15 Enchanting Overwater Bungalows Worldwide—From the Arctic to Tropical Paradises

The world’s first overwater bungalows were constructed in the Islands of Tahiti in 1967 by three American pioneers who relocated to Raiatea. They started with modest hotels and aimed to provide guests with direct lagoon access. This led to the emergence of similar bungalows on nearby French Polynesian islands like Moorea and Bora Bora, setting off a lasting travel trend.

Since then, overwater accommodations have transformed into luxurious escapes: Many resorts now offer private infinity pools, butler service, glass-bottom floors, and private terraces. You can even sleep underwater at some locations (like the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island mentioned below).

Today, overwater bungalows can be found around the globe, from French Polynesia to the Maldives, a collection of over 1,000 tiny islands in the Indian Ocean. If you're looking for something nearer to the USA, you’ll find floating thatched-roof villas and cabanas in warm locales like Belize, Jamaica, and St. Lucia.

In the latest edition of Dinogo’s Hotels We Love series, we've curated a list of the 15 finest overwater bungalows across the globe, featuring everything from suspended cabanas in Panama to unique stays in destinations like Sweden, Cambodia, and Indonesia.

1. Nayara Bocas del Toro

Nestled on a private island off Panama's north-central coast, Nayara Bocas del Toro boasts 16 overwater villas and two treehouses perched over turquoise waters. Each villa is equipped with floor-to-ceiling windows that offer stunning views of Dolphin Bay Reserve and Bastimentos National Marine Park, along with a glass floor for observing the vibrant marine life beneath.

This all-inclusive, adults-only retreat is perfect for honeymooners and couples seeking to immerse themselves in the area's natural splendor. Guests can dive into adventure with snorkeling (each room comes with a snorkel kit), explore the nearby rainforest on foot (keep an eye out for sloths, birds, bats, and red frogs), or partake in a guided night swim amidst the bay’s bioluminescent plankton.

The resort has taken significant steps to safeguard the surrounding environment. It operates completely off the grid, utilizing solar power and rainwater, and has teamed up with local organization Caribbean Coral Restoration to aid in coral reef preservation. Rates start at $1,398. Check out Dinogo’s in-depth interview with Nayara Bocas del Toro.

2. Punta Caracol Acqua-Lodge

Located off the east coast of Panama on Colon Island, the palm-roofed cabins at Punta Caracol Acqua-Lodge are perched on stilts over a stunning stretch of aquamarine Caribbean waters. Each of the nine cabins, facing west towards the sunset, is built using traditional local techniques and crafted from natural materials like native woods, clay, bamboo, and wild cane, creating a harmonious connection with nature.

The Bocas del Toro archipelago is home to sloths, howler monkeys, and vibrant scarlet dart frogs, making it worthwhile to step out from your private terrace to explore. However, if you prefer to relax, you might catch a glimpse of dolphins playing in the nearby waters. Rates start at $265

3. Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort, Tahiti

Nestled amidst ocean vistas and white sandy beaches, Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort is a luxurious haven on the Tahitian island of Moorea, conveniently accessible via a direct catamaran from Faa’a International Airport in Papeete. Despite its easy access, it remains a tranquil and secluded getaway. Located beside a lagoon free from Jet Skis and other motorized watercraft, the area’s clear turquoise waters are teeming with tropical fish and marine life, perfect for swimming or snorkeling.

Regarding the property’s 113 thatched-roof bungalows, only a select few are situated over the water (the beachfront options are on land). Be sure to reserve one of the overwater accommodations for a true lagoon experience. From these rooms, guests can dive straight into the crystal-clear waters from a private deck or gaze through glass floor panels for a direct view of the vibrant marine life below. Regardless of your choice, anticipate comfortable king-size beds, wood-accented interiors adorned with Polynesian decor, and floor-to-ceiling windows that showcase views of palm trees and the ocean. Rates start at $870

4. Cayo Espanto

For a convenient getaway from many U.S. cities, Cayo Espanto, located just off the coast of Belize in Ambergris Caye, features six beachfront villas and a unique one-bedroom bungalow with its own private dock. Luxury travel company Scott Dunn highly recommends it for its exceptional scuba diving opportunities in the Belize Barrier Reef, the second largest in the world after Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. If scuba diving isn't your preference, you can also enjoy snorkeling, fly fishing, jungle excursions, and tours of ancient Mayan ruins for a touch of history. Four nights starting at $8,380

5. Arctic Bath

The Lule River in Swedish Lapland might not be as warm as the Indian Ocean, but experiencing a floating hotel here is unparalleled. Arctic Bath, a proud member of Small Luxury Hotels, offers an exceptional stay with six overwater cabins. This secluded and cozy retreat features modern Scandinavian design, with sleek glass walls, rooms adorned in light wood, beds draped with wool throws, and enchanting floating wooden walkways. Arctic Bath serves as an ideal base for witnessing the northern lights, best enjoyed after a revitalizing cold bath and sauna session at the spa. Rates start at $500

6. Cheval Blanc

Located in the Noonu Atoll in the northwest Maldives, this LVMH-owned Cheval Blanc resort comprises 46 overwater villas, with 36 designed by renowned French Belgian architect Jean-Michel Gathy. These villas feature thatched roofs, white walls, and sleek stone floors. Each expansive villa boasts its own infinity pool, several private terraces with ladders leading directly into the azure waters, and a shaded outdoor dining area.

Cheval Blanc also includes a dedicated “spa island” offering treatment pavilions, a boutique with Guerlain products, and a bar serving healthy cuisine, as well as a tennis island featuring two courts. For an ultra-private retreat, the resort’s Cheval Blanc Randheli Private Island offers a four-bedroom villa and a private jetty. Rates start at $4,180

7. Joali

Opened in 2018, Joali is a 73-villa resort dedicated to art. Each overwater villa features its own infinity pool, outdoor shower, and hammock, along with carefully selected nature-inspired artwork depicting manta rays or coral. Craving a fresh passionfruit smoothie each morning? Your villa comes equipped with its own smoothie maker (and, of course, a coffee machine). The Spa by ESPA offers comprehensive fitness and wellness programs, including spin and HIIT classes. Families will appreciate the range of complimentary activities for kids, such as Maldivian storytime and cooking classes, making it a fantastic family-friendly destination.

Sustainability is a priority here: Guests can opt to offset their carbon footprint with Joali’s initiatives or learn about the hotel’s coral garden and nursery. Rates start at $2,000

8. Kudadoo Maldives

Kudadoo is a completely solar-powered private island featuring 15 overwater residences, crafted from responsibly sourced wood and designed with a minimalist Japanese aesthetic by Yuji Yamazaki. The resort emphasizes sustainability, actively participating in the protection of local green sea turtles and manta rays, while utilizing locally sourced and responsibly produced food and seafood.

The resort operates on an all-inclusive basis, offering a guest service promise of “anything, anytime, anywhere,” facilitated by dedicated private butlers. Staff members have been known to greet guests with their favorite songs upon arrival, organize special barbecues under the moon at 2 a.m., and arrange outdoor movies and photoshoots. Rates start at $3,022

9. Raffles Maldives Meradhoo

With the impeccable service of the global hospitality brand Raffles, this corner of the Maldives exudes luxury and tranquility, featuring 22 villas. The design blends colonial and seaside aesthetics, reminiscent of its renowned flagship sibling, the Raffles in Singapore (think blue-and-white striped awnings, rattan fans, and bamboo ceilings). The expansive overwater residences, each boasting two bedrooms and private pools, span a generous 3,229 square feet and offer breathtaking panoramic views at the lagoon's tip, complete with high ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows. Rates start at $1,270

10. Conrad Maldives

Conrad Hotels, a boutique extension of Hilton, has created a stunning retreat across two private islands in the Maldives, featuring overwater villas and the unique underwater Muraka Villa at Conrad Maldives. These villas, perched on stilts above the ocean, serve as serene sanctuaries with infinity pools and spacious verandas.

For a truly unique experience, the Muraka Villa sits 16 feet below the water's surface, encased in glass walls. It includes a bedroom with an en-suite bathroom and a television—though you'll likely spend most of your time captivated by the fish and marine life outside. The villa also boasts three additional bedrooms, a suite for guests, and amenities like a private kitchen, gym, and personal butler. Rates start at $1,648. Check out Dinogo’s complete list of the most unique hotels worldwide.

11. Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora

Let’s be honest: for romantic escapes, overwater bungalows are unmatched with their secluded accommodations and breathtaking views. Combining this allure with exceptional service in French Polynesia, Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora creates a truly enchanting experience. The resort features a total of 108 overwater bungalows, including 27 with private pools. The most extravagant choice is the Otemanu Overwater Bungalow Suite, offering 1,576 square feet of luxury, a private plunge pool, and stunning views of both the lagoon and Mount Otemanu. Its design reflects a traditional Polynesian village, harmoniously blending with the South Pacific waters. Rates start at $2,500. Discover Dinogo’s complete list of top romantic getaways.

12. Bawah Reserve

For a blend of luxury and nature, indulge in one of the 11 overwater bungalows at the all-inclusive Bawah Reserve, nestled in Indonesia’s Anambas Islands between Peninsular Malaysia and Borneo. Each suite is crafted from recycled wood and features copper bathtubs. Your stay supports the Bawah Anambas Foundation, dedicated to aiding the 45,000 residents across the 200 islands of the Anambas through marine conservation, education, and financial assistance.

Guests are thoroughly pampered here: your rate covers one spa treatment per person each day and grants access to activities like kayaking to nearby beaches and lagoons. Although Bawah Reserve is situated in Indonesia, the nearest international airport is in Singapore. Pro tip: Consider extending your trip with a few days in Singapore before or after your stay at Bawah, especially since the resort offers convenient transfer packages (including driver, ferry, and seaplane) from the city-state. Starting at $8,500 for three nights.

13. Pangkor Laut

The privately owned island of Pangkor Laut, located off the western coast of Malaysia, is a top choice for luxury travel company Scott Dunn, which offers activities such as water sports and daily guided rainforest excursions for its clients. Among the 140 room options—many integrated into the rainforest—the overwater suites stand out with their sea and spa villas, including two signature suites.

For couples, a spa villa is an excellent choice, providing direct access to the resort’s Spa Village, which features an adults-only pool and treatments inspired by the wellness traditions of China, Japan, India, Thailand, Bali, and Malaysia. The spa includes three “nap gazebos” for sleeping, meditating, or reading, though you might prefer the comfort of your overwater bungalow for relaxation. Starting at $230

14. Song Saa Private Island

The overwater villas at Song Saa Private Island are nestled within a marine reserve in Cambodia’s Koh Rong Archipelago. Comprising 27 villas crafted from sustainable materials, each open-plan design seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor spaces, featuring indoor-outdoor showers, shaded daybeds, and spacious thatched-roof ceilings.

Song Saa is teeming with diverse marine life, including seahorses, turtles, and octopuses, which guests can observe closely during snorkeling excursions. The island also encourages guests to engage with the Song Saa Foundation, dedicated to conservation efforts and preserving marine ecosystems. Starting at $1,000

15. The Mandina Lodges

Nestled along a mangrove-lined tributary of the River Gambia, these floating bungalows and stilted rooms are located 45 minutes from the West African coast, within the Makasutu Culture Forest. Guests can unwind in one of the nine thatched-roof rooms or explore the area by canoe, where they might encounter monitor lizards, baboons, and a variety of bird species native to the mangroves. Starting at $1,770

This article was first published in 2021 and was last updated on February 14, 2024, featuring additional insights from Erika Owen and Billie Cohen.