Exclusive conditions, privacy, luxury and romance are a small part of what the best overwater bungalows in the world offer. Ideal oases of tranquillity and unity with nature are worth spending your honeymoon there, celebrating an anniversary or simply organising a wonderful holiday. These villas are located above crystal clear water, and most of them boast glass floors, walls or ceilings to contemplate tropical life. There is definitely something romantic and sophisticated about such a setting, especially as five-star hotels pay maximum attention to privacy and creating the best possible environment for their guests.
The following top overwater bungalows in the world offer an incredible experience and a top-class holiday. From Bora Bora to the Maldives, it's impossible to resist the luxury of the world's best hotels!
1. Gili Lankanfushi
If you want to see with your own eyes what the word "exclusivity" looks like in real life, you should visit the best overwater bungalows in the Maldives. Gili Lankanfushi rightfully ranks first among resorts around the world. This impressive place will make you fall in love at first sight and make you forget about all your worries.
A luxurious house with a thatched roof and panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows stands above the turquoise water. Inside, there is a huge king-size bed with weightless canopies, a Cleopatra-worthy bathtub, an outdoor terrace and a private plunge pool.
If this is not enough, then The Private Reserve was created for you - the largest water villa around the world, which, of course, will cost a fortune to stay in. Its area is over 18 thousand square feet, and you can only get there by boat. The bungalow is located in a separate area half a kilometre from the main resort, which gives guests maximum privacy.
The following facilities are available for guests of Gili Lankanfushi:
- gym;
- large outdoor terraces for sunbathing;
- cinema;
- SPA centre with a sauna and many other activities to suit every taste.
Regardless of which room you stay in, everyone will have a personal assistant - Mr Friday, named after Robinson Crusoe's faithful friend, who is ready to fulfil any request. The service is at such a high level that it is hard to imagine.
Guests of Gili Lankanfushi can enjoy a wide range of water sports, excursions or fine dining in the three gourmet restaurants located on site.
2. Cheval Blanc Randheli
This is undoubtedly one of the best water villa resorts. Everything is perfect at Cheval Blanc Randheli - from the gallant staff who strive to make your trip perfect to the extraordinary views from the huge windows or open terraces. The resort features five different restaurants, several pavilions for spa and massage treatments, a steam bath and plenty of water activities to suit all tastes.
However, the true jewel of this paradise is the bungalow huts on the water, which rise above the crystal water, supported by strong pillars. The area of each villa with huge windows to the ceiling is more than 2,500 square feet. It features modern living rooms and a bedroom, a spacious dressing room, a rain shower and an elegant bath. The furniture is made of natural materials, including precious wood and stone.
Located on a private island, Cheval Blanc Randheli is a haven that will appeal to those seeking peace, privacy and relaxation at the highest level. The resort will also be appreciated by guests who care about their health, as they can attend treatments in special treatment villas.
3. Kudadoo Maldives Privet Island
You will definitely want to book a room in the best water hut resort. Kudadoo Maldives Private Island located in the Maldives is a place where everything is perfect. Particular attention is paid to environmental friendliness. The villas are made of natural materials, in particular, rare wood. The design of the bungalows is minimalist, but with Maldivian accents. The buildings are spacious and sunny, each with a private swimming pool, sun loungers for sunbathing and relaxation, and swings over the water. Sliding doors lead to the living room and bedroom, which can be opened to turn the room into a paradise overlooking the coast and the endless expanse of the lagoon. Each villa has a personal butler who fulfils all the guests' whims.
In addition, Kudadoo Maldives Privet Island is one of the best over water bungalow resorts, so you can enjoy unlimited drinks and dishes from excellent chefs, spend time on spa treatments or other wellness activities. The price includes a variety of leisure activities, such as excursions, boating, diving and much more.
4. Soneva Fushi
If you value exclusivity, then Soneva Fushi, ranked as one of the most beautiful overwater bungalows in the world, is a great choice. The resort consists of only eight separate villas, where accommodation is associated with the style of the "rich and famous" to the smallest detail. You can choose from one or two bedroom bungalows, but regardless of the size, guests will enjoy the same excellent service, eco-friendly and elegant furniture in a modern design and all the necessary amenities.
Soneva Fushi is located on the island of Kunfunadhoo, Maldives. This is a tropical corner in the middle of the ocean, where every guest is treated like a king. Each of the houses contains everything you need for a wonderful secluded holiday:
- "infinity pool;
- private catamarans;
- a beautiful courtyard with lots of greenery;
- a slide that goes straight into the Indian Ocean;
- a rain shower and a large bathtub.
There is also a personal butler and bicycles for exploring the island. The restaurants located on the territory of the complex are marked with Michelin stars. In these establishments you can taste fantastic dishes of Asian, Japanese, Mediterranean cuisine, a separate menu is provided for vegetarians. For gourmets who want not only to taste delicious food, but also to enjoy a real performance that reveals the secrets of culinary magic, a visit to the Once Upon a Table restaurant will be interesting. The restaurant is designed for only eight people and is a real food theatre, where the chef creates a real masterpiece in front of the guests, unique every time. Those with a sweet tooth will find all the popular and delicious desserts at So Guilty.
The hotel with the best on the water bungalows is especially suitable for families with children, as it has The Den complex with cinemas, swimming pools, interactive playgrounds and many other entertainment options. Interesting excursions are held here all the time, for example, with a marine biologist or a real astronomer as a guide. You can also enjoy unlimited natural and varied ice cream all day long at The Den. What else do you need to be happy?
5. Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora
This five-star hotel with first-class service is one of the best holiday spots with huts on the water. The villas offer mountain or blue lagoon views, and each has individual access to the ocean. The walls of the buildings are made of volcanic stone, and the furniture is made of precious teak with natural mother-of-pearl accents. The overwater bungalows provide an area many times larger than ordinary suites, as well as large private pools.
You can swim and dive right under the hut at the water resort, exploring the tropical world of the ocean. In your free time, you can play badminton or tennis, kayak or enjoy the magnificent views on a catamaran. For those who cannot leave work even on holiday, there is a modern air-conditioned business centre.
If you're travelling with children but want to spend some time alone with your loved one, the Kids for All Seasons Club offers a variety of activities for all ages. While the kids are having fun, parents have the opportunity to relax in the Te Mahana Spa, while watching the lively fish swimming under the transparent floor. For dinner or lunch, you can choose from four gourmet restaurants.
6. St. Regis Bora Bora Resort
The largest and best places with overwater bungalows in the world and in the Pacific Ocean in particular are about St. Regis Bora Bora. Everything here is just like in the picture - white sandy beaches, tall green palm trees, houses with a standard thatched roof over a turquoise expanse of water. The view from the bungalows is breathtaking! The resort on Bora Bora exudes luxury and vibes that set the mood for the perfect holiday.
In addition to the beautifully furnished living room and bedroom, special attention should be paid to the royal bathroom. Its huge windows overlook a secluded garden, and the decoration is made of the highest quality Italian marble. A special feature of the best over the water villas is the glass floor, through which you can watch the rich and active life of the Pacific Ocean. Of course, each bungalow comes with a personal butler to help solve all your problems and relieve you of such worries as unpacking or making your morning coffee.
The resort is staffed by extremely polite staff by default, who do everything for the comfort of guests. There is a large spa centre on site, as well as five in-house restaurants serving fine dining. Of particular note is The Lagoon by Jean-Georges.
Not only adults, but also children are welcome at Ze Saint Regis Bora Bora Resort. The Lagoonarium club organises interesting events for them every day.
7. Jumeirah Maldives Olhahali Island
This resort boasts not only the best overwater villas in the world, but also two-storey villas with roof patios. Each of the villas has a large infinity pool, an outdoor sunbathing terrace, and a rain shower.
The resort in the Maldives offers an exclusive luxury holiday. A variety of water sports are included in the booking price:
- flyboarding;
- windsurfing;
- paddleboarding, boating and canoeing.
There are children's and teenage clubs on site, offering plenty of entertainment for all ages. You can also taste dishes from cuisines around the world in three upscale restaurants - Kayto, Shimmers and Glow. We recommend ordering a floating breakfast directly to your private pool or enjoying delicious natural ice cream at Gelateria.
8. Conrad Bora Bora Nui
The best bungalow in the world, worthy of celebrity attention? Yes, we are talking about Conrad Bora Bora Nui. It's a luxurious five-star resort with the right prices, because such a holiday can't be cheap.
The first thing that catches your eye is the giant-sized central pool with comfortable sun loungers. It is simply impressive! In addition, the hammocks located right above the water are a must-see. They give an unforgettable experience.
And, of course, the best water villas immediately promise a top-class holiday. With over a thousand square feet of space, these bungalows are the epitome of tranquillity and relaxed bliss. It has everything you need for the perfect holiday - an exquisite bedroom, spacious bathroom, outdoor terrace and private pool with endless views of the lagoon.
If this is not enough, you can also book The Muraka residence. The duplex bungalow is not just located above the water. Its main feature is the presence of a bedroom that is "immersed" in the ocean by 16 feet. This room is located in a special acrylic dome and includes a bathroom with huge floor-to-ceiling windows.
One of the best places for overwater bungalows offers a variety of water activities, a kids' club with professional animators, sandy, clean beaches and open-air restaurants with cuisine from top chefs. In particular, the Iriatai open-air restaurant, the Tarava poolside bar or the Upa Upa lounge. The Ithaa restaurant, located underwater, is also worth a visit. The award-winning restaurant offers fusion cuisine and cool island cocktails.
Conrad Bora Bora Nui is often chosen by couples who want to combine their lives in marriage. After all, a wedding chapel with panoramic windows and incredible views is located on a picturesque hilltop. The ceremony held here will be a great start to family life and will leave pleasant memories for a lifetime. Just imagine the photos you can take from here!
9. Six Senses Ninh Van Bay Resort
The resort, located in Vietnam, is a real find for those who plan to relax with the whole family. Six Senses Ninh Van Bay Resort is surrounded by picturesque mountains, a sandy wide beach and tropical forests. The resort offers a variety of accommodation options to suit every taste, and the best water bungalows will not leave anyone indifferent. The villas consist of two levels and are located directly on the cliffs. Guests have a private terrace, a private pool, and a rain shower. Particular attention should be paid to the handmade wooden bathtub, which is installed in front of panoramic windows, guaranteeing a fantastic view and incredible pleasure for the eyes.
The over water boat villas are accessed via a pathway and can also be reached by speedboat. This creates an atmosphere of maximum privacy and seclusion. Each of the three bedrooms is almost a separate room with its own bathroom. In addition, there is a water slide from the second floor to the pool, which children will definitely appreciate; adults will also enjoy it.
The resort offers a variety of entertainment options for guests:
- treatments in the huge spa centre;
- yoga classes;
- cooking courses;
- SUP-boarding or kayaking, etc.
Dining options range from an exclusive open-air restaurant to a café overlooking Ninh Van Bay or a romantic dinner in the caves.
10. Angsana Velavaru
The five-star resort is located in the Maldives, namely on the South Nilandhe Atoll, famous for its pristine beauty. Angsana Velavaru offers 34 chic InOcean villas, service that even celebrities will enjoy, and fantastic sunsets.
The best on water bungalows, which seem to rise above the crystal turquoise surface, are a real treasure of the Maldivian resort. Each of the buildings offers beautiful views of the sunrise or sunset, depending on the location. The following benefits are provided for guests of the bungalows over the water:
- a private infinity pool;
- hammocks over the water;
- open pavilion on the roof;
- private terrace, etc.
We recommend diving from the pier to get to the incredible coral reefs that will amaze you with their diversity. It is also worth ordering a floating breakfast to your room. This guarantees maximum enjoyment and great photos to remember.
The best over the water resorts operate on an all-inclusive basis; guests can choose from five packages. Angsana Velavaru offers a variety of activities to suit all tastes:
- stingray feeding;
- drumming lessons;
- water polo;
- scuba diving;
- watching films in the open-air cinema.
Wakeboarding and catamaran riding are available for a fee. Children will also be interested in spending their holidays here, as there is a Ranger Club on the territory of the complex.
11. Likuliku Lagoon Resort
This five-star resort on the island of Malolo, Fiji, is one of the 14 best over water villas in the world. Likuliku Lagoon Resort boasts a unique and authentic design of its ten overwater villas, created in a traditional style.
This paradise is surrounded by an ocean lagoon and a lush green forest. It is worth noting that the resort is for adults only. This means that you can look forward to the ultimate relaxation and a perfect romantic getaway.
A private deck from which you can dive into the azure water, an outdoor bathtub, and a rain shower are all designed for a truly royal holiday. Another advantage of Likuliku Lagoon Resort is the all-inclusive system. Therefore, guests can enjoy a variety of sports, fine dining and all kinds of entertainment without worrying about their wallet.
The resort is located on the territory of a protected marine reserve with an incredible coral reef full of marine life. Rent snorkelling equipment to see it all with your own eyes.
Unique nature combined with numerous amenities and excellent service make Likulika Lagoon Resort one of the best overwater bungalows resorts in the world, and it's an all-inclusive experience.
12. InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa
This fantastic resort with the best holiday huts on water on Bora Bora, with its long name, guarantees an equally long holiday experience. The InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa is most often chosen by couples who want to visit a paradise and enjoy a romantic holiday. The resort combines care for the island's ecosystem with Polynesian traditions. It can only be reached by charter boat from Bora Bora Airport.
Guests of the resort cannot take their eyes off the green tropical forests, bright blue water and the picturesque Mount Otemanu, which rises against the perfect blue sky, as if painted by a famous artist.
The pride of the five-star complex is the 43,000-square-foot Thalasso Spa, where treatments are performed in glass-floored rooms. This allows you to enjoy not only wellness or a relaxing massage, but also contemplation of bright tropical fish and other marine life.
The luxurious water top bungalows are located in a secluded lagoon, illuminated by the bright sun. So don't forget to take stylish sunglasses with you.
What is inside the best overwater bungalows? Thanks to the panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows, you can enjoy the fantastic views while lying on a king-size bed or relaxing in the spacious living room without worrying about prying eyes. And no wonder, as the resort takes the best care of its visitors' privacy. Each bungalow has a private pool, furnished seating areas and decks with access to the water. It's worth noting that the best views of Mount Otemanu and the lagoon are immediately available when you book a room in one of the Teremoana villas.
The best over the water bungalow resorts have three restaurants, each of which offers top-class cuisine.
InterContinental Bora Bora Resort became the first resort in the world to introduce a seawater air conditioning system. This demonstrates the utmost care for the island's environment and guarantees independence from other energy sources.
13. AYADA
The island of Magudhuva (Maldives) is home to an incredible decadent resort with the best overwater villas. Everything you can imagine when thinking about a paradise holiday on a private island is here. The overwater villas with tiki roofs boast spacious living rooms and bedrooms, a private plunge pool and a private wooden terrace. Inside, it is possible to observe the active tropical life through the glass floor, for example, while taking a bath. There is also an outdoor rain shower and a large hammock over the water, which is a pleasure to lie on.
You can explore the island by cycling and enjoying the breeze. However, one call to the personal butler and he will take guests anywhere in the resort.
AYADA Maldives offers several first-class dining options. For example, the Ottoman Lounge, where you can enjoy a large selection of teas and Turkish coffee while drinking them on special low seats. If you wish, the polite and caring staff will arrange a private dinner in the rainforest or a romantic lunch on the beach. You can also order a floating breakfast, which will be organised in your pool. Of course, the quality of the products used by the chefs to prepare the dishes is of the highest level.
AYADA Maldives welcomes younger guests to the ZUZUU Kids Club. Professional animators and nannies are ready to look after the kids at any time, so that adults can enjoy spa treatments in silence or take a romantic walk on the sandy white beach.
The resort specialises in water activities. Surfing, diving, fishing, stingray and dolphin watching are just a few of the leisure options on offer.
14. El Dorado Maroma
When you think of the best bungalow resorts, you immediately think of the Maldives or Bora Bora. However, this resort, located in Mexico, can easily compete with the most popular destinations.
El Dorado Maroma offers to stay in one of thirty incredible palacitos located near the secluded Maroma beach. The thatched-roofed villas rise above the turquoise water of the warm Caribbean Sea, embodying true luxury. Each of the buildings has a private pool and a spacious terrace, the floor is equipped with glass panels. Of course, the bungalows are stylishly designed and furnished with modern, elegant furniture.
Other facilities available to guests include:
- hot tub;
- outdoor shower;
- a slide leading directly into the water;
- personal butler service;
- individual picnics on the beach every day;
- rich breakfasts in the room, snacks and drinks before dinner.
It's worth bearing in mind that the resort is for adults only, so families with children will have to choose another option.
After a day of activities, such as diving or spa treatments, we recommend visiting The Overwater Grill, which offers delicious and flavourful dishes. The restaurant's floor is glass and it is located above the water, so you can enjoy the soothing waves of the Caribbean Sea and watch the tropical life in between meals.
