Overwater Bungalows For You to Book in 2026

Soneva Jani is one of The Maldives’ most exclusive private islands and for us its overwater bungalows are uniquely spacious, stylish, and luxurious. We find the very largest of them, the two and four-bedroom ‘water reserves’ around the end of the walkway, really quite extraordinary creations. These opulent wooden palaces come with private pools, water slides, and retractable roofs that allow stargazing direct from the master bedroom. Excellent, gourmet all-inclusive packages are available at Soneva Jani. Check below for details as to what is included. We like that most of the island is left natural and wild so, anytime the feeling takes you, you can have a wander through mangrove forests and deserted beaches, and feel yourself enticingly detached from… > See All the Details & Book

The Aruba Ocean Villas Resort, home to Aruba’s only overwater bungalows, and still one of a handful of overwater bungalows in the Caribbean, occupies a slice of tropical paradise near Oranjestad and the international airport. It’s an adults-only resort with a gorgeous location, good facilities, top-class food, drink, and excellent service all around. It’s also small, intimate, and friendly, and has none of the anonymous, almost industrial atmosphere of many of the larger Caribbean resorts. They have only three overwater bungalows at Aruba Ocean Villas, and they are extremely popular, so you’d be advised to book your stay well in advance.   Overwater Bungalows & Other Accommodation: They have some fantastic, individually designed choices at Ocean Villas, all except one… > See All the Details & Book

What sets Punta Caracol apart is not the overwater bungalows themselves, lovely as they are, but the extraordinary sense of isolation that surrounds them. Hidden along a remote stretch of the Bocas del Toro archipelago and accessible only by boat, the resort sits within its own 100-acre rainforest reserve, most of which remains untouched. Few overwater bungalow resorts in the Caribbean feel quite so immersed in nature. The nine overwater bungalows have steep thatched roofs, natural wood finishes and open air terraces hovering above the water. We particularly liked the Master Suites, whose mezzanine bedrooms and expansive dual terraces make the most of the views across the bay. Even the smaller categories are spacious and come with hammocks, outdoor seating… > See All the Details & Book

Along Bora Bora’s lagoon looking across to Mount Otemanu, The Westin Bora Bora has one of the island’s newer interpretations of the overwater bungalow resort, following its renovation and relaunch in 2024. It’s a Marriott so brings a more contemporary, international sensibility to things. We usually prefer the most traditional looking bungalows but the results of the renovations here have also won us over. Interiors combine clean-lined modern pale finishes, while glass floor panels and direct lagoon access keep the focus firmly on the water below. It’s all very cosy and romantic above all. Resort facilities are comprehensive: two infinity pools, a private stretch of beach, and The Heavenly Spa offering treatments from reflexology to deep tissue massage using locally… > See All the Details & Book

While many overwater resorts advertise seclusion, this tiny off-grid property on Isla Solarte has just two overwater bungalows, creating a level of intimacy increasingly difficult to find in overwater bungalows in the Caribbean. And it’s still only a five-minute water taxi ride from Bocas Town. The overwater bungalows themselves tick all the boxes and then some. Traditional thatched roofs, glass floor panels, overwater hammocks and outdoor showers provide the classic overwater experience, along with thoughtful extra touches like memory foam mattresses, mini-fridges, coffee makers and blackout curtains. We particularly like their layout, with separate living and sleeping spaces and large terraces positioned for sunset views. The Sol Bungalows resort has a genuine commitment to sustainability. The entire property operates off-grid…. > See All the Details & Book

The Fiji Marriott, Momi Bay is an exclusive 5-star resort near Nadi, and the Momi WW2 Gun Site, with an idyllic lagoon and ocean setting. It also has an array of fantastic facilities, premium quality accommodation, including some top-of-the-range overwater bungalows that we found surprisingly good value. Overwater Bungalows & Other Accommodation: The Marriott has a mixture of rooms at the main hotel building, all of which come with either a balcony or a patio, plus a mixture of bures (traditional Fijian-style straw and wood huts) both on land and over water. They come in various sizes with the largest, at over 800 square feet/74 square meters, being their ‘Royal Lagoon’ overwater bungalow. All the accommodation choices are 5-star standard… > See All the Details & Book

Why We Like It: The El Nido eco-resort chain’s Lagen Island branch has a jaw-dropping setting, even by Philippine island standards – a picture-perfect cove surrounded by limestone cliffs and lush green forest. We think Lagen Island as a whole is spectacular and it is a known sanctuary for a huge variety of flora and fauna. If you’re any kind of nature lover we’d highly recommend the resort’s guided jungle hikes. It is a luxury resort (4-star), with a kind of barefoot chic vibe, and the accommodation, food, and service are of a very high standard. It has 51 rooms in total, a mix of what they refer to as Forest Suites, Beachfront Cottages, and their overwater bungalows which they… > See All the Details & Book

W Maldives is a sophisticated 5-star, private (heart-shaped!) island overwater bungalow resort with cutting-edge design and facilities. It receives its fair share of international celebs and is a glamorous and fun place to hang out. Facilities include high-quality restaurants and bars, a sublime sauna & fitness center, and a water sports & dive center. The resort sits by what we consider the best house reef in the Maldives and you can admire a vast amount of sea life directly from your overater bungalow: reef sharks, angel fish, stingrays, and glow-in-the-dark plankton and jellyfish.   Overwater Bungalows & Other Accommodation: Most of the accommodation units at W Maldives are overwater bungalows. Their entry-level overwater villas are listed as Fabulous Overwater Oasis… > See All the Details & Book

We liked Maitai Polynesia because it offers a genuinely accessible Bora Bora overwater bungalow experience at more reasonable prices. Tucked into the island’s southern shore near Matira Point Beach, the resort sits in one of Bora Bora’s most desirable areas, yet manages to keep things refreshingly simple. The overwater bungalows may not be perched far out in the lagoon like some of Bora Bora’s more wow factor resorts but these overwater bungalows deliver the classic Bora Bora experience at a noticeably lower price. You still have spacious interiors though, direct lagoon access and glass floor panels to watch tropical fish drifting beneath. We like the honesty of the offering: fewer extravagances, fewer unnecessary add-ons, and a focus on the things… > See All the Details & Book

Amanyara sits on a dramatic rocky shore overlooking the coral reefs of Point Marine National Park in Turks & Caicos, fronted by the pristine sands of Malcolm’s Road Beach and surrounded by 100 acres of lush private estate. The resort combines ultra-luxury service with complete seclusion, yet remains just a convenient 20-minute drive from Providenciales International Airport. Accommodation features Indonesian-inspired pavilions and villas set over placid private ponds.. Overall, we think Amanyara represents one of the Caribbean’s premier ultra-luxury retreats, combining striking architecture, exceptional food and facilities, including wellness, and unmatched privacy. Amanyara at a Glance Location: Point Marine National Park, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Accommodation: One-bedroom overwater suite pavilions and expansive 2 to 6-bedroom overwater villas Best for: Discerning… > See All the Details & Book

Why We Like It: The 5-star Pangkor Laut is a stunningly beautiful private island near Malaysia’s Straits of Malacca with a pristine rainforest ringed by dreamy sand beaches and crystal clear waters. For us it is one of Malaysia’s, and Asia’s, finest luxury resorts and as such attracts a sophisticated Malaysian and international clientele. We think you won’t not find any kind of unnecessary formality or stuffiness here though, the atmosphere is notably pleasant, friendly, and relaxed. Its facilities really are top of the range – Pangkor Laut’s spa in particular has won countless awards and is consistently named among the world’s very best. Overwater Bungalows & Other Accommodation: Their accommodation is divided into four categories: Garden, Beach, Sea, and… > See All the Details & Book

Among the newest overwater bungalows in the Caribbean, those of Princess Senses The Mangrove sit offshore by Green Island, between Montego Bay and Negril. The design follows the familiar, romantic, semi-Polynesian approach, with timber-clad exteriors and thatch roofs. They also have direct sea access and uninterrupted ocean views, and they sensibly devote plenty of space to outdoor living, with spacious wrap-around terraces and private infinity pools. We especially liked that the overwater bungalow section is relatively peaceful and low key, but the wider resort of Princess Senses The Mangrove shares access to an extensive collection of facilities, including fourteen restaurants, fifteen bars, a nightclub, spa, wellness centre, water park and there is nightly entertainment. So it’s a busy place with… > See All the Details & Book

On Miniloc Island is the Filipino hotel group El Nido’s local eco-resort of the same name. It is something of a luxury resort, which we like, but we also like its laid back, unassuming vibe. It is eco-friendly too and feels more locally authentic than most resorts we’ve seen, with a dash of hippie chic thrown in. There are a total of 50 rooms, a mixture of beach cottages and overwater bungalows. The style is classic Filipino, its bungalows and on-shore cottages have walls of woven bamboo slats and traditional thatched roofs, and all of it blends nicely with the peaceful, rural nature of the setting.   Overwater Bungalows & Other Accommodation: First we have the overwater bungalows, referred to… > See All the Details & Book

Back in 2016, Sandals Caribbean Cay was the first to introduce modern luxury overwater bungalows to the Caribbean. They effectively set the template that later expanded to other Sandals resorts in Jamaica and St Lucia, but to our mind their Deluxe Category Bungalows, with private infinity pools, are still the best overwater bungalows in the Caribbean. All bungalows though are sleek luxury, with glass floor panels, outdoor soaking tubs and showers, spacious sun decks and direct access to the sea, and private butler service. The Deluxe Bungalows, as mentioned, include private infinity plunge pools and considerably larger outdoor living areas, which noticeably upgrades the whole experience. Beyond the overwater bungalows, Sandals Caribbean Cay is a full scale luxury resort with… > See All the Details & Book

Sandals Grande St. Lucian’s classic Caribbean overwater bungalows were first introduced to St Lucia back in 2017. They still remain the only overwater bungalows on the island, and with just nine in total, be prepared to book ahead. Set over the calm waters of Rodney Bay on the Pigeon Island peninsula, the overwater bungalows follow the familiar Sandals formula of adults-only, all-inclusive luxury. Each bungalow includes glass floor panels, outdoor soaking tubs, overwater hammocks, private sun decks and direct sea access, along with 24-hour butler service. The overwater section is slightly detached from the resort itself which has 311 rooms in total, plus twelve restaurants, multiple bars and extensive land and water sports. So plenty going on there and we… > See All the Details & Book

The family-friendly Four Seasons overwater bungalow resort forms an exclusive enclave by the coral reefs to the northeast of Bora Bora. We found their overwater bungalows more modernist than most and they have the feel of luxury design apartments where everything feels crisp, clean, and new. All come with tremendous views over Mount Otemanu and the lagoon, the overwater bungalows particularly, and the resort itself is a pleasure to stroll around with plenty to do and see, and a cozy, friendly, atmosphere throughout. Though the vibe is, this being Bora Bora, generally one of romantic indulgence, We think the Four Seasons takes care of children better than most with a kid’s club and plenty of organized activities. Overwater Bungalows &… > See All the Details & Book

St. George’s Caye, Belize, is a scenic private island with overwater bungalows near the Caribbean’s largest, and the world’s second-largest, barrier reef. We think it offers adventure and excitement on the one hand (it is a popular vacation spot for divers for example) and peace and tranquility on the other (honeymooners come here too). The food is highly praised, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner included in the room rate, the service is great and the atmosphere is relaxed, warm, and friendly.

Why We Like It: Banana Island is an island paradise just off the coast of Doha which is home to Qatar’s only overwater bungalows, and one of only two overwater bungalow resorts in the Gulf region (the other being the Palm Resort in Dubai). All are three-bedroom units and cover a full 2370 sq. feet/220 sq. meters, so for sheer scale alone, they are very impressive. We find them also nicely designed, sleek, and very luxurious, as you might well expect from one of Qatar’s finest luxury resorts. Banana Island has a very highly rated spa and wellness center, commonly thought of as the country’s best, seven restaurants to choose from, and a host of leisure and sports activities both… > See All the Details & Book

Just five minutes from Tahiti Airport and a short drive from central Papeete, InterContinental Tahiti has the easiest overwater bungalow experiences in the region to reach, making it a first introduction for many to this most Polynesian of experiences. The setting is undeniably more busy, and less scenic, than the secluded resorts of Bora Bora, yet that’s part of its appeal. Though the overwater bungalows are relatively peaceful, and have lovely views across the sea to Moorea, the resort isn’t so much made for serene romantic getaways. It’s a lively, fun place, with multiple restaurants, bars and activities. We particularly like the variety of bungalow options. The larger terraces of the Overwater Motu Bungalows make the most of the ocean… > See All the Details & Book

InterContinental Le Moana Resort sits at Matira Point, where Bora Bora’s main island tapers into pale sand and shallow lagoon. It’s a setting that feels a bit more connected to local island life than the offshore motu resorts, and we like it for that. The overwater bungalows extend far out into calm, very swimmable waters, and have long views across the lagoon towards Raiatea and Taha’a. Interiors are neatly finished with modern comforts and glass-bottomed coffee tables that bring lagoon life into the room. We like the balance between privacy and local access at Le Moana. The overwater bungalows might as well be on their own island but the resort itself remains closely tied to mainland Bora Bora, making it… > See All the Details & Book

All-inclusive resorts, be they with overwater bungalows or not, can tend to fall short when it comes to real luxury but Ozen Maadhoo is the Maldives’ finest example of how to get it right. We think it’s a really fabulous place: the setting is stunning, as is the accommodation, there is a generous supply of top quality food and drink and, if staying more than 4 nights, complimentary activities to enjoy too – spa treatments, scuba diving, and a meal at the resort’s very special underwater restaurant, just to give you an idea. All that plus very high levels of service make Ozen All Inclusive, for us, excellent value compared to other similar resorts in the Maldives. Overwater Bungalows &… > See All the Details & Book

Why We Like It: For us a strong candidate for the best luxury resort in Mauritius, the 5 Star Constance Le Prince Maurice, just an hour from Port Louis and its international airport, is a divine slice of paradise and one that boasts the country’s only overwater bungalows. There are just eleven in total though – eight junior suites and three particularly spacious and luxurious water villas – so we’d recommend you book well in advance. Though the height of luxury and beautifully styled we think they have one drawback, that is that they sit over a lagoon fish sanctuary. This means that though it features much interesting sea life, you are not allowed to swim just outside your door…. > See All the Details & Book

Sofitel Moorea Kia Ora Resort has overwater bungalows on Moorea’s north coast, close to both the island’s airport and ferry terminal, with regular connections to Tahiti. It’s not as nice as Bora Bora, sure, but if it’s your first time in the region you will be blown away by the setting. One of Moorea’s most lovely stretches of white sand sits directly alongside the resort, and the overwater bungalows sit proudly over clear lagoon waters with dense tropical greenery framing the back. We particularly like that, while the interiors have been updated with polished wood, soft lighting and contemporary comforts, the overwater bungalows retain a more traditional Polynesian character than some of the resort’s other accommodation. The wider resort is… > See All the Details & Book

Why We Like It: Nujuma, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve, opened in May 2024 as the third super-luxury resort to welcome guests to the Saudi Arabian Red Sea’s Ummahat Islands. Inspired by the word Nujum, meaning ‘stars’ in Arabic, it is also the first Ritz-Carlton Reserve in the broader region, and one of only seven worldwide. It’s a special place, then and the location sure is special too; on its own private island in the same Ummahat Archipelago as the St. Regis Red Sea, the first resort in the area. The design, the work of British firm Foster + Partners, is incredibly impressive, particularly their enormous overwater bungalows, of course. It’s broadly minimalist, with clean lines, graceful curves, and sandy hues that… > See All the Details & Book

A short hop by shuttle boat from Motu Mute Airport brings you to Tevairoa, a low-lying islet nicely set apart from Bora Bora’s main lagoon. It’s here that Le Bora Bora Pearl Resort has its overwater bungalows, over particularly stunning, shallow turquoise waters. The resort itself is quite compact, with around 80 rooms in total, and it has the feel of something even more intimate than that. We like that it’s a full-service resort but feels boutique in scale. The overwater bungalows display plenty of Polynesian character, from timber and thatch roofs to traditional decorative elements, and they feel cosy and romantic, but they are also still very much luxury affairs. Most of your time here will be spent on… > See All the Details & Book

Why We Like It: Anantara The Palm Resort Dubai is a fabulous 5-star resort with 400 meters of private shoreline on Dubai’s world-famous Palm Jumeirah. We find it has tremendous facilities, including a very opulent spa, and its accommodation is seen as among the very best in the city. Even better for the Anantara is that it is the only resort in Dubai with overwater bungalows. Overwater Bungalows & Other Accommodation: They have a great selection of luxury accommodation – the above-mentioned overwater bungalows, or Over Water Villas as they describe them, being the star attraction (we recommend you book early if at all possible). Being such a top-class resort even their most ‘basic’ accommodation – the ‘Standard Rooms’ are… > See All the Details & Book

There may be a lot of competition in overwater bungalows in Bora Bora and indeed in the broader region of French Polynesia, but we think the 5-star InterContinental Thalasso Bora Bora is really quite a place. It is located on its own private island, a 20-minute boat ride from Bora Bora Motu Mute Airport, and it is hard to overemphasize the extraordinary setting, with the craggy peak of Mount Otemanu towering above and the most beautifully clear turquoise waters you could imagine swaying gently all around. It also has consistently high levels of service, great facilities, and a laudable commitment to eco-friendly and sustainability principles, all of which, for us, make it stand out somewhat from the rest and lend… > See All the Details & Book

The overwater bungalows at Akalki Hotel y Centro Holístico appeal for different reasons than most in Mexico or indeed the broader Caribbean area. If you’re expecting private butlers, glass floors and lavish resort excess, you’re looking in the wrong place. What makes these overwater bungalows special is their connection to the remarkable waters of Bacalar Lagoon and the slower, more thoughtful atmosphere that has made this corner of southern Mexico increasingly popular. Set directly over the famous Lagoon of Seven Colors, Akalki, we liked how the design embraced the natural setting rather than competing with it. The large thatched roofs, timber interiors and furnished terraces feel entirely in keeping with the rustic laid-back character or the surrouds. The wider property… > See All the Details & Book

Among French Polynesia’s many overwater bungalow resorts, we particularly like Le Taha’a Island Resort for taking a slightly different path. Set on a secluded private motu between Bora Bora and Taha’a, it offers much of the same lagoon scenery that draws visitors to Bora Bora, but it is quieter, more intimate and better priced. Part of its appeal lies in its character. The 45 overwater bungalows are built in a traditional Polynesian style, with wood, thatch, native craftsmanship and decorative tapa barkcloth lending a sense of place than those elsewhere that went the full-on luxury approach. The overwater bungalows sit above remarkably clear water, with the end-of-pontoon units offer an extra amount of privacy and views that we think is… > See All the Details & Book

Royalton CHIC Antigua introduced a small collection of overwater bungalows to Dickenson Bay when it opened in 2024, making it only the second resort on the island to offer them. Set on the site of the former Halycon Cove Hotel, it follows the familiar Royalton all-inclusive model, with the overwater suites forming a relatively quiet, private section. There are twelve overwater bungalows in total, divided into Junior, Presidential and Chairman categories. Even the entry-level Junior Suites are large at over 1,100 square feet, and include the expected features such as plunge pools, glass floor panels, outdoor showers and direct sea access. The Presidential Suites add more internal space and a slightly more expansive layout, while the Chairman Suite is significantly… > See All the Details & Book

Thatch Caye is a Belize private island overwater bungalow resort with a refreshing sense of scale. With a maximum of around thirty guests at any one time, it offers a balance between castaway escape and sociable, all-inclusive, island retreat. Set 25 minutes by boat from Dangriga on the edge of the Belize Barrier Reef, it is also nicely accessible. The overwater bungalows embrace the island’s barefoot-chic philosophy. Interiors are comfortable and thoughtfully furnished, but the focus remains firmly on the setting outside. We particularly liked the Premium Overwater Bungalows, which have their own private walkways and noticeably more privacy than the standard units clustered near the shore. For most couples, the upgrade is well worth considering. Snorkelling, kayaking and paddleboarding… > See All the Details & Book

Sandals St. Vincent is the Caribbean resort chain’s newest resort, opened in March ’24, with among its broad accommodation choices St Vincent & The Grenadines’ very first Sandals overwater bungalows They are also among the very newest overwater bungalows in the Caribbean, and seem to offer good value compared to some of the more established alternatives. They come as two-story units with outdoor decks with access to the water below, overwater hammocks, a semi-open air upper floor for lounging and dining, and glass floor panels downstairs. They are large too and have that space divided over two floors, giving more of  a luxury villa feel. The resort in general too is fabulous, and is shaping up to be one of… > See All the Details & Book

Why We Like It: The Float House River Kwai Resort is a uniquely romantic floating hotel in Western Thailand. These luxury villas are generally only reached by boat, and so offer very much the sensation of getting away from it all. This is not some primitive jungle camp though we hasten to add, it is a luxury boutique resort with overwater bungalows that are spacious and comfortable and equipped with all modern luxury hotel conveniences. Overwater Bungalows: Their villas are all two-bedroom, one double and one twin, and all almost identical; there are no ‘standard’ or ‘superior’ villas or the like here. Beyond that, your accommodation choices are B&B villa, with breakfast only, half board or full-board. Going for full… > See All the Details & Book

The 5-star, adults-only Likuliku Lagoon is an eco-friendly island paradise off the coast of Western Fiji, and the first resort in the country to incorporate overwater bungalows. We love that conservation is a big part of the Likuliku story. The world’s last wild population (they were assumed to be extinct until 2010) of Fijian Crested Iguanas to be found in the resort’s on-land sanctuary. Educational, expert-guided forest walks can be arranged. Overwater Bungalows & Other Accommodation: The aforementioned overwater bungalows, or bures as they are referred to in Fiji, sit at the edge of the fringing reef. They have luxury interiors but we like that the design is semi-traditional, and the materials are natural and local which gives them an… > See All the Details & Book

The 5-star, St. Regis Bora Bora was the setting for the 2009 comedy ‘Couple’s Retreat,’ starring Vince Vaughan, an extra publicity boost that such a confident, sophisticated resort really had very little need for. Its overwater bungalows are stunning and we’re sure you’ll be extremely impressed with almost everything this resort has to offer. Overwater Bungalows & Other Accommodation: The resort is spread out over 44 acres which includes a private lagoon and various beach areas. The accommodation is a mixture of overwater bungalows and beach villas, all of which are extremely spacious; the largest overwater bungalows and villas in Bora Bora in fact. The very smallest on offer at the St. Regis are 1550 ft² for example, with the… > See All the Details & Book

Rosewood Mayakoba sits within one of the most refined stretches of Mexico’s Riviera Maya. Alongside Banyan Tree Mayakoba and Palafitos El Dorado, it forms part of an exclusive trio of luxury resorts near Cancun that offer overwater bungalows. This resort’s overwater bungalows are part of a wider collection of 129 suites and villas. Ranging in size from around 780 to 1,500 square feet, they are contemporary and understated, with clean architectural lines and natural materials. We particularly like the sense of space and indoor-outdoor balance here, with open-plan bathrooms, separate lounge areas, walk-in closets and private terraces that extend over the lagoon. Each overwater also includes an infinity-style plunge pool, along with 24-hour room service and butler service. The overwater… > See All the Details & Book

Why We Like It: Saudi Arabia has recently made huge strides in opening up to foreign tourism and this, the St. Regis Red Sea, which opened fairly in early 2024, is another example of such ambition. It is a high end luxury resort, as you would expect from Marriott’s St Regis line, and it is located on an absolutely gorgeous private island the Saudis call Ummahat. It has access to some of the world’s most pristine coral reefs and marine ecosystems, something both the tourism authorities and Marriott are, by all reports, keen to see be preserved and prosper. It’s all new for this part of the Red Sea so we hope this is exactly what happens. Accommodation is a… > See All the Details & Book

Why We Like It: The Cook Island’s only overwater bungalows are to be found at the boutique luxury, adults-only Aitutaki Resort. We think it’s a fabulous resort with a location to die for – it occupies a private island off the coast of Aitutaki main island, overlooking what many say is the world’s most beautiful lagoon. We feel it’s also an incredibly romantic place, ideal for honeymooners which make up a sizeable proportion of the guests. And weddings too are regularly performed at their beach chapel. Overwater Bungalows & Other Accommodation: We have a choice of luxury overwater, beach and garden bungalows here. The overwaters, at 70 sqm/754 sq. feet, are a decent size but still feel cozy and intimate…. > See All the Details & Book

The 5-star, adults-only Anantara Veli Resort has 67 chic overwater bungalows in a sublime setting just half an hour by speedboat from Mali’s International Airport. The location is more private and secluded than many other overwater bungalows in The Maldives and is very much designed for romantic getaways. It is still just a two-minute speedboat shuttle to the busier (& family-friendly) Anantara Dhigu Resort across the lagoon. There, you’ll find a broad range of facilities and entertainment; restaurants, bars, shops, water sports, etc. Antara Veli also has facilities of its own though with tennis courts, a fitness center, an outdoor spa, and three very fine restaurants serving Japanese, Thai, and international food. The service here is consistently impeccable, and you are… > See All the Details & Book

Sandals South Coast is one of three resorts in Jamaica offering overwater bungalows, alongside Sandals Caribbean Cay and Princess Senses The Mangrove. Set within a vast 500-acre nature reserve on Jamaica’s quieter southwestern coast near Whitehouse, it feels more secluded, romantic and in touch with nature than the other two. The overwater bungalows here are arranged in a calm, dedicated section of the resort, slightly set back from the main village-style accommodation clusters. Each spans around 1,100 square feet and follows the usual Sandals overwater layout we know and love: glass floor panels, outdoor soaking tubs, overwater hammocks and generous sun decks. Interiors are polished and comfortable, with spa-style bathrooms and a design that prioritises space. The wider resort is… > See All the Details & Book

Eclypse de Mar is one of those overwater bungalow resorts where the natural surroundings are more important than the accommodation itself. Tucked into a small private nature reserve on Isla Bastimentos in Bocas del Toro, it combines overwater bungalows, lush rainforest and easy access to the wider Bocas island archipelago. The seven overwater bungalows are thoughtfully designed, with timber interiors, glass floor panels and private terraces extending over the remarkably calm, clear water. We particularly like how they embrace the property’s eco-friendly ethos. We’d prefer the Honeymoon Overwater Bungalows for couples, they offer lots of living space and uninterrupted views across the bay, while the standard overwater bungalows can work well for families thanks to their two-bedroom layout. What we… > See All the Details & Book

Banyan Tree Mayakoba’s overwater bungalows take a more contemporary approach, blending sleek architecture with the mangroves, lagoons and tropical vegetation that surround. Spread across two levels and measuring an impressive 2,400 square feet, they are among the largest overwater accommodations in the Caribbean. It’s sleek, modern luxury here with natural woods, organic textures and abundant greenery to soften the lines. Private terraces with heated plunge pools overlook the lagoon, and spacious bathrooms feature luxury spa tubs. The wider resort of Banyan Tree Mayakoba combines a strong environmental ethos with superb facilities, from the acclaimed spa to access to the Greg Norman-designed El Camaleón Golf Course. Dining is another highlight, with restaurants ranging from contemporary Mexican and Mayan-inspired cuisine to Thai… > See All the Details & Book

Why We Like It: The enormous, 5 Star, Lexis Hibiscus Port Dickson Resort, just south of Kuala Lumpur, is one of Malaysia’s most iconic resorts, and it has the largest number of overwater bungalows of any resort in the world. There are an astonishing 522 overwater of them stretching out nearly a mile into the Strait of Malacca in the shape of a hibiscus flower. On land too there are a further one hundred-plus guest villas. We think each water villa has been beautifully put together, with luxurious interiors, and outdoor decks with private plunge pools. The only negative we can see though is that with such a huge number of overwater bungalows together they are relatively close together and… > See All the Details & Book

Sun Siyam Iru Fushi is an award-winning 5-star all-inclusive with overwater bungalows on a stunning private island in The Maldives’ Noonu Atoll. The resort has a great reputation for family vacations, winning the World Travel Awards’ category of Best Family Resort in the Indian Ocean for three years running from 2016 to 2019, while also being nominated multiple times for the world’s best family resort. We find it’s also a popular place for a romantic getaway too though – this being the Maldives adults/couples tend to dominate anyway. There are also dedicated adults-only zones and the resort is large enough to find plenty of space for rest, relaxation, and romance. It offers various options – b&b, half board, full board, and… > See All the Details & Book

The eco-friendly Koro Sun Resort sits on a lagoon surrounded by a lush 160-acre nature sanctuary on the island of Vanua Levu, just to the northeast of Fiji’s main island. For us it’s a place with a strong back-to-nature appeal. If you’re feeling adventurous you can head out on some awe-inspiring jungle hikes or deep sea diving trips or, if you’re feeling lazy, just lay back and enjoy as much fine food, pampering, and relaxation as you like. Overwater Bungalows & Other Accommodation: We have a broad range of accommodations here, including overwater bungalows which actually float on the water, and larger, two-story, two-bedroom overwater villas in a semi-separate, private section of the resort. The overwater bungalows romantic and cozy… > See All the Details & Book

First opening its doors in May 2019, then acquired by the Marriott Hotel group in late 2021, Royalton Antigua is a classic 5 Star Caribbean all-inclusive that became home to Antigua’s first overwater bungalows. It offers opulence and luxury and has a choice setting on the clear, calm waters of Antigua’s Deep Bay, less than twenty minutes from St. John’s, and a half an hour from V. C. Bird International Airport. There are two resorts with overwater bungalows now in Antigua, among just a handful of other luxury overwater bungalows in the Caribbean. Both of them are Royalton properties. You can check out the other; Royalton Chic Resort here.   Overwater Bungalows: Spacious: 1442 sq. ft. with king bedroom, lounge,… > See All the Details & Book

Set within a private cove on Motu To’opua, the Conrad Bora Bora Nui is a resort that’s bigger and bolder than most, but has genuine calm around the overwater bungalows. These overwater bungalows are super luxury affairs, and the most expansive in Bora Bora. They have huge decks, and a huge amount of interior space too for seamless indoor/outdoor living. Some of their higher-category villas also have private plunge pools. At the very top end, the Presidential Overwater Villas stand apart entirely, arranged across two levels, and are possibly the most luxurious overwater bungalows in the world. The overall property is large and fully equipped with multiple restaurants, a swim-up bar, infinity pool and extensive activities. Dining is varied, from… > See All the Details & Book

Why We Like It: DoubleTree by Hilton Noumea Ilot Maitre Resort has New Caledonia’s only overwater bungalows and, as it happens, the closest overwater bungalows to Australia. We think the overwater bungalows and the resort, in general, are the kind of luxury that you might expect from the Hilton chain, and then some. The setting, a private island nature reserve in Anse Vata Bay, twenty minutes by boat from Noumea, is incredibly idyllic. Sea life is abundant here, with the island being an important habitat for sea turtles. DoubleTree by Hilton Noumea Ilot Maitre Resort is family friendly though the majority of those in the overwater bungalows seem to be couples of all ages. Overwater Bungalows & Other Accommodation: Twenty-five… > See All the Details & Book

Why We Like It: Stella Island Resort in Crete is a 5-star luxury, adults-only resort with a tremendously good reputation and one which is home to one of only two overwater bungalow accommodations in Europe (the other being at Palafitte Resort on Lake Neuchâtel, Switzerland). It occupies a private stretch of Crete’s north coast and offers, amongst other things, spa facilities, some of the very best food on the island, and the opportunity to enjoy many sports including tennis and water sports. The resort has various deals for you to choose from: You can go B&B/breakfast only, have breakfast and dinner included in the room rate, or go all-inclusive. In terms of value, we feel the breakfast and dinner included… > See All the Details & Book

There’s certainly no shortage of Maldives overwater bungalow resorts out there, but not many see the same number of positive reviews as Niva Velassaru. It is an enormously popular resort and many of its guests happily return year after year. We think the convenience helps in fairness – we love the fact that this island paradise is just 25 minutes by speedboat from Male Airport. Its prices are a positive factor too – for a 5-star resort in the Maldives Niva Velassaru offers very good value. It sees a mixture of guests: mostly couples on romantic sojourns but also families. A drawback may be that it can get pretty busy, by Maldives standards anyway. Some may call it lively or… > See All the Details & Book

El Dorado Maroma is credited with introducing the first overwater bungalows in Mexico, and even now we think it still has the best ones in the country. The Palafitos overwater bungalows are divided into Standard and Elite categories, the difference between them mainly about positioning. Both include the expected hallmarks of the format: glass floor panels, outdoor showers, private infinity plunge pools, direct access to the sea and private butler service. We think the Elite units are the more compelling choice though, as they face out towards the open water which brings noticeably better privacy and uninterrupted views. The El Dorado Maroma resort itself is a gourmet paradise. The Overwater Grill & Wine Bar is a standout, particularly for its… > See All the Details & Book

Veligandu Private Island, just twenty minutes by seaplane from Male Airport is, for us, probably the best value all-inclusive overwater bungalow resort in the Maldives. Though it lacks the full 5 Star wow factor of Lily Beach Resort or Ozen Maadhoo, for what we are getting here we might expect the prices to be almost double what they are. As such it is extremely popular and sees a lot of return visitors.   Overwater Bungalows & Other Accommodation: You have two main room categories at Veligandu – Beach Villas and Water Villas, all of which are doubles with king-size beds though you can order extra beds/cots for children. These are in turn sub-divided into standard and jacuzzi villas. We think… > See All the Details & Book

Lily Beach Resort is a 5-star all-inclusive with overwater bungalows on a stunning private island in Ari Atoll, Maldives. Their all-inclusive plan offers a generous array of quality services, with a range of free water sports activities and excursions and lots and lots of premium food and drink. It is a well-known resort and consistently popular; people return here year after year, so we’d recommend you book well in advance.   Overwater Bungalows & Other Accommodation: We have a choice of water villas, beach villas, and lagoon villas at Lily Beach. The typically Maldives romantic overwater bungalows come in two categories: their ‘Deluxe Water Villas’ have 1356 ft² of space including a private outdoor deck with a jacuzzi plunge pool. Their… > See All the Details & Book