5 nights accommodation - Breakfast daily. The resort's overwater bungalows are known for offering spacious outdoor verandas, sun loungers and soaking tubs with 360-degree water views. 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. El Nido is situated in a cove of the mountainous Apulit Island in Taytay Bay in North-eastern Palawan. This is a moderately priced resort that offers excellent value to go along with the great weather and beautiful setting. Creating the lagoon, keeping it safe, sandy, and shallow, are a ring of tiny coral islands called motus. 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. For winter 2022 reservations, nightly rates for overwater rooms at this Waldorf Astoria start at $2,694. The truly luxurious properties are where the most spectacular overwater bungalows can be found. Rooms include a private sundeck overlooking the lagoon, perfect for unwinding. The resort features four restaurants, a fitness center, a hilltop spa with al fresco treatment areas, WiFi, and a Kids' Club. Fortunately, not all overwater bungalows have an astronomical financial barrier to entry. 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. Coconuts Beach Club features Samoa's only, exclusive, Over-the-Water Fales. The free use of the resorts snorkeling equipment is also a big hit with guests. Azul Paradise is situated on the southern coast of Bastimentos Island and has a tiki bar, beachfront grill, clubhouse, bar, and restaurant. 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. 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. Youll find the best overwater bungalows in this island nation. 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. We were fortunate to get upgraded to the Over Water Fales. It's estimated that worldwide there are something in the region of 8000 overwater bungalows - or overwater villas as they're sometimes called - concentrated in approximately 200 resorts. Fiji has about fifteen overwater bungalows. The typical temperature varies from 84.2 F to 87.8 F in the . The best of the best there is the two-bedroom Overwater Royal Otemanu Villas with Pool. Winner, Editors' Choice: Club Med Finolhu Villas, Maldives. Open-air bathrooms have sunken tubs and waterfall showers. An overwater bungalow represents the pinnacle of luxury travel - and those most popular with travelers worldwide can cost thousands of dollars . Pros: The price offers excellent value for an intimate, indulgent room with a more under-the-radar location than Tahiti or Fiji. U.S. News rates the cheapest travel insurance options, considering expert and consumer recommendations. 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. Best Authentic Samoan Experience National Park of American Samoa's Home Stay Program Web site: www.nps.gov 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. Overwater bungalows: 6 There are no phones or TVs, just total peace. Just make sure you know what youre getting. The overwater bungalow was actually invented here. Certified specialists from America's #1 agent network. This is a huge plus. Pros: This hotel enjoys total seclusion off the beaten path and is surrounded by raw, natural beauty. Staying in an overwater bungalow is the stuff of dreams. Overwater bungalows in the Tahiti Islands of French Polynesia Nestled in the iconic turquoise South Pacific, 118 islands many still uninhabited make up a unique paradise that draws scores of honeymooners, celebrities, and bucket list adventurers each year. These six Fales are unique in design and fully embrace the seamless indoor/outdoor living experience that is so popular throughout Samoa. These lodgings are perched atop calm, shallow waters and crystalline lagoons that are striated into every imaginable hue of blue. 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 All-inclusive. Pros: This hotel is surrounded by incredibly unspoiled natural beauty with no crowds in sight. Sign up for Insider Reviews' weekly newsletter for more buying advice and great deals. The property boasts several overwater accommodation options, including overwater bungalows with up to three bedrooms. The spectacular overwater bungalows at Sandals South Coast are simply incredible. The geography of Bora Bora makes it the best place in the South Pacific to build overwater bungalows. 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. 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. On-site amenities: Restaurant, water activities, all-inclusive packages. This authentic beachfront resort encourages guests to relax into island life and embrace an escape with no phones, TVs or high rises in sight. They're pricier, but all-inclusive options add serious value. Pros: These regions are short distances from the mainland US, so you'll save both time and money on flights. Every hotel offers overwater accommodations, plus access to beautiful beaches, activities, and scenery. Bora Bora stands at the top of this list for an overwater bungalow vacation. Even more exciting are the Coconuts VIP excursions that allow you to visit different locations on the island with a private car and driver. Book your next cruise vacation on one of these floating megaresorts. 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. 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. Our Rating. Each bungalow features an expansive patio with a Tranquility Soaking Tub for two. Contact us to get started planning your trip today! The King Pool Overwater Villas . 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. Learn more about this architectural marvel on a guided tour. The Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi is an excellent choice if you want a luxury experience in the Maldives as a romantic couple or a family. A high concentration of overwater bungalows are found in Asia, most famously, in the Maldives. These architecturally-designed Over-the-Water Fales are unlike any accommodation anywhere in the world. 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. The overwater bungalows are a dream, with soaking tubs and indulgent comforts opening up to serene waters. (Tim McKenna/Intercontinental Moorea Resort & Spa). 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. The double vanity is set next to the sunken tub, that features a waterfall shower. On that note, I especially love bungalows in deep water, because theres nothing like being able to jump in right from your private deck! Since its opening in 1973, Baros Maldives has become a popular resort for couples seeking romance and exclusivity. Cons: Tikehau is remote don't expect to get there in a fast jaunt from Tahiti's international airport. Located in French Polynesia, Bora Bora is a small island in the South Pacific Ocean. Accommodations Offers Gallery Resort Map Web Check-In Karisma Groups 2023, Karisma Hotels & Resorts. Go to the InterContinental Tahiti for closer airport access and slightly deeper water. Prices start in the low $300s and include full board with no catch. These six cabanas are situated on a half-moon-shaped dock with prime sunset views. However, on average, many prices seem close to $400 or $500. as well as other partner offers and accept our. Both offer such unique experiences, but there are some differences. VIP Villa Some resorts are on the main central island around the extinct volcano, including several overwater bungalows. When it comes to booking the best overwater bungalows resorts, travelers should consider both the price and availability. We really love this resort. Otemanu, a requirement for any top Bora Bora overwater bungalow. The Maldives, Mexico and the Caribbean are a few popular regions where you can find hotels with overwater bungalows. The resort's overwater bungalows are known for offering spacious outdoor verandas, sun loungers and soaking tubs with 360-degree water views. Sign up for our monthly Overwater Bungalows newsletter. 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. Romantic and adults-only, this all-inclusive resort is among the best in Fiji. In order to reach American Samoa Islands, you have to go all the way to Honolulu in Hawaii. See and be seen at these stunning natural wonders. The overwater bungalow rates start around $500 per night, with premium overwaters starting at $750 . Majestic humpback whales glide between the islands of Tonga, the only South Pacific area to escape colonization. Okay, heres where things get really good. A luxurious adults only retreat, Likuliku means calm water and perfectly describes its Yasawa Islands location. If adults-only peace and quiet are important, then ensure your resort doesnt allow kids and offers intimate, personalized service. Are any Bora Bora Overwater Bungalows All Inclusive? 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. Also, Fiji is far you'll have to cross the international dateline to get there if arriving from the US. In the Caribbean, Sandals now offers overwater bungalows in Jamaica and St. Lucia for a worthy splurge. Cheaper rooms that are not overwater exist, but if you have your heart set on one, nightly rates dip reasonably low in off and shoulder seasons. There's much to discover beyond theme parks in this Southeastern state. Ready to check out tropical paradise for yourself? Overwater bungalows offer the ultimate in luxury, romance, and privacy, in most instances. Wi-Fi is also weak. 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. 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. All over the bungalows on this list are at a minimum three-star standard. 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. Sheraton Aggie Greys Hotel & Bungalows. Find the right agent for your trip. Here, there are no other resorts, so you're isolated among secluded bays, impeccable beaches, and magical sunsets. Tags: Travel, Hotels and Resorts, Maldives, Mexico, Tropical Vacations, Beach Vacations. The Loyalty Islands have a wild beauty that will spark your imagination, while the . 1.8 OZEN Reserve Bolifushi Ocean Pool Suite with Slide. The tides move a lot in Fiji, hence why their coral is so vibrant, so Fiji is not famous for its overwater bungalows. We are ideally situated on Upolu's southern coast, boasting amazing sunrise and sunset views. Email us at reviews@insider.com. Here, Edgewater Floating Bures are adults-only accommodations offering 380-square-foot rooms, each one floating within the resort's calm marina. Even by Tahitian standards, this resort's remote location might be as close as you ever get to living that Robinson Crusoe life. Some have freshwater plunge pools in the deck, suspended over the water. When they're not strolling the shore, guests can take advantage of unlimited fine dining and drinks at nine restaurants and seven bars. Fa'afetai lava. 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. 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. There are a set of 12 Waterfront Master Suites, connected by high-rise paths. Grab a drink and lay back in a hammock over the water to catch Jamaica's famous sunsets. Cons: Some overwater villas feel dated, especially in comparison to the more modern, updated beach villas. On-site amenities: Spa, dive center, restaurant, bar, pool. 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. The location on Samoa is ideal for water sports of all kinds, including surfing and scuba diving. If you're going to stay in an overwater bungalow, there is no other place to consider other than French Polynesia. 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. For more on hotel safety during COVID, read our reporting on what experts say you need to know. Its ideal for romantics who want a small resort because, with just 45 total rooms, each guest receives personalized service. On-site amenities: Pool, fitness center, restaurant, spa, kids center, activities and sports. 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. Romance. You'll get a private porch with a hammock and thatched roof overlooking the Caribbean Sea on the west side of the island. They were so impressive I honestly cried. Reviews for 10 Travel Experts on American Samoa Overwater Bungalows . You might also consider using IHG points to make your stay at this resort even cheaper. Palafitos Overwater Bungalows surround you with the sapphire serenity of the Caribbean. 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. The balcony includes a hot tub and stairs leading right into the Indian Ocean. Ocean View Hotel Rooms. 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! There's much to discover beyond theme parks in this Southeastern state. All-ages. This top-notch resort is located on the main island of Tahiti in French Polynesia, yet it feels a world away. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. Cons: These bungalows are clustered closer together (and therefore less private) than many of the more opulent luxury options available elsewhere. 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. Glass panels in the floor as well as the bathroom . 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. Coconuts offers Samoan-inspired accommodation, including Samoa's only Over-the-Water Fales. Sign up for our newsletter to get honest reviews on top products & services delivered weekly to your inbox. 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. If being all the way in the water is important to you, then ensure your bungalow wont have one side sitting on land. These six Fales are unique in design and fully embrace the seamless indoor/outdoor living experience that is so popular throughout Samoa. Bora Bora is also more expensive to visit than Fiji! Want to know which overwater bungalows offer the worlds best experience sleeping in anyone of the huts over the ocean? The 34 large and private Water Bungalows all include direct access to the ocean waters from private sun decks with wooden ladders. Number of Overwater Bungalows: 12. 28, 2023, Holly Johnson and Ann HensonFeb. 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. Whatever it is you want, make sure you ask for it and do your own research about any South Pacific Resorts overwater you plan to vacation in. Samoa tends to be more rustic and remote, and these bungalows are no exception. Our other favorite overwater bungalows in the South Pacific are at the St. Regis Bora Bora. Another is Koro Sun, which is in a more affordable price range and floats its water bures on pontoons just off a rocky coastline. These pools have an infinity edge, so it looks as though the edge of the pool merges with the watery horizon. On-site amenities: Pool, fitness center, restaurant, spa, activities. There is a totally secluded feel but it's actually just seven miles from Belize City, so it's still easy and affordable to access. 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. Glass floor panels and lit water ensure you can enjoy undersea views at any time. This extravagant overwater villa resort is part of the exclusive Karisma Resorts' El Dorado Maroma Spa Resort and offers amenities that a vacationer could only dream of, such as full-body massages on the deck and delicious full-course meals delivered right to your villa by a butler. Bluetooth speakers; a massive, airy bathroom; and private terrace make it easy to unwind. The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands. Megan Johnson and Sharael KolbergMarch 3, 2023, Holly Johnson and Erin EvansMarch 1, 2023, Holly Johnson and Erin EvansFeb. As such, it's a sanctuary for a diverse variety of birds and other animals. 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. Talk about the ultimate in pampering! 2.2 Soneva Fushi Two-Bedroom Water Retreat with Slide - Chapter 2. Rates for OWBs start at around $250-$300 a night, although regular room rates can be booked for less. The Over-the-Water Fales are situated as to maximize individual privacy. Nothing was too much for the staff, they went over and above what was expected, always friendly and super helpful. Some of the world's most luxurious . 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 overwater villas also boast their own private pools. 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. The overwater bungalows were constructed using . Overwater bungalow reservations for 2022 start at around $2,500 per night for double occupancy. The overwater bungalow is a form of, mainly high end, tourist accommodation inspired by the traditional stilt houses of South Asia and the Pacific. 22, 2023, 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. 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. 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. They also offer a full-service spa, poolside restaurants, a golf course, as well as amazing bars. Please use the drop-down menu and select your departure point. 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. 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. Nightly rates for double occupancy in early 2022 start at $2,250. There are 18 in all, each with about 570 square feet to spread out. (Courtesy of InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa). We may receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. Sa'Moana Beach Bungalows Show prices Enter dates to see prices 312 reviews Bora Bora Island is surrounded by islets and also boasts of a lagoon with turquoise waters that are protected by coral reefs. Of course, to make it to the top of our list, it also has to have great views. 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. Apia, Upolu 1. 2 Maldives Luxury Villas with Slide - Maldives Overwater Bungalow with Slide ( 2 Bedroom Overwater Bungalow with Slide) 2.1 Siyam World Maldives Two Bedroom Lagoon Pool Villa with Slide. Hide. You can even dine in a private gazebo outside your bedroom with a view of the mountain in the distance. Discover these empowering women's history destinations selected by the U.S. News travel editors. The Maldives are also exceptionally expensive for rooms atop the water. 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 overwater bungalows feel like bargains compared to similar accommodations in other parts of the world. Best view, big and beautifule bungalows. The Cook Islands has an Adults Only beautiful, barefoot-luxury overwater bungalow resort on the island of Aitutaki called Aitutaki Lagoon Resort. . The intimate resort offers only overwater fales with six indoor-outdoor accommodations boasting spectacular views of the beaches, lagoon, and ocean. If you crave convenience, it's also worth noting that this property offers half board and all-inclusive booking options. If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. Every morning we saw some turtels in front of our bungalow :). Water depth is about . However, travelers can expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $1000 per night for these accommodations. The Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts, The Best All-Inclusive Resorts in the Caribbean. However, they could be ideal for adventurous families who want large resorts with lots to do in a remote less-touristed island location. this overwater bungalow includes glass bottom floors, direct ladder access to the ocean, private infinity pool, spacious terrace with wooden lounge chairs, our signature Private outdoor showers, and other top-of-the line amenities like Jacuzzi tub in room! 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. 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 St. Regis does allow children, but given its focus on romance and privacy, we think its best for couples and tend to recommend the Four Seasons more for families. 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. So at low tide, most of the water under the Fiji bungalow disappears. Gently lapping waves both beckon you for a swim and lull you to sleep every evening. Our other favorite overwater bungalows in the South Pacific are at the St. Regis Bora Bora. Relaxation. Cons: Still, this is the priciest property on our list. 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. At over 1,500 square feet (147 square meters), these bungalows at the Four Seasons are more like villas. Cheaper options exist, and while less common, they're still in desirable areas like the South Pacific, Asia, and the Caribbean. So yes, it does have a prized view towards Mt. 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 . For something a bit more off the beaten path, you could try Fiji, New Caledonia, Vanuatu, Samoa, or The Cook Islands. 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. This is because these areas are home to crystal clear, shallow blue waters that are suited to such accommodations. Reaching Coconuts Beach Club is easy. . Reviews for Coconuts Beach Club tend to be rather positive, with the majority of recent guests saying theyd love to come back for another visit in the future.