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. Even though the resort itself is small, the reviews thus far are very large with lots of praise spread throughout almost every single one. The overwater bungalow is a form of, mainly high end, tourist accommodation inspired by the traditional stilt houses of South Asia and the Pacific. Fortunately, not all overwater bungalows have an astronomical financial barrier to entry. On-site amenities: Spa, restaurant, pool, bar. The resort also features a spa and two restaurants. 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. (Tim McKenna/Intercontinental Moorea Resort & Spa). We stayed at the Overwater Fale. 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. Sun loungers and comfy furniture beckon guests to relax and enjoy their tropical surroundings. 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. Consider breaking up your stay by booking a few nights in each. In the 50 years since the Bali Hai Boys debuted their overwater bungalows in Bora Bora, these types of accommodations have sprouted up . Sandals Royal Caribbean Resort, Jamaica. 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. Bora Bora stands at the top of this list for an overwater bungalow vacation. You wont find resorts that small with such luxury in other South Pacific islands. It lies about 1,600 miles (2,600 km) northeast of New Zealand and 2,200 miles (3,500 km) southwest of the U.S. state of Hawaii. (Available from ALL cities and available land only) January 10, 2020. The Over-the-Water Fales are situated as to maximize individual privacy. Many of these resorts are located in remote areas and can book up quickly. In general, bungalows in the Caribbean and Central America are cheaper than you'll find in Asia and the South Pacific. Glass panels in the floor as well as the bathroom . 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. There's only one over-water bungalow on Laucala Island - but it's a giant, 2000 square metre two-bedroom villa on a split level that floats above a stunning pool lagoon. The overwater bungalows boast astounding views of the beach, lagoon and ocean, along with postcard-worthy sunsets. Nightly rates for overwater villas that accommodate two guests start at around $325 for stays booked in early 2022. "Overwater structures shade aquatic habitat and limit ambient light penetration, affecting macrophyte and phytoplankton primary production. Prices start in the low $300s and include full board with no catch. 9 Top Affordable Overwater Bungalows Around the World. 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. 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. A luxurious adults only retreat, Likuliku means calm water and perfectly describes its Yasawa Islands location. An avid traveler, she trots the globe with her husband and twins. 7 Nights Link on TravelByJen.com or call for help 1-800-603-3178. Water Cottages, as they are called here, are built on stilts connected by a boardwalk. Sa'Moana Beach Bungalows Show prices Enter dates to see prices 312 reviews On-site amenities:Spa, activities, water sports, restaurant. (, Travel Agents Specializing in New Zealand, Best Overwater Bungalows in the South Pacific Islands, CONTACT YOUR NEW ZEALAND AND AUSTRALIA TRAVEL AGENTS, Australia Trip Planners - New Zealand Trip Planners. Hide. The overwater bungalow was actually invented here. In fact, the property added eight more overwater bungalows in late 2019, some of which feature private infinity pools that float above the lagoon. So at low tide, most of the water under the Fiji bungalow disappears. Typical starting/peak prices: $1,100/$1,526, On-site amenities: 8 restaurants, 6 bars, 3 pools, spa, a wide variety of activities. Our Rating. 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. Service gets high marks, as do the facilities, keeping in mind this is more of a 3-star resort as opposed to one of the 5-star resorts in Bora Bora or the Maldives. While fewer, you'll also find some in the Caribbean and Mexico. However, the back of each bungalow sits on land, and only the front has stilts in the water. Nightly rates for double occupancy, which include lodging, food, drinks and entertainment, start at $1,900 for dates in early 2022. When booking a room, we suggest requesting rooms 6007-6004. Every hotel takes the health and safety of guests seriously, with COVID-19 protocols in place, which we've noted for each hotel. 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. 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. 5 nights accommodation - Breakfast daily. 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. Theyre a large resort with more than thirty overwater bungalows and 250 total rooms. Find the right agent for your trip. The Aga Reef Resort is located on the Southeast coast of Upolu Island in Samoa. In addition to a spa with the only "snow room" in the Maldives, this resort features a kids club, four restaurants and bars, and the opportunity to spend time kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, snorkeling, diving and more. It's what you picture when you dream of an overwater villa. Our other favorite overwater bungalows in the South Pacific are at the St. Regis Bora Bora. The Loyalty Islands have a wild beauty that will spark your imagination, while the . (Courtesy of Palafitos Overwater Bungalows at El Dorado Maroma). With an average cost of $300, you would . The Maldives, Mexico and the Caribbean are a few popular regions where you can find hotels with overwater bungalows. Samoa; Best Time to Visit Hawaii. 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. The spectacular overwater bungalows at Sandals South Coast are simply incredible. Wi-Fi is also weak. These lodgings are perched atop calm, shallow waters and crystalline lagoons that are striated into every imaginable hue of blue. Those who have stayed in the island villas state that they were able to wake up to a beautiful view each and every morning. Even by Tahitian standards, this resort's remote location might be as close as you ever get to living that Robinson Crusoe life. Nothing was too much for the staff, they went over and above what was expected, always friendly and super helpful. 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. The resort caters well to romantics and to children, being very popular with honeymooners as well as having a complimentary kids club and a unique on-site snorkeling lagoon to keep everyone entertained. On-site amenities: Pool, fitness center, restaurant, spa, kids center, activities and sports. There's much to discover beyond theme parks in this Southeastern state. 4. The overwater rooms however, offer guests unparalleled views of the lagoon, from both their bedroom and their bathroom via large floor to ceiling glass windows and sliding doors. 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. Although there are four resorts at least at a three-star level with water bungalows here, we have two favorites. Surrounded by the crystal blue waters of the Indian Ocean in the Maldives, One&Only Reethi Rah offers an array of room options over the water. Up the romance by booking a dinner cruise aboard the resort's dhoni, a traditional Maldivian fishing boat. 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. For winter 2022 reservations, nightly rates for overwater rooms at this Waldorf Astoria start at $2,694. LikuLiku still gets a mention though, for being a top-notch property that offers the most authentic overwater bungalow experience in Fiji. Otemanu, but you also get your own private plunge pool on the deck! For the latter, places in Central America like Belize, Honduras, Guatemala, and Panama are all strong choices. 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. Pros: Savor the opportunity to observe incredible wildlife in one of the world's most beautiful island locations. 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. 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. It also has the world's first underwater restaurant and underwater residence, plus tours to see whale sharks, and a unique coral regeneration program to help rebuild its damaged house reef. The geography of Bora Bora makes it the best place in the South Pacific to build overwater bungalows. Both are beautiful destinations to visit, and we can assist you with making the best choice for your needs. We got such a suprise when we entered the room It was stunning. The truly luxurious properties are where the most spectacular overwater bungalows can be found. Some have freshwater plunge pools in the deck, suspended over the water. Read our full hotel review of Conrad Maldives Rangali Island. This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. Both Canada and the USA are listed*. In my last blog post, I gave an introduction to what they are, how long to stay, what to do, and where to go. Ready to check out tropical paradise for yourself? Sign up for our monthly Overwater Bungalows newsletter. Rooms include a private sundeck overlooking the lagoon, perfect for unwinding. 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. These are the best affordable overwater bungalows, from rustic and eco-minded to over-the-top posh. Waterfront Villas 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. Las Lagunas is located in the heart of the Mayan world near the ancient ruins of Tikal, Uaxactn, and Yaxh in Guatemala. The South Pacific is the most popular place in the world to stay in an overwater bungalow. Guests who want to leave the privacy of their bungalow can enjoy the resort's beautiful white sand beachfront on Antigua's Deep Bay or dine at seven different restaurants serving international, Italian and American steakhouse cuisine. El Nido is situated in a cove of the mountainous Apulit Island in Taytay Bay in North-eastern Palawan. October 30, 2015. We stayed at Coconuts Beach Club in October for 4 nights and were lucky enough to stay in over the water Fale Lima which was the furtherest out Fale. Though a visit to overwater bungalows in Belize is considered the height of luxury travel as the cost can run into thousands of dollars, it is worthwhile to know that some resorts and villas are reasonably priced. Luxury. 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. We stayed 7 nights in a over-the water-fale and it was the best holiday ever. This family-run resort caters to a wide variety of travelers, and rates start around $600 per night. Some overwater villas also boast their own private pools. The ultimate bucket list item: staying in an overwater bungalow. This guide to the best overwater bungalows in the world highlights some excellent options for every kind of getaway and budget. Step inside our overwater bungalows to unimpeded views of the Caribbean seascape and horizon. The location itself is also a favorite and guests praise the views that come with each room. The property offers quite a few accommodation options, including estates and bungalows in the jungle or over the water. If you travel in off season, it might be as low as $100 to $200 a night. Cons: Reviewers note occasional lapses in service, plus stronger ocean currents than expected have occurred. Here, Edgewater Floating Bures are adults-only accommodations offering 380-square-foot rooms, each one floating within the resort's calm marina. Nightly rates for overwater villas that. On-site amenities: Pool, spa, water sports and activities. The tides move a lot in Fiji, hence why their coral is so vibrant, so Fiji is not famous for its overwater bungalows. For those who want the epitome of overwater bungalow experience, they should look no further than staying in a Tahitian bungalow. If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. Otemanu, a requirement for any top Bora Bora overwater bungalow. Even more exciting are the Coconuts VIP excursions that allow you to visit different locations on the island with a private car and driver. 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. 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 double vanity is set next to the sunken tub, that features a waterfall shower. Choose from 108 rooms and suites, including overwater villas with furnished sun decks and direct water access. We are ideally situated on Upolu's southern coast, boasting amazing sunrise and sunset views. If being all the way in the water is important to you, then ensure your bungalow wont have one side sitting on land. Cons: Still, this is the priciest property on our list. So yes, it does have a prized view towards Mt. 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. These stunning bungalows feature over 1,000 square feet of tranquil bliss. Nightly rates for double occupancy for overwater accommodations at this Le Mridien property start at $677 per night for early 2022 reservations. Guests who book this new property can choose from several overwater room options, including a Sunset Overwater Pool Villa with a private plunge pool, an overwater hammock and a huge soaking tub with water views. Mooreas overwater bungalows are most likely to have fish and coral directly underneath the bungalow and offer several three and four-star resort options. These pools have an infinity edge, so it looks as though the edge of the pool merges with the watery horizon. They also state that there are plenty of fish to see, which added to the wow factor. Nightly rates for double occupancy in early 2022 start at $2,250. Alesandra has a master's degree in journalism with an emphasis on cultural reporting and criticism from NYU, and a bachelor's degree from UC Berkeley. They are situated at the most northern point of Jamaica, and then some. The location on Samoa is ideal for water sports of all kinds, including surfing and scuba diving. This is because these areas are home to crystal clear, shallow blue waters that are suited to such accommodations. The Maldives are also exceptionally expensive for rooms atop the water. At a whopping 3500 square feet (321 square meters), theres plenty of space for two bedrooms and two bathrooms, separate private terraces for each bedroom, direct access into the lagoon, and the highlight the largest suspended pool over the Bora Bora lagoon at 20 feet by 16 feet (6 meters by 4 meters), and with an infinity edge. Apia, Upolu 1. 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. Those Wooden huts sitting on stilts are one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in French Polynesia and the whole of the South Pacific. 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. 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). Bora Bora is synonymous with the word Overwater Bungalows. The overwater villas are where it's at if you're hoping to up your vacation game to the high-class level. Escape to an unforgettable five-star luxury getaway on the water at The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort. The island comprises 300 acres, but the resort developed just a fraction of that leaving it feeling lush and natural. Find the best travel insurance for you with these U.S. News ratings, which factor in expert and consumer recommendations. The Cook Islands has an Adults Only beautiful, barefoot-luxury overwater bungalow resort on the island of Aitutaki called Aitutaki Lagoon Resort. Yet the. You can roll out of bed and watch the tropical fish beneath your feet. Make is a full week in Paradise and add 3 Nights at El Dorado Maroma from +$999 per person! Butler service is a given: here, they arrange welcome cocktails, dining reservations, and can even unpack your luggage and press your clothes. 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. 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. Some villas even feature their own private infinity pools with adjacent hammocks positioned over the water. All overwater bungalow hotels provide excellent service and picture-perfect amenities to ensure each property meets your lofty expectations. When you buy through our links, Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Attention to detail is said to be everywhere and greatly appreciated. Samoa tends to be more rustic and remote, and these bungalows are no exception. as well as other partner offers and accept our. We are return Coconuts of 2007. Its ideal for romantics who want a small resort because, with just 45 total rooms, each guest receives personalized service. This is Dianne, here again, to talk to you about everyones favorite topic the best overwater bungalows in the South Pacific Islands! Bora Bora Island - Conrad Bora Bora Nui. This authentic beachfront resort encourages guests to relax into island life and embrace an escape with no phones, TVs or high rises in sight. Travelers who want a convenient all-inclusive experience in an overwater bungalow should look into the Chairman Overwater Bungalows at the Royalton Antigua. Enjoy scenic views and relaxing atmospheres at these resorts. (Courtesy of Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi). More of a jumping-off point for other islands in French Polynesia, Tahitis overwater bungalows are smaller, closer to shore, and lack some of the other bells and whistles of those on other islands they are also generally more affordable overwater bungalows than in Bora Bora. 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. You'll need time. Overwater Bungalows. Contact us to get started planning your trip today! Ladders plunge directly from a sundeck into the shallow waters below, and glass floor panels allow for views of the marine life below. Overwater bungalows: 6 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. Talk about the ultimate in pampering! Price: Base Rate From: Baltimore, Houston, New Orleans, Orlando & Fort Lauderdale/Miami. They're pricier, but all-inclusive options add serious value. At over 1,500 square feet (147 square meters), these bungalows at the Four Seasons are more like villas. Guests have the services of their own Tau - Fijian for friend - who takes care of your every wish. Finally, we reach Bora Bora. Aga Reef Resort - Samoa. Learn more. The resort features four restaurants, a fitness center, a hilltop spa with al fresco treatment areas, WiFi, and a Kids' Club. Though these rooms are not the same as those you would find in the Maldives, they still offer great views of the ocean and island from your private deck. The Maldives, Mexico and the Caribbean are a few popular regions where you can find hotels with overwater bungalows. Thrill-seekers will love climbing and rappelling down the 60-meter limestone cliff or exploring the Japanese shipwrecks just of the coast. While Fiji only has a few properties with Overwater Bungalows like Likuliku Resort, it is unique due to tidal movement on reef lagoons. The Coco Beach Spa at Coconuts offers a full range of massage, therapy and beauty treatments, all performed by internationally trained personnel. 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. 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. Mexico's now got its own overwater bungalow resort, and it's out of this world. Nightly rates for overwater villas that accommodate. Go to the InterContinental Tahiti for closer airport access and slightly deeper water. Since its opening in 1973, Baros Maldives has become a popular resort for couples seeking romance and exclusivity. If you buy them, we may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our partners. Here is a list of the top 10 best and cheapest overwater bungalows in the world: 1. The overwater bungalow concept originated in Tahiti in the mid-'60s, when a group of American expats bought and rebuilt a decrepit Raiatea hotel and creatively repositioned its . Cons: The island is small, which might (or might not) feel sleepy to your pace. Head to Le Meridin Tahiti, with a dozen overwater bungalows and 150 total rooms, for a bit more seclusion and more space. Nightly rates for overwater rooms start at around $7,000 for double occupancy in May. These overwater bungalows are fully in the water and a bit more spacious than those in Vanuatu or Samoa, and in a quiet setting off a private island, could be fun for those who want pure relaxation without too much activity. On-site amenities: Restaurant, pool, excursions and tours. Discover these empowering women's history destinations selected by the U.S. News travel editors. Cons: Some overwater villas feel dated, especially in comparison to the more modern, updated beach villas. Room service: No. When they're not strolling the shore, guests can take advantage of unlimited fine dining and drinks at nine restaurants and seven bars. Its island of Tahiti has a few overwater bungalows, but Moorea, Tahaa, and Bora Bora are far better. Sign up for Australia and New Zealand Travel Updates. Vahine Island Private Island Resort South Pacific, Le Tikehau By Pearl Resorts South Pacific, Check for online specials at the Coconuts Beach Club Samoa, Glass bottom floor area to view the sea life, Low season online specials from US$239 per night, High season online specials from US$595 per night, Free use of kayaks, mountain bikes and snorkeling gear, Wedding facilities, planning, and packages. . Superior Water Villas are wooden bungalows that sit on top of reinforced stilts with a thatched roof. Sandals South Coast has a set of overwater bungalows lined up in a heart shape. The overwater bungalows were constructed using . Some even have little glass doors in the floor which you can open, drop a few bread crumbs, and watch the tropical reef fish scurry for their prize. The resort features five restaurants and vibrant tropical bars, and guests can also take part in theme nights that include traditional cuisine and dance. 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. Prices start in the low $300s and include full board with no catch. This is a moderately priced resort that offers excellent value to go along with the great weather and beautiful setting. Although it's just 10 minutes from the international airport, it feels isolated within the rainforest amid more than 300 acres of an untouched nature reserve. Explore the top-rated styles for every type of trip to the beach. 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. 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. Courtesy Club Med Finolhu Villas. Winner, Editors' Choice: Club Med Finolhu Villas, Maldives.