If being all the way in the water is important to you, then ensure your bungalow wont have one side sitting on land. Of course, to make it to the top of our list, it also has to have great views. Cons: Expect accommodations overall to be much pricier than those that might be found in other regions, like Central America. Open-air bathrooms have sunken tubs and waterfall showers. Nightly rates for double occupancy in early 2022 start at $2,250. A high concentration of overwater bungalows are found in Asia, most famously, in the Maldives. Many of the world's overwater bungalows are found in Asia and the South Pacific, in places like the Maldives and Malaysia, as well as Fiji, Bora Bora, and Tahiti. Thrill-seekers will love climbing and rappelling down the 60-meter limestone cliff or exploring the Japanese shipwrecks just of the coast. We are return Coconuts of 2007. The ultimate bucket list item: staying in an overwater bungalow. Learn more Book Now. On-site amenities: Restaurant, pool, excursions and tours. With butler service and roomy overwater bungalows starting . For those looking for the classic overwater experience, the place with the most options is French Polynesia. El Nido is situated in a cove of the mountainous Apulit Island in Taytay Bay in North-eastern Palawan. Coconuts Beach Club Resort & Spa truly embodies all that is unique and wonderful about culturally-rich Samoa. Number of Overwater Bungalows: 12. Each bungalow features an expansive patio with a Tranquility Soaking Tub for two. Bora Bora is easily one of the most stunning and luxurious destinations in the world thanks to its crystal clear waters and location next to Mount Otemanu. Find the best travel insurance for you with these U.S. News ratings, which factor in expert and consumer recommendations. Cheaper options exist, and while less common, they're still in desirable areas like the South Pacific, Asia, and the Caribbean. Here you'll also find lots of great activities to join in on, both within the resort and nearby. Though these rooms are not the same as those you would find in the Maldives, they still offer great views of the ocean and island from your private deck. (Courtesy of One&Only Reethi Rah). Located in Montego Bay, Jamaica, Sandals Royal Caribbean Resort offers overwater bungalow options in an all-inclusive, private-island setting. However, the back of each bungalow sits on land, and only the front has stilts in the water. LikuLiku still gets a mention though, for being a top-notch property that offers the most authentic overwater bungalow experience in Fiji. Private. Go to the InterContinental Tahiti for closer airport access and slightly deeper water. This extravagant overwater villa resort is part of the exclusive Karisma Resorts' El Dorado Maroma Spa Resort and offers amenities that a vacationer could only dream of, such as full-body massages on the deck and delicious full-course meals delivered right to your villa by a butler. Luxury. They were so impressive I honestly cried. Made of wood and constructed on stone jetties, the bungalows are an extension of our award-winning Fern Tree, A Salamander Spa. New Caledonia has twenty-five overwater bungalows at LEscapade Island Resort Noumea. El Nido Resort Apulit Island. The first is best for those who want a more authentic Polynesian feel at a smaller resort with fewer than 100 rooms and 30 overwater bungalows, and also with a more affordable price: the Manava Beach Resort & Spa Moorea. On-site amenities: Pool, fitness center, restaurant, spa, activities. The 34 large and private Water Bungalows all include direct access to the ocean waters from private sun decks with wooden ladders. We made selections based on our own travel experience, as well as past traveler reviews and rankings on trusted traveler sites such as Trip Advisor and Booking.com. Youll find the best overwater bungalows in this island nation. Where should you book your overwater stay? Here, Edgewater Floating Bures are adults-only accommodations offering 380-square-foot rooms, each one floating within the resort's calm marina. The service . Head to Le Meridin Tahiti, with a dozen overwater bungalows and 150 total rooms, for a bit more seclusion and more space. In fact, the property added eight more overwater bungalows in late 2019, some of which feature private infinity pools that float above the lagoon. These two-room types offer the most privacy, with stunning views and perched way, way out in the water. This resort is also home to 10 different restaurants, which feature rare ingredients and menu items, such as Miyazaki wagyu beef and Alba white truffle. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content. Glass panels in the floor as well as the bathroom . On that note, I especially love bungalows in deep water, because theres nothing like being able to jump in right from your private deck! This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. You might also consider using IHG points to make your stay at this resort even cheaper. Cons: Some overwater villas feel dated, especially in comparison to the more modern, updated beach villas. For cheaper alternatives, look to other Asian regions with overwater bungalows that include Malaysia, the Philippines, and more. We rate Likuliku as one of our favourites too. Certified specialists from America's #1 agent network. Guests come here to get away from it all, and to enjoy treatments at the Spa Village, guided jungle walks, yoga and tai chi morning sessions and more before retreating to their luxury lodging. 28, 2023, Holly Johnson and Ann HensonFeb. For winter 2022 reservations, nightly rates for overwater rooms at this Waldorf Astoria start at $2,694. The Over Water Fales are excellent with stone floors, glass floor under the coffee table, comfortable bath and great views down the beach and sunsets. The overwater bungalows feel like bargains compared to similar accommodations in other parts of the world. Both Canada and the USA are listed*. 4. Wi-Fi: No The overwater bungalow is a form of, mainly high end, tourist accommodation inspired by the traditional stilt houses of South Asia and the Pacific. The 12 overwater bungalows at Sandals South Coast, on Jamaica's northwestern coast, couldn't be more romanticthey're even arranged in the formation of a heart! Winner, Editors' Choice: Club Med Finolhu Villas, Maldives. Its ideal for romantics who want a small resort because, with just 45 total rooms, each guest receives personalized service. Hawaii often has various quantities of precipitation and year-round warmth. Private decks can be closed off with sliding glass doors for privacy and the use of AC. Youll also find overwater bungalows with the best views of land and sea, both out over the water and down below coral and fish swimming below the bungalow, rather than just sand, get top marks. These overwater bungalows are fully in the water and a bit more spacious than those in Vanuatu or Samoa, and in a quiet setting off a private island, could be fun for those who want pure relaxation without too much activity. Even more exciting are the Coconuts VIP excursions that allow you to visit different locations on the island with a private car and driver. Are any Bora Bora Overwater Bungalows All Inclusive? Cons: While some options represent the highest-end overwater experience, others in this region might be more rustic and less luxurious. Every hotel takes the health and safety of guests seriously, with COVID-19 protocols in place, which we've noted for each hotel. The resort features plenty of traditional accommodation options, as well as overwater honeymoon suites with a roomy sun deck, an outdoor shower, an outdoor soaking tub for two and an overwater hammock. When they're not strolling the shore, guests can take advantage of unlimited fine dining and drinks at nine restaurants and seven bars. The property boasts several overwater accommodation options, including overwater bungalows with up to three bedrooms. The tides move a lot in Fiji, hence why their coral is so vibrant, so Fiji is not famous for its overwater bungalows. Traditional Fijian decor with touches of nautical style and thatched roofing completes the look. Next, preferences went to bungalows that maximized the overwater experience. Step inside our overwater bungalows to unimpeded views of the Caribbean seascape and horizon. Located in the culturally rich but much lesser-traveled South Pacific destination of Samoa, Coconuts Beach Club Resort and Spa is located on Upolu's southern coast where you'll experience incredible sunrises and sunsets. It's what you picture when you dream of an overwater villa. On-site amenities: Spa, restaurant, pool, bar. There's much to discover beyond theme parks in this Southeastern state. Vahine Island Private Island Resort South Pacific, Le Tikehau By Pearl Resorts South Pacific, Check for online specials at the Coconuts Beach Club Samoa, Glass bottom floor area to view the sea life, Low season online specials from US$239 per night, High season online specials from US$595 per night, Free use of kayaks, mountain bikes and snorkeling gear, Wedding facilities, planning, and packages. Le Mridien Maldives Resort & Spa opened in September 2021 on Thilamaafushi Island. Few destinations in the world inspire more wanderlust than far-flung locales dotted with overwater bungalows (or alternatively called overwater villas). The resort also features a spa and two restaurants. On-site amenities: Restaurant, water activities, all-inclusive packages. You can purchase logo and accolade licensing to this story here. this overwater bungalow includes glass bottom floors, direct ladder access to the ocean, private infinity pool, spacious terrace with wooden lounge chairs, our signature Private outdoor showers, and other top-of-the line amenities like Jacuzzi tub in room! Explore the top-rated styles for every type of trip to the beach. The Maldives are also exceptionally expensive for rooms atop the water. The Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi is an excellent choice if you want a luxury experience in the Maldives as a romantic couple or a family. Cons: These bungalows are clustered closer together (and therefore less private) than many of the more opulent luxury options available elsewhere. This destination is couples-only (perfect for your romantic adult getaway), and features an outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, shared lounge, garden, and so much more. Finally, an on-site kids club called the Young Discovery Park keeps little ones busy thanks to its water recreation area and supervised games and activities. This shading could result in a decreased survival rate, or at least promote behavioural changes in various components of the biological community. Our other favorite overwater bungalows in the South Pacific are at the St. Regis Bora Bora. 7 Nights Link on TravelByJen.com or call for help 1-800-603-3178. 22, 2023, It's hard to imagine any trip more romantic or exciting than vacationing in your own, Up to 60% Off + Exclusive 5% Guaranteed Priceline Coupon, Up to 50% Off Travel Plans with Top Expedia Promo Code, Discount Travel Plans with 50% Off on Hotels.com bookings, 50% Discount on Getaways with Barcel Resort & Hotels, Booking.com Promo Code Up to 50% Off + Extra 10% Off. Some even have little glass doors in the floor which you can open, drop a few bread crumbs, and watch the tropical reef fish scurry for their prize. The overwater bungalows boast astounding views of the beach, lagoon and ocean, along with postcard-worthy sunsets. The over-the-water bungalows at Sandals Grande St. Lucian convey an intimate connection to the beautiful Caribbean waters and rich marine life. Make is a full week in Paradise and add 3 Nights at El Dorado Maroma from +$999 per person! U.S. News rates the cheapest travel insurance options, considering expert and consumer recommendations. Pros: This is the most value-priced property on our list for overwater bungalows with glass floor panels to gaze right into the sea at a shockingly low starting point. The best of the best are the four Otemanu Overwater Bungalow Suites with Plunge Pool. They also offer a full-service spa, poolside restaurants, a golf course, as well as amazing bars. Email us at reviews@insider.com. These six Fales are unique in design and fully embrace the seamless indoor/outdoor living experience that is so popular throughout Samoa. Discover these empowering women's history destinations selected by the U.S. News travel editors. Both resorts have coral underneath the bungalows, making for more entertaining viewing than if they just had sand, but both tend to have fairly shallow waters that make it harder to jump right in. There are 24 overwater suites and bungalows and entry-level Overwater Suites come with living rooms, large bathtubs, and private decks with shaded sitting areas and direct access to the lagoon. When it comes to booking the best overwater bungalows resorts, travelers should consider both the price and availability. The South Pacific region is probably what most people conjure up when dreaming of an overwater bungalow landscape: crystalline waters surrounding islands ringed by lagoons, Polynesian decor and cultural inspiration, all overlaying that jaw-dropping landscape. Samoa | Overwater Bungalows Home Destinations Samoa Destination travel guide for Samoa WHEN VISITING ANY DESTINATION IT'S ALWAYS GOOD TO PREPARE FOR YOUR HOLIDAY. Teetering atop the reef at the northern headland of a crescent shaped cove, 10 bungalows are styled on a traditional Fijian village. Cons: Critical reviews note the food lacks variety and a remote location means other options are limited. However, the resorts with the best views, the most space, and the most bells and whistles are on motus that face back towards the lagoon and volcano. A rather small 4-star resort featuring a total of just 16 rooms, the Aga Reef Resort in Samoa is ideal for visitors seeking a tropical stay alongside luxury amenities. Le Tahaa and Bora Bora are more likely to have giant villas located far out into a sandy lagoon, with more luxury than can be found on Moorea or Tahiti. An overwater bungalow represents the pinnacle of luxury travel - and those most popular with travelers worldwide can cost thousands of dollars . These bungalows are surrounded by the Caribbean Sea in every direction, and each boasts an outdoor shower, a two-person Jacuzzi, glass-bottom floors, a balcony with a micro-infinity plunge pool and a ladder that lets adventurous travelers climb directly into the ocean. You can roll out of bed and watch the tropical fish beneath your feet. Cons: Reviewers note occasional lapses in service, plus stronger ocean currents than expected have occurred. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. Over-water bungalows with a difference, the Lake Crackenback apartments stretch out over an inland lake affording magnificent mountain and Thredbo Valley views across a breathtaking expanse of crystal clear mountain lake. Nightly rates for winter 2022 start at around $700 for stays of five nights or more. Attention to detail is said to be everywhere and greatly appreciated. In order to reach American Samoa Islands, you have to go all the way to Honolulu in Hawaii. Yes, not only do you get a stunning view of the volcanic crater of Mt. From Bora Bora to the Maldives and everywhere between, overwater accommodations provide the utmost privacy and exceptional views, often with overwater hammocks, private pools and other amenities that help make your trip special. When researching this resort, one of the first things that you may notice are that the overwater rooms are not completely over the water and are instead perched on land with the back terrace situated over the lagoon. Think an overwater bungalow is out of reach for bargain hunters? All of their overwater bungalows are the same size and layout, but we think its worth the cost to stay in one of the Premium Overwater Bungalows, because theyre situated towards the edge of the resort, allowing for deep, safe water that you can jump into directly from the private deck. This top-notch resort is located on the main island of Tahiti in French Polynesia, yet it feels a world away. Whatever it is you want, make sure you ask for it and do your own research about any South Pacific Resorts overwater you plan to vacation in. It also has the world's first underwater restaurant and underwater residence, plus tours to see whale sharks, and a unique coral regeneration program to help rebuild its damaged house reef. These six cabanas are situated on a half-moon-shaped dock with prime sunset views. Bora Bora is the most famous island of Tahiti. Whether you're planning a romantic getaway, an anniversary celebration or a honeymoon, there are few options that stand out more than overwater bungalows. VIP Villa Stay in the largest overwater villas in French Polynesia and the South Pacific, starting at 1,550 square feet, and revel in the turquoise blue waters visible from the glass panel floors. Nightly rates for overwater rooms start at around $7,000 for double occupancy in May. When you buy through our links, Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Our favorites are the ones that can see Bora Bora, and also those at the end of the pontoon with views back towards the island of Tahaa. If you travel in off season, it might be as low as $100 to $200 a night. Cheaper rooms that are not overwater exist, but if you have your heart set on one, nightly rates dip reasonably low in off and shoulder seasons. Here, there are no other resorts, so you're isolated among secluded bays, impeccable beaches, and magical sunsets. The Maldives, Mexico and the Caribbean are a few popular regions where you can find hotels with overwater bungalows. Other resorts in Fiji with huts on the water include Laucala, which is even more luxurious than LikuLiku and has one overwater villa just offshore. Every hotel offers overwater accommodations, plus access to beautiful beaches, activities, and scenery. It's expensive but justifiably so as everything needs to be grown or imported. These six Fales are unique in design and fully embrace the seamless indoor/outdoor living experience that is so popular throughout Samoa. More of a jumping-off point for other islands in French Polynesia, Tahitis overwater bungalows are smaller, closer to shore, and lack some of the other bells and whistles of those on other islands they are also generally more affordable overwater bungalows than in Bora Bora. It's estimated that worldwide there are something in the region of 8000 overwater bungalows - or overwater villas as they're sometimes called - concentrated in approximately 200 resorts. Alesandra has a master's degree in journalism with an emphasis on cultural reporting and criticism from NYU, and a bachelor's degree from UC Berkeley. This is because these areas are home to crystal clear, shallow blue waters that are suited to such accommodations. Creating the lagoon, keeping it safe, sandy, and shallow, are a ring of tiny coral islands called motus. Sheraton Aggie Greys Hotel & Bungalows. Pros: This hotel offers excellent value with access to stunning Mayan ruins and a jungle feel that is unlikely to be found with other overwater villas. Glass floor panels and lit water ensure you can enjoy undersea views at any time. Courtesy Club Med Finolhu Villas. Individuals who choose this property will find unparalleled luxury, a spa with overwater treatment rooms, gourmet dining at six on-site eateries and some of the best views of Mount Otemanu in all of Bora Bora. There are many free amenities, which help offset the price, and the views from rooms alone are worth it even if you don't take advantage of the perks. Read on to find out! After landing you can then either choose to rent your own vehicle and drive about 2 hours to the resort or you can use the resorts 24 hour shuttle service for a small fee. There are no phones or TVs, just total peace. Learn more about this architectural marvel on a guided tour. Samoa; Best Time to Visit Hawaii. If you don't want to splurge on the Muraka Suite, consider dining at the Ithaa Undersea Restaurant, which offers lunch and dinner 16 feet below the surface of the ocean. Holly Johnson and Erin EvansMarch 1, 2023, Holly Johnson and Erin EvansFeb. Those Wooden huts sitting on stilts are one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in French Polynesia and the whole of the South Pacific. No matter the room that was chosen, most guests feel that the resort does a great job of attending to their needs, even with very short notice. This authentic beachfront resort encourages guests to relax into island life and embrace an escape with no phones, TVs or high rises in sight.