stunning. The resort features plenty of traditional accommodation options, as well as overwater honeymoon suites with a roomy sun deck, an outdoor shower, an outdoor soaking tub for two and an overwater hammock. Certified specialists from America's #1 agent network. These stunning bungalows feature over 1,000 square feet of tranquil bliss. Some have freshwater plunge pools in the deck, suspended over the water. Our favorites are the ones that can see Bora Bora, and also those at the end of the pontoon with views back towards the island of Tahaa. Winner, Editors' Choice: Club Med Finolhu Villas, Maldives. On-site amenities: Restaurant, pool, excursions and tours. This eco-lodge is located in Panama's Bocas del Toro area where white sand and turquoise water make the views and the atmosphere idyllic. Up the romance by booking a dinner cruise aboard the resort's dhoni, a traditional Maldivian fishing boat. It's expensive but justifiably so as everything needs to be grown or imported. The overwater bungalows at Le Tahaa are bigger than those on Moorea and Tahiti too, at about 1100 square feet you could live there! We highlight products and services you might find interesting. The most luxurious resort on Moorea at about a four-star level, this resort has a little over 100 rooms with half of them overwater bungalows. Butler service is a given: here, they arrange welcome cocktails, dining reservations, and can even unpack your luggage and press your clothes. The string of nine palm-thatched cabanas over clear Caribbean waters at Punta Caracol Acqua-Lodge immerse guests in a simple, natural environment. Overwater Bungalows. While it was not always a region known for overwater bungalow offerings, Central America and the Caribbean now offer plenty of options, ranging from sky-high price points to budget-friendly options. Cons: Critical reviews note the food lacks variety and a remote location means other options are limited. Every hotel takes the health and safety of guests seriously, with COVID-19 protocols in place, which we've noted for each hotel. They were so impressive I honestly cried. However, many countries are now accepting fully vaccinated American travelers or those who can show proof of a negative COVID test. Guests can take their dinners on the private decks of budget-friendly overwater bungalows, which have private outdoor showers and outdoor living areas with lounge seating right over the water. Sa'Moana Beach Bungalows Show prices Enter dates to see prices 312 reviews There are no phones or TVs, just total peace. Alesandra has a master's degree in journalism with an emphasis on cultural reporting and criticism from NYU, and a bachelor's degree from UC Berkeley. Coconuts Beach Club Resort & Spa truly embodies all that is unique and wonderful about culturally-rich Samoa. ACCOMMODATION - InterContinental World's Best 8 Spacious Overwater Bungalows with Private Pool. The resort's overwater bungalows are known for offering spacious outdoor verandas, sun loungers and soaking tubs with 360-degree water views. On-site amenities:Spa, activities, water sports, restaurant. Do keep in mind that the seafloor tends to be mostly sand here, which makes for great swimming but you wont see as much fish through the glass panel on your floor. Overwater bungalows in the Tahiti Islands of French Polynesia Nestled in the iconic turquoise South Pacific, 118 islands many still uninhabited make up a unique paradise that draws scores of honeymooners, celebrities, and bucket list adventurers each year. I did not want to leave. All over the bungalows on this list are at a minimum three-star standard. Romance. Azul Beach Resorts. Some even have little glass doors in the floor which you can open, drop a few bread crumbs, and watch the tropical reef fish scurry for their prize. For those who want the epitome of overwater bungalow experience, they should look no further than staying in a Tahitian bungalow. Pros: Because the resort is spread on two islands, it feels like you're staying on your own private one. A short flight from Tahiti and with views of Bora Bora in the distance, Le Tahaa is the only resort on this remote island so it offers seclusion and plenty of peace and quiet. The property itself will keep travelers busy, entertained and fed with a full-service spa, a fitness center, two resort pools, and six restaurants and lounges. In addition to a spa with the only "snow room" in the Maldives, this resort features a kids club, four restaurants and bars, and the opportunity to spend time kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, snorkeling, diving and more. They also offer a full-service spa, poolside restaurants, a golf course, as well as amazing bars. Fiji is best known for its luxury boutique islands that are often truly breathtaking. Bora Bora Island - Conrad Bora Bora Nui. In addition, because this resort is located a good distance away from the airport, you'll find that it serves as a great location for a romantic vacation. There is plenty of coral underneath too, so you can watch the fish through the glass floor in your living room. Nightly rates for overwater villas that accommodate two guests start at around $325 for stays booked in early 2022. However, travelers can expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $1000 per night for these accommodations. 2 Maldives Luxury Villas with Slide - Maldives Overwater Bungalow with Slide ( 2 Bedroom Overwater Bungalow with Slide) 2.1 Siyam World Maldives Two Bedroom Lagoon Pool Villa with Slide. Relaxation. The 3,330-square-foot infinity pool of the resort blends into views of the lagoon. Exclusive deals. Otemanu, but you also get your own private plunge pool on the deck! U.S. News rates the cheapest travel insurance options, considering expert and consumer recommendations. We welcome your feedback. To reach the Aga Reef Resort youll first fly into the Faleolo International Airport. As such, it's a sanctuary for a diverse variety of birds and other animals. #11 Best Value of 16 Beach Resorts in Samoa "This was our 6th stay at Coconuts Resort in the past 10 years - this time in a 1br beach fale." "My girlfriend and I intended to stay at Coconuts Beach Club for four nights." 12. The best of the best there is the two-bedroom Overwater Royal Otemanu Villas with Pool. Other resorts in Fiji with huts on the water include Laucala, which is even more luxurious than LikuLiku and has one overwater villa just offshore. 5 nights accommodation - Breakfast daily. This authentic beachfront resort encourages guests to relax into island life and embrace an escape with no phones, TVs or high rises in sight. Cons: While some options represent the highest-end overwater experience, others in this region might be more rustic and less luxurious. With an average cost of $300, you would . Creating the lagoon, keeping it safe, sandy, and shallow, are a ring of tiny coral islands called motus. The Loyalty Islands have a wild beauty that will spark your imagination, while the . Totally unspoiled with screensaver views in every direction, Tikehau Island places you away from the over-saturated crowds of (big-spending) honeymooners on Bora Bora while still indulging in overwater accommodation luxury. A rather small 4-star resort featuring a total of just 16 rooms, the Aga Reef Resort in Samoa is ideal for visitors seeking a tropical stay alongside luxury amenities. Here you'll also find lots of great activities to join in on, both within the resort and nearby. All of their overwater bungalows are the same size and layout, but we think its worth the cost to stay in one of the Premium Overwater Bungalows, because theyre situated towards the edge of the resort, allowing for deep, safe water that you can jump into directly from the private deck. Both offer such unique experiences, but there are some differences. Explore the top-rated styles for every type of trip to the beach. Grab a drink and lay back in a hammock over the water to catch Jamaica's famous sunsets. You'll need time. All rights reserved. While fewer, you'll also find some in the Caribbean and Mexico. Rooms include a private sundeck overlooking the lagoon, perfect for unwinding. Nightly rates for double occupancy for overwater accommodations at this Le Mridien property start at $677 per night for early 2022 reservations. There is also a wide variety of tours available so guests can easily experience the beauty and special places on the island. This resort is also home to 10 different restaurants, which feature rare ingredients and menu items, such as Miyazaki wagyu beef and Alba white truffle. From Bora Bora to the Maldives and everywhere between, overwater accommodations provide the utmost privacy and exceptional views, often with overwater hammocks, private pools and other amenities that help make your trip special. Cons: The island is small, which might (or might not) feel sleepy to your pace. The King Pool Overwater Villas . Located in Montego Bay, Jamaica, Sandals Royal Caribbean Resort offers overwater bungalow options in an all-inclusive, private-island setting. Whatever it is you want, make sure you ask for it and do your own research about any South Pacific Resorts overwater you plan to vacation in. The CDC said people who are vaccinated can travel safely, though their current recommendations are for travel within the US. In order to reach American Samoa Islands, you have to go all the way to Honolulu in Hawaii. These six Fales are unique in design and fully embrace the seamless indoor/outdoor living experience that is so popular throughout Samoa. Located 30 minutes by plane from Tahiti and situated among the Society Islands in French Polynesia, the island paradise resort offers 40 accommodations, including 11 overwater bungalows. Special bonus points went to places with something unique and creative about them. Pangkor Laut Resort is located on a privately owned island situated three miles off the West Coast of Malaysia along the Straits of Malacca. (Courtesy of Palafitos Overwater Bungalows at El Dorado Maroma). There's much to discover beyond theme parks in this Southeastern state. Made of wood and constructed on stone jetties, the bungalows are an extension of our award-winning Fern Tree, A Salamander Spa. . However, the resorts with the best views, the most space, and the most bells and whistles are on motus that face back towards the lagoon and volcano. Many of these resorts are located in remote areas and can book up quickly. Tags: Travel, Hotels and Resorts, Maldives, Mexico, Tropical Vacations, Beach Vacations. This is because these areas are home to crystal clear, shallow blue waters that are suited to such accommodations. All overwater rooms at this Four Seasons property also received new furniture, fixtures, lighting and technology. Discover these empowering women's history destinations selected by the U.S. News travel editors. We're including Sandals' adults-only South Coast Jamaica property even though its price point is an outlier for good reason. Bungalows have spa-style bathrooms, private patios with extended sun decks and outdoor showers, private outdoor soaking tubs, and over-water hammocks. Find the best travel insurance for you with these U.S. News ratings, which factor in expert and consumer recommendations. Disclosure: Written and researched by the Insider Reviews team. "Overwater structures shade aquatic habitat and limit ambient light penetration, affecting macrophyte and phytoplankton primary production. Though a visit to overwater bungalows in Belize is considered the height of luxury travel as the cost can run into thousands of dollars, it is worthwhile to know that some resorts and villas are reasonably priced. Like at other resorts, the overwater bungalows differ only in view. You can even go spelunking! Finally, we reach Bora Bora. This private island resort is located on the Noonu Atoll in the Maldives, which is flanked by spectacular white sand beaches and some of the clearest waters in the world. There are two Tahiti resorts with overwater bungalows of solid four-star quality. El Nido is situated in a cove of the mountainous Apulit Island in Taytay Bay in North-eastern Palawan. Experience the ultimate in oceanfront luxury. Overwater Bungalows Near The USA . This guide to the best overwater bungalows in the world highlights some excellent options for every kind of getaway and budget. A luxurious adults only retreat, Likuliku means calm water and perfectly describes its Yasawa Islands location. U.S. News rates the cheapest travel insurance options, considering expert and consumer recommendations. Gently lapping waves both beckon you for a swim and lull you to sleep every evening. These pools have an infinity edge, so it looks as though the edge of the pool merges with the watery horizon. If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. Anything you want, whether its direct access into the lagoon, private sun deck, glass panel in the floor, great views, or privacy, its all here. With that said, the continental buffet breakfast is said to be lacking by a few, but most guests think that it is good enough. The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands. Sign up for our newsletter to get honest reviews on top products & services delivered weekly to your inbox. Cons: You'll have to cross the International Date Line to get to Fiji plan for jet lag, and stay long enough to recover. Coconuts Beach Club is on the southern coast of the main island of Samoa in the South Pacific. Guests who choose this particular resort will have access to an on-site spa, water sports equipment like paddleboards and kayaks, three restaurants and two bars. Learn more about this architectural marvel on a guided tour. We may receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. The truly luxurious properties are where the most spectacular overwater bungalows can be found. Best view, big and beautifule bungalows. The highlight of these unique Over-the-Water Fales is the expansive sun decks, where lucky couples will savor their own private retreat. There's much to discover beyond theme parks in this Southeastern state. Where should you book your overwater stay? Learn more. Cons: Reviewers note occasional lapses in service, plus stronger ocean currents than expected have occurred. A high concentration of overwater bungalows are found in Asia, most famously, in the Maldives. These two-room types offer the most privacy, with stunning views and perched way, way out in the water. Pros: This is an excellent value for an overwater accommodation with private porches, hammocks, and full board included at such an affordable price. The best of the best there is the two-bedroom Overwater Royal Otemanu Villas with Pool. Overwater villa options include the two-bedroom Ocean Pool House, which features a spacious outdoor deck and a sunken outdoor hot tub that juts out over the water. Here you'll also find lots of great activities to join in on, both within the resort and nearby. Our other favorite on Moorea is the Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort. Typical starting/peak prices: $1,100/$1,526, On-site amenities: 8 restaurants, 6 bars, 3 pools, spa, a wide variety of activities. Fortunately, not all overwater bungalows have an astronomical financial barrier to entry. Measuring at roughly 590 square feet each, the overwater bungalows accommodate up to 2 adults and provide direct access to the lagoon. Aga Reef Resort - Samoa. This family-run resort caters to a wide variety of travelers, and rates start around $600 per night. When you consider the savings on shorter flights from the US East Coast, as well as inclusions such as all food without limitations, premium liquors, round trip airport transfers, all tips, taxes and gratuities, scuba, and more, it might end up costing around the same as a hotel for $500 nightly that doesn't include any extras. Book your next cruise vacation on one of these floating megaresorts. The property offers quite a few accommodation options, including estates and bungalows in the jungle or over the water. At over 1,500 square feet (147 square meters), these bungalows at the Four Seasons are more like villas. Pros: The Maldives is simply a must-hit bucket-list destination for many travelers, offering some of the most high-end accommodations. OVER-the-WATER bungalows THE CARIBBEAN'S MOST SPECTACULAR ACCOMMODATIONS Featuring groundbreaking, innovative designs that marry modern luxury to exotic palapa-style architecture, these spectacular Over-the-Water Bungalows deliver an immersive journey of the Caribbean's finest turquoise waters. Each Fale boasts amazing views of the beaches, lagoon, and ocean, and boast simply breathtaking sunset vistas. The overwater bungalows feel like bargains compared to similar accommodations in other parts of the world. The resort's Water Villas feature extensive outdoor decks with ample seating and large netted ocean hammocks, and some boast their own private infinity pools.This property also features 12 stunning white sand beaches, two large pools, an enormous lap pool that stretches into the lagoon and seven restaurants and bars to choose from. Moving right along, we get to a unique resort, Le Tahaa on the island of Tahaa in French Polynesia. If you travel in off season, it might be as low as $100 to $200 a night. So yes, it does have a prized view towards Mt. The overwater bungalows are in shallow water over a tidal, sandy area. Even more exciting are the Coconuts VIP excursions that allow you to visit different locations on the island with a private car and driver. The closest island to Tahiti is Moorea, and this is where overwater bungalows really start to get good. We rate Likuliku as one of our favourites too. They also state that there are plenty of fish to see, which added to the wow factor. Lagen Island is serenely located between a lush forest and a crystalline, shallow lagoon. The resort's overwater bungalows are known for offering spacious outdoor verandas, sun loungers and soaking tubs with 360-degree water views. as well as other partner offers and accept our. Cons: These bungalows are clustered closer together (and therefore less private) than many of the more opulent luxury options available elsewhere. These are places that not only would I feel comfortable staying in them myself, I would also send my clients to them. According to our research, the cheapest highly-rated overwater bungalows are found at Azul Resort in Panama. Over-the-water is a way of life in the Maldives, an Indian Ocean archipelago comprised of almost 1,200 sandy atolls. There are 18 in all, each with about 570 square feet to spread out. Find the right agent for your trip. The overwater bungalow was actually invented here. New Caledonia has twenty-five overwater bungalows at LEscapade Island Resort Noumea. The adults-only enclave has 30 plafitos (stilt houses) on a secluded stretch of the Riviera Maya. Samoa tends to be more rustic and remote, and these bungalows are no exception. This top-notch resort is located on the main island of Tahiti in French Polynesia, yet it feels a world away. The South Pacific region is probably what most people conjure up when dreaming of an overwater bungalow landscape: crystalline waters surrounding islands ringed by lagoons, Polynesian decor and cultural inspiration, all overlaying that jaw-dropping landscape. We are return Coconuts of 2007. The location on Samoa is ideal for water sports of all kinds, including surfing and scuba diving. The best of the best are the four Otemanu Overwater Bungalow Suites with Plunge Pool. We are ideally situated on Upolu's southern coast, boasting amazing sunrise and sunset views. It lies about 1,600 miles (2,600 km) northeast of New Zealand and 2,200 miles (3,500 km) southwest of the U.S. state of Hawaii. Its ideal for romantics who want a small resort because, with just 45 total rooms, each guest receives personalized service. This is a huge plus. Cons: Some overwater villas feel dated, especially in comparison to the more modern, updated beach villas. St. George's Caye Resort offers adults-only lodging that is located on a rustic but indulgent private island in Belize. There's no better place to embrace Samoan history than at the waterfront Sheraton Aggie Greys Hotel & Bungalows.This harbourside hotel is located just steps from Apia's city centre and within walking distance of the Samoa Cultural Village and the Palolo Deep Marine Reserve where you can snorkel to observe sea turtles and beautiful . The first is best for those who want a more authentic Polynesian feel at a smaller resort with fewer than 100 rooms and 30 overwater bungalows, and also with a more affordable price: the Manava Beach Resort & Spa Moorea. In fact, the property added eight more overwater bungalows in late 2019, some of which feature private infinity pools that float above the lagoon. These motus protect the water between them and the volcanic mountain, creating the perfect conditions for the Tahitian Bora Bora huts on water bungalows to be built with minimal risk of strong waves and weather. See and be seen at these stunning natural wonders. Sun loungers and comfy furniture beckon guests to relax and enjoy their tropical surroundings. Aga Reef Resort - Samoa - Overwater Bungalows Aga Reef Resort - Samoa South Pacific A rather small 4-star resort featuring a total of just 16 rooms, the Aga Reef Resort in Samoa is ideal for visitors seeking a tropical stay alongside luxury amenities. There are several factors that I kept in mind when considering my favorite overwater bungalows. We were fortunate to get upgraded to the Over Water Fales. Even by Tahitian standards, this resort's remote location might be as close as you ever get to living that Robinson Crusoe life. Both are beautiful destinations to visit, and we can assist you with making the best choice for your needs. How we selected the best overwater bungalow hotels, Overwater bungalows in the Caribbean and Central America, people who are vaccinated can travel safely, read our reporting on what experts say you need to know, The best affordable hotel rooms with private plunge pools, The best wellness retreats in the Caribbean, The best honeymoon destinations and hotels, Learn more about how our team of experts tests and reviews products at Insider here.