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The Best Overwater Bungalows in the World

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Published on: January 13th, 2025

Last updated: January 31st, 2025

Imagine waking up to the sound of lapping waves, the turquoise water so close that you could reach out and touch it from your private terrace – your own little slice of paradise in one of the most beautiful destinations on earth from Belize to Cambodia, Sweden to Indonesia. This is the promise of the world’s best overwater bungalows: an unbeatable combination of exclusivity, comfort and proximity to the sea.

These luxurious bungalows offer unforgettable experiences, from sunset cruises to spectacular snorkelling. Many rely on sustainable building practices and are directly involved with environmental efforts like coral reef conservation. They’re perfect for a romantic couple’s retreat, but are also ideal for any traveller who wants to connect with nature in a truly exceptional way.

Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora, French Polynesia, stunning overwater bungalows

Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Located in the middle of French Polynesia, Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora makes the most of its idyllic setting with dozens of outstanding overwater villas. Choose between one- and two-bedroom options with views of Bora Bora’s white sand beaches, Mount Otemanu and the shimmering lagoon that surrounds the island.

Each bungalow is crafted from teak and crowned by a thatched roof, with a spacious private deck and, in some cases, a private plunge pool. Activities include sailing trips, Polynesian boat tours, fishing expeditions and, of course, scuba diving and snorkelling.

Bawah Reserve, Indonesia

Bawah Reserve, Indonesia

Bawah Reserve is among our favourite places to stay in Indonesia – especially for an overwater bungalow vacation. Its three dozen villas, lodges and suites are spread across six private islands in the remote Anambas Archipelago, allowing for unparalleled privacy. The overwater bungalows boast panoramic views and spacious decks ideal for both sunbathing and stargazing.

Bawah Reserve is part of our Positive Impact Collection thanks to its extensive conservation efforts, which include the preservation of threatened marine life and coral reefs as well as low-impact waste management and community welfare programmes.

Six Senses Laamu, Maldives

Six Senses Laamu, Maldives

The Maldives are well known for boasting some of the world’s best bungalow resorts, but one place in particular stands out above the rest. Six Senses Laamu is delightfully secluded, sustainably built and encircled by thriving coral reefs, which the resort works hard to protect through its award-winning Maldives Underwater Initiative.

The overwater bungalows offer multi-level decks, sunken glass bathtubs and infinity pools, with space for up to four guests in each. Younger travellers can enjoy all kinds of kid-friendly activities – though the bungalows are only recommended for families with older children.

Six Senses Laamu, Maldives

Likuliku Lagoon Resort, Fiji

Authenticity and tradition are at the heart of Likuliku Lagoon Resort, an adults-only retreat on Fiji’s Malolo Island. There are ten overwater bures (the Fijian word for cabin or hut), each outfitted with natural materials like local hardwood, sago palm thatching and magimagi (hand-woven art made from coconut husks).

In addition to relaxing by the sea, you can enjoy soothing treatments at the Tatadra Spa. More active experiences include snorkelling, diving, surfing, hiking and island hopping, as well as local village visits, sunset cruises and tours of the resort’s iguana sanctuary.

Song Saa Private Island, Cambodia

Song Saa Private Island, Cambodia

After exploring the ancient temples of Cambodia, head to Song Saa Private Island for a serene escape. Located 45 minutes off the country’s coast by boat, this resort is set in the Sweetheart Islands – Koh Bong and Koh Ouen – and features one- and two-bedroom overwater villas made from reclaimed wood and recycled materials.

For even more privacy book the enormous Royal Villa, which is accessible via a private boat trip. Song Saa Private Island is also one of our Positive Impact properties, with community support and environmental protection at the very core of its operations.

Arctic Bath, Sweden

Arctic Bath, Sweden

This remote hotel may be far from the tropics, but it proves that overwater bungalows can be just as idyllic in colder climes. Arctic Bath is set in the wild expanse of Swedish Lapland, with six cabins floating on the tranquil surface of the Lule River. Visit in winter, when the river freezes over, for a chance of glimpsing the northern lights from your private deck. 

Arctic Bath is especially notable for its phenomenal spa. There are dry and steam saunas, outdoor hot tubs and an unheated pool for bracing cold plunges. Other activities depend on the season, from snowshoeing and ice dining to nature hikes and berry picking.

Nayara Bocas del Toro, Panama

Nayara Bocas del Toro, Panama

Although it’s located off the coast of Panama, this lovely resort reflects an unmistakably Balinese style. Nayara Bocas del Toro has 18 adults-only overwater villas with private plunge pools, swim-up staircases, canopy beds and glass floor panels that allow you to observe marine life from above.

When you get hungry, head to Elephant House: an elegant restaurant serving international fusion cuisine made from local produce. Housed in a century-old structure relocated from Bali, the restaurant is helmed by a head chef who grew up right here in Bocas del Toro.

Mambo Island, Colombia

Mambo Island, Colombia

Mambo Island is a relatively new addition to the Galavanta Collection of private villas across Colombia. This seven-bedroom property comprises multiple buildings, outdoor areas and overwater platforms within Islas del Rosario – less than an hour from Cartagena by boat.

The island can only be booked on an exclusive basis, making it a fantastic choice for families and larger groups looking for complete and utter privacy. Your experience will be entirely personalised with bespoke activities, custom menus and impeccable service from the on-site staff.

Cayo Espanto, Belize

Cayo Espanto, Belize

Right between Ambergris Caye and mainland Belize lies one of our favourite private island resorts. Cayo Espanto is a small island with only six villas, each of which is set apart from the others to maximise the sense of seclusion. Its lone overwater bungalow, Casa Ventanas, is set at the end of a 46-metre dock to provide even more privacy.

Simply sitting back and soaking in the tropical sunshine is tempting enough, but if you feel like exploring you can opt for private snorkelling and diving charters, fishing and birdwatching tours or a trip to the mainland’s Maya ruins.

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