Overwater Bungalow Holidays
Quite simply, overwater bungalow holidays have become a travel trend in their own right. Perched on stilts over bluer-than-blue lagoons and snaking out of islands which wouldn't look out of place on a Bounty bar advert, they've become the places that everyone from honeymooners to families dream about staying in on an unforgettable holiday. They are one-of-a-kind accommodation and have almost become a byword for paradise. Overwater bungalows can be found all across the world. The likes of Bora Bora and the Maldives have become synonymous with water bungalow holidays, with their tropical islands adoring the likes of postcards and Instagram. However, overwater bungalows can be found beyond those two exotic locations, in the likes of Mauritius, Cambodia and Fiji.
Where You Can Find Overwater Bungalows
Overwater bungalow fever has spread worldwide! As well as the water villas of the Maldives and overwater bungalows of Bora Bora, you can find your own dreamy stilted accommodation in the likes of Fiji, Malaysia, Cambodia and beyond.
Top Overwater Bungalow Destinations
Our Top Resorts with Overwater Bungalows
Soneva Jani, Maldives
Soneva Jani is one of the Maldives’ most iconic resorts, set within a breathtaking lagoon of crystal clear waters and uninterrupted ocean views in the Noonu Atoll.
Pangkor Laut Resort
Over 2 million years in the making, this renowned resort sits within a landscape of ancient forests where the trees are as old as the land itself, where sweeping bays are deserted and quiet but for the cry of the macaque monkeys. It is home to Emerald Bay, an unspoilt crescent of sand hugged by the tangle of tropical jungle. This beach is regularly voted as one of the best in the world and it is easy to see why. Only a tiny fraction of the island’s 300 acres has been developed and the resort blends effortlessly into its jungle surrounds – Mother Nature herself could have been the architect! The resort is expansive, however, the clever design means it’s not difficult to find your own perfect piece of paradise.
Conrad Bora Bora Nui
Facing the vast Pacific Ocean, with uninterrupted views of the lagoon meeting the protective outer reef, this luxurious retreat nestles along a beautiful white sand beach, with magical sunsets that never fail to impress.
Vahine Island
Vahine Private Island hugs the white sands and coconut groves of Motu Tu Vahine (Island of the Woman) at the edge of Taha'a's aquamarine lagoon. This is an intimate hideaway for only a handful of guests, and a member of the esteemed ‘Small Luxury Hotels of the World’ collection.
Cauayan Island Resort, El Nido
Voted one of the most beautiful places on the planet, any resort located in incredible Palawan can't fail to impress. Surrounded by beauty, with awe-inspiring limestone cliffs and unspoilt jungle, El Nido really is a must stop on any visit to the Philippines. Cauyan Island Resort, a four star hideaway, is tucked away within one of the picture perfect coves, with a small but sublime beach and a charming local style - totally in tune with its environment. Accessible with flights into El Nido airport from Boracay, Manila and Cebu, the island team will collect you on arrival for your short boat ride through islands to the resort.
Overwater bungalow holiday FAQ
FAQ
As their very name implies, overwater bungalows are one-storey buildings perched over the water, usually on stilts. They're usually connected to a main boardwalk which links the bungalows to the mainland or island resort they're part of. The term water villa often just another name for overwater bungalows, although it can extend to some two-storey overwater accommodation and bungalows which are larger and more suited to families.
That's a tricky question because there are so many! The Maldives has a fabulous selection, including the likes of Six Senses Laamu, Soneva Jani and LUX* South Ari Atoll, while The Islands of Tahiti is where the first one was built and a stay at Conrad Bora Bora Nui or Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort is incredible. If you fancy somewhere a bit more off the radar in terms of overwater bungalows, then we recommend Constance Prince Maurice in Mauritius or Song Saa in Cambodia.
That would be Soneva Jani! The slides take you directly into the beautiful turquoise lagoon beneath your overwater bungalow and they definitely add a sense of fun to your stunning location.
Yes, but they are better suited to families with older children. Even though some resorts have measures to 'child-proof' their overwater bungalows, we would typically recommend that younger families stay in accommodation located on the beach, for both peace of mind and the fact they are usually closer tot he resort's amenities and restaurants.
It depends where you go! In most cases, yes. However, The Islands of Tahiti is the exception to the rule, with no all-inclusive resorts across any of its islands. Unless you're planning to eat and drink a lot, we'd always advise considering going on a half board basis, especially if you have a tight budget.
Absolutely! Even though they are a more expensive option compared to their beachfront sisters, the extra cost is completely worth it. They're unlike anywhere else you will stay and even if you only do it once, it will be an unforgettable experience. If you have a strict budget but still want to try and squeeze in a stay in an overwater bungalow, consider splitting your time between the beach and overwater, as this will bring the cost of your holiday down.