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. Bora Bora is also more expensive to visit than Fiji! When you buy through our links, Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Every hotel offers overwater accommodations, plus access to beautiful beaches, activities, and scenery. A short flight from Tahiti and with views of Bora Bora in the distance, Le Tahaa is the only resort on this remote island so it offers seclusion and plenty of peace and quiet. 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. There is also a wide variety of tours available so guests can easily experience the beauty and special places on the island. In other words, you may always find an overwater bungalow Belize that suits your budget. Explore the top-rated styles for every type of trip to the beach. The Maldives are also exceptionally expensive for rooms atop the water. Here you'll also find lots of great activities to join in on, both within the resort and nearby. Overwater bungalow reservations for 2022 start at around $2,500 per night for double occupancy. Many of these resorts are located in remote areas and can book up quickly. Palafitos Overwater Bungalows surround you with the sapphire serenity of the Caribbean. 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. Cons: Still, this is the priciest property on our list. Up the romance by booking a dinner cruise aboard the resort's dhoni, a traditional Maldivian fishing boat. Cons: These bungalows are clustered closer together (and therefore less private) than many of the more opulent luxury options available elsewhere. Learn more Book Now. 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. 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. Courtesy Club Med Finolhu Villas. Relaxation. #11 Best Value of 16 Beach Resorts in Samoa "This was our 6th stay at Coconuts Resort in the past 10 years - this time in a 1br beach fale." "My girlfriend and I intended to stay at Coconuts Beach Club for four nights." 12. 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. 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. Cons: The island is small, which might (or might not) feel sleepy to your pace. Each is a one-bedroom bungalow with a cascade shower bathroom, and a deck with a hot tub overlooking the dazzling water. Cons: Expect a very long journey to reach such a remote paradise. They're spacious, clean, and come with huge bathrooms with a shower, bathtub, and large window overlooking the balcony. No matter the room that was chosen, most guests feel that the resort does a great job of attending to their needs, even with very short notice. Read on to find out! All rights reserved. With that said, the continental buffet breakfast is said to be lacking by a few, but most guests think that it is good enough. 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. 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. Butler service is also included for a truly luxe stay. These six cabanas are situated on a half-moon-shaped dock with prime sunset views. Guests will find an on-site spa with luxurious treatments, two impressive infinity pools, tropical gardens and endless water sports and activities. Sandals' Over-The-Water Bungalows and Villas are among the Caribbean's most alluring accommodations and include sea-through glass floors where you can catch a glimpse of what's happening in the marine world, king-size beds for ultimate comfort, and spa inspired bathrooms. Step inside our overwater bungalows to unimpeded views of the Caribbean seascape and horizon. 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. Its ideal for romantics who want a small resort because, with just 45 total rooms, each guest receives personalized service. 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. Travelers who want a convenient all-inclusive experience in an overwater bungalow should look into the Chairman Overwater Bungalows at the Royalton Antigua. 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. Cons: Some overwater villas feel dated, especially in comparison to the more modern, updated beach villas. If adults-only peace and quiet are important, then ensure your resort doesnt allow kids and offers intimate, personalized service. Escape to an unforgettable five-star luxury getaway on the water at The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort. 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 features Samoa's only, exclusive, Over-the-Water Fales. 2.2 Soneva Fushi Two-Bedroom Water Retreat with Slide - Chapter 2. Theyre a large resort with more than thirty overwater bungalows and 250 total rooms. The balcony includes a hot tub and stairs leading right into the Indian Ocean. Tikehau Pearl Beach Resort is the only boutique hotel in Tuamotu Archipelago, located on one of its most beautiful atolls. These stunning islands rival the South Pacific in terms of reputation for coveted ultra-luxury accommodations and otherworldly scenery. While fewer, you'll also find some in the Caribbean and Mexico. However, they could be ideal for adventurous families who want large resorts with lots to do in a remote less-touristed island location. Apia, Upolu 1. Follow these steps (and allow plenty of time) to get your child a passport. This family-run resort caters to a wide variety of travelers, and rates start around $600 per night. The territory, which is part of Polynesia, includes the six . Holly Johnson and Erin EvansMarch 1, 2023, Holly Johnson and Erin EvansFeb. In order to reach American Samoa Islands, you have to go all the way to Honolulu in Hawaii. Are any Bora Bora Overwater Bungalows All Inclusive? Want to know which overwater bungalows offer the worlds best experience sleeping in anyone of the huts over the ocean? (Courtesy of InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa). Youll find the best overwater bungalows in this island nation. This is because these areas are home to crystal clear, shallow blue waters that are suited to such accommodations. 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. Its island of Tahiti has a few overwater bungalows, but Moorea, Tahaa, and Bora Bora are far better. Glass panels in the floor as well as the bathroom . Discover these empowering women's history destinations selected by the U.S. News travel editors. Nightly rates for double occupancy for overwater accommodations at this Le Mridien property start at $677 per night for early 2022 reservations. 28, 2023, Holly Johnson and Ann HensonFeb. St. George's Caye Resort offers adults-only lodging that is located on a rustic but indulgent private island in Belize. The overwater bungalows boast astounding views of the beach, lagoon and ocean, along with postcard-worthy sunsets. On-site amenities: Restaurant, pool, excursions and tours. 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 offer the ultimate in luxury, romance, and privacy, in most instances. These stunning bungalows feature over 1,000 square feet of tranquil bliss. Like at other resorts, the overwater bungalows differ only in view. The resort features four restaurants, a fitness center, a hilltop spa with al fresco treatment areas, WiFi, and a Kids' Club. In fact, the property added eight more overwater bungalows in late 2019, some of which feature private infinity pools that float above the lagoon. Overwater villa options include the two-bedroom Ocean Pool House, which features a spacious outdoor deck and a sunken outdoor hot tub that juts out over the water. 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. For those who want the epitome of overwater bungalow experience, they should look no further than staying in a Tahitian bungalow. 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. They look out straight to the ocean. So yes, it does have a prized view towards Mt. Learn more about this architectural marvel on a guided tour. Pros: You'll enjoy the classic overwater bungalow experience at this Maldivian stunner for far less than many other counterparts cost. Enjoy scenic views and relaxing atmospheres at these resorts. These are the best overwater bungalows, sorted by location and price. Open-air bathrooms have sunken tubs and waterfall showers. At a whopping 3500 square feet (321 square meters), there's plenty of space for two bedrooms and two bathrooms, separate private terraces for each bedroom, direct . (Courtesy of Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara). Pros: This hotel is surrounded by incredibly unspoiled natural beauty with no crowds in sight. 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. The South Pacific is the most popular place in the world to stay in an overwater bungalow. Reviews for 10 Travel Experts on American Samoa Overwater Bungalows . Inside, glass floor panels reveal sea life in lit-up waters. Otemanu, a requirement for any top Bora Bora overwater bungalow. Cons: While some options represent the highest-end overwater experience, others in this region might be more rustic and less luxurious. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content. 9 Top Affordable Overwater Bungalows Around the World. Bora Bora is synonymous with the word Overwater Bungalows. This guide to the best overwater bungalows in the world highlights some excellent options for every kind of getaway and budget. The views from these bungalows are excellent, gazing over the impossibly turquoise and sandy-bottomed Aitutaki Lagoon. With an average cost of $300, you would . Best view, big and beautifule bungalows. Hide. Sandals South Coast has a set of overwater bungalows lined up in a heart shape. Coconuts offers Samoan-inspired accommodation, including Samoa's only Over-the-Water Fales. Thrill-seekers will love climbing and rappelling down the 60-meter limestone cliff or exploring the Japanese shipwrecks just of the coast. 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. Located in French Polynesia, Bora Bora is a small island in the South Pacific Ocean. Sign up for Australia and New Zealand Travel Updates. They also state that there are plenty of fish to see, which added to the wow factor. 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. Most Water Villas have outdoor showers for you to rinse yourself off with after a swim. The adults-only enclave has 30 plafitos (stilt houses) on a secluded stretch of the Riviera Maya. Ocean View Hotel Rooms. Best Authentic Samoan Experience National Park of American Samoa's Home Stay Program Web site: www.nps.gov Las Lagunas is located in the heart of the Mayan world near the ancient ruins of Tikal, Uaxactn, and Yaxh in Guatemala. Nightly rates for double occupancy in early 2022 start at $2,250. The service . The location itself is also a favorite and guests praise the views that come with each room. 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. You can roll out of bed and watch the tropical fish beneath your feet. Cons: This hotel lacks the extravagances of its South Pacific or Maldivian counterparts if that's what you're looking for. Each bungalow features an expansive patio with a Tranquility Soaking Tub for two. The South Pacific region is probably what most people conjure up when dreaming of an overwater bungalow landscape: crystalline waters surrounding islands ringed by lagoons, Polynesian decor and cultural inspiration, all overlaying that jaw-dropping landscape. Private decks can be closed off with sliding glass doors for privacy and the use of AC. Vanuatu has two adjacent resorts with overwater bungalows. Each has a large sun deck, expansive bedroom with a King bed, and a high traditional Samoan ceiling. Mexico's now got its own overwater bungalow resort, and it's out of this world. 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. On-site amenities: Pool, fitness center, restaurant, spa, kids center, activities and sports. Since its opening in 1973, Baros Maldives has become a popular resort for couples seeking romance and exclusivity. Fa'afetai lava. 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. The Aga Reef Resort is located on the Southeast coast of Upolu Island in Samoa. The island of Tahiti isnt the best for overwater bungalows, despite its fame. If you're going to stay in an overwater bungalow, there is no other place to consider other than French Polynesia. The island comprises 300 acres, but the resort developed just a fraction of that leaving it feeling lush and natural. 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. The CDC said people who are vaccinated can travel safely, though their current recommendations are for travel within the US. There are two Tahiti resorts with overwater bungalows of solid four-star quality. On-site amenities: Spa, dive center, restaurant, bar, pool. 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. Pros: These regions are short distances from the mainland US, so you'll save both time and money on flights. For those looking for the classic overwater experience, the place with the most options is French Polynesia. Hawaii often has various quantities of precipitation and year-round warmth. 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. 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. Lagen Island is serenely located between a lush forest and a crystalline, shallow lagoon. . Reaching Coconuts Beach Club is easy. There are a set of 12 Waterfront Master Suites, connected by high-rise paths. 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. These newly built overwater bungalows deliver an immersive journey of the Caribbean's finest turquoise waters. Talk about the ultimate in pampering! The resort's overwater bungalows are known for offering spacious outdoor verandas, sun loungers and soaking tubs with 360-degree water views. These are places that not only would I feel comfortable staying in them myself, I would also send my clients to them. For cheaper alternatives, look to other Asian regions with overwater bungalows that include Malaysia, the Philippines, and more. These are the best affordable overwater bungalows, from rustic and eco-minded to over-the-top posh. You wont find resorts that small with such luxury in other South Pacific islands. 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. It's expensive but justifiably so as everything needs to be grown or imported. The tides move a lot in Fiji, hence why their coral is so vibrant, so Fiji is not famous for its overwater bungalows. 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. Her work has appeared in Town & Country, Esquire, Cosmopolitan, Good Housekeeping, Parents, E!. We may receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test.