Sign up for Australia and New Zealand Travel Updates. Step inside our overwater bungalows to unimpeded views of the Caribbean seascape and horizon. Find the best travel insurance for you with these U.S. News ratings, which factor in expert and consumer recommendations. Wi-Fi is also weak. You can purchase logo and accolade licensing to this story here. Make is a full week in Paradise and add 3 Nights at El Dorado Maroma from +$999 per person! Cons: You'll have to cross the International Date Line to get to Fiji plan for jet lag, and stay long enough to recover. The typical temperature varies from 84.2 F to 87.8 F in the . 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. They also state that there are plenty of fish to see, which added to the wow factor. Otemanu, but you also get your own private plunge pool on the deck! We stayed at the Overwater Fale. Since kids (up to a certain age) stay and eat free here, its very popular with returning family guests. Another is Koro Sun, which is in a more affordable price range and floats its water bures on pontoons just off a rocky coastline. They're pricier, but all-inclusive options add serious value. 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. Each is a one-bedroom bungalow with a cascade shower bathroom, and a deck with a hot tub overlooking the dazzling water. The Maldives, Mexico and the Caribbean are a few popular regions where you can find hotels with overwater bungalows. Holly Johnson and Erin EvansMarch 1, 2023, Holly Johnson and Erin EvansFeb. Samoa tends to be more rustic and remote, and these bungalows are no exception. Whether you're planning a romantic getaway, an anniversary celebration or a honeymoon, there are few options that stand out more than overwater bungalows. You wont find resorts that small with such luxury in other South Pacific islands. #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. Even though the resort itself is small, the reviews thus far are very large with lots of praise spread throughout almost every single one. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content. If you're going to stay in an overwater bungalow, there is no other place to consider other than French Polynesia. Sa'Moana Beach Bungalows Show prices Enter dates to see prices 312 reviews Aga Reef Resort - Samoa. 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. Our Rating. We are ideally situated on Upolu's southern coast, boasting amazing sunrise and sunset views. Okay, heres where things get really good. At a whopping 3500 square feet (321 square meters), theres plenty of space for two bedrooms and two bathrooms, separate private terraces for each bedroom, direct access into the lagoon, and the highlight the largest suspended pool over the Bora Bora lagoon at 20 feet by 16 feet (6 meters by 4 meters), and with an infinity edge. Here you'll also find lots of great activities to join in on, both within the resort and nearby. 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. On-site amenities: Pool, fitness center, restaurant, spa, activities. This shading could result in a decreased survival rate, or at least promote behavioural changes in various components of the biological community. Several types of overwater suites are available, including the Overwater Motu Villa Suite, which is equipped with a private balcony, a large soaking tub and floor-to-ceiling windows that let travelers enjoy the stellar views. (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. Some resorts are on the main central island around the extinct volcano, including several overwater bungalows. They were so impressive I honestly cried. The Over-the-Water Fales are situated as to maximize individual privacy. Samoa Packages. So yes, it does have a prized view towards Mt. There are several factors that I kept in mind when considering my favorite overwater bungalows. All rights reserved. Pros: Savor the opportunity to observe incredible wildlife in one of the world's most beautiful island locations. These six Fales are unique in design and fully embrace the seamless indoor/outdoor living experience that is so popular throughout Samoa. Fiji has about fifteen overwater bungalows. This family-run resort caters to a wide variety of travelers, and rates start around $600 per night. Experience the ultimate in oceanfront luxury. 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. 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. Prices start in the low $300s and include full board with no catch. American Express has expanded The Centurion Network to include 40+ Centurion Lounge and Studio locations worldwide. Access your favorite topics in a personalized feed while you're on the go. The best of the best are the four Otemanu Overwater Bungalow Suites with Plunge Pool. 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. 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. 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. The adults-only enclave has 30 plafitos (stilt houses) on a secluded stretch of the Riviera Maya. Butler service is a given: here, they arrange welcome cocktails, dining reservations, and can even unpack your luggage and press your clothes. Unlimited views over the sea, and total privacy - we never lowered the blinds during our stay. Best view, big and beautifule bungalows. They are situated at the most northern point of Jamaica, and then some. Explore the top-rated styles for every type of trip to the beach. Winner, Editors' Choice: Club Med Finolhu Villas, Maldives. An avid traveler, she trots the globe with her husband and twins. Most Water Villas have outdoor showers for you to rinse yourself off with after a swim. Prices start in the low $300s and include full board with no catch. Guests can enjoy exclusive treatments at the Waldorf Astoria Spa, relax the day away at the resort's pool or stay active with water sports like kayaking and diving. Bora Bora Island is surrounded by islets and also boasts of a lagoon with turquoise waters that are protected by coral reefs. This time, Im letting you in on a little secret. Located in French Polynesia, Bora Bora is a small island in the South Pacific Ocean. Where should you book your overwater stay? 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. 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. 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. In fact, the property added eight more overwater bungalows in late 2019, some of which feature private infinity pools that float above the lagoon. Over-the-water is a way of life in the Maldives, an Indian Ocean archipelago comprised of almost 1,200 sandy atolls. St. Regis Bora Bora, an American Express Fine Hotels & Resorts property, boasts views of Mount Otemanu, four dining options, an al fresco bar, and the luxe Miri Miri Spa. 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. On-site amenities: Pool, spa, water sports and activities. El Nido Resorts' Eco-Sanctuary island resort comes with the densest forest perched over limestone, surrounded by 45 islands and islets scattered throughout Bacuit Bay. Its ideal for romantics who want a small resort because, with just 45 total rooms, each guest receives personalized service. Want to know which overwater bungalows offer the worlds best experience sleeping in anyone of the huts over the ocean? What's Unique: Sandals has introduced overwater bungalows at three of their caribbean resorts: South Coast in Whitehouse Jamaica . The Holiday Inn Resort has ten, and next door, the Warwick Le Lagon Resort has four. Sign up for Insider Reviews' weekly newsletter for more buying advice and great deals. Measuring at roughly 590 square feet each, the overwater bungalows accommodate up to 2 adults and provide direct access to the lagoon. Bungalows have spa-style bathrooms, private patios with extended sun decks and outdoor showers, private outdoor soaking tubs, and over-water hammocks. Fa'afetai lava. Anything you want, whether its direct access into the lagoon, private sun deck, glass panel in the floor, great views, or privacy, its all here. 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. Find the right agent for your trip. 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. 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. For winter 2022 reservations, nightly rates for overwater rooms at this Waldorf Astoria start at $2,694. This 44-acre resort is a Polynesian paradise, with private overwater villas set on the idyllic South Pacific waters. For those who want the epitome of overwater bungalow experience, they should look no further than staying in a Tahitian bungalow. . 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. So at low tide, most of the water under the Fiji bungalow disappears. (Courtesy of Royalton Antigua, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort & Casino). On-site amenities: Spa, restaurant, pool, bar. Nightly rates for overwater rooms start at around $7,000 for double occupancy in May. Cons: If you're looking for over-the-top opulence, you might find this option too rustic (or that aspect could be a pro). In other words, you may always find an overwater bungalow Belize that suits your budget. A luxurious adults only retreat, Likuliku means calm water and perfectly describes its Yasawa Islands location. Escape to an unforgettable five-star luxury getaway on the water at The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort. 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 . All overwater bungalow hotels provide excellent service and picture-perfect amenities to ensure each property meets your lofty expectations. This property is located on its own private island in the Maldives, and it features several overwater villa options with upgraded amenities like outdoor beds for lounging and private infinity pools. 28, 2023, Holly Johnson and Ann HensonFeb. It's expensive but justifiably so as everything needs to be grown or imported. This top-notch resort is located on the main island of Tahiti in French Polynesia, yet it feels a world away. If you travel in off season, it might be as low as $100 to $200 a night. 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. (Courtesy of One&Only Reethi Rah). 9 Top Affordable Overwater Bungalows Around the World. 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 resort's overwater bungalows are known for offering spacious outdoor verandas, sun loungers and soaking tubs with 360-degree water views. Nightly rates for overwater villas that accommodate. Coconuts Beach Club features Samoa's only, exclusive, Over-the-Water Fales. Attention to detail is said to be everywhere and greatly appreciated. In addition to a spa with the only "snow room" in the Maldives, this resort features a kids club, four restaurants and bars, and the opportunity to spend time kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, snorkeling, diving and more. October 30, 2015. Cons: This hotel lacks the extravagances of its South Pacific or Maldivian counterparts if that's what you're looking for. 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. 4.5 / 5. Just off the bedroom are doors that open to an additional, small, mini-deck. 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. Snoozing to the sound of waves gently lapping all around you, climbing down the ladder from your private patio into a calm, crystal blue lagoon, catching sight of the Milky Way against a dark sky through your retractable bedroom roof: for beach lovers, staying in an overwater bungalow in a tropical locale is the pinnacle of a perfect vacation.But those one-with-the-sea vibes come with a steep . 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. 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. Pros: Sandals serves over-the-top luxury with a truly impressive list of inclusions that help offset the high price and add value. 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. Theyre a large resort with more than thirty overwater bungalows and 250 total rooms. Read our full hotel review of Conrad Maldives Rangali Island. 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. . This is a huge plus. The 34 large and private Water Bungalows all include direct access to the ocean waters from private sun decks with wooden ladders. Open-air bathrooms have sunken tubs and waterfall showers. The intimate resort offers only overwater fales with six indoor-outdoor accommodations boasting spectacular views of the beaches, lagoon, and ocean. Bungalows are quite large at nearly 750 square feet, and decor is modern and tropical, done in creams and vibrant colors. Couples can lounge on plush furniture as they take in their tropical. Cons: The island is small, which might (or might not) feel sleepy to your pace. All-inclusive. The overwater bungalows at Club Med Finolhu Villas feature plunge pools and soaking tubs. 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. Nightly rates for double occupancy in early 2022 start at $2,250. 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. Nightly rates for overwater accommodations with double occupancy start at around $630 for dates in early 2022. St. George's Caye Resort offers adults-only lodging that is located on a rustic but indulgent private island in Belize. Nestled amongst beautiful tropical islands on the equator, Anantara Veli Maldives Resort is . The overwater villas are where it's at if you're hoping to up your vacation game to the high-class level. There are even more places your Platinum Card can get you complimentary entry . See and be seen at these stunning natural wonders.