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. You might have heard this country called Tahiti, or the Society Islands although Tahiti is just one of many islands that also include Bora Bora, Moorea, Tahaa, Tetiaroa, and Huahine, to name a few. Samoa's only Overwater Fales Luxury and Romance Defined. 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. Overwater Bungalows Near The USA . Samoa | Overwater Bungalows There are several factors that I kept in mind when considering my favorite overwater bungalows. Travel Agents For American Samoa Overwater Bungalows 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. 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. These pools have an infinity edge, so it looks as though the edge of the pool merges with the watery horizon. 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. South Pacific destinations known for dreamy overwater bungalows include the likes of Tahiti, Fiji, Samoa, and other far-flung islands. The geography of Bora Bora makes it the best place in the South Pacific to build overwater bungalows. You'll get a private porch with a hammock and thatched roof overlooking the Caribbean Sea on the west side of the island. Here, Edgewater Floating Bures are adults-only accommodations offering 380-square-foot rooms, each one floating within the resort's calm marina. 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. Sign up for Australia and New Zealand Travel Updates. The large and airy bedroom features a king size bed and boasts a soaring, traditional Samoan ceiling. Overwater Bungalows. Find the right agent for your trip. El Nido Resort Apulit Island. 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. Best Overwater Bungalows, Huts, Villas & Hotels in 2023 - Tripbirdie Go to the InterContinental Tahiti for closer airport access and slightly deeper water. Bora Bora is synonymous with the word Overwater Bungalows. Follow these steps (and allow plenty of time) to get your child a passport. 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. Vahine Island Private Island Resort South Pacific, Le Tikehau By Pearl Resorts South Pacific, Check online specials for the Aga Reef Resort, Entertainment system: 32 Flatscreen TV with 20 channels, Low season online specials from US$293 per night, High season online specials from US$294 per night. You might also consider using IHG points to make your stay at this resort even cheaper. Pros: The Maldives is simply a must-hit bucket-list destination for many travelers, offering some of the most high-end accommodations. Here you'll also find lots of great activities to join in on, both within the resort and nearby. The overwater bungalows feel like bargains compared to similar accommodations in other parts of the world. 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. These six cabanas are situated on a half-moon-shaped dock with prime sunset views. 12 Best Overwater Bungalows You Can Actually Afford - Club Thrifty Pros: Savor the opportunity to observe incredible wildlife in one of the world's most beautiful island locations. This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. For winter 2022 reservations, nightly rates for overwater rooms at this Waldorf Astoria start at $2,694. 6 things to consider before booking your first overwater bungalow This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content. Consider breaking up your stay by booking a few nights in each. The string of nine palm-thatched cabanas over clear Caribbean waters at Punta Caracol Acqua-Lodge immerse guests in a simple, natural environment. 9 Top Affordable Overwater Bungalows Around the World They look out straight to the ocean. Room service: No. 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. 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. 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. (Available from ALL cities and available land only) Maldives Overwater Bungalows with Slide - Maldives Water Villas Explore the top-rated styles for every type of trip to the beach. Award-Winning Samoa Overwater Bungalows, Maninoa, Samoa - Luxury Escapes Bungalow - Wikipedia Nothing was too much for the staff, they went over and above what was expected, always friendly and super helpful. 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. 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. Cons: Critical reviews note the food lacks variety and a remote location means other options are limited. 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. All-inclusive. For cheaper alternatives, look to other Asian regions with overwater bungalows that include Malaysia, the Philippines, and more. A luxurious adults only retreat, Likuliku means calm water and perfectly describes its Yasawa Islands location. Access your favorite topics in a personalized feed while you're on the go. Both offer such unique experiences, but there are some differences. Moving right along, we get to a unique resort, Le Tahaa on the island of Tahaa in French Polynesia. Some overwater villas also boast their own private pools. We are return Coconuts of 2007. There is also a wide variety of tours available so guests can easily experience the beauty and special places on the island. Sandals South Coast is an adults-only, all-inclusive hideaway in Jamaica designed with couples in mind. 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 overwater bungalows at Club Med Finolhu Villas feature plunge pools and soaking tubs. Every morning we saw some turtels in front of our bungalow :). 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. Its more luxurious than what you usually find on Moorea, at close to a five-star level, and we love it for feeling authentically Polynesian and being a boutique size with only about sixty rooms. On-site amenities:Spa, activities, water sports, restaurant. Learn more about this architectural marvel on a guided tour. We rate Likuliku as one of our favourites too. Each bungalow has a view of the ocean below, with a glass panel built into the floor. Apia, Upolu 1. Sheraton Aggie Greys Hotel & Bungalows. Wi-Fi: No Fortunately, the seafloor dips away rather steeply right here, so you still get some deep water for exploring right off the deck. Guests staying in one of the 30 overwater bungalows have their own restaurant to dine in; no other guests of El Dorado Maroma's villas or suites can eat there. 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. Bungalows have spa-style bathrooms, private patios with extended sun decks and outdoor showers, private outdoor soaking tubs, and over-water hammocks. Perks include garden, beachside and even overwater bungalows as well as complimentary snorkeling gear and an affordable meal plan. Another is Koro Sun, which is in a more affordable price range and floats its water bures on pontoons just off a rocky coastline. Discover these empowering women's history destinations selected by the U.S. News travel editors. The Maldives, Mexico and the Caribbean are a few popular regions where you can find hotels with overwater bungalows. The property has a spa, impeccable scuba options, and an overwater room category billed as Fiji's only floating accommodation. El Nido is situated in a cove of the mountainous Apulit Island in Taytay Bay in North-eastern Palawan. You can even go spelunking! 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. There is simply nothing more romantic than a stay in an Overwater Bungalow in the tropical South Pacific. For the latter, places in Central America like Belize, Honduras, Guatemala, and Panama are all strong choices. Nightly rates for winter 2022 start at $1,260 for double occupancy. Private. Guests have the services of their own Tau - Fijian for friend - who takes care of your every wish. Price: Base Rate From: Baltimore, Houston, New Orleans, Orlando & Fort Lauderdale/Miami. Want to know which overwater bungalows offer the worlds best experience sleeping in anyone of the huts over the ocean? Glass panels in the floor as well as the bathroom . The closest island to Tahiti is Moorea, and this is where overwater bungalows really start to get good. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. See and be seen at these stunning natural wonders. The overwater villas are where it's at if you're hoping to up your vacation game to the high-class level. 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. 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. 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. Each has a large sun deck, expansive bedroom with a King bed, and a high traditional Samoan ceiling. While fewer, you'll also find some in the Caribbean and Mexico. However, travelers can expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $1000 per night for these accommodations. There's no better place to embrace Samoan history than at the waterfront Sheraton Aggie Greys Hotel & Bungalows.This harbourside hotel is located just steps from Apia's city centre and within walking distance of the Samoa Cultural Village and the Palolo Deep Marine Reserve where you can snorkel to observe sea turtles and beautiful . Pros: The price offers excellent value for an intimate, indulgent room with a more under-the-radar location than Tahiti or Fiji. Here you'll also find lots of great activities to join in on, both within the resort and nearby. This is a moderately priced resort that offers excellent value to go along with the great weather and beautiful setting. Bora Bora stands at the top of this list for an overwater bungalow vacation. 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 overwater bungalows at Le Tahaa are bigger than those on Moorea and Tahiti too, at about 1100 square feet you could live there! Saletoga Sands Resort & Spa combines luxury and comfort with the natural splendour of the beautiful island of Upolu, Samoa. there are no overwater bungalows in hawaii but The South Pacific, Tahiti, Bora Bora, and Moorea are locations where you may find overwater bungalows close to Hawaii. Nightly rates for overwater villas that accommodate two guests start at around $325 for stays booked in early 2022. 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. 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. Also, Fiji is far you'll have to cross the international dateline to get there if arriving from the US. The adults-only enclave has 30 plafitos (stilt houses) on a secluded stretch of the Riviera Maya. Wi-Fi is also weak. The resort features four restaurants, a fitness center, a hilltop spa with al fresco treatment areas, WiFi, and a Kids' Club. Holly Johnson and Erin EvansMarch 1, 2023, Holly Johnson and Erin EvansFeb. St. George's Caye Resort offers adults-only lodging that is located on a rustic but indulgent private island in Belize. The resort's overwater bungalows are known for offering spacious outdoor verandas, sun loungers and soaking tubs with 360-degree water views. You don't have to fly across the globe for an overwater bungalow Hide. The property offers quite a few accommodation options, including estates and bungalows in the jungle or over the water. 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. Rates for OWBs start at around $250-$300 a night, although regular room rates can be booked for less. 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. 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 overwater bungalows at Sandals South Coast are located a quick walk down the dock from the white sandy beach. Think an overwater bungalow is out of reach for bargain hunters? Nightly rates for overwater villa stays in early 2022 start at $3,900. Sa'Moana Beach Bungalows Show prices Enter dates to see prices 312 reviews Cons: This hotel lacks the extravagances of its South Pacific or Maldivian counterparts if that's what you're looking for. VIP Villa 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). The Hiltons overwater bungalows are larger than those at Manava with about 670 square feet (62 square meters) and our favorites are the Premium Panoramic Overwater Bungalows. 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. 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. Updated 2023 Prices & Reviews (Samoa/Upolu) - Tripadvisor Overwater bungalows: 6 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. Teetering atop the reef at the northern headland of a crescent shaped cove, 10 bungalows are styled on a traditional Fijian village. A two-person kayak is tied to each bure's 120-square-foot private front deck, so you can hop right in the water for either kayaking or swimming. 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. Email us at reviews@insider.com. Pros: This hotel is surrounded by incredibly unspoiled natural beauty with no crowds in sight. These bungalows are surrounded by the Caribbean Sea in every direction, and each boasts an outdoor shower, a two-person Jacuzzi, glass-bottom floors, a balcony with a micro-infinity plunge pool and a ladder that lets adventurous travelers climb directly into the ocean. We were fortunate to get upgraded to the Over Water Fales. The Story Behind the World's First Overwater Bungalows They're spacious, clean, and come with huge bathrooms with a shower, bathtub, and large window overlooking the balcony. The 3,330-square-foot infinity pool of the resort blends into views of the lagoon. Cons: You'll have to cross the International Date Line to get to Fiji plan for jet lag, and stay long enough to recover. 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. Island Villas If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. Since its opening in 1973, Baros Maldives has become a popular resort for couples seeking romance and exclusivity. 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. You can roll out of bed and watch the tropical fish beneath your feet. When I think of the South Pacific Islands I see coral gardens, thatched roofs, and gorgeous water just screaming at me to come float for hours. 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. 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. 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. These stunning islands rival the South Pacific in terms of reputation for coveted ultra-luxury accommodations and otherworldly scenery. 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. This time, Im letting you in on a little secret. 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. Coconuts offers Samoan-inspired accommodation, including Samoa's only Over-the-Water Fales. On-site amenities: Restaurant, water activities, all-inclusive packages. 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. Jamaica Overwater Bungalows at Sandals Resorts - Are they Worth it? Unlimited views over the sea, and total privacy - we never lowered the blinds during our stay. Finally, an on-site kids club called the Young Discovery Park keeps little ones busy thanks to its water recreation area and supervised games and activities. Our other favorite overwater bungalows in the South Pacific are at the St. Regis Bora Bora. Award-Winning Samoa Overwater Bungalows Embrace the tropical vibes of the South Pacific at Coconuts Beach Club Resort and Spa Samoa, home to the only overwater bungalows in the country. 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 . Book your next cruise vacation on one of these floating megaresorts. Cons: Expect accommodations overall to be much pricier than those that might be found in other regions, like Central America. Sandals Royal Caribbean Resort, Jamaica. Read on to find out! 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. All over the bungalows on this list are at a minimum three-star standard. Tags: Travel, Hotels and Resorts, Maldives, Mexico, Tropical Vacations, Beach Vacations. 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. 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. The island comprises 300 acres, but the resort developed just a fraction of that leaving it feeling lush and natural. These newly built overwater bungalows deliver an immersive journey of the Caribbean's finest turquoise waters. Coconuts Beach Club Resort & Spa truly embodies all that is unique and wonderful about culturally-rich Samoa. 12 overwater bungalows closer to the U.S. than Bora Bora - SFGATE Sun loungers and comfy furniture beckon guests to relax and enjoy their tropical surroundings. American Samoa | Culture, History, & People | Britannica Vanuatu has two adjacent resorts with overwater bungalows. (Courtesy of Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi). Sign up for Insider Reviews' weekly newsletter for more buying advice and great deals. Cons: Some overwater villas feel dated, especially in comparison to the more modern, updated beach villas. The best of the best are the four Otemanu Overwater Bungalow Suites with Plunge Pool. Fortunately, not all overwater bungalows have an astronomical financial barrier to entry. Theres an extinct volcano in the center of the island, surrounded by a huge lagoon. Just make sure you know what youre getting. However, many countries are now accepting fully vaccinated American travelers or those who can show proof of a negative COVID test. Luxury. The environment includes pink sand beaches, wild coconut groves, and a stunning tropical garden. Lagen Island is serenely located between a lush forest and a crystalline, shallow lagoon. In the 50 years since the Bali Hai Boys debuted their overwater bungalows in Bora Bora, these types of accommodations have sprouted up . Bora Bora is also more expensive to visit than Fiji! Best Overwater Bungalows in the South Pacific Islands! 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. 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.