. The bathroom of the Over-the-Water Fale features a very unique design, and embraces the open-air bathrooms that have been made famous by Coconuts. Access your favorite topics in a personalized feed while you're on the go. Pros: This hotel is surrounded by incredibly unspoiled natural beauty with no crowds in sight. All overwater rooms at this Four Seasons property also received new furniture, fixtures, lighting and technology. 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. Escape to an unforgettable five-star luxury getaway on the water at The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort. The South Pacific is the most popular place in the world to stay in an overwater bungalow. Like at other resorts, the overwater bungalows differ only in view. If you dream of stepping out of your room and dipping straight into warm, turquoise waters surrounded by incredible scenery, then you'll likely feel that the answer is yes. Our Rating. While Fiji only has a few properties with Overwater Bungalows like Likuliku Resort, it is unique due to tidal movement on reef lagoons. If you're going to stay in an overwater bungalow, there is no other place to consider other than French Polynesia. Mooreas overwater bungalows are most likely to have fish and coral directly underneath the bungalow and offer several three and four-star resort options. Here, there are no other resorts, so you're isolated among secluded bays, impeccable beaches, and magical sunsets. Wi-Fi is also weak. Ladders plunge directly from a sundeck into the shallow waters below, and glass floor panels allow for views of the marine life below. Both are beautiful destinations to visit, and we can assist you with making the best choice for your needs. Some have freshwater plunge pools in the deck, suspended over the water. (Courtesy of Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara). While all-inclusive bungalow resorts are very rare in Bora Bora there are meal plans that can be purchased with half board or full board inclusions at many resorts when staying at an overwater bungalow resort. Perks include garden, beachside and even overwater bungalows as well as complimentary snorkeling gear and an affordable meal plan. On that note, I especially love bungalows in deep water, because theres nothing like being able to jump in right from your private deck! Palafitos - Overwater Bungalows Offers Get inspired Scroll Check In Guests 2 Book Now Palafitos Overwater Bungalows A Top Rated Resort Totally unspoiled with screensaver views in every direction, Tikehau Island places you away from the over-saturated crowds of (big-spending) honeymooners on Bora Bora while still indulging in overwater accommodation luxury. A two-person kayak is tied to each bure's 120-square-foot private front deck, so you can hop right in the water for either kayaking or swimming. (Tim McKenna/Intercontinental Moorea Resort & Spa). Special bonus points went to places with something unique and creative about them. "Overwater structures shade aquatic habitat and limit ambient light penetration, affecting macrophyte and phytoplankton primary production. Sign up for our newsletter to get honest reviews on top products & services delivered weekly to your inbox. On-site amenities: Spa, dive center, restaurant, bar, pool. It's also worth noting that Mexico offers overwater bungalows too but Palafitosat El Dorado Maroma and Rosewood Mayakoba's entry-level price points for these accommodations exceeded our qualifications for this budget-friendlier list. Overwater bungalows: 6 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. Those who have stayed in the island villas state that they were able to wake up to a beautiful view each and every morning. Azul Paradise is situated on the southern coast of Bastimentos Island and has a tiki bar, beachfront grill, clubhouse, bar, and restaurant. Number of Overwater Bungalows: 12. Unlimited views over the sea, and total privacy - we never lowered the blinds during our stay. 1.8 OZEN Reserve Bolifushi Ocean Pool Suite with Slide. They are situated at the most northern point of Jamaica, and then some. If adults-only peace and quiet are important, then ensure your resort doesnt allow kids and offers intimate, personalized service. If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. 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. They're spacious, clean, and come with huge bathrooms with a shower, bathtub, and large window overlooking the balcony. 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. Room service: No. The island comprises 300 acres, but the resort developed just a fraction of that leaving it feeling lush and natural. There's much to discover beyond theme parks in this Southeastern state. We operate independently from our advertising team. All rooms are crafted from recycled timber sourced from old Filipino homes for floors and furnishings and also feature sliding glass doors that open to a private veranda. With an average cost of $300, you would . . Of course, to make it to the top of our list, it also has to have great views. We stayed 7 nights in a over-the water-fale and it was the best holiday ever. Pros: This is an excellent value for an overwater accommodation with private porches, hammocks, and full board included at such an affordable price. We're including Sandals' adults-only South Coast Jamaica property even though its price point is an outlier for good reason. Private decks can be closed off with sliding glass doors for privacy and the use of AC. Coconuts Beach Club features Samoa's only, exclusive, Over-the-Water Fales. In the Caribbean, Sandals now offers overwater bungalows in Jamaica and St. Lucia for a worthy splurge. On-site amenities: Restaurant, water activities, all-inclusive packages. Sandals South Coast has a set of overwater bungalows lined up in a heart shape. Fiji's Koro Sun Resort sprawls over 160 acres on the island of Vanua Levu. These are the best overwater bungalows, sorted by location and price. St. Regis Bora Bora, an American Express Fine Hotels & Resorts property, boasts views of Mount Otemanu, four dining options, an al fresco bar, and the luxe Miri Miri Spa. Open to the expansive deck with sliding glass doors, the bathroom features and opaque ceiling, bathing the room in natural light. Butler service is also included for a truly luxe stay. We got such a suprise when we entered the room It was stunning. Each Fale boasts amazing views of the beaches, lagoon, and ocean, and boast simply breathtaking sunset vistas. At a whopping 3500 square feet (321 square meters), theres plenty of space for two bedrooms and two bathrooms, separate private terraces for each bedroom, direct access into the lagoon, and the highlight the largest suspended pool over the Bora Bora lagoon at 20 feet by 16 feet (6 meters by 4 meters), and with an infinity edge. Where should you book your overwater stay? There are even more places your Platinum Card can get you complimentary entry . For something a bit more off the beaten path, you could try Fiji, New Caledonia, Vanuatu, Samoa, or The Cook Islands. Coconuts Beach Club Resort & Spa truly embodies all that is unique and wonderful about culturally-rich Samoa. The large and airy bedroom features a king size bed and boasts a soaring, traditional Samoan ceiling. Situated about an hour southeast of Negril, this resort sits along a 2-mile stretch of white sand and turquoise water among a 500-acre nature preserve. On-site amenities: Pool, spa, water sports and activities. Exclusive deals. The overwater bungalows feel like bargains compared to similar accommodations in other parts of the world. 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. Service gets high marks, as do the facilities, keeping in mind this is more of a 3-star resort as opposed to one of the 5-star resorts in Bora Bora or the Maldives. Ever since photos of the first overwater bungalows appeared in Time magazine in 1962, they've sparked wanderlust the definition of inspirational travel way before Instagram was even a thing. In my last blog post, I gave an introduction to what they are, how long to stay, what to do, and where to go. This is because these areas are home to crystal clear, shallow blue waters that are suited to such accommodations. We really love this resort. The Loyalty Islands have a wild beauty that will spark your imagination, while the . 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. Rooms include a private sundeck overlooking the lagoon, perfect for unwinding. Here, you can book an overwater bungalow for about $1,100 per person per night, but the all-inclusive pricing model offers significant value. Cons: Expect a very long journey to reach such a remote paradise. 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. These stunning bungalows feature over 1,000 square feet of tranquil bliss. These bungalows are just barely offshore, in waters that can be a bit shallow for jumping into. Ia Orana! Nightly rates for overwater accommodations with double occupancy start at around $630 for dates in early 2022. Pros: The Maldives is simply a must-hit bucket-list destination for many travelers, offering some of the most high-end accommodations. 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. Some villas even feature their own private infinity pools with adjacent hammocks positioned over the water. There's only one over-water bungalow on Laucala Island - but it's a giant, 2000 square metre two-bedroom villa on a split level that floats above a stunning pool lagoon. Book your next cruise vacation on one of these floating megaresorts. There is also a wide variety of tours available so guests can easily experience the beauty and special places on the island. Creating the lagoon, keeping it safe, sandy, and shallow, are a ring of tiny coral islands called motus. Measuring at roughly 590 square feet each, the overwater bungalows accommodate up to 2 adults and provide direct access to the lagoon. They also state that there are plenty of fish to see, which added to the wow factor. You can even dine in a private gazebo outside your bedroom with a view of the mountain in the distance. The overwater bungalows at Le Tahaa are bigger than those on Moorea and Tahiti too, at about 1100 square feet you could live there! In addition, because this resort is located a good distance away from the airport, you'll find that it serves as a great location for a romantic vacation. This time, Im letting you in on a little secret. Each has a large sun deck, expansive bedroom with a King bed, and a high traditional Samoan ceiling. January 10, 2020. Luxury. When they're not strolling the shore, guests can take advantage of unlimited fine dining and drinks at nine restaurants and seven bars. To reach the Aga Reef Resort youll first fly into the Faleolo International Airport. There are a set of 12 Waterfront Master Suites, connected by high-rise paths. Here, Edgewater Floating Bures are adults-only accommodations offering 380-square-foot rooms, each one floating within the resort's calm marina. 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. Its ideal for romantics who want a small resort because, with just 45 total rooms, each guest receives personalized service. These lodgings are perched atop calm, shallow waters and crystalline lagoons that are striated into every imaginable hue of blue. All-inclusive. The Holiday Inn Resort has ten, and next door, the Warwick Le Lagon Resort has four. While most overwater bungalows are located in far-flung island chains, there are some that are more easily accessible, including a few within all-inclusive resorts in Mexico and the Caribbean. Samoa; Best Time to Visit Hawaii. All-ages. For those looking for the classic overwater experience, the place with the most options is French Polynesia. Here you'll also find lots of great activities to join in on, both within the resort and nearby. Pros: These regions are short distances from the mainland US, so you'll save both time and money on flights. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. Sandals South Coast is an adults-only, all-inclusive hideaway in Jamaica designed with couples in mind. Cons: You'll have to cross the International Date Line to get to Fiji plan for jet lag, and stay long enough to recover. Adaaran Club Rannalhi is located at the tip of the South Male atoll in the Maldives, with easy access to the capital city of Male. Butler service is a given: here, they arrange welcome cocktails, dining reservations, and can even unpack your luggage and press your clothes. Beds: One kingsize bed Otemanu, a requirement for any top Bora Bora overwater bungalow. As with most resorts there's a glass-bottom floor, infinity plunge pool, outdoor shower, 24-hour butler and a ladder that leads into the sea. The free use of the resorts snorkeling equipment is also a big hit with guests. The overwater bungalows at Sandals South Coast are located a quick walk down the dock from the white sandy beach. A short flight from Tahiti and with views of Bora Bora in the distance, Le Tahaa is the only resort on this remote island so it offers seclusion and plenty of peace and quiet. Typical starting/peak prices: $1,100/$1,526, On-site amenities: 8 restaurants, 6 bars, 3 pools, spa, a wide variety of activities. See and be seen at these stunning natural wonders. Coconuts Beach Club features Samoa's only, exclusive, Over-the-Water Fales. Pros: Because the resort is spread on two islands, it feels like you're staying on your own private one. You can purchase logo and accolade licensing to this story here. Bluetooth speakers; a massive, airy bathroom; and private terrace make it easy to unwind. Even though the resort itself is small, the reviews thus far are very large with lots of praise spread throughout almost every single one. There are no phones or TVs, just total peace. New Caledonia has twenty-five overwater bungalows at LEscapade Island Resort Noumea. The Over-the-Water Fales are situated as to maximize individual privacy. 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. Head to Le Meridin Tahiti, with a dozen overwater bungalows and 150 total rooms, for a bit more seclusion and more space. On-site amenities: Pool, fitness center, restaurant, spa, kids center, activities and sports. 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. These are places that not only would I feel comfortable staying in them myself, I would also send my clients to them. Cons: Some overwater villas feel dated, especially in comparison to the more modern, updated beach villas. As such, it's a sanctuary for a diverse variety of birds and other animals. Gently lapping waves both beckon you for a swim and lull you to sleep every evening. In general, bungalows in the Caribbean and Central America are cheaper than you'll find in Asia and the South Pacific. 28, 2023, Holly Johnson and Ann HensonFeb. Waterfront Villas Overwater Bungalows Near The USA . These two-room types offer the most privacy, with stunning views and perched way, way out in the water. For more on hotel safety during COVID, read our reporting on what experts say you need to know. What's Unique: Sandals has introduced overwater bungalows at three of their caribbean resorts: South Coast in Whitehouse Jamaica . The string of nine palm-thatched cabanas over clear Caribbean waters at Punta Caracol Acqua-Lodge immerse guests in a simple, natural environment. Those seeking an overwater vacation closer to home should consider the Palafitos Overwater Bungalows, which are part of the El Dorado Maroma all-inclusive resort in Playa del Carmen, Mexico. So at low tide, most of the water under the Fiji bungalow disappears. An overwater bungalow represents the pinnacle of luxury travel - and those most popular with travelers worldwide can cost thousands of dollars . Saletoga Sands Resort & Spa combines luxury and comfort with the natural splendour of the beautiful island of Upolu, Samoa. 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. Overwater Bungalows. Each bungalow has a view of the ocean below, with a glass panel built into the floor. Just off the bedroom are doors that open to an additional, small, mini-deck. 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. The overwater villas are where it's at if you're hoping to up your vacation game to the high-class level. 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. These bungalows offer all the benefits of staying in an all-inclusive resort, plus extras like private transfers, butler service and a private infinity pool, hammock and outdoor living space. And if you opt for true luxury resorts, they likely will inch closer to $1,000, especially if you opt for all-inclusive or full-board packages and travel during popular times of the year and holidays. The only overwater bungalow resort in Samoa, Coconuts Beach Club is an interesting collection of accommodations that is particularly popular with Australians and Kiwis. 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. Relaxation. All over the bungalows on this list are at a minimum three-star standard. Cheaper options exist, and while less common, they're still in desirable areas like the South Pacific, Asia, and the Caribbean. There is plenty of coral underneath too, so you can watch the fish through the glass floor in your living room. 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. Contact us to get started planning your trip today! Award-Winning Samoa Overwater Bungalows Embrace the tropical vibes of the South Pacific at Coconuts Beach Club Resort and Spa Samoa, home to the only overwater bungalows in the country. The Over-the-Water Fales are situated as to maximize individual privacy. This shading could result in a decreased survival rate, or at least promote behavioural changes in various components of the biological community. Bora Bora stands at the top of this list for an overwater bungalow vacation. We stayed at Coconuts Beach Club in October for 4 nights and were lucky enough to stay in over the water Fale Lima which was the furtherest out Fale. OVER-the-WATER bungalows THE CARIBBEAN'S MOST SPECTACULAR ACCOMMODATIONS Featuring groundbreaking, innovative designs that marry modern luxury to exotic palapa-style architecture, these spectacular Over-the-Water Bungalows deliver an immersive journey of the Caribbean's finest turquoise waters.