10 Overwater Bungalows That Are Truly Like Living on Paradise
Updated: Mar. 20, 2019As the winter weather takes over, you may begin to crave sunshine and sandy shores. Here are 10 of the most amazing overwater bungalows around the world.
Gili Lankanfushi in the Maldives
Located in the North Malé Atoll, just a 20-minute speedboat ride from Malé, Gili Lankanfushi is the epitome of an island paradise. The property boasts 45 villas—all overwater—that feature open-air living spaces, roof terraces, and decks leading directly into the lagoon below. Amazingly, the largest overwater villa in the Maldives is located at this property and has four bedrooms, a private open-air cinema, spa, air-conditioned gymnasium, infinity pool, and a two-story waterslide, directly into the lagoon. The Maldives also happens to be home to a beach you have to see at night. Plus: Check out Prince’s Caribbean island estate.
Water Villas at One&Only Reethi Rah
The Maldives must just be the place to be when it comes to overwater bungalows. The One&Only Reethi Rah in North Malé Atoll is all about privacy: They offer overwater bungalows along a four-mile stretch that includes 12 powder-soft sand beaches. From the iconic Water Villas, you can sleep and even bathe with views of crystal blue waters or lounge outside in one of the wraparound hammocks that allows you to hover right over the lagoon. Check out these amazing extremely remote castles.
Conrad Bora Bora Nui Resort & Spa
The stunning hotel in French Polynesia has all the makings of the dreamiest honeymoon. Sitting along Bora Bora’s longest stretch of white-sand beach, some overwater villas dot the shore. But the cream de la cream of bungalows is the Presidential Overwater Villa, the region’s first two-story overwater bungalow. At over 3,000 square feet, you get two bedrooms, a living room, well-being room, personal pool, whirlpool, and sundeck. It’s the definition of heaven. Want a standard room instead? One of the top 50 hotels in the world is in Bora Bora.
The Manta Resort in Tanzania
Why rent just your average overwater bungalow when you can have your private floating island? That’s exactly what the Manta Resort offers their one-of-a-kind underwater room villa. The three-level bungalow is perched in the middle of the sea where a boat will drop you off at the start of your stay. You can lounge in one of the many rooms, but the best spot of all in the floating suite’s bedroom located 13 feet under the water’s surface. Yes, you can watch fish swim past while you fall asleep. Here are some affordable island rentals—and yes, you get the entire island. Plus: These amazing homes are the biggest in each state.
Sandals South Coast in Jamaica
There’s no better way to experience the beauty of the Caribbean Sea than staying in the Over the Water Honeymoon Butler Bungalow. These floating palaces completely embrace the stunning natural backdrop with views from the bedroom, bathroom, and private sundeck. You can even bathe in the outdoor soaking tub without prying eyes or watch fish swim beneath your feet through your see-through floor. Oh yeah, and you get a dedicated butler to cater to your every need.
Cayo Espanto in Belize
You might never see a guest during your entire visit to this private island in Belize. The intimate property only has seven villas total, with Casa Ventanas being the only overwater bungalow. The one bedroom suite is at the end of a dock and surrounded entirely by crystal blue water. You can see the sunset while lying in bed or sea life bustling below your glass-bottom floor in the living room. These are the most expensive homes in each state.
Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows in Orlando, FL
Who says you have to travel outside the U.S. for an incredible overwater villa experience? Right in the heart of Orlando, Florida you can have a taste of Bora Bora at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows. The two-bedroom bungalows have everything you’d expect from an exotic getaway including a private deck, individual plunge pool, kitchen, and views of the Seven Seas Lagoon and Magic Kingdom Park. When you’re planning this trip, make sure you check out the cheapest time to travel to Disney.
Likeulikue Lagoon Resort in Fiji
It doesn’t get better than a five-star resort on a small private island. That is until you add luxurious overwater bungalows called “bures.” With stunning Fijian decor, you can jump straight into the ocean from your private balcony perched over a coral reef. You can even lounge in your tub while taking in the ocean views. If you get bored in your little oasis, hop on over to one of the restaurants, spa, or gym for a break. Love the outdoors? Check out these amazing camping hacks.
Las Lagunas Boutique Hotel in Guatemala
Just because there’s no ocean, doesn’t mean you can’t have an overwater bungalow. At Las Lagunas Boutique Hotel they have villas perched over a beautiful lake surrounded by ancient Mayan ruins. Each bungalow offers total seclusion, but the Waterfront Master Suites make you feel as if you’re just floating in the jungle. Take in the views from your bed, private deck, or outdoor dining veranda.
Hotel Palafitte in Switzerland
Overwater villas aren’t confined to tropical locales. Hotel Palafitte created an architectural masterpiece when they unveiled their modern 26 over-lake bungalows built on stilts. You can still partake in water activities like boating and kayaking, but won’t see any coral reefs. Not to worry though because the delicious food, sunsets, and Swiss landscape views certainly make up for it. Plus: See some amazing camping gadgets available on Amazon.