23 of the Most Stunning Overwater Bungalows in the World
Sink into the lap of luxury as crystal clear waves lap at your feet in exclusive overwater bungalows at some of the best resorts in the world. Take your pick from 23 of our top picks of wow water villas!
Water, water everywhere and you are right there – relaxing in the middle of it with your partner. If that sounds enchanting, book your honeymoon or next holiday at a resort that offers overwater bungalows or villas built on stilts over the sea, ocean, lagoon or lake. From spacious rooms with glass floors that offer underwater marine life views to suites with retractable roofs to allow for romantic star gazing, our curated list of 23 of the most stunning overwater bungalows in the world has it all.
1. Conrad Bora Bora Nui, Vaitape, French Polynesia
One of the first major overwater bungalow properties in French Polynesia, Conrad Bora Bora Nui, formerly known as the Hilton Bora Bora Nui Resort, is a lavish paradise that offers beautiful two-story overwater bungalows. Located on the private island and cove of Motu To’opua, the property offers 83 overwater bungalows that pamper guests with their stylish spaces such as outdoor showers, expansive decks, modern amenities, and king-size beds.
2. El Dorado Maroma, Cancun, Mexico
Along the stunning waters of Mexico’s Riviera Maya, the 30 ‘palafitos’ (Overwater Bungalows) at the adults-only El Dorado Maroma are truly a delight to stay at. Decorated with chic contemporary Caribbean decor, the Elite Overwater Bungalows here offer glass-bottom floors, private jacuzzis, large decks and exclusive access to the resort’s Overwater Ocean Grill & Wine Bar.
3. Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Maldives
Bask in the lush environs of forests and mangroves on Havelock Island where the sprawling 72-villa Taj Exotica Resort & Spa awaits you. Surrounded by the azure waters of the Indian Ocean, the resort is all about refined relaxation. From comfortable overwater hammocks to private infinity pools, unparalleled views and legendary Taj hospitality, the resort offers it all – including outstanding cuisine at its three restaurants.
4. Likuliku Lagoon Resort, Malolo Island, Fiji
Built in the style of an ancient traditional village and offering authentic Fiji culture and hospitality, the Likuliku Lagoon Resort is a haven of subtle, serene luxury in Fiji. This adults-only resort is perfect for honeymooners who want to savor each other’s company in total privacy. The 10 overwater bungalows here are packed with modern amenities. Soak away any stress in your bathtub here that offers stunning views from its vantage point or luxuriate in the resort’s natural environs that include a marine sanctuary and pristine waters of the lagoon.
5. The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort, French Polynesia
From arrival to departure, be prepared to be treated like a royal at The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort! Your butler will take care of your needs and help you settle down into your overwater bungalow. Offering unmatched splendor and space, the bungalows and beachfront villas feature rich Polynesian accents and decor. The bungalows are constructed far into the lagoon so you can enjoy unrivaled views of Mount Otemanu, the lush jungles and turquoise waters of the South Pacific Ocean.
6. Jumeirah Vittaveli, Maldives
Bringing the best of Maldives under one roof, Jumeirah Vittaveli is situated in the heart of South Male. The resort’s plush accommodation will have you going gaga over it for days! From stunning Water Villas to providing private cycles, they promise a ride into nature like no other! Taking you closer to your dream vacation, with water sports, an ice rink and relaxing beachside havens the property ensures bright smiles and happy memories.
7. Gili Lankanfushi, North Malé Atoll, Maldives
Dive into an eco-friendly paradise where the focus is on ‘barefoot luxury.’ Yes, your relaxation is the priority of the team at Gili Lankanfushi which lies just 20 minutes away from the Male airport by speedboat. The property’s sprawling overwater villas offer five-star luxury and personalized service. Private butlers are there to take care of your needs during your stay. We recommend romantic morning strolls on the beach, sandbank picnics, and sunset ‘dhoni’ (traditional houseboat) cruises here.
8. Four Seasons Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Nestled in the shadow of Bora Bora’s Mount Otemanu, an unforgettable experience awaits you at Four Seasons Bora Bora. The exquisite overwater bungalows here blend unforgettable view with unmatched service and hospitality that is expected from the Four Seasons brand. This family-friendly resort is sprawling so you can be assured that you will always have a private corner for your romantic moments. You could also enjoy a breakfast in bed, delivered to you at the private deck of your bungalow by a traditional Polynesian Canoe! And if you are in the mood to explore, book a tour with a marine biologist who will explain all about corals, pearl farming and fish feeding in the resort’s Lagoon Sanctuary.
9. InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa, French Polynesia
Magnificent volcanic mountains, manicured gardens and crystal-clear waters of the lagoon are highlights of the InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa which is located just two kilometers away from the airport. Facing is sister island of Moorea, the property has a private beach and Lagoonarium where you can do many activities such as snorkeling and swimming. The comfortable rooms in the overwater bungalows here feature traditional Polynesian furniture and accents.
10. Manava Beach Resort & Spa, Moorea, French Polynesia
The cozy ambiance of the Manava Beach Resort & Spa is evident from the minute you enter the boutique-style property. Bask under the sun on your private deck at the overwater villas here which have direct access to the cool waters of the lagoon. Built like a traditional Polynesian-style resort, the property is close to the Moorea Green Pearl Golf Course and the Temae beach so you can mix relaxation with your sport of choice, be it golf or swimming in the ocean.
11. Soneva Jani, Medhufaru Island, Maldives
Situated inside a private lagoon on the serene Medhufaru island in the Maldives, Soneva Jani is an exclusive paradise with 24 overwater bungalows, apart from land-based villas. The wooden roofs of the villas can be retracted at night in case you want to do some star gazing. Built on sturdy stilts over the Indian Ocean, the overwater bungalows offer complete privacy. The guiding principles of this luxury resort are ‘intelligent luxury’ and ‘slow life,’ and you can experience these in the truest forms in this pristine paradise.
12. Sandals Grande St. Lucian Spa & Beach Resort, West Indies
Nestled on a peninsula between the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, are the Tahiti style bungalows of Sandals Grande St. Lucian. From a pristine beach that invites you to an evening of endless water play to the lavish bungalows that present mesmerizing vistas, this heaven, won’t fail to gift you a vacation full of picture-perfect postcards! After a dive into the crystal waters of the Caribbean Sea, we recommend you and your partner clamber onto your overwater hammock and witness an amazing sunset.
13. Rosewood Mayakoba, Cancun, Mexico
If you want to experience the loveliness of an overwater bungalow with the romantic charm of Venice, we recommend you head to a Venice in Mexico! Situated in the heart of lush mangrove forests, the Rosewood Mayakoba luxury resort is surrounded by pristine white beaches and scenic lagoons and sits in the resorts enclave in the Riviera Maya. This family-friendly resort has the option of an adults-only spa pool if you want to stay away from the large holiday crowds. We recommend you book into a Deluxe Overwater Lagoon Suite which comes with its private plunge pool, outdoor garden shower and, of course, stunning views.
14. Le Méridien Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Furnished to perfection in the chic and contemporary Polynesian-style, Le Meridien offers an expansive blend of overwater bungalows, beach bungalows, and villas. With large unique doors, thatch-roofs, wooden walls, and timber floors, each bungalow will wow you with its soothing and relaxing charm. The two restaurants, Le Tipanié and Te Ava serve up delectable treats that you and your partner will relish. If you love turtles, plan a visit to the inhouse Turtle Sanctuary to get up close and personal with these gentle creatures.
15. The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort, Dhaalu Atoll, Maldives
Synonymous with luxury, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort is built above the crystal clear waves of the Indian Ocean and commands compelling views. This uber-exclusive resort offers 44 overwater villas, 24-hour butler service, and world-class dining options. We recommend you and your partner book a couple’s massage session at The St. Regis’ Iridium Spa where you can savor the sea views from your therapy bed thanks to the sliding glass doors of the spa rooms.
16. Le Taha’a Island Resort & Spa, French Polynesia
A 30-minute boat ride from the island of Raiatea and you reach the paradise that is the Le Taha’a Island Resort & Spa. Situated on a private islet, the property offers 45 overwater suites that open up to panoramic views of the Taha’a island on one side and Bora Bora on the other. You could either spend your day exploring the resort’s poolside bar or restaurants or enjoy complete peace and privacy in your water oasis!
17. Hilton Moorea Lagoon & Resort, Moorea, French Polynesia
Nestled between two bays is the heart-shaped island of Moorea where the Hilton Moorea Lagoon & Resort welcome you with its traditional vibe and trendy amenities. The resort is set against stunning visuals of lofty mountains that idyllically morph into crystal clear lagoons. The overwater bungalows and land villas here are built with local materials and feature charming thatched roofs. Housing the only overwater bar in French Polynesia, the property is also known for its gastronomic delights.
18. COMO Cocoa Island, Maldives
Located in the Maldives’ South Malé Atoll, the COMO Cocoa Island offers 33 overwater suites that have a unique design as they are fashioned after the ‘dhoni’ (multi-purpose sailboats used in the Maldives) boats. These unique villas are somewhat similar to the houseboats of Kerala. Inspired by the local ‘dhonis’ with bleached wood, the rooms blend local charm with top-notch luxuries. Accessible through winding wooden walkways, these serene abodes over the sea are just what couples need to float up to cloud nine on their honeymoons.
19. Song Saa Private Island, Cambodia
Tropical reefs, stunning sunsets, pristine sea, and private beaches – that’s the wonderful blend that awaits you at the Song Saa Private Island in Cambodia which offers super luxurious villas built in the forest as well as stilt ones constructed over the sea. Enjoy the fragrance of frangipanis that adorn every private deck here and sink into the four-poster bed in your villa after the ride to reach the property. Don’t miss sampling the chef’s specially prepared sea salt here!
20. Vahine Island Resort & Spa, Taa’ha Island, French Polynesia
Vahine Island Resort & Spa is located on the private island of Motu Tu Vahine. With just nine beachfront and overwater bungalows, you can rest assured that you won’t be dodging crowds here. Highlights here include ‘aquarium tables’ in the Water Bungalows where you can enjoy the sight of fishes swimming under you as you relish a gourmet meal. The 23-acre property is the perfect vantage point to stroll around and enjoy the spectacular sunsets behind Bora Bora, which is Tahiti’s most famous island.
21. Hotel Sofitel Moorea la Ora Beach Resort, Moorea, French Polynesia
Nestled between tropical green rain forests, idyllic mountains and crystal clear lagoons is the lovely Hotel Sofitel Moorea la Ora Beach Resort. Located just five minutes from the airport, you won’t waste precious time commuting. Spend those extra hours at this beautiful beachfront property whose fantastic bars and restaurants will have you wining and dining in style. Fancy some adventure? Explore pineapple fields or head out for a scuba diving session.
22. Constance Prince Maurice, Mauritius
While exploring the tropical beauty of Mauritius, we found the perfect romantic hideaway for that idyllic honeymoon. The Constance Prince Maurice luxury resort offers an intimate vibe. We recommend checking into the Junior Suite on Stilts which offers beautiful water views. The thatched roofs, tropical gardens and floating restaurant all add to the unique charm of this exclusive hotel.
23. Pangkor Laut Resort, Malaysia
Situated on a privately owned 300-acre island about 4.8 km off the west coast of Perak, the Pangkor Laur Resort is a paradise you wouldn’t want to miss! You are assured of total exclusivity as there are no other resorts in this lush paradise. Take your pick from wooden villas equipped with modern luxuries that are built on stilts. The Sea and Spa villas offer stunning views and exquisite pampering where you can enjoy traditional Asian therapies in the comfort of your room. A stay here includes a trek through the rainforest with a local guide, and you can relax after your walk with a relaxing nap on the warm, sandy Emerald Bay beach.
We bet the breathtaking pictures of these locations has inspired you to plan your honeymoon or next holiday! Every holiday is an investment of time, money and emotions and with these one-of-a-kind resorts, you can be assured that you are getting the most bang – and beauty – for your buck!
For more holiday ideas and inspiration, check Travel.
