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. Fortunately, not all overwater bungalows have an astronomical financial barrier to entry. This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. The Over-the-Water Fales are situated as to maximize individual privacy. On-site amenities: Pool, spa, water sports and activities. There's much to discover beyond theme parks in this Southeastern state. Head to Le Meridin Tahiti, with a dozen overwater bungalows and 150 total rooms, for a bit more seclusion and more space. Mooreas overwater bungalows are most likely to have fish and coral directly underneath the bungalow and offer several three and four-star resort options. 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. Fiji is best known for its luxury boutique islands that are often truly breathtaking. Find the best travel insurance for you with these U.S. News ratings, which factor in expert and consumer recommendations. There are two Tahiti resorts with overwater bungalows of solid four-star quality. Ocean View Hotel Rooms. Sheraton Aggie Greys Hotel & Bungalows. Although it's just 10 minutes from the international airport, it feels isolated within the rainforest amid more than 300 acres of an untouched nature reserve. If you dream of stepping out of your room and dipping straight into warm, turquoise waters surrounded by incredible scenery, then you'll likely feel that the answer is yes. 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. 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. On-site amenities: Spa, dive center, restaurant, bar, pool. Discover these empowering women's history destinations selected by the U.S. News travel editors. 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. It lies about 1,600 miles (2,600 km) northeast of New Zealand and 2,200 miles (3,500 km) southwest of the U.S. state of Hawaii. This shading could result in a decreased survival rate, or at least promote behavioural changes in various components of the biological community. By clicking Sign up, you agree to receive marketing emails from Insider Even by Tahitian standards, this resort's remote location might be as close as you ever get to living that Robinson Crusoe life. Pros: This hotel is surrounded by incredibly unspoiled natural beauty with no crowds in sight. Water Cottages, as they are called here, are built on stilts connected by a boardwalk. These two-room types offer the most privacy, with stunning views and perched way, way out in the water. The location on Samoa is ideal for water sports of all kinds, including surfing and scuba diving. The truly luxurious properties are where the most spectacular overwater bungalows can be found. 7 Nights Link on TravelByJen.com or call for help 1-800-603-3178. 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. Butler service is a given: here, they arrange welcome cocktails, dining reservations, and can even unpack your luggage and press your clothes. Consider breaking up your stay by booking a few nights in each. There are a set of 12 Waterfront Master Suites, connected by high-rise paths. Email us at reviews@insider.com. 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. This private island resort is located on the Noonu Atoll in the Maldives, which is flanked by spectacular white sand beaches and some of the clearest waters in the world. Located in Montego Bay, Jamaica, Sandals Royal Caribbean Resort offers overwater bungalow options in an all-inclusive, private-island setting. You can even dine in a private gazebo outside your bedroom with a view of the mountain in the distance. 9 Top Affordable Overwater Bungalows Around the World. The first overwater bungalows were constructed on the French Polynesian island of Ra'itea in 1967 by three American hotel owners, Jay Carlisle, Donald McCallum and Hugh Kelley. The environment includes pink sand beaches, wild coconut groves, and a stunning tropical garden. The overwater bungalows at Sandals South Coast are located a quick walk down the dock from the white sandy beach. Guests have the services of their own Tau - Fijian for friend - who takes care of your every wish. 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. On-site amenities: Spa, restaurant, pool, bar. So yes, it does have a prized view towards Mt. The bedroom and sitting area opens up onto the expansive decks, and can be closed off with large glass sliding doors for those guests wishing to use the air-conditioning. 4.5 / 5. We considered price first and foremost, and every hotel on this list ranges from $121 to $570 per night to start in off-peak seasons (aside from one worthy splurge). Our other favorite overwater bungalows in the South Pacific are at the St. Regis Bora Bora. Cons: If you're looking for over-the-top opulence, you might find this option too rustic (or that aspect could be a pro). Pros: Savor the opportunity to observe incredible wildlife in one of the world's most beautiful island locations. Spacious one, two and three bedroom apartments are available with Queen sized beds in . Open to the expansive deck with sliding glass doors, the bathroom features and opaque ceiling, bathing the room in natural light. 5 nights accommodation - Breakfast daily. 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 . Our other favorite overwater bungalows in the South Pacific are at the St. Regis Bora Bora. We rate Likuliku as one of our favourites too. Many of these resorts are located in remote areas and can book up quickly. The geography of Bora Bora makes it the best place in the South Pacific to build overwater bungalows. While Fiji only has a few properties with Overwater Bungalows like Likuliku Resort, it is unique due to tidal movement on reef lagoons. Few destinations in the world inspire more wanderlust than far-flung locales dotted with overwater bungalows (or alternatively called overwater villas). The resort's overwater bungalows are known for offering spacious outdoor verandas, sun loungers and soaking tubs with 360-degree water views. Beds: One kingsize bed Palafitos - Overwater Bungalows Offers Get inspired Scroll Check In Guests 2 Book Now Palafitos Overwater Bungalows A Top Rated Resort There is also a wide variety of tours available so guests can easily experience the beauty and special places on the island. We're including Sandals' adults-only South Coast Jamaica property even though its price point is an outlier for good reason. Special bonus points went to places with something unique and creative about them. Another is Koro Sun, which is in a more affordable price range and floats its water bures on pontoons just off a rocky coastline. The only overwater bungalow resort in Samoa, Coconuts Beach Club is an interesting collection of accommodations that is particularly popular with Australians and Kiwis. Nightly rates for overwater villas that. On that note, I especially love bungalows in deep water, because theres nothing like being able to jump in right from your private deck! Its ideal for romantics who want a small resort because, with just 45 total rooms, each guest receives personalized service. Samoa | Overwater Bungalows Home Destinations Samoa Destination travel guide for Samoa WHEN VISITING ANY DESTINATION IT'S ALWAYS GOOD TO PREPARE FOR YOUR HOLIDAY. Are any Bora Bora Overwater Bungalows All Inclusive? 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. 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. Cheaper options exist, and while less common, they're still in desirable areas like the South Pacific, Asia, and the Caribbean. U.S. News rates the cheapest travel insurance options, considering expert and consumer recommendations. Traditional Fijian decor with touches of nautical style and thatched roofing completes the look. For those who want the epitome of overwater bungalow experience, they should look no further than staying in a Tahitian bungalow. Contact us to get started planning your trip today! We highlight products and services you might find interesting. Creating the lagoon, keeping it safe, sandy, and shallow, are a ring of tiny coral islands called motus. Saletoga Sands Resort & Spa combines luxury and comfort with the natural splendour of the beautiful island of Upolu, Samoa. Pangkor Laut Resort is located on a privately owned island situated three miles off the West Coast of Malaysia along the Straits of Malacca. 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. Reaching Coconuts Beach Club is easy. Teetering atop the reef at the northern headland of a crescent shaped cove, 10 bungalows are styled on a traditional Fijian village. We stayed 7 nights in a over-the water-fale and it was the best holiday ever. 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 . Since its opening in 1973, Baros Maldives has become a popular resort for couples seeking romance and exclusivity. ACCOMMODATION - InterContinental World's Best 8 Spacious Overwater Bungalows with Private Pool. 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. The Loyalty Islands have a wild beauty that will spark your imagination, while the . Hide. Each Fale boasts amazing views of the beaches, lagoon, and ocean, and boast simply breathtaking sunset vistas. (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. Lake Crackenback Overwater Apartments. If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. Palafitos Overwater Bungalows surround you with the sapphire serenity of the Caribbean. On-site amenities: Pool, fitness center, restaurant, spa, activities. South Pacific destinations known for dreamy overwater bungalows include the likes of Tahiti, Fiji, Samoa, and other far-flung islands. Overwater bungalows: 6 . Reviews for 10 Travel Experts on American Samoa Overwater Bungalows . 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. Fa'afetai lava. Enjoy scenic views and relaxing atmospheres at these resorts. 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. Please use the drop-down menu and select your departure point. Since kids (up to a certain age) stay and eat free here, its very popular with returning family guests. Mexico's now got its own overwater bungalow resort, and it's out of this world. 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. Situated at the end of the dock, facing the horizon, youll have unobstructed views and the deepest water of all the bungalows at the Hilton, but still with enough coral to keep you entertained through the glass viewing panel in the floor. There's only one over-water bungalow on Laucala Island - but it's a giant, 2000 square metre two-bedroom villa on a split level that floats above a stunning pool lagoon. #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 bungalows at the Holiday Inn Resort measure approximately 550 sq feet each, accommodate two adults and offer unrestricted access to the lagoon. 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. The resort also features a spa and two restaurants. We stayed for three nights in one of the Overwater Fales..Very beautiful and well catered for. Sun loungers and comfy furniture beckon guests to relax and enjoy their tropical surroundings. The property has a spa, impeccable scuba options, and an overwater room category billed as Fiji's only floating accommodation. On-site amenities: Restaurant, water activities, all-inclusive packages. 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. These lodgings are perched atop calm, shallow waters and crystalline lagoons that are striated into every imaginable hue of blue. These six Fales are unique in design and fully embrace the seamless indoor/outdoor living experience that is so popular throughout Samoa. 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. (Courtesy of One&Only Reethi Rah). We operate independently from our advertising team. Le Mridien Maldives Resort & Spa opened in September 2021 on Thilamaafushi Island. Staying in an overwater bungalow is the stuff of dreams. Best view, big and beautifule bungalows. You might also consider using IHG points to make your stay at this resort even cheaper. The Maldives, Mexico and the Caribbean are a few popular regions where you can find hotels with overwater bungalows. 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. Read on to find out! However, because of their idyllic accommodations, overwater bungalows will be more expensive than most hotel rooms simply because of the style, and also because remote locations mean it's more expensive to maintain upkeep and import goods and services. Featuring six overwater bungalows, which they refer to as over-the-water fales' in their literature, the resort also has suites and villas for guests to select from. 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. We are ideally situated on Upolu's southern coast, boasting amazing sunrise and sunset views. 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! Nightly rates for double occupancy, which include lodging, food, drinks and entertainment, start at $1,900 for dates in early 2022. Think an overwater bungalow is out of reach for bargain hunters? Theyre a large resort with more than thirty overwater bungalows and 250 total rooms. Price: Base Rate From: Baltimore, Houston, New Orleans, Orlando & Fort Lauderdale/Miami. Yes, not only do you get a stunning view of the volcanic crater of Mt. When you buy through our links, Insider may earn an affiliate commission. When it comes to booking the best overwater bungalows resorts, travelers should consider both the price and availability. What's Unique: Sandals has introduced overwater bungalows at three of their caribbean resorts: South Coast in Whitehouse Jamaica . The typical temperature varies from 84.2 F to 87.8 F in the . They're pricier, but all-inclusive options add serious value. Discover these empowering women's history destinations selected by the U.S. News travel editors. The 3,330-square-foot infinity pool of the resort blends into views of the lagoon. 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. Want to know which overwater bungalows offer the worlds best experience sleeping in anyone of the huts over the ocean? We are return Coconuts of 2007. If you're going to stay in an overwater bungalow, there is no other place to consider other than French Polynesia. You'll need time. . (, Travel Agents Specializing in New Zealand, Best Overwater Bungalows in the South Pacific Islands, CONTACT YOUR NEW ZEALAND AND AUSTRALIA TRAVEL AGENTS, Australia Trip Planners - New Zealand Trip Planners. Azul Beach Resorts. Apia, Upolu 1. Some of the world's most luxurious . Youll find the best overwater bungalows in this island nation. Sandals South Coast, Jamaica. Here is a list of the top 10 best and cheapest overwater bungalows in the world: 1. Samoa; Best Time to Visit Hawaii. 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. Learn more about this architectural marvel on a guided tour. 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. Bora Bora is the most famous island of Tahiti. The overwater bungalows were constructed using . Even more exciting are the Coconuts VIP excursions that allow you to visit different locations on the island with a private car and driver. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content. Learn more about coverage options for frequent travelers and those with multiple upcoming trips. Pros: This hotel enjoys total seclusion off the beaten path and is surrounded by raw, natural beauty. Nightly rates for double occupancy in early 2022 start at $2,250. The territory, which is part of Polynesia, includes the six . 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. Cons: Still, this is the priciest property on our list. Thrill-seekers will love climbing and rappelling down the 60-meter limestone cliff or exploring the Japanese shipwrecks just of the coast. 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 . All overwater bungalow hotels provide excellent service and picture-perfect amenities to ensure each property meets your lofty expectations. Just make sure you know what youre getting. Here, Edgewater Floating Bures are adults-only accommodations offering 380-square-foot rooms, each one floating within the resort's calm marina. Whether youre coming from Phoenix or Winnipeg or in-between, we can assist you with a dream vacation staying in one of the best overwater bungalows in the South Pacific. Most of its overwater villas have their own private pools, and some feature multiple floors and outdoor whirlpools. In general, bungalows in the Caribbean and Central America are cheaper than you'll find in Asia and the South Pacific. 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. The resort's overwater bungalows are known for offering spacious outdoor verandas, sun loungers and soaking tubs with 360-degree water views. The CDC said people who are vaccinated can travel safely, though their current recommendations are for travel within the US. Next, preferences went to bungalows that maximized the overwater experience. Make is a full week in Paradise and add 3 Nights at El Dorado Maroma from +$999 per person! Sign up for our monthly Overwater Bungalows newsletter. The overwater bungalows are in shallow water over a tidal, sandy area. As with most resorts there's a glass-bottom floor, infinity plunge pool, outdoor shower, 24-hour butler and a ladder that leads into the sea. However, many countries are now accepting fully vaccinated American travelers or those who can show proof of a negative COVID test. Pros: The price offers excellent value for an intimate, indulgent room with a more under-the-radar location than Tahiti or Fiji. (Courtesy of Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi). American Express has expanded The Centurion Network to include 40+ Centurion Lounge and Studio locations worldwide. Nightly rates for three-bedroom villas that sleep up to six guests start at $2,689 for reservations in 2022. 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. 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. Situated about an hour southeast of Negril, this resort sits along a 2-mile stretch of white sand and turquoise water among a 500-acre nature preserve. 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. Wi-Fi is also weak. Sandals Royal Caribbean Resort, Jamaica. 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. All rights reserved. They are situated at the most northern point of Jamaica, and then some. The Maldives are also exceptionally expensive for rooms atop the water. You can even go spelunking! Its island of Tahiti has a few overwater bungalows, but Moorea, Tahaa, and Bora Bora are far better. Best Authentic Samoan Experience National Park of American Samoa's Home Stay Program Web site: www.nps.gov 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. 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. Follow these steps (and allow plenty of time) to get your child a passport. Sa'Moana Beach Bungalows Show prices Enter dates to see prices 312 reviews 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. Its 20 miles south of the main town of Apia, and 25 miles southeast of the international airport. Samoa's only Overwater Fales Luxury and Romance Defined. Guests will find an on-site spa with luxurious treatments, two impressive infinity pools, tropical gardens and endless water sports and activities. When researching this resort, one of the first things that you may notice are that the overwater rooms are not completely over the water and are instead perched on land with the back terrace situated over the lagoon. Bluetooth speakers; a massive, airy bathroom; and private terrace make it easy to unwind. There are 18 in all, each with about 570 square feet to spread out. The best of the best there is the two-bedroom Overwater Royal Otemanu Villas with Pool. On-site amenities: Restaurant, pool, excursions and tours. 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. 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. 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. Every hotel offers overwater accommodations, plus access to beautiful beaches, activities, and scenery. The King Pool Overwater Villas . Waterfront Villas Sign up for Insider Reviews' weekly newsletter for more buying advice and great deals. 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. Relaxation. 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 . Attention to detail is said to be everywhere and greatly appreciated. These stunning islands rival the South Pacific in terms of reputation for coveted ultra-luxury accommodations and otherworldly scenery. Pros: Because the resort is spread on two islands, it feels like you're staying on your own private one. Choose from 108 rooms and suites, including overwater villas with furnished sun decks and direct water access. Holly Johnson and Erin EvansMarch 1, 2023, Holly Johnson and Erin EvansFeb. Overwater accommodations sit on stilts above the tropical waters, each with an expansive balcony with loungers, a bathroom with an oversized tub, and a shower that opens to the sea. 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). Coconuts Beach Club is on the southern coast of the main island of Samoa in the South Pacific. Talk about the ultimate in pampering! They look out straight to the ocean. Experience the ultimate in oceanfront luxury. In my last blog post, I gave an introduction to what they are, how long to stay, what to do, and where to go. This 44-acre resort is a Polynesian paradise, with private overwater villas set on the idyllic South Pacific waters.