The string of nine palm-thatched cabanas over clear Caribbean waters at Punta Caracol Acqua-Lodge immerse guests in a simple, natural environment. 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. Le Mridien Maldives Resort & Spa opened in September 2021 on Thilamaafushi Island. January 10, 2020. 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. Sign up for our monthly Overwater Bungalows newsletter. Ia Orana! If you're interested in a meal plan, there is one available that you can add on each day of your stay. 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. Sign up for Australia and New Zealand Travel Updates. Step inside our overwater bungalows to unimpeded views of the Caribbean seascape and horizon. 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. Moving right along, we get to a unique resort, Le Tahaa on the island of Tahaa in French Polynesia. Tags: Travel, Hotels and Resorts, Maldives, Mexico, Tropical Vacations, Beach Vacations. Its ideal for romantics who want a small resort because, with just 45 total rooms, each guest receives personalized service. Explore the top-rated styles for every type of trip to the beach. See and be seen at these stunning natural wonders. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. For the latter, places in Central America like Belize, Honduras, Guatemala, and Panama are all strong choices. Sheraton Aggie Greys Hotel & Bungalows. You'll need time. Romantic and adults-only, this all-inclusive resort is among the best in Fiji. All over the bungalows on this list are at a minimum three-star standard. Superior Water Villas are wooden bungalows that sit on top of reinforced stilts with a thatched roof. Every hotel offers overwater accommodations, plus access to beautiful beaches, activities, and scenery. 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 of Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi). Traditional Fijian decor with touches of nautical style and thatched roofing completes the look. World-famous for having top-notch luxury and lots and lots of overwater bungalows. Our Rating. After landing you can then either choose to rent your own vehicle and drive about 2 hours to the resort or you can use the resorts 24 hour shuttle service for a small fee. 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. 28, 2023, Holly Johnson and Ann HensonFeb. Ten of them are in the Mamanuca Islands, at a five-star luxury resort called LikuLiku Lagoon Resort. Pros: Because the resort is spread on two islands, it feels like you're staying on your own private one. If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. Bungalows are quite large at nearly 750 square feet, and decor is modern and tropical, done in creams and vibrant colors. Unlimited views over the sea, and total privacy - we never lowered the blinds during our stay. 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. Cons: Expect accommodations overall to be much pricier than those that might be found in other regions, like Central America. In my last blog post, I gave an introduction to what they are, how long to stay, what to do, and where to go. Are any Bora Bora Overwater Bungalows All Inclusive? 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. This is because these areas are home to crystal clear, shallow blue waters that are suited to such accommodations. Cons: You'll have to cross the International Date Line to get to Fiji plan for jet lag, and stay long enough to recover. This is Dianne, here again, to talk to you about everyones favorite topic the best overwater bungalows in the South Pacific Islands! Cons: Some overwater villas feel dated, especially in comparison to the more modern, updated beach villas. Since kids (up to a certain age) stay and eat free here, its very popular with returning family guests. Both are beautiful destinations to visit, and we can assist you with making the best choice for your needs. Cons: Still, this is the priciest property on our list. Prices start in the low $300s and include full board with no catch. The 3,330-square-foot infinity pool of the resort blends into views of the lagoon. Pros: Koro Sun has a spectacular location in Fiji with kayaks included in every room's personal dock, plus free water activities. 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. Overwater Bungalows Near The USA . 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. Her work has appeared in Town & Country, Esquire, Cosmopolitan, Good Housekeeping, Parents, E!. 22, 2023, It's hard to imagine any trip more romantic or exciting than vacationing in your own, Up to 60% Off + Exclusive 5% Guaranteed Priceline Coupon, Up to 50% Off Travel Plans with Top Expedia Promo Code, Discount Travel Plans with 50% Off on Hotels.com bookings, 50% Discount on Getaways with Barcel Resort & Hotels, Booking.com Promo Code Up to 50% Off + Extra 10% Off. If you buy them, we may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our partners. Those seeking an overwater vacation closer to home should consider the Palafitos Overwater Bungalows, which are part of the El Dorado Maroma all-inclusive resort in Playa del Carmen, Mexico. All rights reserved. . Just make sure you know what youre getting. Spacious one, two and three bedroom apartments are available with Queen sized beds in . Number of Overwater Bungalows: 12. 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. 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 . 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. 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. 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. Pros: This hotel enjoys total seclusion off the beaten path and is surrounded by raw, natural beauty. Explore the top-rated styles for every type of trip to the beach. Here you'll also find lots of great activities to join in on, both within the resort and nearby. Not only are their bungalows perched above the Caribbean Sea, but their chapel and bar are too. On-site amenities: Pool, fitness center, restaurant, spa, activities. Sign up for Insider Reviews' weekly newsletter for more buying advice and great deals. What's Unique: Sandals has introduced overwater bungalows at three of their caribbean resorts: South Coast in Whitehouse Jamaica . The adults-only enclave has 30 plafitos (stilt houses) on a secluded stretch of the Riviera Maya. 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. (Courtesy of Royalton Antigua, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort & Casino). Butler service is also included for a truly luxe stay. Nightly rates for overwater villa stays in early 2022 start at $3,900. Theyre a large resort with more than thirty overwater bungalows and 250 total rooms. You wont find resorts that small with such luxury in other South Pacific islands. In the 50 years since the Bali Hai Boys debuted their overwater bungalows in Bora Bora, these types of accommodations have sprouted up . The Cook Islands has an Adults Only beautiful, barefoot-luxury overwater bungalow resort on the island of Aitutaki called Aitutaki Lagoon Resort. On-site amenities: Spa, restaurant, pool, bar. With that said, the continental buffet breakfast is said to be lacking by a few, but most guests think that it is good enough. Bora Bora is also more expensive to visit than Fiji! It's what you picture when you dream of an overwater villa. Find the best travel insurance for you with these U.S. News ratings, which factor in expert and consumer recommendations. 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. St. George's Caye Resort - Belize is located on a private island in Belize with overwater bungalows and rooms overlooking the Caribbean Sea. These bungalows offer all the benefits of staying in an all-inclusive resort, plus extras like private transfers, butler service and a private infinity pool, hammock and outdoor living space. Creating the lagoon, keeping it safe, sandy, and shallow, are a ring of tiny coral islands called motus. Fortunately, not all overwater bungalows have an astronomical financial barrier to entry. 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. Want to know which overwater bungalows offer the worlds best experience sleeping in anyone of the huts over the ocean? For something a bit more off the beaten path, you could try Fiji, New Caledonia, Vanuatu, Samoa, or The Cook Islands. The overwater bungalows at Club Med Finolhu Villas feature plunge pools and soaking tubs. Coconuts Beach Club features Samoa's only, exclusive, Over-the-Water Fales. On-site amenities: Restaurant, pool, excursions and tours. We're including Sandals' adults-only South Coast Jamaica property even though its price point is an outlier for good reason. We really love this resort. 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. Azul Beach Resorts. Since its opening in 1973, Baros Maldives has become a popular resort for couples seeking romance and exclusivity. Guests can dine at the property's three eateries or indulge in a private meal for two on the resort's piano deck. The tides move a lot in Fiji, hence why their coral is so vibrant, so Fiji is not famous for its overwater bungalows. Make is a full week in Paradise and add 3 Nights at El Dorado Maroma from +$999 per person! This family-run resort caters to a wide variety of travelers, and rates start around $600 per night. 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. Coconuts Beach Club (Breakfast daily) $1,229 per couple. Sun loungers and comfy furniture beckon guests to relax and enjoy their tropical surroundings. It's expensive but justifiably so as everything needs to be grown or imported. Located in French Polynesia, Bora Bora is a small island in the South Pacific Ocean. 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. When you buy through our links, Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Cons: Tikehau is remote don't expect to get there in a fast jaunt from Tahiti's international airport. However, they could be ideal for adventurous families who want large resorts with lots to do in a remote less-touristed island location. The Maldives, Mexico and the Caribbean are a few popular regions where you can find hotels with overwater bungalows. 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. Email us at reviews@insider.com. Our other favorite overwater bungalows in the South Pacific are at the St. Regis Bora Bora. 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. The geography of Bora Bora makes it the best place in the South Pacific to build overwater bungalows. On-site amenities:Spa, activities, water sports, restaurant. The bungalows at the Holiday Inn Resort measure approximately 550 sq feet each, accommodate two adults and offer unrestricted access to the lagoon. Some of the world's most luxurious . We stayed 7 nights in a over-the water-fale and it was the best holiday ever. Overwater bungalows offer the ultimate in luxury, romance, and privacy, in most instances. Here, you can book an overwater bungalow for about $1,100 per person per night, but the all-inclusive pricing model offers significant value. These stunning islands rival the South Pacific in terms of reputation for coveted ultra-luxury accommodations and otherworldly scenery. The majority of these are located in the Maldives and the South Pacific, but they can also be found in Mexico, the Caribbean , the US and Kenya and . However, many countries are now accepting fully vaccinated American travelers or those who can show proof of a negative COVID test. 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. U.S. News rates the cheapest travel insurance options, considering expert and consumer recommendations. Nightly rates for winter 2022 start at $1,260 for double occupancy. Romance. 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. Pros: This hotel is surrounded by incredibly unspoiled natural beauty with no crowds in sight. The Over-the-Water Fales are situated as to maximize individual privacy. Pangkor Laut Resort is located on a privately owned island situated three miles off the West Coast of Malaysia along the Straits of Malacca. Please use the drop-down menu and select your departure point. The spectacular overwater bungalows at Sandals South Coast are simply incredible. (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. Staying in an overwater bungalow is the stuff of dreams. Palafitos Overwater Bungalows surround you with the sapphire serenity of the Caribbean. 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. (Courtesy of Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara). Consider breaking up your stay by booking a few nights in each. 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. Most of its overwater villas have their own private pools, and some feature multiple floors and outdoor whirlpools. Samoa Packages. 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. We may receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. Best Authentic Samoan Experience National Park of American Samoa's Home Stay Program Web site: www.nps.gov Some resorts are on the main central island around the extinct volcano, including several overwater bungalows. We rate Likuliku as one of our favourites too. Adaaran Club Rannalhi is located at the tip of the South Male atoll in the Maldives, with easy access to the capital city of Male. Both resorts have coral underneath the bungalows, making for more entertaining viewing than if they just had sand, but both tend to have fairly shallow waters that make it harder to jump right in. The bedroom and sitting area opens up onto the expansive decks, and can be closed off with large glass sliding doors for those guests wishing to use the air-conditioning. Bora Bora stands at the top of this list for an overwater bungalow vacation. Coconuts Beach Club is on the southern coast of the main island of Samoa in the South Pacific. Whether you're planning a romantic getaway, an anniversary celebration or a honeymoon, there are few options that stand out more than overwater bungalows. Learn more about coverage options for frequent travelers and those with multiple upcoming trips. Each has a large sun deck, expansive bedroom with a King bed, and a high traditional Samoan ceiling. Pros: This hotel offers excellent value with access to stunning Mayan ruins and a jungle feel that is unlikely to be found with other overwater villas. 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. Otemanu, a requirement for any top Bora Bora overwater bungalow. Having a sun deck out over the water helps, especially those with direct access to the water and a ladder for climbing back up. The South Pacific is the most popular place in the world to stay in an overwater bungalow. The typical temperature varies from 84.2 F to 87.8 F in the . Read on to find out! Over-the-water is a way of life in the Maldives, an Indian Ocean archipelago comprised of almost 1,200 sandy atolls. Apia, Upolu 1. 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. Learn more about this architectural marvel on a guided tour. 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. Wi-Fi is also weak. 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. We stayed for three nights in one of the Overwater Fales..Very beautiful and well catered for. The resort's overwater bungalows are known for offering spacious outdoor verandas, sun loungers and soaking tubs with 360-degree water views. There is plenty of coral underneath too, so you can watch the fish through the glass floor in your living room. . Located 30 minutes by plane from Tahiti and situated among the Society Islands in French Polynesia, the island paradise resort offers 40 accommodations, including 11 overwater bungalows. The double vanity is set next to the sunken tub, that features a waterfall shower. New Caledonia has twenty-five overwater bungalows at LEscapade Island Resort Noumea. These six cabanas are situated on a half-moon-shaped dock with prime sunset views. 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. There are 18 in all, each with about 570 square feet to spread out. Majestic humpback whales glide between the islands of Tonga, the only South Pacific area to escape colonization. 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. An overwater bungalow represents the pinnacle of luxury travel - and those most popular with travelers worldwide can cost thousands of dollars . Samoa; Best Time to Visit Hawaii. LikuLiku still gets a mention though, for being a top-notch property that offers the most authentic overwater bungalow experience in Fiji. Overwater accommodations sit on stilts above the tropical waters, each with an expansive balcony with loungers, a bathroom with an oversized tub, and a shower that opens to the sea. 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. Other resorts in Fiji with huts on the water include Laucala, which is even more luxurious than LikuLiku and has one overwater villa just offshore. Couples can lounge on plush furniture as they take in their tropical. All-ages. Bungalows have spa-style bathrooms, private patios with extended sun decks and outdoor showers, private outdoor soaking tubs, and over-water hammocks. 28, 2023, Holly Johnson and Ann HensonFeb. 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. 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. This is a moderately priced resort that offers excellent value to go along with the great weather and beautiful setting. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content. Read our full hotel review of Conrad Maldives Rangali Island. In fact, the property added eight more overwater bungalows in late 2019, some of which feature private infinity pools that float above the lagoon. Ladders plunge directly from a sundeck into the shallow waters below, and glass floor panels allow for views of the marine life below. The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands. There are two Tahiti resorts with overwater bungalows of solid four-star quality. Beds: One kingsize bed Find the best travel insurance for you with these U.S. News ratings, which factor in expert and consumer recommendations. 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. A luxurious adults only retreat, Likuliku means calm water and perfectly describes its Yasawa Islands location. Each bungalow features an expansive patio with a Tranquility Soaking Tub for two. Book your next cruise vacation on one of these floating megaresorts. Sa'Moana Beach Bungalows Show prices Enter dates to see prices 312 reviews Lake Crackenback Overwater Apartments. The first is best for those who want a more authentic Polynesian feel at a smaller resort with fewer than 100 rooms and 30 overwater bungalows, and also with a more affordable price: the Manava Beach Resort & Spa Moorea. The overwater villas are where it's at if you're hoping to up your vacation game to the high-class level. Otemanu, but you also get your own private plunge pool on the deck! For those looking for the classic overwater experience, the place with the most options is French Polynesia. Every morning we saw some turtels in front of our bungalow :). Guests will find an on-site spa with luxurious treatments, two impressive infinity pools, tropical gardens and endless water sports and activities. In the Caribbean, Sandals now offers overwater bungalows in Jamaica and St. Lucia for a worthy splurge. 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. You can purchase logo and accolade licensing to this story here. Private Island Paradise in the heart of French Polynesia Recently enhanced overwater bungalow suites, beachfront villa estates and underwater adventures welcome you at this sand-fringed idyll in the heart of French Polynesia. Pros: These regions are short distances from the mainland US, so you'll save both time and money on flights. The King Pool Overwater Villas . 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. 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. This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. Sign up for our monthly Overwater Bungalows newsletter. You can even dine in a private gazebo outside your bedroom with a view of the mountain in the distance. So yes, it does have a prized view towards Mt. These newly built overwater bungalows deliver an immersive journey of the Caribbean's finest turquoise waters. The resort features four restaurants, a fitness center, a hilltop spa with al fresco treatment areas, WiFi, and a Kids' Club. St. George's Caye Resort offers adults-only lodging that is located on a rustic but indulgent private island in Belize. While most overwater bungalows are located in far-flung island chains, there are some that are more easily accessible, including a few within all-inclusive resorts in Mexico and the Caribbean. ACCOMMODATION - InterContinental World's Best 8 Spacious Overwater Bungalows with Private Pool. The on-site resort spa, The Rosa Roseberg Spa, offers a variety of massages and treatments to choose from alongside 2 treatment rooms. Cons: Reviewers note occasional lapses in service, plus stronger ocean currents than expected have occurred. 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. Sign up for our newsletter to get honest reviews on top products & services delivered weekly to your inbox. Bora Bora is the most famous island of Tahiti. The ultimate bucket list item: staying 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. Located in Montego Bay, Jamaica, Sandals Royal Caribbean Resort offers overwater bungalow options in an all-inclusive, private-island setting. Lagen Island is serenely located between a lush forest and a crystalline, shallow lagoon. 7 Nights Link on TravelByJen.com or call for help 1-800-603-3178. In other words, you may always find an overwater bungalow Belize that suits your budget. Hawaii often has various quantities of precipitation and year-round warmth. On-site amenities: Spa, dive center, restaurant, bar, pool. Guests who choose this particular resort will have access to an on-site spa, water sports equipment like paddleboards and kayaks, three restaurants and two bars. Nightly rates for double occupancy, which include lodging, food, drinks and entertainment, start at $1,900 for dates in early 2022. The CDC said people who are vaccinated can travel safely, though their current recommendations are for travel within the US.
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