Both offer such unique experiences, but there are some differences. 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. Sign up for our monthly Overwater Bungalows newsletter. Travelers who want a convenient all-inclusive experience in an overwater bungalow should look into the Chairman Overwater Bungalows at the Royalton Antigua. Private Island Paradise in the heart of French Polynesia Recently enhanced overwater bungalow suites, beachfront villa estates and underwater adventures welcome you at this sand-fringed idyll in the heart of French Polynesia. Pros: Because the resort is spread on two islands, it feels like you're staying on your own private one. The geography of Bora Bora makes it the best place in the South Pacific to build overwater bungalows. For the latter, places in Central America like Belize, Honduras, Guatemala, and Panama are all strong choices. We were fortunate to get upgraded to the Over Water Fales. South Pacific destinations known for dreamy overwater bungalows include the likes of Tahiti, Fiji, Samoa, and other far-flung islands. Coconuts Beach Club (Breakfast daily) $1,229 per couple. Of course, to make it to the top of our list, it also has to have great views. The overwater bungalows are a dream, with soaking tubs and indulgent comforts opening up to serene waters. 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. 4.5 / 5. It's also worth noting that Mexico offers overwater bungalows too but Palafitosat El Dorado Maroma and Rosewood Mayakoba's entry-level price points for these accommodations exceeded our qualifications for this budget-friendlier list. Nightly rates for winter 2022 start at $1,260 for double occupancy. The overwater bungalows at Le Tahaa are bigger than those on Moorea and Tahiti too, at about 1100 square feet you could live there! The service . Cons: Expect a very long journey to reach such a remote paradise. 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. Le Mridien Maldives Resort & Spa opened in September 2021 on Thilamaafushi Island. Overwater bungalows: 6 Head to Le Meridin Tahiti, with a dozen overwater bungalows and 150 total rooms, for a bit more seclusion and more space. Typical starting/peak prices: $1,100/$1,526, On-site amenities: 8 restaurants, 6 bars, 3 pools, spa, a wide variety of activities. . Pros: Savor the opportunity to observe incredible wildlife in one of the world's most beautiful island locations. Wi-Fi is also weak. These overwater bungalows are fully in the water and a bit more spacious than those in Vanuatu or Samoa, and in a quiet setting off a private island, could be fun for those who want pure relaxation without too much activity. 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. "Overwater structures shade aquatic habitat and limit ambient light penetration, affecting macrophyte and phytoplankton primary production. All rights reserved. Nightly rates for overwater villa stays in early 2022 start at $3,900. 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. At over 1,500 square feet (147 square meters), these bungalows at the Four Seasons are more like villas. 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. These pools have an infinity edge, so it looks as though the edge of the pool merges with the watery horizon. Hide. Each bungalow has a view of the ocean below, with a glass panel built into the floor. The Holiday Inn Resort has ten, and next door, the Warwick Le Lagon Resort has four. There are several factors that I kept in mind when considering my favorite overwater bungalows. There's only one over-water bungalow on Laucala Island - but it's a giant, 2000 square metre two-bedroom villa on a split level that floats above a stunning pool lagoon. 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. Azul Paradise is situated on the southern coast of Bastimentos Island and has a tiki bar, beachfront grill, clubhouse, bar, and restaurant. Lagen Island is serenely located between a lush forest and a crystalline, shallow lagoon. Though these rooms are not the same as those you would find in the Maldives, they still offer great views of the ocean and island from your private deck. You can book the 1,614-square-foot one-bedroom Ocean Pool Villa at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands for as little as 120,000 Marriott points per . (Courtesy of One&Only Reethi Rah). Lake Crackenback Overwater Apartments. Holly Johnson and Erin EvansMarch 1, 2023, Holly Johnson and Erin EvansFeb. Open to the expansive deck with sliding glass doors, the bathroom features and opaque ceiling, bathing the room in natural light. The property has a spa, impeccable scuba options, and an overwater room category billed as Fiji's only floating accommodation. The Maldives are also exceptionally expensive for rooms atop the water. Some villas even feature their own private infinity pools with adjacent hammocks positioned over the water. Where should you book your overwater stay? Email us at reviews@insider.com. 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. 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's much to discover beyond theme parks in this Southeastern state. 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. Cons: Some overwater villas feel dated, especially in comparison to the more modern, updated beach villas. We welcome your feedback. It's what you picture when you dream of an overwater villa. There is plenty of coral underneath too, so you can watch the fish through the glass floor in your living room. 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. These newly built overwater bungalows deliver an immersive journey of the Caribbean's finest turquoise waters. All-inclusive. 7 Nights Link on TravelByJen.com or call for help 1-800-603-3178. The location itself is also a favorite and guests praise the views that come with each room. The Aga Reef Resort is located on the Southeast coast of Upolu Island in Samoa. Ia Orana! Coconuts Beach Club Resort & Spa truly embodies all that is unique and wonderful about culturally-rich Samoa. January 10, 2020. A high concentration of overwater bungalows are found in Asia, most famously, in the Maldives. On-site amenities:Spa, marina, kayaks, 3 pools, restaurant, sports and water activities. Its 20 miles south of the main town of Apia, and 25 miles southeast of the international airport. Make is a full week in Paradise and add 3 Nights at El Dorado Maroma from +$999 per person! On-site amenities: Pool, spa, water sports and activities. Tags: Travel, Hotels and Resorts, Maldives, Mexico, Tropical Vacations, Beach Vacations. Another is Koro Sun, which is in a more affordable price range and floats its water bures on pontoons just off a rocky coastline. Pros: This hotel enjoys total seclusion off the beaten path and is surrounded by raw, natural beauty. If being all the way in the water is important to you, then ensure your bungalow wont have one side sitting on land. Nightly rates for overwater villas that accommodate two guests start at around $325 for stays booked in early 2022. Water Cottages, as they are called here, are built on stilts connected by a boardwalk. Sign up for our newsletter to get honest reviews on top products & services delivered weekly to your inbox. At a whopping 3500 square feet (321 square meters), there's plenty of space for two bedrooms and two bathrooms, separate private terraces for each bedroom, direct . 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. Snorkeling can be done right on-site while hiking, waterfall viewing and various local attractions are relatively close by. 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. Water depth is about . The resort's overwater bungalows are known for offering spacious outdoor verandas, sun loungers and soaking tubs with 360-degree water views. The island comprises 300 acres, but the resort developed just a fraction of that leaving it feeling lush and natural. Pros: This hotel is surrounded by incredibly unspoiled natural beauty with no crowds in sight. American Express has expanded The Centurion Network to include 40+ Centurion Lounge and Studio locations worldwide. Hawaii often has various quantities of precipitation and year-round warmth. For the cheapest prices, look to travel in off season, away from holiday periods, and when the weather might mean more rain. Otemanu, a requirement for any top Bora Bora overwater bungalow. Le Tahaa and Bora Bora are more likely to have giant villas located far out into a sandy lagoon, with more luxury than can be found on Moorea or Tahiti. The CDC said people who are vaccinated can travel safely, though their current recommendations are for travel within the US. 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. Our other favorite on Moorea is the Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort. These two-room types offer the most privacy, with stunning views and perched way, way out in the water. 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. Most of its overwater villas have their own private pools, and some feature multiple floors and outdoor whirlpools. It's estimated that worldwide there are something in the region of 8000 overwater bungalows - or overwater villas as they're sometimes called - concentrated in approximately 200 resorts. Best Authentic Samoan Experience National Park of American Samoa's Home Stay Program Web site: www.nps.gov The Maldives, Mexico and the Caribbean are a few popular regions where you can find hotels with overwater bungalows. Those seeking an overwater vacation closer to home should consider the Palafitos Overwater Bungalows, which are part of the El Dorado Maroma all-inclusive resort in Playa del Carmen, Mexico. 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. Staying in an overwater bungalow is the stuff of dreams. We stayed for three nights in one of the Overwater Fales..Very beautiful and well catered for. Want to know which overwater bungalows offer the worlds best experience sleeping in anyone of the huts over the ocean? Both are beautiful destinations to visit, and we can assist you with making the best choice for your needs. These bungalows are surrounded by the Caribbean Sea in every direction, and each boasts an outdoor shower, a two-person Jacuzzi, glass-bottom floors, a balcony with a micro-infinity plunge pool and a ladder that lets adventurous travelers climb directly into the ocean. Sun loungers and comfy furniture beckon guests to relax and enjoy their tropical surroundings. Teetering atop the reef at the northern headland of a crescent shaped cove, 10 bungalows are styled on a traditional Fijian village. Apia, Upolu 1. Over-water bungalows with a difference, the Lake Crackenback apartments stretch out over an inland lake affording magnificent mountain and Thredbo Valley views across a breathtaking expanse of crystal clear mountain lake. Nothing was too much for the staff, they went over and above what was expected, always friendly and super helpful. The Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, part of Hilton Hotels, is unique from other resorts in the area because it's located on two islands instead of one, resulting in more room options, privacy, and added amenities. You'll need time. Surrounded by the crystal blue waters of the Indian Ocean in the Maldives, One&Only Reethi Rah offers an array of room options over the water. The overwater bungalow concept originated in Tahiti in the mid-'60s, when a group of American expats bought and rebuilt a decrepit Raiatea hotel and creatively repositioned its . Youll also find overwater bungalows with the best views of land and sea, both out over the water and down below coral and fish swimming below the bungalow, rather than just sand, get top marks. Learn more about coverage options for frequent travelers and those with multiple upcoming trips. Many of these resorts are located in remote areas and can book up quickly. Located in Montego Bay, Jamaica, Sandals Royal Caribbean Resort offers overwater bungalow options in an all-inclusive, private-island setting. 4. You can roll out of bed and watch the tropical fish beneath your feet. Nightly rates for double occupancy in overwater villas at this Hilton resort start at $1,886 per night in early 2022, (Courtesy of Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts). Experience the ultimate in oceanfront luxury. Price: Base Rate From: Baltimore, Houston, New Orleans, Orlando & Fort Lauderdale/Miami. Her work has appeared in Town & Country, Esquire, Cosmopolitan, Good Housekeeping, Parents, E!. They look out straight to the ocean. The closest island to Tahiti is Moorea, and this is where overwater bungalows really start to get good. Nightly rates for overwater villas that accommodate. Cons: These bungalows are clustered closer together (and therefore less private) than many of the more opulent luxury options available elsewhere. This family-run resort caters to a wide variety of travelers, and rates start around $600 per night. Youll find the best overwater bungalows in this island nation. 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. 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. These are the best affordable overwater bungalows, from rustic and eco-minded to over-the-top posh. An avid traveler, she trots the globe with her husband and twins. Pros: You'll enjoy the classic overwater bungalow experience at this Maldivian stunner for far less than many other counterparts cost. Palafitos Overwater Bungalows surround you with the sapphire serenity of the Caribbean. Finally, we reach Bora Bora. as well as other partner offers and accept our. Each has a large sun deck, expansive bedroom with a King bed, and a high traditional Samoan ceiling. The location on Samoa is ideal for water sports of all kinds, including surfing and scuba diving. Here, you can book an overwater bungalow for about $1,100 per person per night, but the all-inclusive pricing model offers significant value. On-site amenities: Spa, restaurant, pool, bar. Planning a stay at a hotel with overwater bungalows is a bucket-list item for many, but the accompanying price tag can be a daunting obstacle, even for a once-in-a-lifetime event like a honeymoon. 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. 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. The Coco Beach Spa at Coconuts offers a full range of massage, therapy and beauty treatments, all performed by internationally trained personnel. We considered price first and foremost, and every hotel on this list ranges from $121 to $570 per night to start in off-peak seasons (aside from one worthy splurge). Pros: This is the most value-priced property on our list for overwater bungalows with glass floor panels to gaze right into the sea at a shockingly low starting point. Overwater Bungalows. Sign up for Insider Reviews' weekly newsletter for more buying advice and great deals. St. George's Caye Resort - Belize is located on a private island in Belize with overwater bungalows and rooms overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Its island of Tahiti has a few overwater bungalows, but Moorea, Tahaa, and Bora Bora are far better. In fact, the property added eight more overwater bungalows in late 2019, some of which feature private infinity pools that float above the lagoon. Discover these empowering women's history destinations selected by the U.S. News travel editors. Nightly rates for overwater rooms start at around $7,000 for double occupancy in May. The overwater bungalows at Club Med Finolhu Villas feature plunge pools and soaking tubs. Please use the drop-down menu and select your departure point. . Overwater bungalow reservations for 2022 start at around $2,500 per night for double occupancy. As with most resorts there's a glass-bottom floor, infinity plunge pool, outdoor shower, 24-hour butler and a ladder that leads into the sea. This is because these areas are home to crystal clear, shallow blue waters that are suited to such accommodations. Featuring six overwater bungalows, which they refer to as over-the-water fales' in their literature, the resort also has suites and villas for guests to select from. Sandals South Coast is an adults-only, all-inclusive hideaway in Jamaica designed with couples in mind. 1.8 OZEN Reserve Bolifushi Ocean Pool Suite with Slide. Next, preferences went to bungalows that maximized the overwater experience. You'll get a private porch with a hammock and thatched roof overlooking the Caribbean Sea on the west side of the island. Coconuts offers Samoan-inspired accommodation, including Samoa's only Over-the-Water Fales. All overwater bungalow hotels provide excellent service and picture-perfect amenities to ensure each property meets your lofty expectations. Reviews for 10 Travel Experts on American Samoa Overwater Bungalows . Tikehau Pearl Beach Resort is the only boutique hotel in Tuamotu Archipelago, located on one of its most beautiful atolls. Finally, an on-site kids club called the Young Discovery Park keeps little ones busy thanks to its water recreation area and supervised games and activities. Sandals South Coast, Jamaica. Are any Bora Bora Overwater Bungalows All Inclusive? This shading could result in a decreased survival rate, or at least promote behavioural changes in various components of the biological community. Samoa tends to be more rustic and remote, and these bungalows are no exception. While Fiji only has a few properties with Overwater Bungalows like Likuliku Resort, it is unique due to tidal movement on reef lagoons. Cons: You'll have to cross the International Date Line to get to Fiji plan for jet lag, and stay long enough to recover. There are no phones or TVs, just total peace. There are even more places your Platinum Card can get you complimentary entry . In my last blog post, I gave an introduction to what they are, how long to stay, what to do, and where to go. There is a totally secluded feel but it's actually just seven miles from Belize City, so it's still easy and affordable to access. Also, Fiji is far you'll have to cross the international dateline to get there if arriving from the US. On-site amenities: Pool, fitness center, restaurant, spa, kids center, activities and sports. Overwater bungalows offer the ultimate in luxury, romance, and privacy, in most instances. All rooms are crafted from recycled timber sourced from old Filipino homes for floors and furnishings and also feature sliding glass doors that open to a private veranda. Bora Bora is synonymous with the word Overwater Bungalows. Fiji is best known for its luxury boutique islands that are often truly breathtaking. Find the right agent for your trip. Our other favorite overwater bungalows in the South Pacific are at the St. Regis Bora Bora. Each bungalow features an expansive patio with a Tranquility Soaking Tub for two. There are 18 in all, each with about 570 square feet to spread out. Measuring at roughly 590 square feet each, the overwater bungalows accommodate up to 2 adults and provide direct access to the lagoon. If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. Fiji's Koro Sun Resort sprawls over 160 acres on the island of Vanua Levu. Step inside our overwater bungalows to unimpeded views of the Caribbean seascape and horizon. . Not only are their bungalows perched above the Caribbean Sea, but their chapel and bar are too. Consider breaking up your stay by booking a few nights in each. Nightly rates for three-bedroom villas that sleep up to six guests start at $2,689 for reservations in 2022. The overwater bungalows boast astounding views of the beach, lagoon and ocean, along with postcard-worthy sunsets. Sa'Moana Beach Bungalows Show prices Enter dates to see prices 312 reviews After landing you can then either choose to rent your own vehicle and drive about 2 hours to the resort or you can use the resorts 24 hour shuttle service for a small fee. Guests can enjoy exclusive treatments at the Waldorf Astoria Spa, relax the day away at the resort's pool or stay active with water sports like kayaking and diving. The resort's overwater bungalows are known for offering spacious outdoor verandas, sun loungers and soaking tubs with 360-degree water views. 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. You can even dine in a private gazebo outside your bedroom with a view of the mountain in the distance. Each is a one-bedroom bungalow with a cascade shower bathroom, and a deck with a hot tub overlooking the dazzling water. Bluetooth speakers; a massive, airy bathroom; and private terrace make it easy to unwind. More of a jumping-off point for other islands in French Polynesia, Tahitis overwater bungalows are smaller, closer to shore, and lack some of the other bells and whistles of those on other islands they are also generally more affordable overwater bungalows than in Bora Bora. Ready to check out tropical paradise for yourself? The resort features five restaurants and vibrant tropical bars, and guests can also take part in theme nights that include traditional cuisine and dance. Glass panels in the floor as well as the bathroom . You might also consider using IHG points to make your stay at this resort even cheaper. Most Water Villas have outdoor showers for you to rinse yourself off with after a swim. (Courtesy of Palafitos Overwater Bungalows at El Dorado Maroma). They're pricier, but all-inclusive options add serious value. To give some perspective to this review, we have stayed at many a 5 star resort, but the over water fales at Coconuts is by far the most spectacular room we have ever stayed in. When you buy through our links, Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Few destinations in the world inspire more wanderlust than far-flung locales dotted with overwater bungalows (or alternatively called overwater villas). The Loyalty Islands have a wild beauty that will spark your imagination, while the . Samoa's only Overwater Fales Luxury and Romance Defined. These bungalows are just barely offshore, in waters that can be a bit shallow for jumping into. If adults-only peace and quiet are important, then ensure your resort doesnt allow kids and offers intimate, personalized service. Okay, heres where things get really good. It also has the world's first underwater restaurant and underwater residence, plus tours to see whale sharks, and a unique coral regeneration program to help rebuild its damaged house reef. With butler service and roomy overwater bungalows starting . You wont find resorts that small with such luxury in other South Pacific islands. Lodgers who crave the overwater experience can choose from thatched roof overwater villas with three or five bedrooms, private pools and expansive outdoor living space. Overwater Bungalows Near The USA . Winner, Editors' Choice: Club Med Finolhu Villas, Maldives. Spacious one, two and three bedroom apartments are available with Queen sized beds in . Private. If you buy them, we may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our partners. Individuals who choose this property will find unparalleled luxury, a spa with overwater treatment rooms, gourmet dining at six on-site eateries and some of the best views of Mount Otemanu in all of Bora Bora. There are 24 overwater suites and bungalows and entry-level Overwater Suites come with living rooms, large bathtubs, and private decks with shaded sitting areas and direct access to the lagoon. Bora Bora Island is surrounded by islets and also boasts of a lagoon with turquoise waters that are protected by coral reefs. The Cook Islands has an Adults Only beautiful, barefoot-luxury overwater bungalow resort on the island of Aitutaki called Aitutaki Lagoon Resort. Cons: Expect accommodations overall to be much pricier than those that might be found in other regions, like Central America. Explore the top-rated styles for every type of trip to the beach. A two-person kayak is tied to each bure's 120-square-foot private front deck, so you can hop right in the water for either kayaking or swimming. There is simply nothing more romantic than a stay in an Overwater Bungalow in the tropical South Pacific. Even though the resort itself is small, the reviews thus far are very large with lots of praise spread throughout almost every single one. Nightly rates start at around $1,000 for double occupancy this winter, although guests can save money and enjoy free breakfast thanks to the property's fourth night free promotion, which is applicable on select dates in 2022. This authentic beachfront resort encourages guests to relax into island life and embrace an escape with no phones, TVs or high rises in sight. Most hotels are tailor-made for romance and ideal for couples (many are adults-only), though we've also included some options that welcome families or are affordable for solo trips.