A Premier Overwater Bungalow Experience This 5 star Sandals’ resort opened the very first overwater bungalows in St. Lucia back in 2017, and they still remain one of just a handful of luxury overwater bungalow resorts in the Caribbean. So, not a lot of competition, and there are only only nine of them, so make reservations as early as you can. They all come with glass floor panels that allow us to peer into the sea beneath 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 excellent. Sandals Grande St. Lucian is, like all Sandals resorts, 5-star, all-inclusive, and strictly adults-only. Luxury Overwater Accommodation Plus Beachside Suites We have an enormous range of accommodation to choose from here, with the above-mentioned overwater accommodation 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 personal butler service. Many of the other choices will match, if not surpass, the style and sophistication of the overwaters though just without the novelty of having the ocean directly under our feet. The beachside suites in particular are extremely opulent and very much worth considering if the overwaters are not free. Rates, Reservations, & Booking Direct Check out all the price details on the Sandal’s website here. Note 1: The overwater bungalows at Sandals St. Lucian are only available to book via the Sandals’ official website above. Note 2: Like all luxury overwater bungalows in the Caribbean the ones here are incredibly sought after – you really should reserve your stay as soon as possible. You are allowed free cancellation on all bookings within a certain time frame (check their site for full details). Sandals St. Lucia Deals & Last Minute Specials In order to fill gaps in occupancy (if they have any) due to cancellations etc., we find Sandals sometimes offers discounts on last-minute stays, generally offering one free night on stays of 3 or 4 nights if booked up to a few weeks in advance. Check for any last minute deals here. All-Inclusive Dining & Unlimited Land and Water Sports Sandals Grande St. Lucian is a huge resort with 311 accommodation units, twelve restaurants, and six bars including a British Pub and a swim-up pool bar. All of this is all-inclusive of course and we find the quality of food impressive. There is also a mile of gorgeous sandy beach at your disposal, a huge swimming pool, and excellent spa facilities. You can also enjoy many complimentary water Deep Dive: Read the Review…
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Guide Price (Minimum): Between $1000 & $3000 per NightAddress: Pigeon Island, Gros Islet
St Lucia
Gros Islet
Saint Lucia -
Guide Price (Minimum): Under $500 per NightAddress: Isla Bastimentos
Bastimentos
Bocas del Toro
PanamaEclypse de Mar is an intimate, eco-friendly resort, with its own nature reserve in Bocas del Toro, along Panama’s east coast. It has tastefully designed and decorated, very Caribbean, overwater bungalows, just seven in total, which blend nicely with the deep jungle behind. Eco-Friendly Overwater Bungalows & Jungle Treehouses 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. We 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. We think you’ll find them 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 no TVs or in-room fridges either though, and the WiFi can be quite weak in the overwater bungalows. Beyond the overwaters they have some rooms in the main building which have the same comfortable interiors and cozy, earthy feel. They have balconies equipped with hammocks and what they describe as a ‘sea view’ which in reality though is a view of the back of the overwater bungalows. They may be a little underwhelming but for us what certainly isn’t is the 3 bedroom, two-floor Sea Loft Villa which has great views over both the sea and the surrounding jungle. Their Tree House is set deeper in the jungle, so no sea views there, but it is the closest to nature of all the accommodation choices and you can spot all sorts of wildlife directly from your balcony. Acqua Lodge Prices & Booking Information Check out all the details at Booking.com here or at Expedia here. Eco-Activities, Nature Trails, Kayaking, & Wildlife Eclypse de Mar Acqua Lodge’s main attraction is its own little 7-acre nature reserve that surrounds the accommodation. Most of it is, as you imagine completely wild but there are also easy trails around which can be negotiated without any kind of hiking gear. It is home to a huge array of fauna – sloths, monkeys, caiman, iguanas, etc. and a great many species of tropical birds. A great amount of your time will be spent exploring the immediate surroundings and Eclypse de Mar, with a relatively central location near Bocas del Toro Airport can be a sensible Deep Dive: Read the Review… -
Guide Price (Minimum): Between $1000 & $3000 per NightAddress: InterContinental Thalasso
Bora Bora
French Polynesia
FranceWhy We Like It: There may be a lot of competition in overwater bungalows in Bora Bora and indeed in the broader region of French Polynesia, but we think the 5-star InterContinental Thalasso Bora Bora is really quite a place. It is located on its own private island, a 20-minute boat ride from Bora Bora Motu Mute Airport, and it is hard to overemphasize the extraordinary setting, with the craggy peak of Mount Otemanu towering above and the most beautifully clear turquoise waters you could imagine swaying gently all around. It also has consistently high levels of service, great facilities, and a laudable commitment to eco-friendly and sustainability principles, all of which, for us, make it stand out somewhat from the rest and lend 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 a minimum of 1020 ft² while the largest, the ‘Marlon Brando Suite’, comes in at a whopping 3465 ft². As you will see there is a great range of accommodation to choose from, most, but not all, of which are overwater. Of those that are overwater, they come with glass floor coffee tables from where you can peer down into the coral reef and see all manner of exotic creatures. Many also have their own private, on-deck, infinity swimming pools. We found the design and interior decoration a pleasing mix of modern and traditional Polynesian and they have all the modern facilities and comforts you would expect from a luxury hotel: air-con, WiFi, cable TV, music system, refrigerator, coffee maker, mini bar, some lovely bathrooms with bathtubs and rainfall showers, as well as plenty of lounging and dining furniture both inside and out. Room service is 24 hours and you can expect the absolute best in service throughout the resort. As mentioned above InterContinental Thalasso makes great efforts to be sustainable and not adversely affect the delicate ecosystem that surrounds it. It was for example a pioneer of revolutionary technology that draws cool water from the deep ocean to power its air conditioning system. Overwater Bungalow Prices: Enter dates and check prices at Booking.com here or at the hotel’s own website here Resort Facilities & Things to Do: There are three main restaurants at the resort; the elegant Reef Restaurant which serves French and international food, the more informal beachside Sands Restaurant which does a particularly nice line Deep Dive: Read the Review… -
Guide Price (Minimum): Over $3000 per NightAddress: Sandals Cay
Mahee Bay
Montego Bay
JamaicaThe 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 overwater bungalows in the Caribbean. The concept was an immediate success and the Sandals company soon followed with more at Sandals South Coast (also in Jamaica) and then, a little later, came their first overwater bungalows in St. Lucia. Sandals Royal Caribbean though was the groundbreaker, or well…water breaker, in this region, and we found standards high. 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 great service. It also has a tremendous location: getting to most overwater bungalow resorts usually involves a long journey from an airport. But here we are, tantalizingly, not much more than 5 minutes drive (via the resort’s private shuttle) from Sangster International. Pro Tip: Book Sandals VIP Airport Fast Track service as an add on. This is where you their representative whisks you through the border formalities. It’s really worth it. Private Island Luxury: Infinity Pools & Glass Floors We have a great range of accommodations to choose from here – from standard rooms & suites to, of course, overwater bungalows, which offer varying levels of space and luxury to suit most budgets. Their overwater bungalows, attached to a gorgeous little private island, were the Caribbean’s very first and set the standards high from the very beginning. We found them sleek, modern, and luxurious, and come with outdoor terraces, large glass floor panels, romantic spa bathrooms with bathtubs, and there’s an outdoor bathtub and shower on the terrace. They also have a wealth of mod cons, plus 24-hour room service with an exclusive in-room dining menu. As you will see on the booking page they are divided into two categories – those with infinity plunge pools and those without. Those with the private pools will cost you quite a bit more but they are also far larger than the standard bungalows, with an enormous outdoor deck, and in general, have much more of the wow factor. Booking Information & Availability Check availability and prices at own website (Sandals) here, or at Expedia.com here. Note: Like most luxury overwater bungalows in the Caribbean the overwater bungalows at Sandals Royal Caribbean are incredibly sought after – you should reserve your stay as soon as possible. You are allowed free cancellation on most bookings. Note 2: As with all Sandals Resorts there is a minimum stay of three nights. How to Score Sandals Last Minute Deals In order to fill gaps in Deep Dive: Read the Review… -
Guide Price (Minimum): Under $500 per NightAddress: Sol Bungalows
Isla Solarte
Bocas del Toro
PanamaThe 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, most undisturbed of all Bocas’ main islands. Though relatively undisturbed we find the location is still very convenient, being just 5 minutes by water taxi from Bocas Town. We think you’ll find the overwater bungalows leek, modern, and comfortable – they boast all the features you’d expect from quality overwater bungalows in the Caribbean but at a more reasonable price. Sustainable Luxury: Off-Grid 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. We think you’ll find the bungalows spacious too; they cover 775 square feet/78 square meters in total, with a lounge area, a separate bedroom with a 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 which allows the bungalows an occupancy of four each if needed. Sol Bungalows Pricing & Reservations Check out all the details on the booking page here. Note: only children over the ages of 12 are permitted to stay at Sol Bungalows. Island Living: Solar Power, Surfing, & Healthy Dining A fine healthy breakfast is included in the rate and evening meals, drinks, etc. can be provided on-site. We are also, as previously mentioned, just five minutes away from Bocas Town where we have a choice of food stores, restaurants, bars, and cafes, and there are a few local stores on the island itself. You can nip out your door for some snorkeling, kayaking, or paddle boarding, with all equipment provided, a range of massages can be arranged for you on-site and so too yoga classes. Bocas del Toro is of course famous for its world-class surf and its best waves are just a short boat ride away. Scuba diving too – the area has some of the best in the world – and diving trips can be arranged from Sol Bungalows. The enthusiastic owners of Sol Bungalows are Bocas experts, former guides in fact, so they have the knowledge and contacts to arrange all sorts of activities for you. Island hopping boat trips, sea fishing, and jungle hikes to horseback riding, biking, and even pub crawls in Bocas Town for example. The place is entirely off-grid – electricity comes from 14 solar panels on the roof of the restaurant, though they do also Deep Dive: Read the Review… -
Guide Price (Minimum): Between $1000 & $3000 per NightAddress: Buccament Bay
Buccament
St. Vincent
Saint Vincent and the GrenadinesSandals St. Vincent is the Caribbean resort chain’s newest resort, opened in March ’24, with among its broad accommodation choices St Vincent & The Grenadines’ very first Sandals overwater bungalows! They are also among the very newest overwater bungalows in the Caribbean, and seem to offer good value compared to some of the more established alternatives. They come as two-story units with outdoor decks with access to the water below, overwater hammocks, a semi-open air upper floor for lounging and dining, and glass floor panels downstairs. They are large too and have that space divided over two floors, giving more of a luxury villa feel. The resort in general too is fabulous, and is shaping up to be one of Sandals’s very best. It’s more laid back and peaceful than many a Sandals, and feels more exclusive, but you still have twelve restaurants and nine bars to choose from. And the food is top class. The bar seems to be set very high from the start at Sandals St. Vincent. Hopefully they can keep up that momentum. Check Prices & Availability: Check out all the details and book direct at the Sandal’s website here. Note: The overwater bungalows at Sandals St Vincent are currently only available to book via the Sandals’ official website. Location Category: Caribbean St Vincent Deep Dive: Read the Review… -
Guide Price (Minimum): Between $1000 & $3000 per NightAddress: St Regis Resort
Bora Bora
French Polynesia
FranceWhy We Like It: The 5-star, St. Regis Bora Bora was the setting for the 2009 comedy ‘Couple’s Retreat,’ starring Vince Vaughan, an extra publicity boost that such a confident, sophisticated resort really had very little need for. Its overwater bungalows are stunning and we’re sure you’ll be extremely impressed with almost everything this resort has to offer. Overwater Bungalows & Other Accommodation: The resort is spread out over 44 acres which includes a private lagoon and various beach areas. The accommodation is a mixture of overwater bungalows and beach villas, all of which are extremely spacious; the largest overwater bungalows and villas in Bora Bora in fact. The very smallest on offer at the St. Regis are 1550 ft² for example, with the 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 lounging, seating and dining furniture, outdoor showers, and, in the case of the overwater bungalows, private access to the water. The bathrooms are suitably luxurious, and large, too. There you have a rainfall shower, a deep bath to sink into, and a choice of exotic bath salts and other pampering products. For us another nice touch is of course the glass floor paneling. Many, if not most, luxury overwater bungalows will have them, but usually just in one room. Here they have them in the hallway, the living room, and the bathroom. The overwaters come in various levels and prices as you will see on the booking page with the top of the range being their Royal Villas which are really quite magnificent and, surprisingly enough, are the only ones that have private pools on the deck. You have a private butler service at your disposal at the St. Regis and one of the best concierge teams around. They are particularly adept at arranging grand romantic gestures, for honeymoons or otherwise, via their ‘Romantic Concierge’ service, and they organize weddings too with a bridal boutique also on the premises where you can rent wedding dresses, groom suits, etc. Overwater Bungalow Prices: Check out all the details here at Booking.com or on the resort’s own website (Marriott). Resort Facilities & Things to Do: The resort has two swimming pools one of which has a swim-up bar and there is a private lagoon teeming with water life; coral, exotic fish, stingrays, and turtles. There is a resident biologist at the St. Regis too, and he is on Deep Dive: Read the Review… -
Guide Price (Minimum): Between $500 & $1000 per NightAddress: Koro Sun Resort, Hibiscus Highway
Savusavu
Vanua Levu
FijiWhy We Like It: The eco-friendly Koro Sun Resort sits on a lagoon surrounded by a lush 160-acre nature sanctuary on the island of Vanua Levu, just to the northeast of Fiji’s main island. For us it’s a place with a strong back-to-nature appeal. If you’re feeling adventurous you can head out on some awe-inspiring jungle hikes or deep sea diving trips or, if you’re feeling lazy, just lay back and enjoy as much fine food, pampering, and relaxation as you like. Overwater Bungalows & Other Accommodation: We have a broad range of accommodations here, including overwater bungalows which actually float on the water, and larger, two-story, two-bedroom overwater villas in a semi-separate, private section of the resort. The overwater bungalows romantic and cozy at Koro Sun, and we’re happy to see the interior design that doesn’t stray much from a traditional Fijian bure. 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 have a small round glass panel on the floor too, to watch the sea life below. While the overwater bungalows are an adults-only zone the overwater villas are family-friendly, hence Koro Sun is placed in both our family-friendly and adults-only categories. They also have some bungalows built along a natural jetty in the lagoon which offer direct access to the water. If all the overwater bungalows are booked out these can offer a pretty similar experience. These are also adults only. We have other options too, too many to mention, so you can check out all individually on the booking page. One particular favorite of ours though was the Mountain Top Villa, a grand, 5-bed colonial-style mansion that offers stunning views at every turn – over the jungle, the resort, and the wide open sea beyond. Prices: Check out prices & availability here at Expedia. Food & Drink: Koro Sun’s main restaurant is The Palm Grove situated in the resort’s central building. We have a variety of international, Fijian, and Pacific Rim dishes here, including some very good, exotic seafood, with much of the ingredients coming from the resort’s own organic gardens. It is the venue for the daily breakfast which offers a buffet – fresh fruits and breads, juices yogurts, cereals, etc. etc., as well as hot dishes made to order – mainly international but with some Pacific Rim twists – egg and coconut toast being a nice example. Latitude 17 is a more stylish venue that sits by the lagoon. It has open views over the water Deep Dive: Read the Review… -
Guide Price (Minimum): Between $1000 & $3000 per NightAddress: Four Seasons Resort
Bora Bora
French Polynesia
FranceWhy We Like It: The family-friendly Four Seasons overwater bungalow resort forms an exclusive enclave by the coral reefs to the northeast of Bora Bora. We found their overwater bungalows more modernist than most and they have the feel of luxury design apartments where everything feels crisp, clean, and new. All come with tremendous views over Mount Otemanu and the lagoon, the overwater bungalows particularly, and the resort itself is a pleasure to stroll around with plenty to do and see, and a cozy, friendly, atmosphere throughout. Though the vibe is, this being Bora Bora, generally one of romantic indulgence, We think the Four Seasons takes care of children better than most with a kid’s club and plenty of organized activities. Overwater Bungalows & Other Accommodation: Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora has one hundred overwater 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. We think you’ll find them extremely comfortable, spacious, and beautifully styled with teak woods and pastel-shaded soft furnishings. The outside spaces are expansive and kitted out, with the overwater bungalows having private access to the water as well as outdoor showers, chaise lounges, circular daybeds, and dining tables. All the overwaters have internal glass floor panels to watch the sea life in the lagoon below too and some also have plunge pools on the deck. You can expect king-size beds as standard in all of the units as well as plasma screen satellite TVs, coffee machines, mini-fridges, music stations, etc. in the lounge areas. All the bathrooms come with nice, large, and deep baths with some opening out to the sea via sliding doors. Room service is 24 hours and the service throughout the resort, which also provides concierge and business services, is of the highest quality. Prices: Check availability & prices here at Expedia or here at Booking.com Resort Facilities & Things to Do: You can enjoy some tremendous food at the Four Seasons, where you have a choice of four venues from casual to fine dining. We love the seafood-centric French-Polynesian Arii Moana Restaurant. It is one of Bora Bora’s most heralded, and definitely worth trying out at least one evening. Private dining can also be arranged, with a particularly nice experience being to have a gourmet meal delivered to your villa by traditional canoe, and set up on your deck, for a relaxed, romantic evening in. The infinity swimming pool which blends beautifully out with the sea also has a swim-up bar and some fine cocktails, which can also be enjoyed into the early hours at the casual chic Fare Hoa Bar which has live Deep Dive: Read the Review… -
Guide Price (Minimum): Between $1000 & $3000 per NightAddress: Le Meridien
Bora Bora
French Polynesia
FranceWhy We Like It: Formerly Le Méridien The Westin is a new Marriott overwater bungalow resort that was fully renovated and rebranded in May ’24. Even after this fine renovation for us it doesn’t have the same show-stopping sense of opulence and scale as some other nearby resorts; the St. Regis or The Four Seasons for example. But, though the largest overwater bungalows at The Westin cover not much more than 540 ft², they are certainly luxurious, stylish and well-equipped. So we think if you feel having acres of extra space is not worth the extra premium price then The Westin will be for you. The resort is family-friendly, but sees mainly couples, and is generally very relaxed and quiet. We find it noticeably quieter in the evening than most other Bora Bora resorts. Overwater Bungalows & Other Accommodation: The Westin won’t have the same breadth of accommodation choices as some other resorts but we do very much like their overwater bungalows, for being are cozy and intimate, and for nicelt blending traditional Polynesian design with modern features including glass floor panels. The resort also offers similarly pleasant beach villas and suites. All the accommodations have some outside space with seating and lounging furniture, and in the case of the overwater bungalows – direct access to the water. King-size beds are standard at The Westin and all of the accommodations will be kitted out with modern necessities; AC, WiFi, mini bar, flat-screen satellite TVs, etc. Room service is 24 hours, there are also concierge and business services available, and the service throughout the resort is particularly friendly and personable. Prices: Check out all the details at the hotel website (Marriott) here Resort Facilities & Things to Do: The Westin is well known in French Polynesia for its turtle sanctuary, which has been rescuing, and looking after, sick and injured turtles for years now. Guests are welcome to visit, they can help feed the turtles and also join guided educational tours with the resident biologist. There is a fitness center at the resort and The Heavenly Spa offers a range of reflexology, deep tissue, and full body massages, with spa products made fresh daily from fruit enzymes, essential oils, and sea salt minerals. Various classes can be arranged too, in yoga, meditation, and Tai Chi for example. Food and drink choices include The Te Ava pool bar – a relaxed place serving a variety of sandwiches and salads plus a full range of drinks. The more dressy Otemanu Lobby Lounge and Bar serves up a similar menu. Of the restaurants, Makau does Japanese and Japanese-Korean Fusion. Varavara is a grill restaurant right on the beach. Mãere does multiple cuisines – every Deep Dive: Read the Review… -
Guide Price (Minimum): Between $1000 & $3000 per NightAddress: W Maldives
Fesdu Island
Alif Alif
MaldivesW Maldives is a sophisticated 5-star, private (heart-shaped!) island overwater bungalow resort with cutting-edge design and facilities. It receives its fair share of international celebs and is a glamorous and fun place to hang out. Facilities include high-quality restaurants and bars, a sublime sauna & fitness center, and a water sports & dive center. The resort sits by what we consider the best house reef in the Maldives and you can admire a vast amount of sea life directly from your overater bungalow: reef sharks, angel fish, stingrays, and glow-in-the-dark plankton and jellyfish. Overwater Bungalows & Other Accommodation: Most of the accommodation units at W Maldives are overwater bungalows. Their entry-level overwater villas are listed as Fabulous Overwater Oasis and Spectacular Lagoon Oasis. Entry level or not these are incredible places to stay and we think they could be marketed as pretty much presidential suites in a lot of other resorts less extravagant than this. 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 lounging space, a plunge pool, and direct access to the water below. The only difference as far as we could see between these two is that the ‘Spectacular Lagoon Oasis’ has an overwater hammock on the terrace and the ‘Fabulous Overwater Oasis’ doesn’t. For such a minor difference you’d expect them to be priced very similarly but for some reason, as we can see here at booking.com, the Spectacular Lagoon Oasis will cost you a couple of hundred dollars more per night. Nice feature but definitely not worth that much more, we feel. Then on to the Vice Presidential and Presidential Overwater Villas. These are jaw-dropping two-bedroom units that are enormously spacious, the former being 3476 square feet/323 square meters and the latter a full 5295 square feet/492 square meters. They share the same general facilities and features of the more er…’ basic’ villas, what you are mainly paying for here is their much greater space and a greater sense of privacy. On land, there are the Beach Villas which share the same touch of class and come as doubles with king-size beds or two twin beds. Their setting may even be preferred by some guests – nestling in the jungle just at the edge of the beach they are thoroughly secluded and romantic. Prices & Availability: Check out all the details at Booking.com here and at the resort’s own website (Marriott-Bonvoy) here. Resort Facilities & Things to Do: Their AWAY® Spa has a sublime setting and a range of massage, Ayurvedic, and facial treatments. Water sports are Deep Dive: Read the Review… -
Guide Price (Minimum): Between $1000 & $3000 per NightAddress: Likuliku Lagoon
Malolo Island
Western Fiji
FijiWhy We Like It: The 5-star, adults-only Likuliku Lagoon is an eco-friendly island paradise off the coast of Western Fiji, and the first resort in the country to incorporate overwater bungalows. We love that conservation is a big part of the Likuliku story. The world’s last wild population (they were assumed to be extinct until 2010) of Fijian Crested Iguanas to be found in the resort’s on-land sanctuary. Educational, expert-guided forest walks can be arranged. Overwater Bungalows & Other Accommodation: The aforementioned overwater bungalows, or bures as they are referred to in Fiji, sit at the edge of the fringing reef. They have luxury interiors but we like that the design is semi-traditional, and the materials are natural and local which gives them an 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 a 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 on the floor to observe the abundant sea life below. Their bathrooms too come with romantic free-standing bathtubs offering views over the lagoon. They are the most popular choice at the resort so we recommend booking well in advance. If they are though booked out you still have some fantastic on-land choices. Their 32 Beachfront Bures come with private courtyards with outdoor showers, and day bed pavilions and the Deluxe Beachfront Bures have private plunge pools. All are just steps away from the sand. Then there are the Garden Bures, which are broadly similar to the Beachfront Bures with the same day bed pavilions but set back from the beach a little with lawns in front and lush tropical vegetation behind. Prices: Check out all the details on the booking page here. Food & Drink: All-inclusive meal packages are available at Likuliku. Their Fijiana restaurant has a special reputation for fresh seafood which arrives daily from the fishing boats. Their open-air Masima Bar has a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. It does a nice line of cocktails and has regular parties with live music and local cultural performances. It serves as the resort’s main drinking venue but there is also another bar in the main resort’s main building by the Fijiana Restaurant. Facilities & Things to Do: We like that, more than most, sustainability and conservation are big parts of the resort’s philosophy. They are very proud of their coral reef sanctuary which is home to an incredible amount of marine life. Scuba diving trips leave the resort twice daily and individual Deep Dive: Read the Review… -
Guide Price (Minimum): Between $1000 & $3000 per NightAddress: Anantara The Palm Jumeirah
Dubai
Dubai
United Arab EmiratesWhy We Like It: Anantara The Palm Resort Dubai is a fabulous 5-star resort with 400 meters of private shoreline on Dubai’s world-famous Palm Jumeirah. We find it has tremendous facilities, including a very opulent spa, and its accommodation is seen as among the very best in the city. Even better for the Anantara is that it is the only resort in Dubai with overwater bungalows. Overwater Bungalows & Other Accommodation: They have a great selection of luxury accommodation – the above-mentioned overwater bungalows, or Over Water Villas as they describe them, being the star attraction (we recommend you book early if at all possible). Being such a top-class resort even their most ‘basic’ accommodation – the ‘Standard Rooms’ are 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 we think a relatively small step up in price can offer you more space and just that little bit of extra wow factor with a Premier or Deluxe Room. An further extra jump in price allows you to choose between apartments and very classy beach villas. Their 18 overwater bungalows though are the main attraction at Anantara The Palm and are designed and decorated to reflect the resort’s South East Asian theme. They stand out on the lagoon-like mini Thai temples and we think they are as striking inside as out with high vaulted ceilings and sleek furniture and fittings. They also all have that classic overwater bungalow feature we love – glass floor panels – to watch the underwater life. To round it off they also have spacious outside terraces, and very opulent bathrooms with huge bathtubs with a view. Overwater Bungalow Prices: Check out all the details at Booking.com here or at the Resort’s Own Website (Anantara) here. Resort Facilities & Things to Do: Anantara The Palm Resort is a tremendous resort and we think the quality of the accommodation is only equalled by the quality of its facilities. It has a very extensive, award-winning spa and wellness center, the Anantara Balance. Here you can enjoy a huge amount of health and beauty treatments in any of 24 treatment rooms. We have a luxury hammam here too, an aroma steam room, bamboo sauna, liquid sound pool, ice grotto, Kneipp walk path, crystal and gemstone steam room to give you just some examples. The Anantara is a food scene all by itself with 6 venues serving everything from Mediterranean and Asian fusion to ‘Aussie outback bbq food’ and a sleek lounge bar, the Lotus Lounge, one of the more classy places to hang out in Dubai. Private dining is also available. You can order a Deep Dive: Read the Review… -
Guide Price (Minimum): Between $500 & $1000 per NightAddress: Lily Beach Resort
Huvahendhoo
Alifu Dhaalu Atoll
MaldivesCategories: 5 Star Luxury Overwater Bungalows, All Inclusive Overwater Bungalows, Family Friendly Overwater Bungalows, Overwater Bungalows for Honeymoons, Overwater Resorts with Spa, Overwater Bungalows with Glass Floor, Overwater Bungalows with Private Pool, and Overwater Bungalows with Private ButlerWhy We Like It: Lily Beach Resort is a 5-star all-inclusive with overwater bungalows on a stunning private island in Ari Atoll, Maldives. Their all-inclusive plan offers a generous array of quality services, with a range of free water sports activities and excursions and lots and lots of premium food and drink. It is a well-known resort and consistently popular; people return here year after year, so we’d recommend you book well in advance. Overwater Bungalows & Other Accommodation: We have a choice of water villas, beach villas, and lagoon villas at Lily Beach. The typically Maldives romantic overwater bungalows come in two categories: their ‘Deluxe Water Villas’ have 1356 ft² of space including a private outdoor deck with a jacuzzi plunge pool. Their ‘Sunset Water Villas’ are a step ahead with 1960 ft² to play with, a proportionally larger deck and a larger pool, as well as a 24-hour personal butler service. All the overwater choices have our favorite feature – a section of glass floor panels to gaze at the sea life below your feet. The Lagoon Villas are at the edge of the lagoon and cover just short of 1000 ft², are secluded and private, and come with an outdoor bath on the terrace. The Beach Villas have a nice location right on the beach with a private deck and about 730 ft² of space for the ‘standard’ villas and 1463 ft² for the two-bedroom ‘family’ villas, which are effectively two interconnected standard villas. The style is modernist and fairly minimalist we feel, with the emphasis being more on comfort than fancy decor. All the accommodation choices include luxury hotel standard facilities and features as standard: air-conditioning, WiFi, flat-screen TV & home theatre system, tea/coffee making facilities, minibar and safe, etc. The bathrooms are all suitably plush too and come with powerful rainfall showers and luxury spa bathtubs. Prices & Availability: Check out all the details at Booking.com here or at Expedia here. Food & Drink: We have four restaurants and three bars to choose from here, and the quality of the food and drink is excellent. Many 5-star all-inclusives let themselves down a little when it comes to food and drink, both in quality and quantity offered, but not here. Choices include the main centerpiece restaurant; the buffet-style Lily Maa, which is partly open air, has sand floors, and two open cook stations. It offers a great variety of international food and has a selection of around 70 premium wines. The á la carte Tamarind Restaurant serves a fusion of Indian and Chinese cuisine while the Spirit Bar offers a range of premium, complimentary alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, is open until 1 am, and Deep Dive: Read the Review… -
Guide Price (Minimum): Over $3000 per NightAddress: Five Islands Village
Saint John’s
Antigua
Antigua and BarbudaFirst opening its doors in May 2019, then acquired by the Marriott Hotel group in late 2021, Royalton Antigua is a classic 5 Star Caribbean all-inclusive that became home to Antigua’s first overwater bungalows. We think it offers opulence and luxury and has a choice setting on the clear, calm waters of Antigua’s Deep Bay, less than twenty minutes from St. John’s, and a half an hour from V. C. Bird International Airport. There are two resorts with overwater bungalows now in Antigua, among just a handful of other luxury overwater bungalows in the Caribbean. Both of them are Royalton properties. You can check out the other; Royalton Chic Resort here. Overwater Bungalows: Spacious: 1442 sq. ft. with king bedroom, lounge, dining area, and terrace. Private perks: Infinity plunge pool, jacuzzi, glass floor, butler service. Luxury amenities: Aromatherapy, IPTV movies, pillow menu, twice-daily minibar restock. Restrictions: Children under 13 not allowed in overwater bungalows. The overwater bungalows cover a full 1442 square feet and have king-size bedrooms, lounges (with sofa bed), dining areas, and gorgeous outdoor terraces overlooking the Caribbean. We think you’ll find them sleek, sophisticated, and luxurious. Expect private infinity plunge pools, jacuzzis, glass floor viewing panels, private butlers, and 24-hour room service. Other standards include in-room aromatherapy, satellite TV, top-of-the-range music systems, complimentary IPTV movie selections, twice daily re-stocked minibars and a pillow menu. On-land we have a mixture of suites in different locations around the private beach and all of them share the same sleek interiors and modern luxury features. They can all sleep up to four but are generally smaller than the overwater bungalows which have over 1,100 square feet (106 square meters) of space. Note: Children (under 13) are not allowed to stay in the overwater bungalows. In all the other accommodations though children are welcome. Prices & Availability: Check out the details at Booking.com here, Expedia here, or on the resort’s own website (Marriott) here. Note: Like all luxury overwater bungalows in the Caribbean those at Royalton Antigua are extremely sought after – you should really reserve your stay as soon as possible. You are allowed free cancellation on most bookings. Food & Drink: Seven restaurants: Caribbean, American, and European cuisine. Flexible dining: Buffet, à la carte, in-room private dining available. Bars & entertainment: Themed bars, live entertainment, fine wines, and cocktails. The resort has seven restaurants in total, with complimentary in-room private dinner and drinks service also available. The choice of food is enormous with a mixture of Caribbean, American, and European to be enjoyed, both buffet and a la carte. Each eatery has a different atmosphere and you can chill out with beef burgers and beer Deep Dive: Read the Review… -
Guide Price (Minimum): Between $1000 & $3000 per NightAddress: Sandals South Coast
Whitehouse
Westmoreland
JamaicaOne of now three resorts with overwater bungalows in Jamaica (the others being Sandals Royal Caribbean & Princess Senses The Mangrove), we can say that Sandals South Coast is our particular favorite among the three. It is a 5-star, adults-only, all-inclusive resort that offers Epicurean indulgence in luxury overwater bungalows. The resort, in general, is large and we find the amount, and quality, of facilities and activities on offer very impressive. The food is a particular attraction – we have a full nine gourmet restaurants to choose from here with food that spans the globe. Plush Luxury Over the Water with Private Butler We have a wide range of luxury accommodations to choose from here – rooms, suites, and over-water bungalows/villas, all offering varying levels of space, luxury, and privacy. Their 1,100 square feet over water bungalows are suitably plush and luxurious and come with outdoor sun decks with soaking tubs and overwater hammocks. Inside we have glass floor panels, a plush lounge/bedroom area and particularly nice, spa-style bathrooms. Guests in the overwater section have personal butler service as standard, and an exclusive in-room dining and room service menu. Booking Your Stay: Direct Rates & Availability Check out all the details at the resort’s own website (Sandals) here, or at Expedia here Sandals South Coast Deals & Free Nights Offers In order to fill gaps in occupancy (if they have any) due to cancellations etc., we find Sandals sometimes offers discounts on last-minute stays, generally one free night on stays of 3 or 4 nights if booked up to a few weeks in advance. Check for any last minute deals here. Unlimited Gourmet Dining at 9 Specialty Restaurants Sandals South Coast is very large indeed with different European-themed sections such as French Village, Italian Village, Dutch Village, and Venetian Piazza. You’ll find a lot going on around the resort though the overwater bungalow section is slightly away from it all and so very peaceful. You have nine gourmet restaurants to choose from which serve consistently good European, Asian, and Caribbean cuisine, as well as eleven different bars with a range of musical, and other, entertainment, and a wide range of premium drinks. Shopping, Water Sports & Indulgent Red Lane Spa Treatments You can do some duty-free shopping at the collection of resort boutiques and luxury jewelers, browse art galleries, or play sports such as beach volleyball, tennis, billiards, table tennis, and shuffleboard. We have a state-of-the-art gym and fitness center here, and the tranquil oasis of the Red Lane Spa has, amongst other things, a beauty salon, a yoga-pilates studio, a steam room, plunge pools, and several secluded outdoor relaxation areas. The all-inclusive package includes Deep Dive: Read the Review… -
Guide Price (Minimum): Between $1000 & $3000 per NightAddress: Soneva Jani
Medhufaru
Noonu Atoll
MaldivesCategories: 5 Star Luxury Overwater Bungalows, All Inclusive Overwater Bungalows, Family Friendly Overwater Bungalows, Overwater Bungalows for Honeymoons, Overwater Resorts with Spa, Overwater Bungalows with Glass Floor, Overwater Bungalows with Private Pool, and Overwater Bungalows with Private ButlerSoneva Jani is one of The Maldives’ most exclusive private islands and for us its overwater bungalows are uniquely spacious, stylish, and luxurious. We find the very largest of them, the two and four-bedroom ‘water reserves’ around the end of the walkway, really quite extraordinary creations. These opulent wooden palaces come with private pools, water slides, and retractable roofs that allow stargazing direct from the master bedroom. All-inclusive packages have been available here since 2021. Check below for details as to what is included. We like that most of the island is left natural and wild so, anytime the feeling takes you, you can have a wander through mangrove forests and deserted beaches, and feel yourself enticingly detached from civilization. Overwater Bungalows & Other Accommodation: The first stand-out feature of Soneva Jani’s overwater bungalows 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 disappoint, we feel. All come with water slides from the upper floor if you’re ever in a hurry to get downstairs. Other standard features include large private pools, various glass floor viewing panels, study rooms, huge walk-in wardrobes, kitchenettes, and stunning bathrooms. The largest five sit at the very end of the pier by themselves with the largest of all – the aforementioned 15295 square feet ‘Water Reserve’ – being also the most isolated and private. Outside of the water villas you can also choose to stay in their two-bedroom beach bungalow hidden away in the mangrove forests. It is titled the Robinson Crusoe Residence and comes with lots of very private space. Or you can also choose to stay in their very indulgent, 23-meter private yacht. It has two en-suite bedrooms and a glass-bottomed spa tub amongst other things. Your crew includes a captain, sous chef, butler, and a wellness therapist as standard, and a dive master and an expert astronomer can be added on request. You can organize bespoke tours and voyages with the guidance of your captain. Overwater Bungalow Prices: Check prices and availability at Booking.com here or at Expedia here Food & Drink: All-inclusive packages are available at Soneva Jani, where we have four main restaurant options and one laid-back bar. The main restaurant is called So Fresh and is a relaxed place with sunken tables, couches, hammocks, and even a giant waterslide. They serve daily buffets (different each day) here as well as à la carte, the food is excellent and their menu Deep Dive: Read the Review… -
Guide Price (Minimum): Between $1000 & $3000 per NightAddress: Sun Siyam Iru Fushi
Manadhoo
Noonu Atoll
MaldivesCategories: 5 Star Luxury Overwater Bungalows, All Inclusive Overwater Bungalows, Family Friendly Overwater Bungalows, Overwater Bungalows for Honeymoons, Overwater Resorts with Spa, Overwater Bungalows with Glass Floor, Overwater Bungalows with Private Pool, and Overwater Bungalows with Private ButlerWhy We Like It: Sun Siyam Iru Fushi is an award-winning 5-star all-inclusive with overwater bungalows on a stunning private island in The Maldives’ Noonu Atoll. The resort has a great reputation for family vacations, winning the World Travel Awards’ category of Best Family Resort in the Indian Ocean for three years running from 2016 to 2019, while also being nominated multiple times for the world’s best family resort. We find it’s also a popular place for a romantic getaway too though – this being the Maldives adults/couples tend to dominate anyway. There are also dedicated adults-only zones and the resort is large enough to find plenty of space for rest, relaxation, and romance. It offers various options – b&b, half board, full board, and all-inclusive. For a multiple award-winning, 5-star resort in The Maldives, we find Sun Siyam Iru Fushi pleasantly very reasonably priced, with the all-inclusive being overall the best value package. Overwater Bungalows & 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 12. They are all as plush and comfortable as you might expect from a 5-star private island paradise with sleek interiors and a nice sense of open space both inside and out. Though some may deem the water villas too close to each other careful design means that even on their outside terrace they are still very private. The pick of their Maldives overwater bungalows are very much the ‘Infinity Water Villa with Separate Living Room’, all 1668 square feet/155 square meters of it. It, as the name suggests, features a separate lounge area and an infinity pool on the terrace. The others are smaller, though we couldn’t accuse any of them of being too small – your most basic choice will still be over 900 square feet/85 square meters. And though won’t have a private pool it will still have either a semi-open bathroom with a photo-worthy spa bath overlooking the sea, or a jacuzzi on the terrace. All their water villas also come with those classic glass floor panels so you can stare down at the sea life below from the comfort of your living room. Though they are a little on the small side it has to be said. Their Beach Villas are all larger than the water villas except for the aforementioned ‘Infinity Water Villa with Separate Living Room’, with a minimum size of 1378 square feet/128 square meters. They are tucked neatly away just back from the beach so do have privacy, all will also have a private open-air courtyard with a pool Deep Dive: Read the Review… -
Guide Price (Minimum): Under $500 per NightAddress: Lexis Hibiscus Port Dickson, Jalan Pantai, Batu 10, Port Dickson
Port Dickson
Negeri Sembilan
MalaysiaWhy We Like It: The enormous, 5 Star, Lexis Hibiscus Port Dickson Resort, just south of Kuala Lumpur, is one of Malaysia’s most iconic resorts, and it has the largest number of overwater bungalows of any resort in the world. There are an astonishing 522 overwater of them stretching out nearly a mile into the Strait of Malacca in the shape of a hibiscus flower. On land too there are a further one hundred-plus guest villas. We think each water villa has been beautifully put together, with luxurious interiors, and outdoor decks with private plunge pools. The only negative we can see though is that with such a huge number of overwater bungalows together they are relatively close together and not as private as some people may like. The resort itself has excellent facilities we have to say, including a great choice of restaurants and snack bars. Spa facilities, a kid’s club, and a huge range of fun water and land-based sports activities are all here. 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 beach view), and size. For us the pick of the bunch at Lexis Hibiscus is of course the spectacular Presidential Suite, right at the tip of the hibiscus. It is a four-ensuite bedroom duplex covering a full 4,112 square feet (382 square meters) with an enormous living, and dining area, kitchen, and bar. It also has unobstructed sea views, two infinity pools, and an outdoor jacuzzi. Check out all your options at Agoda here or at Booking.com here. Across the board, we think you’ll find the accommodation spacious and airy. They all come with king beds and floor-to-ceiling sliding doors that open onto furnished outdoor decks with private plunge pools. We see the designers paid particular attention to the bathrooms – more spacious and luxurious than most they have double sinks, rainfall showers, steam rooms, and soaking tubs with sea views. They also have direct access to the terrace and the aforementioned private plunge pools. Mod cons include large TVs, WiFi, mini-fridges, and minibars. And all the overwater bungalows have that classic overwater feature we’ve grown to love – glass viewing panels in the floor to watch the marine life below. Prices: Check out all the details – prices, reviews, and more photos, at Booking.com here or at Agoda here. Resort Facilities & Things to Do: There is a relatively small beach at the resort with umbrellas and loungers and a water sports area with a huge range of fun water sports on offer. Segways, yoyo cars, and bikes can be rented on land Deep Dive: Read the Review… -
Guide Price (Minimum): Between $1000 & $3000 per NightAddress: InterContinental Le Moana
Bora Bora
French Polynesia
FranceWhy We Like It: The InterContinental Le Moana’s overwater bungalows lie off Matira Point at the southern end of Bora Bora’s main island. The hotel is, as the name suggests, a sister 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. We think it doesn’t have the same broad choice of accommodation as its sister hotel and we think many will also consider the Thalasso branch as having a more scenic location, as it looks directly across the lagoon at the towering Mount Otemanu. Intercontinental Le Moana also has an extremely idyllic location though we must admit, 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. We think its smaller size, more convivial atmosphere, greater access to the main island, and lower prices may just make it preferable for many guests. Overwater Bungalows & Other Accommodation: The Le Moana, as mentioned, doesn’t have the same range of accommodation on offer as the Thalasso, nor are the bungalows and villas on offer as large. Their standard size is 560 ft² with the largest being only a tad larger at 670 ft². That being said we think they are just as luxurious and beautifully designed and decorated, and have a more intimate, cozy feel. So, if you don’t feel like paying premium prices just for extra space they will work out to a much better value. The choices are overwater bungalows and beach villas both of which are stylish and sleek, and filled with modern comforts, with the overwaters all coming with a glass-bottomed coffee table through which you can peer down into the coral reef. They also have gorgeous views out over the lagoon and the nearby islands of Raiatea and Taha’a, a positive also shared by the beach villas which sit right at the edge of the powder-like white sands. All luxury hotel standard facilities are here: air-con, WiFi, cable TVs, music system, coffee makers, refrigerators & minibars, and the bathrooms are all equipped with a spa-bath. Overwater Bungalow Prices: Check out all the details at the resort’s own website (IHG) here or at Booking.com here. Resort Facilities & Things to Do: Noa Noa, the main restaurant, serves French cuisine with a Polynesian twist in a semi al-fresco setting by the beach and has live evening entertainment on some evenings. The Vini Vini Bar and Terrace is a casual poolside venue that does good lunches and, until late, various snacks, Deep Dive: Read the Review… -
Guide Price (Minimum): Between $1000 & $3000 per NightAddress: Ozen Resort
Madhoo Island
South Male Atoll
MaldivesWhy We Like It: All-inclusive resorts, be they with overwater bungalows or not, can tend to fall short when it comes to real luxury but Ozen Maadhoo is the Maldives’ finest example of how to get it right. We think it’s a really fabulous place: the setting is stunning, as is the accommodation, there is a generous supply of top quality food and drink and, if staying more than 4 nights, complimentary activities to enjoy too – spa treatments, scuba diving, and a meal at the resort’s very special underwater restaurant, just to give you an idea. All that plus very high levels of service make Ozen All Inclusive, for us, excellent value compared to other similar resorts in the Maldives. Overwater Bungalows & Other Accommodation: We have a choice between classic Maldives overwater bungalows 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 and uninterrupted views as far as the eye can see. They also all have, amongst other luxury features, glass floor panels in the living room and standalone ellipse-shaped bathtubs that open up to the outside via sliding doors. The standard villas will not disappoint but the ‘Water Villas with Private Pool‘ are the pick of the bunch, having 1205 sq ft/112 sq meters of space and a nice infinity-style plunge pool on the outside deck. The beachside villas may not have that but they all have a private pool as standard and across the accommodation choices the interior design and decor is crisp and smart with sleek furniture, bright fabrics, and tasteful art pieces. Modern luxury hotel facilities are standard too with AC, WiFi, flat-screen cable TV, Segafredo coffee machines, and free minibars that are generously restocked twice a day. We think you’ll find the service top quality at this resort and you will have room service, a private butler, and concierge services throughout your stay. Prices: Check out prices & availability at Booking.com here or at Expedia here. Food & Drink: We find food can be an issue at all-inclusive resorts, in terms of quality anyway. But the Ozen deserves plaudits for it being consistently good. You have a choice of buffet and à la carte international food at The Palms Restaurant, a range of traditional South Asian at IndoCeylon, Chinese at The Peking, and sushi at Raw. We cannot fail to mention the M6m, the resort’s signature (adults Deep Dive: Read the Review… -
Guide Price (Minimum): Between $1000 & $3000 per NightAddress: Sofitel Moorea
Moorea
French Polynesia
FranceWhy We Like It: 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 450 to 800 square feet. All are sleek and modern in style with lots of polished wood, soft lighting, and pastel-colored fabrics, though also with that classic, traditional Polynesian look externally. The overwater bungalows at the Sofitel Moorea feel the most traditional in style internally and as such are cozy and romantic. They all come with outside terraces with lounging furniture and direct access to the water. They are the most popular accommodation choice and, though almost double the price of the cheapest, garden-based bungalows, we have to say they are worth the extra. You’ll find all the usual 5-star hotel facilities at the Sofitel, there is a concierge service here and in general, throughout the resort we think you’ll find the service is outstanding. Overwater Bungalow Prices: Check out availability & prices at Booking.com Resort Facilities & Things to Do: We have two acclaimed restaurants here; Pure, which offers quality international and local dishes, both buffet and a la carte, and has live entertainment on some evenings. It is also where their huge buffet breakfast is served in the morning. Then there is the simply titled Le K, which is a smaller venue with a sand floor and traditional Polynesian decor. It is more for fine dining in an intimate, romantic atmosphere though it also has some low-key live entertainment on some evenings too. Our choice of bars at Sofitel Moorea are Vue, which is known for having the largest selection of liquors in French Polynesia, and also does some inventive cocktails, and the Beach Bar, on the edge of the Deep Dive: Read the Review… -
Guide Price (Minimum): Between $1000 & $3000 per NightAddress: Carretera Cancun Tulum, Km 55.3
Playa del Carmen
Cancun
MexicoEl Dorado Maroma, an adults-only, luxury resort near Cancun is home to the very first overwater bungalows in Mexico. We think it really is a tremendous resort, and sets the standard for other luxury resorts to follow. Its location sure helps though – Maroma Beach, Playa del Carmen – rated one of the Caribbean’s, and in fact, the world’s, best beaches. We think you’ll find accommodation wonderful across the board, not just the overwaters, and their gourmet food and drink are of the highest quality. The Overwater Bungalows: Elite vs. Standard, Which to Choose? The overwater bungalows come with all the features we would expect from such a pioneering resort – glass floor panels, hot tubs, private infinity pools, outdoor showers, and direct access to the water below your feet. We have two basic types here – the standard Palafitos, with nightly rates starting at about 1300 USD, and the Elite Palafitos which starrt at around 1500 USD. They’re practically identical, except for one well…location, location, location. The Elite Bungalows face directly out to the open sea, offering better privacy and far superior views. The Standard Bungalows, by contrast, are located along the sides of the pier, closer to the shore or farther out, but facing the beach. As a result, they tend to offer less privacy and have partially obstructed views of the ocean. So, the overall experience can be quite different. If your budget can stretch that bit extra, we’d definitely recommend the Elite Bungalows. Check Availability With All-Inclusive Rates Check dates & prices at Expedia here or at Booking.com here. Overwater Fine Dining & Gourmet Tasting Corners El Dorado Maroma is an all-inclusive resort with a great emphasis on gourmet food and drink, and with much of the ingredients coming fresh from their own greenhouses. We have a very good choice of restaurants here, as well as small, informal ‘Gourmet Tasting Corners’ serving everything from Mexican and Caribbean to Oriental and Italian. The main restaurant is the Overwater Grill & Wine Bar which features two glass-floor dining rooms, spectacular views, and a wide selection of local and international dishes. The breakfast at El Dorado Maroma is a legendary spread and you can order some to be delivered to your room. The same goes for any meal actually, 24 hours, and picnic hampers, etc. can also be arranged for romantic days out which your private butler will be happy to arrange. Indulgent Spa Treatments & Endless Activities There are swim-up bars at the two communal swimming pools, a shisha bar, and other bars with live entertainment. The resort also has a gym/fitness center and a lovely overwater Spa, the Náay Spa, which uses treatments Deep Dive: Read the Review… -
Guide Price (Minimum): Between $1000 & $3000 per NightAddress: Anchorage Road
Dickenson Bay
Antigua
Antigua and BarbudaTotal: 12 overwater suites in three categories: Junior, Presidential, and Chairman. Junior Suites: 1,138 sq. ft., plunge pools, outdoor showers, glass floor panels. Presidential Suites: 1,912 sq. ft., larger layouts with upgraded features. Chairman Suite: 3,049 sq. ft., two bedrooms, two terraces, two plunge pools, hammocks, bar, and kitchenette. Extras: All bungalows include Royalton Diamond Club perks—VIP lounge, 24/7 butler, seamless check-in. Opened in May 2024, Royalton CHIC Antigua is the second resort in Antigua to host overwater bungalows, the other, also from the same company (Marriott), being the original Royalton Antigua in Five Islands. The Royalton CHIC is built on the site of Halycon Cove Hotel, Dickenson Bay, just a few miles the other side of St. John’s, and follows the Royalton model of luxury all inclusives. It offers 12, very picturesque, Caribbean overwater bungalows, or suites as they prefer to describe them as, in three different categories: Chairman, Presidential and Junior Suite. Their entry-level, Junior Suites, are one-beds, and pretty large at 1138 square feet and cover all the bases for a luxury overwater bungalows experience: outdoor deck with plunge pools, direct access to the Caribbean, nice looking bathrooms plus outdoor showers, and large lounge areas with glass panels in the floor. The Presidential Overwater Bungalows are also one bed, and have all the above amenities but over 1,912 square feet. Then there’s their very impressive looking Chairman Overwater Bungalow Two Bedroom Suite, a full 3,049 square feet, it comes with all the above plus two terraces, two plunge pools, and overwater hammocks, three bathrooms, a bar, dining area and kitchenette. All overwater bungalows offer automatic access to Marriott’s Royalton Diamond Club with extra services such as seamless check-in, VIP lounge and butler service 24/7. Prices & Availability: Check out all the details at Expedia here, at Booking.com here or at the resort’s own website (Marriott) here. Location Category: Caribbean Antigua Deep Dive: Read the Review…
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Ronan McLoughlin has been the founder, main author, and editor of Dream Overwater Bungalows since 2019.
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