Overwater Bungalows for Honeymoons (2023 Update)

Why We Recommend These Overwater Bungalows: 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 which 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 be prepared to book well in advance. Though the height of luxury and beautifully styled they have just one drawback, that is that they sit over a lagoon fish sanctuary which, though it features much interesting sea life, means you are not allowed to swim just outside your door. Once that disappointment is overcome though these overwater bungalows leave very little else to complain about and the Constance Prince Maurice in general is a truly fantastic resort. It has excellent spa facilities and a whole host of activities can be enjoyed including water-sports and golf at not one but two different 18 hole championship golf courses. Though the resort mainly caters for romantic getaways, honeymoons etc. children can and do come READ THE REVIEW

Disclaimer: This page contains affiliate links. Dreamoverwater may be compensated if you make a purchase via certain outbound links but at absolutely no extra cost to you the visitor. Why We Recommend These Overwater Bungalows: 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, and consistently cheerful, friendly service. 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 and have a modern, minimalist chic style. Facilities include cable TV, air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, USB chargers, music systems, laptop safes, tea & coffee making facilities, and 24-hour room service. They all have particularly nice bathrooms too READ THE REVIEW

Why We Recommend These Overwater Bungalows: The 5-Star, Sofitel Moorea Kia Ora Resort is a private enclave surrounded by crystal clear waters and pure white sands near both Moorea Airport and the island’s main ferry dock which has regular ferries running the hour-long journey to and from Tahiti. It is a beautiful place, and if you’re coming, as most people are, straight from busy Tahiti both it and the island of Moorea in general will offer the wow factor. The setting ticks all the boxes for a classic Polynesian island stay; balmy turquoise waters, powdery white sands (the beach alongside is consistently rated one of the best in Polynesia), and lush green tropical foliage, while the resort itself is small, intimate and oozes romantic indulgence. Sofitel is family friendly but it doesn’t have much in the way of specific facilities for kids. In general, though they will be well looked after by the helpful, cheerful staff. Babysitting/child minding services are also available. Overwater Bungalows & Other Accommodation: They have a range of bungalows and villas, mainly overwater but with a few beach and garden villas too, ranging in size from READ THE REVIEW

Why We Recommend These Overwater Bungalows: The 5 Star Pangkor Laut is a stunningly beautiful private island near Malaysia’s Straits of Malacca with pristine rainforest ringed by dreamy sand beaches and crystal clear waters. It is seen as one of Malaysia’s, and Asia’s, finest luxury resorts and as such attracts a sophisticated, Malaysian and international, clientele. You will 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 Hill. The sea section is as you may have guessed where the overwater bungalows reside. All are one double bedroom and as stylish and luxurious as you might expect from such a resort. They also feel thoroughly romantic. We particularly liked the spa baths looking out onto the sea and the elegant wood-panelled interiors. At 55 m2 / 592 ft2 they are not really large enough to impress with their READ THE REVIEW

Why We Recommend These Overwater Bungalows: The InterContinental Le Moana lies along Matira Point at the southern end of Bora Bora’s main island and is, as the name suggests, a sister hotel of the InterContinental Thalasso across the lagoon which has a greater range of facilities, all of which guests at this InterContinental can access via shuttle boat. It doesn’t have the same broad choice of accommodation as its sister hotel and many will consider the Thalasso branch, as it looks directly across the lagoon at the towering Mount Otemanu, to have a more scenic setting. Intercontinental Le Moana also has an extremely idyllic location though it must be said, nestling snugly as it does between the gorgeous white sands of Matira Point and the lush tropical hills behind. It also offers equal amounts of luxury, service and style, and has an understated charm that may be lacking in the larger resort. Its smaller size, more convivial atmosphere, greater access to the main island and lower prices may just make it more preferable for many guests. Overwater Bungalows & Other Accommodation: The Le Moana, as mentioned, doesn’t have the same READ THE REVIEW

Why We Recommend These Overwater Bungalows: Sandals Grande St. Lucian became the latest Sandals’ resort to open overwater bungalows after they achieved great success at their two Jamaican overwater bungalow resorts. Their overwater bungalows are a honeymoon favorite but with only nine of them, they get booked out well in advance. Make reservations as early as you possibly can. They come with glass floor panels that allow you to peer into the Caribbean just below your feet, tranquility soaking tubs, private patios, and over-water hammocks amongst other special features. They also have a 24-hour personal butler service and the service throughout the resort is top-notch – efficient and professional but also personable. Sandals Grande St. Lucian is, like all Sandals resorts, 5 Star, all-inclusive and strictly adults-only. Overwater Bungalows & Other Accommodation: They have an enormous range of accommodation at the resort, with the above-mentioned overwater accommodation being absolutely the most popular. These have a spacious, luxurious feel with hardwood floors, vaulted ceilings, king-size beds with soft linens and plush pillows, smart TVs, sun decks, outdoor showers, swish bathrooms, and 24-hour personal butler service. Many of the other choices will match, READ THE REVIEW

Why We Recommend These Overwater Bungalows: The Maldives certainly isn’t short of resorts with water villas but not many see the same amount of positive reviews as Velassaru. It is an enormously popular resort and many of its guests happily return year after year. Its convenience probably 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 Velassaru is 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 vibrant though, and much prefer it that way. It’s certainly not any kind of wild party resort though either and it’s easy to wander off around the island and quickly find yourself alone with the sea. You have three meals packages to choose from at Velassaru: Breakfast included, breakfast and dinner included or breakfast, lunch and dinner included. Velassaru Maldives is a family-friendly resort but children are READ THE REVIEW

Why We Recommend These Overwater Bungalows: Maitai Polynesia is a charming little resort in the south of Bora Bora by Matira Point Beach, just below the InterContinental Le Moana. It offers the cheapest luxury overwater bungalow experience in Bora Bora. This might be possible because they seem to have pared back some of the more expensive, but maybe unnecessary for many people frills – things such as a swimming pool, private airport transfer to the resort (though there is private transfer from Vaitape, and you can get there easily, and cheaply, by public ferry from the airport) and an excess of choice in terms of restaurants, bars and other facilities. For a lot of people this is an easy trade off, especially seeing that guests at Maitai have complimentary access to the facilities of the InterContinental just a few minutes walk away. Note: Maitai is placed in our adults only category as, though children can stay in some other parts of the resort, the overwater bungalows are strictly adults only. Overwater Bungalows & Other Accommodation: The resort has a nice range of options – overwater bungalows, bungalows on the beach READ THE REVIEW

Why We Recommend These Overwater Bungalows: Just a ten-minute shuttle boat ride from Motu Mute Airport, and fifteen minutes across the lagoon from the town of Vaitape, lies the little island of Tevairoa – the wondrous setting for the 4 Star Bora Bora Pearl Resort. The resort has a total of 80 accommodation units comprising overwater bungalows, beach villas and garden villas, but feels rather small and boutique-resort like. It also feels somewhat more traditionally Polynesian than other resorts around Bora Bora, in terms of architecture, style and general laid back atmosphere. It is family friendly, and has activities for children, but wouldn’t really define itself as such, maintaining well the tricky balance between keeping children content and offering the last word in romantic experience. Overwater Bungalows & Other Accommodation: You have a choice between garden suites, beachfront suites or classic overwater bungalows. The suites are nestled among tropical plants, have their own private pool and, being able to sleep up to five, are the most suitable for families. The beachfront suites have a private hot tub/jacuzzi and some lovely views across the sands but of course the overwater bungalows READ THE REVIEW

Why We Recommend These Overwater Bungalows: Veligandu Private Island, just twenty minutes by seaplane from Male Airport, is possibly the best value all-inclusive water villa resort in the Maldives. Though it lacks the full 5 Star Wow factor of Lily Beach Resort or Ozen Maadhoo, for what you are getting here you might expect the prices to be almost double what they are. As such it is extremely popular and sees return visitors year after year. Water Villas & Other Accommodation: You have two main room categories at Veligandu – Beach Villas and Water Villas, all of which are doubles with King-size bed though you can order extra beds/cots for children. These are in turn sub-divided into standard and jacuzzi villas. None of these accommodation choices will disappoint though the jacuzzi villas, even disregarding the added jacuzzi on the terrace, are more spacious and open and definitely worth the extra fee. All villas have that nice, traditional Pacific thatched roof look but inside they are modern and sleek. Amenities include satellite TV, Nespresso coffee machines, air con, generous minibars, and, if not a terrace jacuzzi outside then a spa bath READ THE REVIEW

Why We Recommend These Overwater Bungalows: Anantara The Palm Resort Dubai is a fabulous 5 Star resort with 400 meters of private shoreline on Dubai’s world famous Palm Jumeirah. 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 (book early if at all possible). Being such a top class resort even their most ‘basic’ accommodation – the ‘Standard Rooms’ are neither basic nor standard, they cover 38 square meters/409 square feet and have balconies with a view over the lagoon. That being said though a relatively small step up in price can offer you more space and just that little bit of extra wow factor with the Premier and Deluxe Rooms. An extra jump in price allows you to choose between apartments and very classy beach villas. Their 18 READ THE REVIEW

Why We Recommend These Overwater Bungalows: Thatch Caye is a private island paradise in the Caribbean with overwater bungalows 25 minutes by speedboat from mainland Belize. It is eco-friendly and has a kind of rustic, barefoot chic vibe. It caters for no more than 30 people at any one time too so also feels relatively intimate and exclusive, but with a friendly, communal atmosphere. Numerous activities are offered at Thatch Caye and your days can be as busy or as peaceful and relaxed as you may wish. Overwater Bungalows & Other Accommodation: You have a choice of beach cabanas and overwater bungalows. The latter are divided between Standard and Premium with the standard units being three bungalows sitting practically right beside each other just off the shore. Thus they’re really not ideal if privacy is what you’re after. But for a group of friends, if booked together, they could be perfect. The premium overwater bungalows on the other hand offer a huge amount of privacy. Though they are pretty much the same internally as the standard bungalows they have their own private walkway so feel very secluded indeed. They don’t READ THE REVIEW

Why We Recommend These Overwater Bungalows: The 5-star Le Taha’a Resort sits on a tremendously beautiful, secluded private islet between Bora Bora and the famous vanilla island of Taha’a from where it gets its name. It offers a delectable form of tranquil, laid-back luxury, and at cheaper prices than on Bora Bora itself. Cheaper prices or not, for many Le Taha’a is preferable to resorts on Bora Bora’s main island anyway in that it has an even more remote, paradise island feel. And it is a small, intimate resort that feels more personable and less corporate than many others. This is reflected too in its architecture and interior design – the accommodation, and the resort in general feels more traditionally Polynesian than most. Overwater Bungalows & Other Accommodation: Le Taha’a has 45 romantic, old-style wood and thatch overwater bungalows above the islet’s crystal clear, bountiful waters and a range of cozy beach villas with private gardens and plunge pools steps away from the beach. This is 5-star luxury accommodations with all the conveniences you might come to expect but the decor is traditional Polynesian – displaying native woodcraft and some READ THE REVIEW

Why We Recommend These Overwater Bungalows: There may be a lot of competition in terms of luxury retreats in Bora Bora and indeed in the broader region of French Polynesia, but 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 ever 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 make it stand out somewhat from the rest and lend the place an extra exclusive feel. It is very much a once-in-a-lifetime vacation venue, and smoothly manages to be both family-friendly and ideal for honeymoons. Overwater Bungalows & Other Accommodation: The overwater bungalows and villas are in a choice position to enjoy the setting with their boardwalk jutting out right in the middle of the bay. They are also all exceptionally spacious; the smallest covers READ THE REVIEW

Why We Recommend These Overwater Bungalows: One of only two resorts with overwater bungalows in Jamaica (the other being Sandals Royal Caribbean), Sandals South Coast is a 5-star luxury, adults-only, all-inclusive resort that offers Epicurean indulgence in a dreamy Caribbean beach setting. The resort is large and the amount, and quality, of facilities and activities on offer are very impressive. The food is a particular attraction – guests have nine gourmet restaurants to choose from with food that spans the globe. Overwater Bungalows & Other Accommodation: They have a wide range of luxury accommodations to choose from, between rooms, suites, and over-water bungalows/villas, all offering varying levels of space, luxury, and privacy. Their 1,100 square feet over water villas are suitably plush and luxurious and come with outdoor sun decks with soaking tubs and overwater hammocks, internal glass floor panels, particularly nice, spa-style bathrooms, personal butler service, and an exclusive in-room dining and room service menu. Prices & Availability: Check out all the details and compare prices at the resort’s own website (Sandals) here, on Expedia.com here and at Booking.com here. Note: Like all luxury overwater bungalows in the Caribbean READ THE REVIEW

Why We Recommend These Overwater Bungalows: The Aruba Ocean Villas Resort, home to Aruba’s only overwater bungalows, occupies a slice of tropical paradise in the southwest of the island near Oranjestad and the international airport. This adults-only resort is a luxury oasis with a gorgeous location, good facilities, top-class food, drink and excellent service all round. 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 being doubles. The three coveted over-the-water choices – listed on the booking page under various names such as LouLou, Isla Alistaire, and Dushi Sue are incredibly opulent and spacious. They are also very stylishly furnished. Minimalists may shudder at the interiors but we found them to be atmospheric and thoroughly romantic. If the overwater bungalows are booked out you will not be disappointed by the other beachfront choices READ THE REVIEW

Why We Recommend These Overwater Bungalows: Soneva Jani is one of The Maldives’ most exclusive private island resorts and has water villas that are almost uniquely spacious, stylish, and luxurious. The very largest of them, the two and four-bedroom ‘water reserves’ around the end of the walkway, being really quite extraordinary. These opulent wooden palaces come with private pools, water slides, and retractable roofs that allow stargazing direct from the master bedroom. All-inclusive packages have been available here since 2021. Check below for details as to what is included. 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 civilization. Water Villas & Other Accommodation: The first stand-out feature of Soneva Jani’s water villas is their sheer size – all of them are spread over two floors and their very smallest one-bedroom units still cover 4477 square feet/416 square meters while their largest, the four-bedroom water reserve, covers a whopping 15295 square feet/1421 square meters. There are five other categories between those two extremes none of which will READ THE REVIEW

Updated on October 22, 2022 The Float House River Kwai Resort is a uniquely romantic floating hotel in Western Thailand. These luxury villas are generally only reached by boat, so very much offer the sensation of getting away from it all. This is not some primitive jungle camp though, it is a luxury boutique resort with overwater bungalows that are extremely spacious and comfortable and equipped with all modern luxury hotel conveniences. The 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-board makes the most sense we think. The food included in the package is of good quality and even if it weren’t, as the place is so isolated, unless you bring your own food you will be spending extra to eat at the same restaurant anyway. The villas have around 90 square meters/1,000 square feet of space and have a nice, natural elegance; their thatched roofs, teakwood furniture, and natural materials allow you READ THE REVIEW

Why We Recommend These Overwater Bungalows: 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 amount 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. Each water villa is beautifully put together, with suitably luxurious interiors and outdoor decks with private plunge pools. The only negative we can see though is that with such a huge amount of overwater bungalows together they are relatively close together and so not as private as some people may like. The resort itself has excellent facilities, including a big choice of restaurants and snack bars, spa facilities, a kid’s club, and a huge range of fun water and land-based sports activities. On land too there are a further one hundred-plus guest villas. Water Villas & Other Accommodation: So there are 522 overwater villas and a further 117 on-land villas divided into categories and price points depending on location, view (sea view or READ THE REVIEW

Why We Recommend These Water Villas: All-inclusive resorts 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. It is a 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 tremendously high levels of service make Ozen All Inclusive excellent value compared to other similar resorts in the Maldives. Water Villas & Other Accommodation: You have a choice of classic water villas and beach villas here, ranging in size from 85 m² to 285 m². They are all doubles, with king-size bed and a sofa bed in the lounge area if needed, with the exception of the large ‘Beach Pool Pavillion‘, which has two bedrooms – a master bedroom and one twin bedroom. The water villas are a classically romantic choice with direct access to the water READ THE REVIEW

Why We Recommend These Overwater Bungalows: The 5-star, St. Regis Bora Bora was the setting for the 2009 comedy ‘Couple’s Retreat,’ starring Vince Vaughan, a small extra publicity boost that such a confident, sophisticated resort really has very little need for. Its overwater bıngalows are stunning and you can expect to be extremely impressed with almost everything at the resort in general. 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 very largest being a quite magnificent 3960 ft². The design and decor are mostly traditional Polynesian; airy and with lots of wood. You will have a large bedroom(s) with a super comfortable king-size bed, seating, closet space, and a giant flat-screen TV. The lounge areas have comfy sofas, another TV, and a minibar, and outside there is lots of deck space with READ THE REVIEW

Why We Recommend These Overwater Bungalows: The 5-star celebrity haunt that is the Conrad Bora Bora Nui sits neatly in a private cove on Motu To’opua, a little islet southwest of the main island. The setting is beautiful – secluded and thoroughly romantic, and the resort really has an extra touch of class, even by Bora Bora’s high standards. It also boasts what are surely Bora Bora’s, and one of the world’s, finest overwater bungalows – their incredibly opulent Presidential Overwater Villa. Their hilltop Hina Spa has soothing treatments and tremendous panoramic views, there are four excellent dining options, a large infinity pool and pool bar, and some lovely stretches of the purest of white sands. The Conrad is family-friendly; it has its own Kid’s Club, but overall the atmosphere is one of romance and relaxed, indulgent tranquility. Overwater Bungalows & Other Accommodation: They have a total of 114 accommodation units at the Conrad, with a choice between overwater, beach, and garden. The Conrad, in its previous incarnation as a Hilton, was the first resort in Bora Bora to offer the now ubiquitous overwater bungalows and these are of course READ THE REVIEW

Why We Recommend These Overwater Bungalows: The El Nido eco-resort chain’s Lagen Island branch has a jaw-dropping setting, even by Philippines island standards – a picture-perfect cove surrounded by limestone cliffs and lush green forest. Lagen Island as a whole is spectacular and 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 refer to as Water Cottages. All are crafted from local wood, most of it recycled and, in common with pretty much all El Nido’s resorts, the accommodation, and the resort in general, feel authentic and seem to blend in nicely with the sublime natural surroundings, though mod-cons too are present. Water Villas & Other Accommodation: So there’s a total of 51 rooms, 18 of which are overwater bungalows or Water Cottages, 53 READ THE REVIEW

Sandals St. Vincent is the 5-star resort chain’s newest resort, due to open on March 27, 2024, and taking reservations right now! Among its broad accommodation choices are St Vincent & The Grenadines’ very first overwater bungalows! With the resort not having opened yet we of course can’t know too much about them, except that, judging by the details we’ve received, they are two-story units (so I guess we should call them villas not bungalows) with outdoor decks and overwater hammocks with access to the water below, a semi-open air upper floor for lounging and dining, and glass floor panels downstairs. They seem more modest than the incredibly lavish overwater bungalows at Sandals in Jamaica and St. Lucia. But with prices starting at about $3,400 per couple per night, they are in the same price range. They are relatively close to the shore and are not free-standing units – each seems to be attached to one other villa – which may limit privacy somewhat, and, with what space there is being divided over two floors they might also lack a sense of spaciousness. The resort in general promises to be READ THE REVIEW

Why We Recommend These Overwater Bungalows: 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. They are 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 land and water-based including golf, tennis, ten-pin bowling, scuba diving, snorkeling, boating and fishing. Overwater Bungalows & Other Accommodation: They have a good range of accommodation choices all of which are spacious and luxurious. Even their cheapest rooms will be at least 500 sq. feet and display very high levels of comfort. Pride of place though of course goes to their overwater villas. They are as mentioned enormous with READ THE REVIEW

Why We Recommend These Overwater Bungalows: This newly renovated and rebranded (it was formerly known as Le Méridien) Marriott resort, is taking reservations now for after its grand re-opening in May 2024. Even after this very fine renovation it still might not have the same show-stopping sense of opulence as some other nearby resorts; the St. Regis or The Four Seasons for example, which feature some quite enormous accommodations, But though the largest overwater bungalows at The Westin cover not much more than 540 ft², they are now just as luxurious, stylish and well-equipped. So if you feel having acres of extra space is not worth the extra premium price then The Westin will be for you. The Westin is family-friendly but its previous incarnation as Le Méridien had a relaxed, intimate atmosphere that was more suited to couples, so we imagine that may continue. It was also noticeably quieter, especially in the evenings than most other Bora Bora resorts, so we can only imagine that also will continue. Overwater Bungalows & Other Accommodation: The Westin won’t have the same breadth of accommodation choices as some other resorts but what READ THE REVIEW

Why We Recommend These Overwater Bungalows: 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. Conservation is a big part of the Likuliku story with 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 the design is semi-traditional and the materials are natural and local which gives them a nice earthy, authentic feel. All are equally sized – with 646 sq. feet/60 square meters of internal space and 334/31 of external. Inside you have one bedroom with king size bed and a lounging area that opens out to the furnished terrace and open ocean beyond. You have direct access to the water below via a small wooden deck and stairs and inside there are glass panels READ THE REVIEW

Why We Recommend These Overwater Bungalows: The tropical gardens of the InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa lie just five minutes from Tahiti Airport and not much more than ten from downtown Papeete. The super convenient location means it’s a place where many people get their very first experience of a classic Polynesian resort, and an overwater bungalow stay. It is a large, fairly busy resort and you’ll find it more lively, both day and night (it’s got a 24 hour bar for example), than any similar resort on the likes of Bora Bora and Moorea. The overwater bungalows section though is more quiet and peaceful, relatively speaking, and so you in some ways you can have a romantic getaway or honeymoon while still being able to enjoy the buzz of a lively resort. You’ll find lots to do here with shops, fine restaurants, fun bars, a fabulous spa and plenty of water sports and other activities to pass the time with. Overwater Bungalows & Other Accommodation: The have a range of accommodations at the Intercontinental, mainly rooms at the main hotel building which come in various sizes and have balconies READ THE REVIEW

Why We Recommend These Overwater Bungalows: Eclypse de Mar is an intimate, very much eco-friendly resort, with its own nature reserve in Bocas del Toro, along Panama’s Caribbean Coast. It has some tastefully designed and decorated, overwater bungalows, just seven in total, which blend nicely with the deep jungle behind. Overwater Bungalows & Other Accommodation: Their overwater accommodation has two categories – the Standard Bungalows at 538 square feet/50 square meters and the larger, slightly more plush, Honeymoon Overwater Bungalows at 861 square feet/80 square meters. The latter has one king-size bedroom plus lounge while the former, though smaller, has two bedrooms, one double and one twin. All have seating areas inside and outside on the private terrace which offers direct access to the water (which is beautifully calm and clear), and inside they have glass floor panels to allow you to observe the abundant sea life below. They are super comfortable but this being a very much eco-friendly resort you will have to forgo some luxuries – No air-con just ceiling fans for example but, helped by the fresh breezes from the sea, they do the job well. There are READ THE REVIEW

Why We Recommend These Overwater Bungalows: Sofitel Bora Bora is an intimate, adults-only, private island resort with crystal clear waters and coral gardens just a two-minute boat ride from the southern end of the main Island, or a 30-minute boat shuttle direct from Bora Bora Airport. It has just 30 bungalows & villas and so is very much a boutique resort, and most certainly a place for peace, quiet, calm, and contentment. Especially given that the entire island is child-free – the only adults-only overwater resort in Bora Bora. Overwater Bungalows & Other Accommodation: This intimate oasis is particularly geared towards couples and honeymooners and so all its accommodation choices are doubles. There are two types of villa on offer; twenty classic overwater bungalows out on the lagoon and ten more private jungle lodges surrounded by trees and overlooking the water. Both are roughly the same size and at around 370 ft² are relatively small. They all come with king-size bed as standard though, as well as a living space, an outdoor terrace/sun lounge, and private access to the water. Expect all standard luxury hotel mod cons here and excellent READ THE REVIEW

Why We Recommend These Overwater Bungalows: The newest of only three overwater bungalow resorts in Mexico, the other two being the nearby Palafitos El Dorado Resort and the even more nearby Rosewood Mayakoba, Banyan Tree Mayakoba is another very much exclusive resort near Playa del Carmen. It wins consistently great reviews for its eco-friendly principles, its choice setting, its luxury accommodation and facilities, which include a Greg Norman-designed 18-hole golf course and an award-winning spa, and gourmet food & drink. Their overwater bungalows are more European chalet-like than rustic Polynesian. The interiors are sleek, modern, and plush but with plenty of nice earthy, back-to-nature touches. They are set over two floors and offer a far greater sense of privacy than most. Overwater Bungalows & Other Accommodation: The above-mentioned over-water villas are all doubles with king-size bed and are very spacious indeed – over their two floors they cover a full 2400 square feet / 222 sq. meters. They have a heated plunge pool on the private terrace which has views over the lagoon. Their bathrooms are particularly nice with spa baths as standard. As with the resort in general, though READ THE REVIEW

Why We Recommend These Overwater Bungalows: The adults-only St. George’s Caye is a scenic private island off the coast of Belize City near the Caribbean’s largest, and the world’s second-largest, barrier reef. It offers adventure and excitement on the one hand (it is a popular vacation spot for divers for eg.) and peace and tranquility on the other (honeymooners come here too). The food is generally highly praised, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner included in the room rate, the service is great and the atmosphere is relaxed, warm, and friendly. It sells itself as a luxury resort but if you are indeed expecting luxury the accommodation, though charming and very comfortable, may be underwhelming. Overall though the resort, the island, and the general atmosphere of the place make it a very enjoyable place to spend time in. Overwater Bungalows & Other Accommodation: You have a choice of broadly similar thatched roof cabanas, all doubles/twins in three different locations – Overwater, Beachfront & Garden, with the Oceanfront being the most expensive, the Garden cheapest, and the Overwater in the middle price range. In the vast majority of resorts, the overwater accommodation READ THE REVIEW

Why We Recommend These Overwater Bungalows: The couples-only Sandals Royal Caribbean, near Montego Bay and just minutes from Sangster International Airport, was the very first overwater bungalow resort in Jamaica and indeed the first in the entire region. The concept was an immediate success and the Sandals company soon followed it with more bungalows at Sandals South Coast (also in Jamaica) and in their branch in St. Lucia. Sandals Royal Caribbean though was the groundbreaker, or well…water breaker, in this region, and its standards, have been extremely high from the beginning. It is a high-end luxury, all-inclusive paradise with a private island (where the overwater bungalows are to be found), top-of-the-range facilities, superb food and drink, and consistently excellent service. It also has a tremendous location: getting to most overwater bungalow resorts usually involves a fairly long journey from the nearest airport but here you are, tantalizingly, just minutes (via the resort’s private shuttle) away. Overwater Bungalows & Other Accommodation: They have a great range of accommodations to choose from – standard hotel rooms, suites, and overwater bungalows, which offer varying levels of space and luxury to suit most budgets. READ THE REVIEW

Why We Recommend These Overwater Bungalows: Stella Island Resort in Crete is a 5 Star luxury, adults-only resort with a tremendously good reputation and one which is also 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, excellent spa facilities, some of the very best food on the island and the opportunity to enjoy many sports including tennis and water sports. Guests also consistently praise the staff at Stella Island. 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 the breakfast and dinner included option seems the best, but only if you’re not a big drinker – drinks are relatively expensive here, so if so you might be better off with the all-inclusive. Stella Island is far more a romantic getaway than a party resort though. There are many lovely bars, lounges and restaurants to choose from but they close relatively READ THE REVIEW

Why We Recommend These Overwater Bungalows: One of three overwater bungalow resorts near Cancun, Mexico – the others being the nearby Banyan Tree Mayakoba and Palafitos El Dorado resorts – Rosewood Mayakoba shares the same serene Caribbean coast setting along with high-quality accommodation, service, and facilities, in particular its award-winning spa. It is a sophisticated resort and though it attracts a very much high-end clientele, there is little in the way of snootiness. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly throughout. Overwater Bungalows & Other Accommodation: The resort has 129 sleek and modern suites and villas, including overwater bungalows, of varying sizes from 780 sq. ft. to 1500 sq. ft., all of which come with an array of luxury facilities and the very finest interior design. They all have a sleek and classy modern design and a real sense of luxury. Features include private plunge pools, spacious open-plan bathrooms with bathtubs, indoor and outdoor showers, walk-in closets, and a separate lounge area with seating and dining space. Facilities include WiFi, Satellite TV, iPod docks, Bose music systems, personal butlers for the overwaters and some other villas, and 24-hour room service. Their overwater READ THE REVIEW

Why We Recommend These Overwater Bungalows: 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. 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: The resort has a broad range of accommodations 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 are romantic and cozy with interior design that doesn’t stray much from the traditional Fijian. They are 377 square feet/35 square meters and have a small outside terrace with direct access to the water. The overwater villas are far larger and more modern in style and have a large upstairs terrace and a small deck downstairs with access to the water. They also have a small round glass panel READ THE REVIEW

Why We Recommend These Overwater Bungalows: Punta Caracol is a boutique, eco-friendly resort in Bocas del Toro, along Panama’s Caribbean Coast. It has nine very picturesque bungalows over the water which have the aesthetics of old colonial jungle huts but with modern comforts. The setting is sublime – a deeply remote spot accessible only by boat and surrounded by 100 acres of the lodge’s very own rainforest reserve, 98% of which is left completely as nature intended. It is absolutely a place for relaxation and contemplation. The food is excellent and the staff are helpful and friendly. Overwater Bungalows & Other Accommodation: They have just nine bungalows in total, divided into three categories – Standard Suites, Luna Suites, and a Master Suite. The latter is definitely the pick of the bunch with 1076 square feet/100 square meters of open plan space including a mezzanine bedroom with its own outside terrace and wonderful views. Its two terraces cover a combined area of 646 square feet/60 square meters. The three Luna and the five Standard suites are broadly similar to each other, with the Luna just having that bit of extra space READ THE REVIEW

Why We Recommend These Overwater Bungalows: The eco-friendly & fully off-grid Sol Bungalows is a tiny, very intimate resort with just two overwater bungalows on Bocas del Toro’s Isla Solarte, the least populated and most undisturbed of all Bocas’ main islands. Though relatively undisturbed the location is still extremely convenient, being just 5 minutes by water taxi from Bocas Town. Their brand-new overwater bungalows are sleek, modern, and comfortable – they boast all the features you’d expect from quality overwater accommodation in the Caribbean but at a more reasonable price. Overwater Bungalows: Those features include; traditional thatched roofs, glass floor viewing panels, nice furnished terraces with direct access to the water, overwater hammocks and outdoor showers. The bungalows are spacious too, covering 775 square feet/78 square meters in total, with a lounge area, a separate bedroom with king size bed and memory foam mattress, a bathroom and a lovely outside terrace just made for gazing at sunsets. Other hotel-type niceties include coffee makers, mini-fridges, and blackout curtains. The lounge and bedroom are separated by a sliding door and the sofa in the lounge can be converted into two single beds READ THE REVIEW

Why We Recommend These Overwater Bungalows: The family-friendly Four Seasons Resort forms an exclusive enclave by the coral reefs to the northeast of Bora Bora and offers overwater bungalows, and beach villas, that are spacious, sleek, and very well-equipped. Their style is 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, The Four Seasons takes care of children better than most with a kid’s club and plenty of organized activities. Overwater Bungalows & Other Accommodation: Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora has one hundred over-water bungalows and seven beachfront villas to choose from, ranging in size from 1070 ft² to over 3200 ft², with a maximum occupancy of 6 for the larger units. All are extremely comfortable, spacious, and beautifully styled with teak woods and pastel-shaded soft furnishings. The outside READ THE REVIEW

At a Glance: First opening its doors in May 2019, Royalton Antigua is an all-inclusive resort that is home to Antigua’s only overwater bungalows. The resort 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. Having been acquired in late 2021 by the Marriott Hotel group, you can expect it, little by little, to become one of Antigua’s most sought-after resorts. Overwater Bungalows & Other Accommodation: The accommodation choices are many, with of course the over-water villas taking pride of place. They cover a full 1442 square feet and have king-size bedrooms, lounges (with sofa bed), dining areas, and gorgeous outdoor terraces overlooking the Caribbean. They are also sleek, sophisticated, and luxurious. Expect private infinity plunge pools, jacuzzis, glass floor viewing panels, private butlers, and 24-hour room service as well as in-room aromatherapy, satellite TV, top-of-the-range music systems, complimentary IPTV movie selections, twice daily re-stocked minibars and a pillow menu for example. The other accommodation choices are a mixture of suites in different READ THE REVIEW

Why We Recommend These Water Villas: 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 other water villa resorts 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 allowed as much, or as little, interaction with staff and other guests as you would like. Water Villas & Other Accommodation: You can choose between a classic water villa/overwater bungalow on the lagoon or an ocean bungalow set on a secluded cliff edge overlooking the ocean. All the accommodation choices are doubles and all come with a suitably grand king-size bed. Your choices among READ THE REVIEW

Why We Recommend These Overwater Bungalows: Lily Beach Resort is a 5-star all-inclusive with water villas on a stunning private island in southern 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 quality food and drink. It is a well-known resort and consistently popular; people return here year after year, so advance bookings are recommended. Water Villas & Other Accommodation: They have a choice of water villas, beach villas and lagoon villas at Pearl Beach. The typically romantic overwater villas come in two categories: their ‘Deluxe Water Villas’ have 1356 ft² of space including a private outdoor deck with a jacuzzi plunge pool. Their ‘Sunset Water Villas’ then are a step ahead with 1960 ft² to play with, a proportionally larger deck and larger pool, as well as a 24-hour personal butler service. All the overwater choices have a section of glass floor panels so you can gaze at the sea life below from the comfort of your bungalow. The Lagoon Villas are at the edge of the lagoon and READ THE REVIEW

Why We Recommend These Overwater Bungalows: 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 but one with a laid back unassuming vibe. It is also eco-friendly and feels more locally authentic than most resorts we’ve seen, but with a bit 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: They have overwater bungalows, which you will see referred to as ‘Water Cottages’ or ‘Seaview Rooms’. On shore, what they refer to as Beach Cottages are, as the name suggests, on the beach, and then the more secluded Garden Cottages are a little further back. Check out your room options at Agoda here. None are enormously spacious but are certainly cozy, and comfortable, and have an authentic, rustic charm, despite them being internally, relatively modern in READ THE REVIEW

Why We Recommend These Overwater Bungalows: Sun Siyam Iru Fushi is an award-winning 5-star all inclusive with water villas 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. It is also a popular place for a romantic getaway though – this being the Maldives adults/couples 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 all inclusive. For a multiple award-winning, 5-star resort in The Maldives Sun Siyam Iru Fushi is pleasantly very reasonably priced, with the all-inclusive being overall the best value package. Water Villas & Other Accommodation: It has a nice choice of accommodation on offer, villa style, around the beach or overwater. All of them fit a maximum of two adults and two children up to the age of READ THE REVIEW

Why We Recommend These Overwater Bungalows: The fabulous, 5-Star Amanyara Turks & Caicos sits on a rocky shore overlooking the Caribbean and the coral reefs of Point Marine National Park. The beach that fronts the resort, Malcolm’s Road Beach, is incredibly pristine and is also surrounded by a full 100 acres of private estate, mostly lush tropical forest. The place feels beautifully peaceful and secluded, which well it certainly is, but it’s still only 20 minutes from Providenciales International Airport. The resort features Indonesian-inspired structures and villas, almost all built over the water or at the very least alongside the water. But in this case, not over the sea as is the most typical for traditional overwater bungalows, but over very placid and pristine, private ponds or pools. Overwater Bungalows & Other Accommodation: The accommodation ranges in size from cozy one-bedroom suite pavilions to really fabulous, two to six-bedroom, villas. The terraces of each are shaded by eaves on three sides and have floor-to-ceiling glass doors opening out to their private pools. The villas are serviced by what they term a villa host, rather like a butler, and the three-to-six-bedroom READ THE REVIEW

Why We Recommend These Overwater Bungalows: W Maldives is a sophisticated 5-star, private (heart-shaped!) island 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 is considered the best house reef in the Maldives and you can admire a vast amount of sea life directly from your water villa: reef sharks, angel fish, stingrays, and glow-in-the-dark plankton and jellyfish. Water Villas & Other Accommodation: Most of the accommodation units at W Maldives are overwater bungalows. Their entry-level overwater villas are listed as Fabulous Overwater Oasis and Spectacular Lagoon Oasis. Entry level or not these are incredible places to stay and could be marketed as pretty much presidential suites in a lot of other resorts less extravagant than W Maldives. They are sleek and stylish and cover 1570 square feet/146 square meters of space which includes one double bedroom, a lounge with glass floor panels, a bathroom, and an outside terrace that has READ THE REVIEW

Why We Recommend These Overwater Bungalows: This adults-only, all-inclusive near Cancun is home to Palafitos, the very first overwater bungalows in Mexico (there are now still just three: the other two being the very nearby Rosewood Mayakoba & Banyan Tree Mayakoba) and consistently hits world-class standards for luxury all-inclusives in the Caribbean. It really is a tremendous resort – it has a fabulous location on Maroma Beach, Playa del Carmen – rated one of the Caribbean’s, and in fact, the world’s, best beaches – the accommodation is wonderful across the board and their gourmet food and drink are of the highest quality. Overwater Bungalows: As mentioned, the Palafitos’ bungalows were the very first in Mexico and come with all the features you would expect from such a pioneering resort – glass floor panels, hottubs, private infinity pools, outdoor showers, and direct access to the water below your feet. There are two basic types – the standard Palafitos, with nightly rates starting at about 1700 USD, are closer to the shore and have partial ocean and partial beach views. The ‘Elite Suite Bungalows’ on the other hand are farthest out, at READ THE REVIEW