This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content. 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. Staying in an overwater bungalow is the stuff of dreams. The overwater bungalows feel like bargains compared to similar accommodations in other parts of the world. The resort's overwater bungalows are known for offering spacious outdoor verandas, sun loungers and soaking tubs with 360-degree water views. These are the best affordable overwater bungalows, from rustic and eco-minded to over-the-top posh. (Available from ALL cities and available land only) Both Canada and the USA are listed*. The resort features five restaurants and vibrant tropical bars, and guests can also take part in theme nights that include traditional cuisine and dance. Overwater Bungalows Near The USA . 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. You can even dine in a private gazebo outside your bedroom with a view of the mountain in the distance. From Bora Bora to the Maldives and everywhere between, overwater accommodations provide the utmost privacy and exceptional views, often with overwater hammocks, private pools and other amenities that help make your trip special. Think an overwater bungalow is out of reach for bargain hunters? The overwater bungalows boast astounding views of the beach, lagoon and ocean, along with postcard-worthy sunsets. (Courtesy of Conrad Maldives Rangali Island), Known as a popular resort for over-the-top honeymoons, the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island wows guests with its overwater and underwater rooms, as well as its unique dining experiences. On-site amenities: Spa, dive center, restaurant, bar, pool. We rate Likuliku as one of our favourites too. For something a bit more off the beaten path, you could try Fiji, New Caledonia, Vanuatu, Samoa, or The Cook Islands. You can even go spelunking! However, the resorts with the best views, the most space, and the most bells and whistles are on motus that face back towards the lagoon and volcano. Bora Bora is easily one of the most stunning and luxurious destinations in the world thanks to its crystal clear waters and location next to Mount Otemanu. 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. Follow these steps (and allow plenty of time) to get your child a passport. Here you'll also find lots of great activities to join in on, both within the resort and nearby. These architecturally-designed Over-the-Water Fales are unlike any accommodation anywhere in the world. This unique resort is located on its own 300-acre private island, and it's surrounded by a centuries-old rainforest and white sand beaches. If being all the way in the water is important to you, then ensure your bungalow wont have one side sitting on land. Since its opening in 1973, Baros Maldives has become a popular resort for couples seeking romance and exclusivity. 1.8 OZEN Reserve Bolifushi Ocean Pool Suite with Slide. We stayed at the Overwater Fale. 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. These bungalows are just barely offshore, in waters that can be a bit shallow for jumping into. While fewer, you'll also find some in the Caribbean and Mexico. The Over-the-Water Fales are situated as to maximize individual privacy. This private island resort is located on the Noonu Atoll in the Maldives, which is flanked by spectacular white sand beaches and some of the clearest waters in the world. The resort's overwater bungalows are known for offering spacious outdoor verandas, sun loungers and soaking tubs with 360-degree water views. The 12 overwater bungalows at Sandals South Coast, on Jamaica's northwestern coast, couldn't be more romanticthey're even arranged in the formation of a heart! St. George's Caye Resort offers adults-only lodging that is located on a rustic but indulgent private island in Belize. Teetering atop the reef at the northern headland of a crescent shaped cove, 10 bungalows are styled on a traditional Fijian village. The oddball idea became an instant phenomenon: Now known as an overwater bungalow, the design became the hotel's signature detail and helped establish French Polynesia as a tropical getaway. From classic wide-brimmed hats to water-repellent trucker hats, find your ideal style. The location itself is also a favorite and guests praise the views that come with each room. And if you opt for true luxury resorts, they likely will inch closer to $1,000, especially if you opt for all-inclusive or full-board packages and travel during popular times of the year and holidays. In other words, you may always find an overwater bungalow Belize that suits your budget. Each Fale boasts amazing views of the beaches, lagoon, and ocean, and boast simply breathtaking sunset vistas. These are the best overwater bungalows, sorted by location and price. Of course, to make it to the top of our list, it also has to have great views. Next, preferences went to bungalows that maximized the overwater experience. With that said, the continental buffet breakfast is said to be lacking by a few, but most guests think that it is good enough. The best of the best there is the two-bedroom Overwater Royal Otemanu Villas with Pool. Butler service is a given: here, they arrange welcome cocktails, dining reservations, and can even unpack your luggage and press your clothes. All rooms are crafted from recycled timber sourced from old Filipino homes for floors and furnishings and also feature sliding glass doors that open to a private veranda. However, because of their idyllic accommodations, overwater bungalows will be more expensive than most hotel rooms simply because of the style, and also because remote locations mean it's more expensive to maintain upkeep and import goods and services. If you're going to stay in an overwater bungalow, there is no other place to consider other than French Polynesia. 9 Top Affordable Overwater Bungalows Around the World. Lodgers who crave the overwater experience can choose from thatched roof overwater villas with three or five bedrooms, private pools and expansive outdoor living space. This 44-acre resort is a Polynesian paradise, with private overwater villas set on the idyllic South Pacific waters. U.S. News rates the cheapest travel insurance options, considering expert and consumer recommendations. To give some perspective to this review, we have stayed at many a 5 star resort, but the over water fales at Coconuts is by far the most spectacular room we have ever stayed in. Saletoga Sands Resort & Spa combines luxury and comfort with the natural splendour of the beautiful island of Upolu, Samoa. The string of nine palm-thatched cabanas over clear Caribbean waters at Punta Caracol Acqua-Lodge immerse guests in a simple, natural environment. The Maldives, Mexico and the Caribbean are a few popular regions where you can find hotels with overwater bungalows. 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 . 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. 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. Those who have stayed in the island villas state that they were able to wake up to a beautiful view each and every morning. This family-run resort caters to a wide variety of travelers, and rates start around $600 per night. 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. When booking a room, we suggest requesting rooms 6007-6004. Cons: You'll have to cross the International Date Line to get to Fiji plan for jet lag, and stay long enough to recover. Prices start in the low $300s and include full board with no catch. See and be seen at these stunning natural wonders. There are 18 in all, each with about 570 square feet to spread out. It's also worth noting that Mexico offers overwater bungalows too but Palafitosat El Dorado Maroma and Rosewood Mayakoba's entry-level price points for these accommodations exceeded our qualifications for this budget-friendlier list. The 3,330-square-foot infinity pool of the resort blends into views of the lagoon. Price: Base Rate From: Baltimore, Houston, New Orleans, Orlando & Fort Lauderdale/Miami. All over the bungalows on this list are at a minimum three-star standard. Not only are their bungalows perched above the Caribbean Sea, but their chapel and bar are too. If you crave convenience, it's also worth noting that this property offers half board and all-inclusive booking options. Do keep in mind that the seafloor tends to be mostly sand here, which makes for great swimming but you wont see as much fish through the glass panel on your floor. Some overwater villas also boast their own private pools. You'll need time. The Over Water Fales are excellent with stone floors, glass floor under the coffee table, comfortable bath and great views down the beach and sunsets. El Nido Resort Apulit Island. Best view, big and beautifule bungalows. Ready to check out tropical paradise for yourself? The overwater bungalows are a dream, with soaking tubs and indulgent comforts opening up to serene waters. If you don't want to splurge on the Muraka Suite, consider dining at the Ithaa Undersea Restaurant, which offers lunch and dinner 16 feet below the surface of the ocean. Grab a drink and lay back in a hammock over the water to catch Jamaica's famous sunsets. In the 50 years since the Bali Hai Boys debuted their overwater bungalows in Bora Bora, these types of accommodations have sprouted up . Most Water Villas have outdoor showers for you to rinse yourself off with after a swim. Couples can lounge on plush furniture as they take in their tropical. There is also a wide variety of tours available so guests can easily experience the beauty and special places on the island. They also state that there are plenty of fish to see, which added to the wow factor. Cons: These bungalows are clustered closer together (and therefore less private) than many of the more opulent luxury options available elsewhere. Measuring at roughly 590 square feet each, the overwater bungalows accommodate up to 2 adults and provide direct access to the lagoon. Pros: Direct flights to Tahiti make this exotic destination closer than you might think the flight is just over eight hours nonstop from LAX. Relaxation. We are return Coconuts of 2007. Located in French Polynesia, Bora Bora is a small island in the South Pacific Ocean. Sandals South Coast, Jamaica. However, the back of each bungalow sits on land, and only the front has stilts in the water. When I think of the South Pacific Islands I see coral gardens, thatched roofs, and gorgeous water just screaming at me to come float for hours. In fact, the property added eight more overwater bungalows in late 2019, some of which feature private infinity pools that float above the lagoon. 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. 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. A slate of daily activities includes morning or sunset fishing, a sunset photo tour (on which it would be nearly impossible not to nail some prize-worthy snaps), as well as a full menu of treatments at the spa. The overwater bungalows at Sandals South Coast are located a quick walk down the dock from the white sandy beach. Private decks can be closed off with sliding glass doors for privacy and the use of AC. Coconuts offers Samoan-inspired accommodation, including Samoa's only Over-the-Water Fales. The service . U.S. News rates the cheapest travel insurance options, considering expert and consumer recommendations. as well as other partner offers and accept our. This shading could result in a decreased survival rate, or at least promote behavioural changes in various components of the biological community. The Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora really takes the overwater island bungalow to heart, with about one hundred overwater bungalows from a total of 120 rooms. Number of Overwater Bungalows: 12. Nothing was too much for the staff, they went over and above what was expected, always friendly and super helpful. Water depth is about . You might also consider using IHG points to make your stay at this resort even cheaper. There's no better place to embrace Samoan history than at the waterfront Sheraton Aggie Greys Hotel & Bungalows.This harbourside hotel is located just steps from Apia's city centre and within walking distance of the Samoa Cultural Village and the Palolo Deep Marine Reserve where you can snorkel to observe sea turtles and beautiful . If you dream of stepping out of your room and dipping straight into warm, turquoise waters surrounded by incredible scenery, then you'll likely feel that the answer is yes. 7 Nights Link on TravelByJen.com or call for help 1-800-603-3178. Escape to an unforgettable five-star luxury getaway on the water at The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort. There is plenty of coral underneath too, so you can watch the fish through the glass floor in your living room. The overwater bungalow is a form of, mainly high end, tourist accommodation inspired by the traditional stilt houses of South Asia and the Pacific. The best of the best there is the two-bedroom Overwater Royal Otemanu Villas with Pool. Romantic and adults-only, this all-inclusive resort is among the best in Fiji. 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. Read on to find out! Accommodations Offers Gallery Resort Map Web Check-In Karisma Groups 2023, Karisma Hotels & Resorts. Ladders plunge directly from a sundeck into the shallow waters below, and glass floor panels allow for views of the marine life below. The property itself will keep travelers busy, entertained and fed with a full-service spa, a fitness center, two resort pools, and six restaurants and lounges. Many of these resorts are located in remote areas and can book up quickly. 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 are places that not only would I feel comfortable staying in them myself, I would also send my clients to them. 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. Coconuts Beach Club features Samoa's only, exclusive, Over-the-Water Fales. . Cons: Critical reviews note the food lacks variety and a remote location means other options are limited. You might have heard this country called Tahiti, or the Society Islands although Tahiti is just one of many islands that also include Bora Bora, Moorea, Tahaa, Tetiaroa, and Huahine, to name a few. Its 20 miles south of the main town of Apia, and 25 miles southeast of the international airport. Vanuatu has two adjacent resorts with overwater bungalows. The resort also features a spa and two restaurants. Typical starting/peak prices: $570/$2,800, On-site amenities: 8 restaurants including underwater dining, 4 bars, 2 pools, 2 spas, dive center, water sports, business center, shops, fitness center, open-air cinema. Since kids (up to a certain age) stay and eat free here, its very popular with returning family guests. Nightly rates for double occupancy in overwater villas at this Hilton resort start at $1,886 per night in early 2022, (Courtesy of Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts). 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. 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. 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. However, many countries are now accepting fully vaccinated American travelers or those who can show proof of a negative COVID test. There is simply nothing more romantic than a stay in an Overwater Bungalow in the tropical South Pacific. Certified specialists from America's #1 agent network. Palafitos Overwater Bungalows surround you with the sapphire serenity of the Caribbean. 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. Choose from 108 rooms and suites, including overwater villas with furnished sun decks and direct water access. Cons: Some overwater villas feel dated, especially in comparison to the more modern, updated beach villas. Creating the lagoon, keeping it safe, sandy, and shallow, are a ring of tiny coral islands called motus. Lagen Island is serenely located between a lush forest and a crystalline, shallow lagoon. Pros: Koro Sun has a spectacular location in Fiji with kayaks included in every room's personal dock, plus free water activities. You can book the 1,614-square-foot one-bedroom Ocean Pool Villa at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands for as little as 120,000 Marriott points per . Sign up for our newsletter to get honest reviews on top products & services delivered weekly to your inbox. Bungalows have spa-style bathrooms, private patios with extended sun decks and outdoor showers, private outdoor soaking tubs, and over-water hammocks. ACCOMMODATION - InterContinental World's Best 8 Spacious Overwater Bungalows with Private Pool. Sandals Royal Caribbean Resort, Jamaica. Bora Bora is the most famous island of Tahiti. The resort features plenty of traditional accommodation options, as well as overwater honeymoon suites with a roomy sun deck, an outdoor shower, an outdoor soaking tub for two and an overwater hammock. Guests staying in one of the 30 overwater bungalows have their own restaurant to dine in; no other guests of El Dorado Maroma's villas or suites can eat there. 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. If you travel in off season, it might be as low as $100 to $200 a night. . Experience the ultimate in oceanfront luxury. Pangkor Laut Resort is located on a privately owned island situated three miles off the West Coast of Malaysia along the Straits of Malacca. 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. This top-notch resort is located on the main island of Tahiti in French Polynesia, yet it feels a world away. El Nido is situated in a cove of the mountainous Apulit Island in Taytay Bay in North-eastern Palawan. Pros: This is the most value-priced property on our list for overwater bungalows with glass floor panels to gaze right into the sea at a shockingly low starting point. Inside, glass floor panels reveal sea life in lit-up waters. There are 24 overwater suites and bungalows and entry-level Overwater Suites come with living rooms, large bathtubs, and private decks with shaded sitting areas and direct access to the lagoon. Pros: The Maldives is simply a must-hit bucket-list destination for many travelers, offering some of the most high-end accommodations. Sign up for Insider Reviews' weekly newsletter for more buying advice and great deals. Sign up for our monthly Overwater Bungalows newsletter. This authentic beachfront resort encourages guests to relax into island life and embrace an escape with no phones, TVs or high rises in sight. All overwater rooms at this Four Seasons property also received new furniture, fixtures, lighting and technology. 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. This is a moderately priced resort that offers excellent value to go along with the great weather and beautiful setting. A white, sandy beach and breathtaking, tranquil blue waters provide the perfect setting for this stunning boutique retreat surrounded by exotic tropical flowers and lush greenery. The property boasts several overwater accommodation options, including overwater bungalows with up to three bedrooms. Thrill-seekers will love climbing and rappelling down the 60-meter limestone cliff or exploring the Japanese shipwrecks just of the coast. Consider breaking up your stay by booking a few nights in each. The property has a spa, impeccable scuba options, and an overwater room category billed as Fiji's only floating accommodation. Our other favorite overwater bungalows in the South Pacific are at the St. Regis Bora Bora. Here, you can book an overwater bungalow for about $1,100 per person per night, but the all-inclusive pricing model offers significant value. Read our full hotel review of Conrad Maldives Rangali Island. Yes, not only do you get a stunning view of the volcanic crater of Mt. Nightly rates for winter 2022 start at around $700 for stays of five nights or more. (Courtesy of Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi). Book your next cruise vacation on one of these floating megaresorts. Traditional Fijian decor with touches of nautical style and thatched roofing completes the look. For more on hotel safety during COVID, read our reporting on what experts say you need to know. Some villas even feature their own private infinity pools with adjacent hammocks positioned over the water. Samoa; Best Time to Visit Hawaii. Youll need to fly to Faleolo Airport, which is the main international airport on Samoa, and from there the hotel will pick you up in their van for the 45-minute drive to the resort, any time of day or night as long as they know you are coming. We were fortunate to get upgraded to the Over Water Fales. Whether you're planning a romantic getaway, an anniversary celebration or a honeymoon, there are few options that stand out more than overwater bungalows. Nestled amongst beautiful tropical islands on the equator, Anantara Veli Maldives Resort is . Coconuts Beach Club Resort & Spa truly embodies all that is unique and wonderful about culturally-rich Samoa. 28, 2023, Holly Johnson and Ann HensonFeb. We welcome your feedback. Nightly rates for overwater villas that. To be considered one of the best, they had to be truly over the water. That means the entire bungalow must be suspended on stilts in the water, not with the back of the bungalow touching land. Guests can take their dinners on the private decks of budget-friendly overwater bungalows, which have private outdoor showers and outdoor living areas with lounge seating right over the water. Winner, Editors' Choice: Club Med Finolhu Villas, Maldives. These six Fales are unique in design and fully embrace the seamless indoor/outdoor living experience that is so popular throughout Samoa. We're including Sandals' adults-only South Coast Jamaica property even though its price point is an outlier for good reason. Reviews for 10 Travel Experts on American Samoa Overwater Bungalows . The property offers quite a few accommodation options, including estates and bungalows in the jungle or over the water. Coconuts Beach Club (Breakfast daily) $1,229 per couple. Stay in the largest overwater villas in French Polynesia and the South Pacific, starting at 1,550 square feet, and revel in the turquoise blue waters visible from the glass panel floors. Open to the expansive deck with sliding glass doors, the bathroom features and opaque ceiling, bathing the room in natural light. The territory, which is part of Polynesia, includes the six . With an average cost of $300, you would . Fortunately, the seafloor dips away rather steeply right here, so you still get some deep water for exploring right off the deck. Bluetooth speakers; a massive, airy bathroom; and private terrace make it easy to unwind. Find the right agent for your trip. overwater bungalow VRBO Known as Little Peter Oasis, this two-bedroom overwater bungalow features a thatched roof, mahogany floors and 1,500-square feet of decking, all perched on a. Cons: Still, this is the priciest property on our list. There's much to discover beyond theme parks in this Southeastern state. Waterfront Villas Le Mridien Maldives Resort & Spa opened in September 2021 on Thilamaafushi Island. Every morning we saw some turtels in front of our bungalow :). Where should you book your overwater stay? We may receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. Having a sun deck out over the water helps, especially those with direct access to the water and a ladder for climbing back up. Butler service is also included for a truly luxe stay. An overwater bungalow represents the pinnacle of luxury travel - and those most popular with travelers worldwide can cost thousands of dollars . Enjoy scenic views and relaxing atmospheres at these resorts. These budget-friendly options are found in top-end destinations such as the South Pacific including Tahiti and Fiji, Central America and the Caribbean, and Asia, including the Maldives. Pros: This hotel is surrounded by incredibly unspoiled natural beauty with no crowds in sight. Hide. 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. Cons: Expect a very long journey to reach such a remote paradise. Although there are four resorts at least at a three-star level with water bungalows here, we have two favorites. The resort's Water Villas feature extensive outdoor decks with ample seating and large netted ocean hammocks, and some boast their own private infinity pools.This property also features 12 stunning white sand beaches, two large pools, an enormous lap pool that stretches into the lagoon and seven restaurants and bars to choose from. The overwater bungalow is a staple of barefoot luxury resorts across the worldthose thatched roof wooden huts are romantic hideaways tailor-made for a permanent Do Not Disturb sign. Sun loungers and comfy furniture beckon guests to relax and enjoy their tropical surroundings. The adults-only enclave has 30 plafitos (stilt houses) on a secluded stretch of the Riviera Maya. Holly Johnson and Erin EvansMarch 1, 2023, Holly Johnson and Erin EvansFeb. This guide to the best overwater bungalows in the world highlights some excellent options for every kind of getaway and budget. Le Tahaa and Bora Bora are more likely to have giant villas located far out into a sandy lagoon, with more luxury than can be found on Moorea or Tahiti. 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.