Best Adults Only Overwater Bungalows for 2026

Why We Like It: Veligandu Private Island, just twenty minutes by seaplane from Male Airport is, for us, probably the best value all-inclusive overwater bungalow resort in the Maldives. Though it lacks the full 5 Star wow factor of Lily Beach Resort or Ozen Maadhoo, for what we are getting here we might expect the prices to be almost double what they are. As such it is extremely popular and sees return visitors year after year.   Overwater Bungalows & Other Accommodation: You have two main room categories at Veligandu – Beach Villas and Water Villas, all of which are doubles with king-size beds though you can order extra beds/cots for children. These are in turn sub-divided into standard and jacuzzi villas. We think none of these accommodation choices will disappoint though the jacuzzi villas, even disregarding the added jacuzzi on the terrace, are more spacious and open, and definitely worth the extra fee. All villas have that nice, traditional Pacific thatched roof look but inside they are modern and sleek. Amenities include satellite TV, Nespresso coffee machines, air con, generous minibars, and, if not a terrace jacuzzi outside then a spa bath in the bathroom inside. We always find that bathrooms are always a good marker of hotel room quality and here they impress, with the added bonus of an outdoor rain shower. Note: Though they are welcome in the other accommodation options children are not allowed in the overwater villas, therefore Veligandu is placed in the adults-only category.     Prices & Availability: Check out all the details  at Booking.com here or at Expedia here.   Food & Drink: The main resort restaurant is Dhonveli – a large, lively place with a fantastic selection of Asian and international cuisine. The food is buffet style and there are various sections with different categories of food for guests to investigate as well as two live cooking stations. It is located right along the beach and has tables inside, on the large terrace outside, and with some tables directly on the sand. Dhonveli has a laid-back, boho chic atmosphere but if you want something a bit more formal you can try Madivaru, an elegant, intimate fine dining venue. Here it is mainly seafood, all of it a la carte and as far as we can gather consistently excellent. Dining at Madivaru is not covered by the all-inclusive package but a 20% discount is offered. Staff will be happy also to arrange romantic, private dining on the beach or in the comfort of your own villa. The main resort bar, Thundi Bar, is a lively and friendly beach bar that stays open 24 hours. It has a great outdoor terrace with views over Deep Dive: Read the Review…

Why We Like It: The Cook Island’s only overwater bungalows are to be found at the boutique luxury, adults-only Aitutaki Resort. We think it’s a fabulous resort with a location to die for – it occupies a private island off the coast of Aitutaki main island, overlooking what many say is the world’s most beautiful lagoon. We feel it’s also an incredibly romantic place, ideal for honeymooners which make up a sizeable proportion of the guests. And weddings too are regularly performed at their beach chapel. Overwater Bungalows & Other Accommodation: We have a choice of luxury overwater, beach and garden bungalows here. The overwaters, at 70 sqm/754 sq. feet, are a decent size but still feel cozy and intimate. With their classic thatched roofs and breezy wooden verandas, they look nicely traditional too. Inside then, they have the trappings of a luxury hotel room. Facilities include extra large beds, air-con, satellite tv, mini-bars, indoor and outdoor showers, study desks and sun loungers. From the terrace you also have direct access to the immaculately clear waters below. On shore we have bungalows and villas of various sizes, some with private infinity pools, and outdoor showers, and sitting right on the beach. They have the same vibe as the overwaters – traditional thatched roofs, that romantic rustic ambiance and outdoor space. They also broadly share the same luxury hotel standard facilities. Prices: Check out prices & availability at Booking.com here or at Expedia here. Resort Facilities & Things to Do: All the accommodation choices come with complimentary kayaks, stand-up paddle boards and bicycles for guests to use at their leisure. Other water sports can be arranged to with the resort, plus there are ample opportunities for ocean wildlife spotting – sea turtles, eagle rays and butterfly fish abound for example. The main restaurant here is the H.M.S. Bounty Restaurant & Bar, by the hotel reception and with sunset views across the Full Moon Channel. Complementing it is the laid back Flying Boat Beach Bar and Grill. The food in both is quality and features a mix of Polynesian and international. Other facilities include a spa, a gym and a games rooms and a swimming pool. Location: The resort sits on its own tiny private island, mostly covered in jungle scrub, just off the coast of Aitutaki. As we mentioned it overlooks what many say is the world’s most beautiful lagoon. It is a stunning natural setting for a resort. To get there requires a 40 minute flight from Rarotonga, the largest of the Cook Islands, then a short hop to a shuttle boat for the equally short trip to the island. Transport from the airport can be arranged by the resort. Deep Dive: Read the Review…

Why We Like It: The 5-star, adults-only Anantara Veli Resort has 67 chic overwaters in a sublime setting just half an hour by speedboat from Mali’s International Airport. The location is more private and secluded than many other overwater bungalows in The Maldives and is very much designed for romantic getaways. It is still just a two-minute speedboat shuttle to the busier (& family-friendly) Anantara Dhigu Resort across the lagoon. There, you’ll find a broad range of facilities and entertainment; restaurants, bars, shops, water sports, etc. Antara Veli also has facilities of its own though with tennis courts, a fitness center, an outdoor spa, and three very fine restaurants serving Japanese, Thai, and international food. The service here is consistently impeccable, and you are allowed as much, or as little, interaction with staff and other guests as you would like. Water Villas & Other Accommodation: You can choose between a classic water villa/overwater bungalow on the lagoon or an ocean bungalow set on a secluded cliff edge overlooking the ocean. All the accommodation choices are doubles and all come with a suitably grand king-size bed. Your choices among the water villas are: ‘standard’ 62 m² units with an outdoor sun deck and direct access to the lagoon. Deluxe units have about 30 m² of extra space plus some very special open-air bathrooms with terrazzo bathtubs overlooking the lagoon. The ‘superior’ water villas go a step further with a plunge pool overlooking the lagoon and a full 125 m² of space over two floors. Finally, there are the ‘Ocean Bungalows’, not overwater bungalows per se but their position on the edge of a small, secluded cliff directly over the ocean grants them a similar feel. They are broadly similar, too, in layout in size, to the superior overwater bungalows, also having that lovely plunge pool, but this time overlooking the Indian Ocean. All the accommodation choices are B&B and have a pleasing array of modern facilities; air-con, WiFi, cable TV, music system, refrigerator, coffee maker, mini-bar (with private wine collection), bathtub, rainfall shower, walk-in closets, yoga mats, etc. plus plenty of lounging and dining furniture both inside and out. There is 24-hour room service too, and the service levels in general, including the concierge, are excellent. Prices & Availability: Check out all the details at Booking.com here or at the Resort’s Own Website (Anantara) here. Food & Drink: At the resort itself, you have a choice of three dining options; international food at 73 Degrees, Thai food at Baan Huraa, and some theatrical Teppanyaki cooking as well as hand-crafted sushi at Origami. For something a little more special and private you can also consult with the chef to organize a unique evening Deep Dive: Read the Review…

The Aruba Ocean Villas Resort, home to Aruba’s only overwater bungalows, and still one of a handful of overwater bungalows in the Caribbean, occupies a slice of tropical paradise near Oranjestad and the international airport. It’s an adults-only resort with a gorgeous location, good facilities, top-class food, drink, and excellent service all around. It’s also small, intimate, and friendly, and has none of the anonymous, almost industrial atmosphere of many of the larger Caribbean resorts. They have only three overwater bungalows at Aruba Ocean Villas, and they are extremely popular, so you’d be advised to book your stay well in advance.   Overwater Bungalows & Other Accommodation: They have some fantastic, individually designed choices at Ocean Villas, all except one being doubles. The three coveted over-the-water choices – listed on the booking page under various names such as LouLou, Isla Alistaire, and Dushi Sue are opulent and spacious. They are also very stylishly furnished. Minimalists may shudder at some of the interiors but we found them to be atmospheric and thoroughly romantic. If the overwater bungalows are booked out you will not be disappointed by the other beachfront choices at Aruba Ocean Villas. They are generally smaller but they are also nicely designed, furnished, and equipped and have a nice cozy feel. All of the above are doubles but for larger groups/families there is the Sunset Villa which is a private villa about 5 minutes away from the resort center. It can sleep up to eight people over four spacious bedrooms. It is a gorgeous property and has tremendous views over the ocean.   Prices & Availability: Check out prices and availability at Expedia here. Note: there is a minimum stay of two nights at Aruba Ocean Villas.   Resort Facilities & Things to Do: The Chandra Manglar Spa has a lovely, open air, overwater bungalow with a range of massages and treatments. Aruba Ocean Villas also has a highly rated fine dining restaurant, The Old Man and the Sea, which serves a mix of Aruban, Caribbean, and international dishes, including some great fresh fish. It has a lovely, cozy, beach setting and just a small number of tables. We think it may be a bit on the pricey side but the overall experience is worth it. There is a friendly, chilled-out beach cocktail bar too and the service there, in the restaurant, and throughout the resort is second to none. They also have enthusiastic concierge services to help you get the best out of the island and the resort, and you can arrange tours, excursions, and a host of water sports as well as things like private VIP dining, romantic evenings, etc.   Some Guest Reviews: “One-of-a-kind hideaway, nestled Deep Dive: Read the Review…

Princess Senses The Mangrove Resort, opened in October ’24, to became the home of Jamaica’s, and the Caribbean’s, newest overwater bungalows. It is a top of the range all inclusive, 5 star, adults only complex designed to compete with the two, very impressive, Sandals overwater bungalow resorts in Jamaica. In classic, semi-Polynesian style, their overwater bungalows actually resemble quite a bit those of Sandals. The Sandals’ bungalows are immensely popular so why change a winning formula is what Princess Sense The Mangrove presumably thought. They are broadly similar in size but have more outside space and less inside. There is a front terrace with an infinity pool overlooking the open ocean and another terrace running along the side. You also have direct access to the water below and all the outside spaces are notably very well set up for extra privacy.   The Overwater Villas: Private Infinity Pools & Platinum Perks The resort itself is a more exclusive, little sister resort to the neighboring Princess Grand Jamaica. Overall you have a huge amount of 5 star facilities to choose from. Fourteen restaurants for example, with food from across the world including Jamaican, Asian, Italian, Steakhouse, international buffet and fast food food-trucks. There is a total of fifteen bars and one nightclub, a large water park, a fitness, spa and wellness center, and live nightly entertainment. Spa treatments are not all inclusive but guests of the overwater bungalows receive a 15 % Discount on spa treatments and products plus one complimentary access per person per week to the hydrotherapy area. So it’s a busy resort overall but The Mangrove sub resort is seemingly designed for those wanting a slower, more relaxed, romantic, vacation. But especially in the overwater bungalow section, you can choose to have as quiet and relaxing time as you like. And with 5 star all inclusive room service you can choose to never even leave your bungalow if you so wish.   Princess Senses All-Inclusive Rates Check out all the price details here at Expedia   Location: The Pristine Shores of Green Island The resort is tucked away in the serene paradise of Green Island, Hanover, positioned perfectly between the bustling hubs of Montego Bay and Negril. It takes about an hour and fifteen minutes to reach the resort from Sangster International Airport, but the drive is worth it for the secluded, “new resort” feel of this stretch of coastline.   Location Category: Caribbean Jamaica Deep Dive: Read the Review…

El 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…

Total: 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…

Why We Like It: The Fiji Marriott, Momi Bay is an exclusive 5-star resort near Nadi, and the Momi WW2 Gun Site, with an idyllic lagoon and ocean setting. It also has an array of fantastic facilities, premium quality accommodation, including some top-of-the-range overwater bungalows that we found surprisingly good value. Overwater Bungalows & Other Accommodation: The Marriott has a mixture of rooms at the main hotel building, all of which come with either a balcony or a patio, plus a mixture of bures (traditional Fijian-style straw and wood huts) both on land and over water. They come in various sizes with the largest, at over 800 square feet/74 square meters, being their ‘Royal Lagoon’ overwater bungalow. All the accommodation choices are 5-star standard and have a modern, minimalist chic style. Facilities include cable TV, air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, USB chargers, music systems, laptop safes, tea & coffee making facilities, and 24-hour room service. We find they have particularly nice bathrooms too with stand-alone bathtubs, rainfall showers, and luxury toiletries. Their hotel rooms may be some of the nicest in the country but for us a stay in one of their traditional Fijian, straw and wood bures is a whole different level of experience and worth the extra. This applies, even more so we think, to their plush overwater bungalows which have high vaulted ceilings, outdoor decks, and private access to the pristine waters below. The only negative we could see with the overwaters is that too much of the space is internal – a much larger outside deck would surely be preferable for most people. Note: The overwater bungalows are for over 18s only. Prices: Check out all the details at Booking.com here or at  the resort’s own website (Marriott-Bonvoy) here. Note: All-inclusive packages are available. Food & Drink: All-inclusive meal packages are available at Marriott Momi Bay, with dining and drinking choices that include Lagoon House which has lovely views over the lagoon and offers mainly Italian cuisine – pizzas, pasta, salads, etc. It also has some wonderful fresh seafood dishes, international standards such as burgers & chips, etc., and a selection of Italian fine wines. The Fish Bar offers fine-dining evening dinners and more casual lunches. It also has lovely views over the lagoon and a range of interesting local seafood and grilled meat dishes as well as an extensive wine collection. Private dining with individually crafted five-course menus including French champagne can also be organized via the concierge. Fijian-Indian fusion cuisine is available at Goji Kitchen & Bar, including some lavish all-day buffets and nightly themed dinners while you can enjoy light bites and some premium cocktails at the resort’s main bar, the laid-back Lagoon Lounge, which has Deep Dive: Read the Review…

One of three overwater bungalow resorts near Cancun, Mexico – the others being the nearby Banyan Tree Mayakoba and Palafitos El Dorado resorts – Rosewood Mayakoba shares the same serene Caribbean coast setting along with high-quality accommodation, service, and facilities, in particular its award-winning spa. We found it a sophisticated resort and though it attracts a high-end clientele, there seems little in the way of snootiness. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly throughout.   Mayan Lagoon Suites: Luxury Overwater Bliss for Adults-Only The resort has 129 sleek and modern suites and villas for us to choose, including overwater bungalows, of varying sizes from 780 sq. ft. to 1500 sq. ft., all of which come with an array of luxury facilities and the finest interior design. They all have a sleek and classy modern design and a real sense of luxury. Features include private plunge pools, spacious open-plan bathrooms with bathtubs, indoor and outdoor showers, walk-in closets, and a separate lounge area with seating and dining space. Facilities include WiFi, Satellite TV, Bose music systems, personal butlers for the overwaters and some other villas, and 24-hour room service. Their overwater bungalows are adults only, though the rest of the resort is family-friendly. They have a maximum occupancy of two and feel very spacious indeed with 977 sq. ft. of interior space and 498 sq. ft. of private terrace outside which includes an infinity-style plunge pool (that can be heated, rather unnecessarily perhaps!)   Rosewood Mayakoba Rates & Seasonal Availability Check dates & prices here at Expedia   Culinary Excellence: From Italian-Mexican to La Ceiba Fine Dining We have a number of fantastic restaurants to choose from here; Caso del Lago serves Italian with a Mexican twist, while Agave Azul mainly does Asian-influenced seafood dishes. Punta Bonita is a Mexican bistro while the cool Aqui Mi Quedo serves Mexican and Caribbean street food, has a casual bar-like atmosphere, and is adults-only. La Fondita is a Mexico City-style informal tostaderia with indoor and outdoor seating and with a menu mainly composed of small dishes and snacks including some signature tostadas and fresh ceviche. And we have to give a special mention to La Ceiba, a 20,000-square-foot outdoor fine dining experience that is more than just a restaurant. The food is mainly traditional Yucutan, with a spotlight on traditional Mayan open-flame cooking techniques, and much of the ingredients come fresh from the adjoining kitchen garden. The place is designed to be an interactive experience for guests who can partake in cooking demonstrations, cocktail-making lessons, and various tasting sessions. Bespoke dining can also be arranged from any of the above restaurants, in secret, romantic locations around the resort or, if you would prefer, in your Deep Dive: Read the Review…

  Sandals 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…

  There’s certainly no shortage of Maldives overwater bungalow resorts out there, but not many see the same number of positive reviews as Velassaru. It is an enormously popular resort and many of its guests happily return year after year. We think the convenience helps in fairness – we love the fact that this island paradise is just 25 minutes by speedboat from Male Airport. Its prices are a positive factor too – for a 5-star resort in the Maldives Velassaru offers very good value. It sees a mixture of guests: mostly couples on romantic sojourns but also families. A drawback may be that it can get pretty busy, by Maldives standards anyway. Some may call it lively or vibrant though, and much prefer it that way. It’s certainly not any kind of wild party resort though either and we find it’s easy to wander off around the island and quickly find yourself alone with the sea. You have three meal packages to choose from at Velassaru: Breakfast included, breakfast and dinner included, or breakfast, lunch and dinner included. Velassaru Maldives is a family-friendly resort but children are not allowed to stay in the water villas hence we have it placed in our adults-only water villas category.   Overwater Bungalows & Other Accommodation: You have many choices here, both on land and overwater, and all offer smooth, modern interior design and understated luxury. The water villas are for adults only and come in three classes: 861 square feet/80 square meter ‘Water Bungalows’ with infinity plunge pools on the deck, 1205 square feet/112 square meter ‘Water Villas’ some with pools, some without, and then their premium 2906 square feet/270 square meters ‘Water Suites.’ Naturally the latter are the pick of the bunch. The space can almost seem excessive though for an intimate couples’ getaway. Unless cost is not a factor, a step below – the Water Villas with pool – will offer a reasonably similar experience for a more reasonable price. We think all the villas at Velassaru Maldives are really quite beautiful, and though it may feel needless with the warm waters of the Indian Ocean directly beneath you, having an infinity pool on the deck adds greatly to the aesthetic and is worth the extra, we feel. All modern luxury hotel conveniences you can imagine are included here, including 24-hour room service. The Water Suite clients also get a personal butler for the duration of their stay. On land we like their beach villas; they have a rustic tropical feel with high ceilings and thatched roofs. They have an infinity plunge pool outside overlooking the beach and a nice and spacious half-indoor/half-outdoor bathroom with a bathtub.   Prices & Availability: Deep Dive: Read the Review…

Why We Like It: The 5-star Pangkor Laut is a stunningly beautiful private island near Malaysia’s Straits of Malacca with a pristine rainforest ringed by dreamy sand beaches and crystal clear waters. For us it is one of Malaysia’s, and Asia’s, finest luxury resorts and as such attracts a sophisticated Malaysian and international clientele. We think you won’t not find any kind of unnecessary formality or stuffiness here though, the atmosphere is notably pleasant, friendly, and relaxed. Its facilities really are top of the range – Pangkor Laut’s spa in particular has won countless awards and is consistently named among the world’s very best. Overwater Bungalows & Other Accommodation: Their accommodation is divided into four categories: Garden, Beach, Sea, and Hill. The sea section is as you may have guessed where the overwater bungalows reside. All are one double bedroom and as stylish and luxurious as you might expect from such a resort. They also feel thoroughly romantic. We particularly liked the spa baths looking out onto the sea and the elegant wood-paneled interiors. At 55 m2 / 592 ft2 they are not really large enough to impress with their size – an extra few meters of terrace would be great – but overall they feel airy and spacious. Some of the overwater bungalows also allow direct access to the spa village for an extra 50 dollars a night or so. You’ll see them listed on the booking page as spa villas. The Garden Villas though beautifully internally decorated have a relatively disappointing setting. The Beach Villas are certainly superior and for not much extra money. If we had to choose something else beyond the overwater bungalows though we’d head for the hills – The Hilltop Estates, as they are described on the booking page, are really quite fabulous. So much so that if money were not a factor we’d choose them over the overwater villas for a very memorable romantic vacation. Tucked away in the hills surrounded by lush tropical forest they have an old colonial mansion feel and are the resort’s most private, and most opulent and expensive, accommodation. They come in one, two, three, and four-bedroom units and guests are granted a personal chef and private butler service. Note: Children under 12 are not allowed in the overwater bungalows though the rest of the resort is family friendly.  Overwater Bungalow Prices: Enter dates & check prices here at Expedia or here at Booking.com  Resort Facilities & Things to Do: If you’re not availing of a personal chef in one of the Hill Estates you still have plenty of culinary pleasures to look forward to among the island’s many dining venues. Traditional Malay in the Garden, Chinese in Deep Dive: Read the Review…

One 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…

Why We Like It: Stella Island Resort in Crete is a 5-star luxury, adults-only resort with a tremendously good reputation and one which is home to one of only two overwater bungalow accommodations in Europe (the other being at Palafitte Resort on Lake Neuchâtel, Switzerland). It occupies a private stretch of Crete’s north coast and offers, amongst other things, spa facilities, some of the very best food on the island, and the opportunity to enjoy many sports including tennis and water sports. The resort has various deals for you to choose from: You can go B&B/breakfast only, have breakfast and dinner included in the room rate, or go all-inclusive. In terms of value, we feel the breakfast and dinner included option seems the best, but only if you’re not a big drinker – drinks are relatively expensive here, so if so you might be better off with the all-inclusive. Stella Island is far more a romantic getaway than a party resort though we feel. Though there are many lovely bars, lounges, and restaurants to choose from but they close relatively early. Overwater Bungalows & Other Accommodation: There are 89 rooms, bungalows, and villas at Stella Island, and all are top-of-the-range. It is luxury accommodation but not in any kind of garish way. We find all very elegant and stylish, and exhibiting more than a touch of boho chic. Some rooms, on the first floor, have balconies that overlook the huge central lagoon pool while the ground floor rooms allow direct access to it. Their 12 ‘Island Villas’ come with their own private pools, and are relatively good value compared to the rooms. The overwater bungalows come in two forms the first, referred to as ‘Bungalow with Shared Pool’ on the booking page, are relatively small but beautifully designed, furnished, and fitted. They feel private, cozy, and romantic, and come with a terrace allowing direct access to the lagoon pool, and overwater hammocks. The second option though, listed as ‘Grand Overwater Bungalow with Outdoor Jacuzzi’ on the booking page, is far superior. They are spacious and airy with high ceilings and large terraces that also allow direct access to the water, and come with deck furniture, overwater hammocks, and, as their title suggests, jacuzzis. They come with a premium of course but in our view they are worth it over the ‘Bungalows with Shared Pool.’ Overwater Bungalow Prices: Enter dates and check prices at Booking.com here or at Expedia here. Note – The overwater bungalows at Stella Island are their most popular accommodation choice. Prepare to book as early as possible. Our affiliate partnerships with Booking.com & Expedia allow you free cancellation on most bookings.  Resort Facilities & Things to Do: Deep Dive: Read the Review…

Why 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…

Why 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…

St. George’s Caye, Belize, is a scenic private island with overwater bungalows near the Caribbean’s largest, and the world’s second-largest, barrier reef. We think it offers adventure and excitement on the one hand (it is a popular vacation spot for divers for example) and peace and tranquility on the other (honeymooners come here too). The food is highly praised, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner included in the room rate, the service is great and the atmosphere is relaxed, warm, and friendly. It sells itself as a luxury resort but we think the accommodation, including the overwater bungalows, though charming and comfortable, may be a tad underwhelming for the price range. Despite the oversell, though, we think the resort, the island, and the general atmosphere of the place make it a unique and very enjoyable place to spend time in.   Rustic Overwater Bungalows, Plus Beachfront & Garden View Suites We have a choice of broadly similar thatched roof cabanas, all doubles/twins in three different locations – Overwater, Beachfront & Garden, with the Oceanfront being the most expensive, the Garden cheapest, and the Overwater in the middle price range. In the vast majority of resorts, the overwater accommodation is the most expensive choice but not at St. George’s. This is, we imagine, because they are quite closely huddled together, in a half circle facing the sea, and therefore offer less privacy than other cabanas. Some people may like this almost sociable setting but if it’s a relaxing romantic sojourn you’re after then you’d be far better off in a Garden or Oceanfront Bungalow, with the latter being our favorite. All the cabanas are pretty much the same size (roughly 380 sq ft.) and design and are rustic, romantic, and cozy with thatched roofs and lots of native wood furniture and fittings. We have air-con and a mini fridge here but not much more in terms of modern facilities. Wifi for example is only available in the main building. Outside all have nice verandahs with hammocks and seating. The overwaters are just offshore and don’t have private access to the water, you can go for a dip though by just stepping out the front door.   St. George’s Caye Rates & Availability Check out all the details at Booking.com here or at Expedia.com here. Note: There is a minimum stay of four nights.   Adventure on the Reef: Diving, Snorkeling & Island Spa The island has two beaches, the one on the eastern side being the largest and where most people spend more time in. The resort also has a saltwater swimming pool. You can snorkel just offshore – snorkel gear as well as paddle boards Hobie cats etc. are all free to Deep Dive: Read the Review…

First 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…

  The couples-only Sandals Royal Caribbean, near Montego Bay and just minutes from Sangster International Airport, was the very first overwater bungalow resort in Jamaica and indeed the first 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…

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…

Why We Like It: Maitai Polynesia is a charming little overwater bungalow resort in the south of Bora Bora, by Matira Point Beach, and just below the InterContinental Le Moana. It offers the cheapest luxury overwater bungalow experience in Bora Bora. This might be possible because they seem to have pared back some of the more expensive, but maybe unnecessary for many people frills. By that we mean things such as a swimming pool, private airport transfer to the resort (though there is a private transfer from Vaitape, and you can get there easily, and cheaply, by public ferry from the airport) and an excess of choice in terms of restaurants, bars, and other facilities. For a lot of people, including us, this is a decent trade-off, especially seeing that guests at Maitai have complimentary access to the facilities of the InterContinental just a few minutes walk away. Note: Maitai is placed in our adults-only category as, though children can stay in some other parts of the resort, the overwater bungalows are adults-only. Overwater Bungalows & Other Accommodation: We have a nice range of options here – overwater bungalows, bungalows on the beach or in the gardens of the resort, and some rooms farther back and higher up which have lovely ocean views. All are stylish, spacious, and super comfortable and include air conditioning, satellite TV, and a minibar plus the overwater bungalows have a glass table and floor to allow guests to watch the sea life below their feet. The overwater bungalows are great value but they might now have the same wow factor as the other resorts in Bora Bora, being quite close to the shore and relatively close to one other. But, they are much cheaper and again, for what they offer, we think they are very good value. Overwater Bungalow Prices: Check out all the details on the booking page here. Resort Facilities & Things to Do: The resort is relatively small but has two bars and two high-quality (and good value) restaurants serving Tahitian, French, and international cuisine. One of them – the Fare Tama’a Maitai restaurant has a lovely setting right on the beachfront and you can also enjoy cocktails at the Verandah Bar which has stunning views over the lagoon. We have no spa here but guests at Maitai have free access to all the facilities of the neighboring larger resort of InterContinental Le Moana, and the Intercontinental Thalasso, the latter having an award-winning spa a short boat ride away. The staff at Maitai are consistently helpful and friendly and they have a tour desk with a whole range of trips and excursions on offer – scuba diving, hiking, and island cruises for Deep Dive: Read the Review…