Situated at the end of the dock, facing the horizon, youll have unobstructed views and the deepest water of all the bungalows at the Hilton, but still with enough coral to keep you entertained through the glass viewing panel in the floor. When researching this resort, one of the first things that you may notice are that the overwater rooms are not completely over the water and are instead perched on land with the back terrace situated over the lagoon. Enjoy scenic views and relaxing atmospheres at these resorts. Several types of overwater suites are available, including the Overwater Motu Villa Suite, which is equipped with a private balcony, a large soaking tub and floor-to-ceiling windows that let travelers enjoy the stellar views. Butler service is also included for a truly luxe stay. As long as you follow proper precautions and choose hotels that promote the health and safety of guests, you can travel with little risk, especially if you are vaccinated. All overwater rooms at this Four Seasons property also received new furniture, fixtures, lighting and technology. Fiji's Koro Sun Resort sprawls over 160 acres on the island of Vanua Levu. The Aga Reef Resort is located on the Southeast coast of Upolu Island in Samoa. This family-run resort caters to a wide variety of travelers, and rates start around $600 per night. Featuring six overwater bungalows, which they refer to as over-the-water fales' in their literature, the resort also has suites and villas for guests to select from. On-site amenities: Pool, fitness center, restaurant, spa, kids center, activities and sports. Explore the top-rated styles for every type of trip to the beach. Ocean View Hotel Rooms. These newly built overwater bungalows deliver an immersive journey of the Caribbean's finest turquoise waters. The service . Courtesy Club Med Finolhu Villas. For cheaper alternatives, look to other Asian regions with overwater bungalows that include Malaysia, the Philippines, and more. We really love this resort. Nightly rates for double occupancy for overwater accommodations at this Le Mridien property start at $677 per night for early 2022 reservations. Like at other resorts, the overwater bungalows differ only in view. Most hotels are tailor-made for romance and ideal for couples (many are adults-only), though we've also included some options that welcome families or are affordable for solo trips. There's much to discover beyond theme parks in this Southeastern state. (Courtesy of InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa). They also state that there are plenty of fish to see, which added to the wow factor. This resort tends to be a little more popular with romantic couples than the Manava, thanks in part to its quieter location, but still allows children and offers them tons to do. In order to reach American Samoa Islands, you have to go all the way to Honolulu in Hawaii. The overwater bungalows feel like bargains compared to similar accommodations in other parts of the world. It's expensive but justifiably so as everything needs to be grown or imported. El Nido Resorts' Eco-Sanctuary island resort comes with the densest forest perched over limestone, surrounded by 45 islands and islets scattered throughout Bacuit Bay. Ever since photos of the first overwater bungalows appeared in Time magazine in 1962, they've sparked wanderlust the definition of inspirational travel way before Instagram was even a thing. Most of its overwater villas have their own private pools, and some feature multiple floors and outdoor whirlpools. Lake Crackenback Overwater Apartments. Azul Paradise is situated on the southern coast of Bastimentos Island and has a tiki bar, beachfront grill, clubhouse, bar, and restaurant. Coconuts Beach Club Resort & Spa truly embodies all that is unique and wonderful about culturally-rich Samoa. While it was not always a region known for overwater bungalow offerings, Central America and the Caribbean now offer plenty of options, ranging from sky-high price points to budget-friendly options. Follow these steps (and allow plenty of time) to get your child a passport. Rates for OWBs start at around $250-$300 a night, although regular room rates can be booked for less. If being all the way in the water is important to you, then ensure your bungalow wont have one side sitting on land. Coconuts Beach Club is the only property in Samoa with overwater bungalows (which they refer to as over-the-water fales,) and they sit on stilts all the way in the water, all along a dock. "Overwater structures shade aquatic habitat and limit ambient light penetration, affecting macrophyte and phytoplankton primary production. From classic wide-brimmed hats to water-repellent trucker hats, find your ideal style. There are many free amenities, which help offset the price, and the views from rooms alone are worth it even if you don't take advantage of the perks. The best of the best there is the two-bedroom Overwater Royal Otemanu Villas with Pool. Overwater bungalows: 6 Beds: One kingsize bed Wi-Fi: No Room service: No Special room features Sitting area Private bathroom facilities Oversized bathtub Double vanity Waterfall shower Large outside deck Island decor Glass bottom floor area to view the sea life Air conditioning Ceiling fans Coffee/tea making facilities Electronic in-room safes In fact, the property added eight more overwater bungalows in late 2019, some of which feature private infinity pools that float above the lagoon. Its island of Tahiti has a few overwater bungalows, but Moorea, Tahaa, and Bora Bora are far better. In addition, because this resort is located a good distance away from the airport, you'll find that it serves as a great location for a romantic vacation. It's what you picture when you dream of an overwater villa. How we selected the best overwater bungalow hotels, Overwater bungalows in the Caribbean and Central America, people who are vaccinated can travel safely, read our reporting on what experts say you need to know, The best affordable hotel rooms with private plunge pools, The best wellness retreats in the Caribbean, The best honeymoon destinations and hotels, Learn more about how our team of experts tests and reviews products at Insider here. A luxurious adults only retreat, Likuliku means calm water and perfectly describes its Yasawa Islands location. We were fortunate to get upgraded to the Over Water Fales. The location on Samoa is ideal for water sports of all kinds, including surfing and scuba diving. Learn more about this architectural marvel on a guided tour. The geography of Bora Bora makes it the best place in the South Pacific to build overwater bungalows. Bora Bora is the most famous island of Tahiti. When you consider the savings on shorter flights from the US East Coast, as well as inclusions such as all food without limitations, premium liquors, round trip airport transfers, all tips, taxes and gratuities, scuba, and more, it might end up costing around the same as a hotel for $500 nightly that doesn't include any extras. I did not want to leave. These motus protect the water between them and the volcanic mountain, creating the perfect conditions for the Tahitian Bora Bora huts on water bungalows to be built with minimal risk of strong waves and weather. These stunning islands rival the South Pacific in terms of reputation for coveted ultra-luxury accommodations and otherworldly scenery. The most luxurious resort on Moorea at about a four-star level, this resort has a little over 100 rooms with half of them overwater bungalows. Inside, glass floor panels reveal sea life in lit-up waters. At a whopping 3500 square feet (321 square meters), there's plenty of space for two bedrooms and two bathrooms, separate private terraces for each bedroom, direct . The only overwater bungalow resort in Samoa, Coconuts Beach Club is an interesting collection of accommodations that is particularly popular with Australians and Kiwis. The 4-star resort has a total of 148 rooms, which offer a beautiful view of the blue ocean waters. As a destination, New Caledonia tends to have cooler temperatures and service thats not quite up to par with other island nations in the area, like Fiji or French Polynesia. Our favorites are the ones that can see Bora Bora, and also those at the end of the pontoon with views back towards the island of Tahaa. The Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, part of Hilton Hotels, is unique from other resorts in the area because it's located on two islands instead of one, resulting in more room options, privacy, and added amenities. Sign up for our monthly Overwater Bungalows newsletter. Glass floor panels and lit water ensure you can enjoy undersea views at any time. Fiji is best known for its luxury boutique islands that are often truly breathtaking. Bluetooth speakers; a massive, airy bathroom; and private terrace make it easy to unwind. Explore the top-rated styles for every type of trip to the beach. Fiji has about fifteen overwater bungalows. The Cook Islands has an Adults Only beautiful, barefoot-luxury overwater bungalow resort on the island of Aitutaki called Aitutaki Lagoon Resort. There are two Tahiti resorts with overwater bungalows of solid four-star quality. Ready to check out tropical paradise for yourself? The Coco Beach Spa at Coconuts offers a full range of massage, therapy and beauty treatments, all performed by internationally trained personnel. Holly Johnson and Erin EvansMarch 1, 2023, Holly Johnson and Erin EvansFeb. Island Villas Many of these resorts are located in remote areas and can book up quickly. The tides move a lot in Fiji, hence why their coral is so vibrant, so Fiji is not famous for its overwater bungalows. This eco-lodge is located in Panama's Bocas del Toro area where white sand and turquoise water make the views and the atmosphere idyllic. All-inclusive. This authentic beachfront resort encourages guests to relax into island life and embrace an escape with no phones, TVs or high rises in sight. Just make sure you know what youre getting. Out on the motus, there are lots of four and five-star resorts, but we have two favorites both of which occupy our number one spot of Best Overwater Bungalow in the South Pacific, possibly the world! Room service: No. Cons: Some overwater villas feel dated, especially in comparison to the more modern, updated beach villas. By clicking Sign up, you agree to receive marketing emails from Insider Our other favorite overwater bungalows in the South Pacific are at the St. Regis Bora Bora. Private. El Nido Resort Apulit Island. This is because these areas are home to crystal clear, shallow blue waters that are suited to such accommodations. Guests can book any number of overwater bungalows with private pools and sizable decks for lounging, but they can also reserve the Muraka Suite a two-level multibedroom "residence" that features a submerged bedroom 16 feet below sea level. Reaching Coconuts Beach Club is easy. The overwater bungalows were constructed using . We're including Sandals' adults-only South Coast Jamaica property even though its price point is an outlier for good reason. A high concentration of overwater bungalows are found in Asia, most famously, in the Maldives. Fa'afetai lava. Pros: The Maldives is simply a must-hit bucket-list destination for many travelers, offering some of the most high-end accommodations. On-site amenities: Pool, spa, water sports and activities. There are 18 in all, each with about 570 square feet to spread out. 7 Nights Link on TravelByJen.com or call for help 1-800-603-3178. Nightly rates for winter 2022 start at $1,260 for double occupancy. The territory, which is part of Polynesia, includes the six . Some have freshwater plunge pools in the deck, suspended over the water. The world's second-largest double barrier reef surrounds the islands of New Caledonia, where a lagoon teems with a kaleidoscope of fish and sea-life. Planning a stay at a hotel with overwater bungalows is a bucket-list item for many, but the accompanying price tag can be a daunting obstacle, even for a once-in-a-lifetime event like a honeymoon. Individuals who choose this property will find unparalleled luxury, a spa with overwater treatment rooms, gourmet dining at six on-site eateries and some of the best views of Mount Otemanu in all of Bora Bora. . With butler service and roomy overwater bungalows starting . Vanuatu has two adjacent resorts with overwater bungalows. Palafitos Overwater Bungalows surround you with the sapphire serenity of the Caribbean. Learn more about coverage options for frequent travelers and those with multiple upcoming trips. Book your next cruise vacation on one of these floating megaresorts. Megan Johnson and Sharael KolbergMarch 3, 2023, Holly Johnson and Erin EvansMarch 1, 2023, Holly Johnson and Erin EvansFeb. Samoa is one of the safest destinations to visit with a low crime rate, however it's recommended that you take out travel insurance for peace of mind. Okay, heres where things get really good. Even more exciting are the Coconuts VIP excursions that allow you to visit different locations on the island with a private car and driver. Over-water bungalows with a difference, the Lake Crackenback apartments stretch out over an inland lake affording magnificent mountain and Thredbo Valley views across a breathtaking expanse of crystal clear mountain lake. There are even more places your Platinum Card can get you complimentary entry . However, the back of each bungalow sits on land, and only the front has stilts in the water. Its more luxurious than what you usually find on Moorea, at close to a five-star level, and we love it for feeling authentically Polynesian and being a boutique size with only about sixty rooms. All of their overwater bungalows are the same size and layout, but we think its worth the cost to stay in one of the Premium Overwater Bungalows, because theyre situated towards the edge of the resort, allowing for deep, safe water that you can jump into directly from the private deck. The 34 large and private Water Bungalows all include direct access to the ocean waters from private sun decks with wooden ladders. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. 9 Top Affordable Overwater Bungalows Around the World. Please use the drop-down menu and select your departure point. We got such a suprise when we entered the room It was stunning. Azul Beach Resorts. At over 1,500 square feet (147 square meters), these bungalows at the Four Seasons are more like villas. The first overwater bungalows were constructed on the French Polynesian island of Ra'itea in 1967 by three American hotel owners, Jay Carlisle, Donald McCallum and Hugh Kelley. Special bonus points went to places with something unique and creative about them. American Express has expanded The Centurion Network to include 40+ Centurion Lounge and Studio locations worldwide. Every hotel takes the health and safety of guests seriously, with COVID-19 protocols in place, which we've noted for each hotel. Next, preferences went to bungalows that maximized the overwater experience. This guide to the best overwater bungalows in the world highlights some excellent options for every kind of getaway and budget. Nightly rates for overwater accommodations with double occupancy start at around $630 for dates in early 2022. Whether you're planning a romantic getaway, an anniversary celebration or a honeymoon, there are few options that stand out more than overwater bungalows. OVER-the-WATER bungalows THE CARIBBEAN'S MOST SPECTACULAR ACCOMMODATIONS Featuring groundbreaking, innovative designs that marry modern luxury to exotic palapa-style architecture, these spectacular Over-the-Water Bungalows deliver an immersive journey of the Caribbean's finest turquoise waters. The property has a spa, impeccable scuba options, and an overwater room category billed as Fiji's only floating accommodation. Pros: This hotel is surrounded by incredibly unspoiled natural beauty with no crowds in sight. American Samoa, officially Territory of American Samoa, unincorporated territory of the United States consisting of the eastern part of the Samoan archipelago, located in the south-central Pacific Ocean. Experience the ultimate in oceanfront luxury. Snoozing to the sound of waves gently lapping all around you, climbing down the ladder from your private patio into a calm, crystal blue lagoon, catching sight of the Milky Way against a dark sky through your retractable bedroom roof: for beach lovers, staying in an overwater bungalow in a tropical locale is the pinnacle of a perfect vacation.But those one-with-the-sea vibes come with a steep . Each bungalow has a view of the ocean below, with a glass panel built into the floor. Deepwater, entertaining coral and fish, and a high standard of quality and authenticity make Manava Beach Resort & Spa Moorea one of our favorites for a water bungalow stay. Bungalows are quite large at nearly 750 square feet, and decor is modern and tropical, done in creams and vibrant colors. Located in Montego Bay, Jamaica, Sandals Royal Caribbean Resort offers overwater bungalow options in an all-inclusive, private-island setting. U.S. News rates the cheapest travel insurance options, considering expert and consumer recommendations. So at low tide, most of the water under the Fiji bungalow disappears. This 44-acre resort is a Polynesian paradise, with private overwater villas set on the idyllic South Pacific waters. Want to know which overwater bungalows offer the worlds best experience sleeping in anyone of the huts over the ocean? Nothing was too much for the staff, they went over and above what was expected, always friendly and super helpful. These are places that not only would I feel comfortable staying in them myself, I would also send my clients to them. All overwater bungalow hotels provide excellent service and picture-perfect amenities to ensure each property meets your lofty expectations. Snorkeling can be done right on-site while hiking, waterfall viewing and various local attractions are relatively close by. Both offer such unique experiences, but there are some differences. Nightly rates start at around $1,000 for double occupancy this winter, although guests can save money and enjoy free breakfast thanks to the property's fourth night free promotion, which is applicable on select dates in 2022. Youll also find overwater bungalows with the best views of land and sea, both out over the water and down below coral and fish swimming below the bungalow, rather than just sand, get top marks. These stunning bungalows feature over 1,000 square feet of tranquil bliss. Cons: If you're looking for over-the-top opulence, you might find this option too rustic (or that aspect could be a pro). Samoa's only Overwater Fales Luxury and Romance Defined. Majestic humpback whales glide between the islands of Tonga, the only South Pacific area to escape colonization. Beds: One kingsize bed Made of wood and constructed on stone jetties, the bungalows are an extension of our award-winning Fern Tree, A Salamander Spa. Otemanu, a requirement for any top Bora Bora overwater bungalow. The overwater bungalows boast astounding views of the beach, lagoon and ocean, along with postcard-worthy sunsets. Many of the world's overwater bungalows are found in Asia and the South Pacific, in places like the Maldives and Malaysia, as well as Fiji, Bora Bora, and Tahiti. Located in the culturally rich but much lesser-traveled South Pacific destination of Samoa, Coconuts Beach Club Resort and Spa is located on Upolu's southern coast where you'll experience incredible sunrises and sunsets. New Caledonia has twenty-five overwater bungalows at LEscapade Island Resort Noumea. Totally unspoiled with screensaver views in every direction, Tikehau Island places you away from the over-saturated crowds of (big-spending) honeymooners on Bora Bora while still indulging in overwater accommodation luxury. The overwater bungalow rates start around $500 per night, with premium overwaters starting at $750 . Talk about the ultimate in pampering! The highlight of these unique Over-the-Water Fales is the expansive sun decks, where lucky couples will savor their own private retreat. 28, 2023, Holly Johnson and Ann HensonFeb. Cheaper options exist, and while less common, they're still in desirable areas like the South Pacific, Asia, and the Caribbean. Along with an alcohol-free atmosphere, Banana Island Resort Doha boasts a spa and wellness center, a surf pool, a dive center, a 20-seat movie theater, a bowling alley and a putting green, as well as five restaurants serving everything from traditional Middle Eastern cuisine to retro American diner favorites like burgers and milkshakes. This top-notch resort is located on the main island of Tahiti in French Polynesia, yet it feels a world away. The spectacular overwater bungalows at Sandals South Coast are simply incredible. Guests come here to get away from it all, and to enjoy treatments at the Spa Village, guided jungle walks, yoga and tai chi morning sessions and more before retreating to their luxury lodging. #11 Best Value of 16 Beach Resorts in Samoa "This was our 6th stay at Coconuts Resort in the past 10 years - this time in a 1br beach fale." "My girlfriend and I intended to stay at Coconuts Beach Club for four nights." 12. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content. St. George's Caye Resort - Belize is located on a private island in Belize with overwater bungalows and rooms overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Situated about an hour southeast of Negril, this resort sits along a 2-mile stretch of white sand and turquoise water among a 500-acre nature preserve. Pros: Koro Sun has a spectacular location in Fiji with kayaks included in every room's personal dock, plus free water activities. The King Pool Overwater Villas . The overwater bungalow is a form of, mainly high end, tourist accommodation inspired by the traditional stilt houses of South Asia and the Pacific. You wont find resorts that small with such luxury in other South Pacific islands. This property is located on its own private island in the Maldives, and it features several overwater villa options with upgraded amenities like outdoor beds for lounging and private infinity pools. Couples can lounge on plush furniture as they take in their tropical. Pros: This hotel enjoys total seclusion off the beaten path and is surrounded by raw, natural beauty. Over-the-water is a way of life in the Maldives, an Indian Ocean archipelago comprised of almost 1,200 sandy atolls. As such, it's a sanctuary for a diverse variety of birds and other animals. Certified specialists from America's #1 agent network. Pros: Savor the opportunity to observe incredible wildlife in one of the world's most beautiful island locations. The Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora has long been home to some of the most sought-after overwater bungalows in the world, but recent upgrades have made its upscale villas even more impressive. Creating the lagoon, keeping it safe, sandy, and shallow, are a ring of tiny coral islands called motus. Also, Fiji is far you'll have to cross the international dateline to get there if arriving from the US. Aga Reef Resort - Samoa - Overwater Bungalows Aga Reef Resort - Samoa South Pacific A rather small 4-star resort featuring a total of just 16 rooms, the Aga Reef Resort in Samoa is ideal for visitors seeking a tropical stay alongside luxury amenities. These six Fales are unique in design and fully embrace the seamless indoor/outdoor living experience that is so popular throughout Samoa. Each bungalow features an expansive patio with a Tranquility Soaking Tub for two. Choose from 108 rooms and suites, including overwater villas with furnished sun decks and direct water access. VIP Villa Each is a one-bedroom bungalow with a cascade shower bathroom, and a deck with a hot tub overlooking the dazzling water. Teetering atop the reef at the northern headland of a crescent shaped cove, 10 bungalows are styled on a traditional Fijian village. We stayed for three nights in one of the Overwater Fales..Very beautiful and well catered for. This destination is couples-only (perfect for your romantic adult getaway), and features an outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, shared lounge, garden, and so much more. Her work has appeared in Town & Country, Esquire, Cosmopolitan, Good Housekeeping, Parents, E!. You can purchase logo and accolade licensing to this story here. Each has a large sun deck, expansive bedroom with a King bed, and a high traditional Samoan ceiling. A two-person kayak is tied to each bure's 120-square-foot private front deck, so you can hop right in the water for either kayaking or swimming. Cons: Many of these locations can be quite a journey from the US and expensive, before even factoring in arduous, pricey flights, not to mention jet lag. Sign up for our newsletter to get honest reviews on top products & services delivered weekly to your inbox. For those looking for the classic overwater experience, the place with the most options is French Polynesia. As with most resorts there's a glass-bottom floor, infinity plunge pool, outdoor shower, 24-hour butler and a ladder that leads into the sea. Vahine Island Private Island Resort South Pacific, Le Tikehau By Pearl Resorts South Pacific, Check online specials for the Aga Reef Resort, Entertainment system: 32 Flatscreen TV with 20 channels, Low season online specials from US$293 per night, High season online specials from US$294 per night. This resort is also home to 10 different restaurants, which feature rare ingredients and menu items, such as Miyazaki wagyu beef and Alba white truffle. Aga Reef Resort - Samoa. Learn more Book Now. Grab a drink and lay back in a hammock over the water to catch Jamaica's famous sunsets. The balcony includes a hot tub and stairs leading right into the Indian Ocean. We made selections based on our own travel experience, as well as past traveler reviews and rankings on trusted traveler sites such as Trip Advisor and Booking.com. there are no overwater bungalows in hawaii but The South Pacific, Tahiti, Bora Bora, and Moorea are locations where you may find overwater bungalows close to Hawaii.