An overwater bungalow honeymoon is perfect if you want a mix of luxury, underwater sports, and comfort. They’re designed with romance in mind. Most of them are typically located in secluded areas, often on private islands or in remote parts of resorts.
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What Makes an Overwater Bungalow the Ideal Honeymoon Accommodation?
Overwater bungalows are ideal honeymoon accommodations since they blend relaxation, romance, and luxury perfectly.
These luxury resorts offer newlyweds unbeatable ocean views as they enjoy top-notch accommodations. Overwater suites are perfect for couples seeking ultimate privacy, as most have private decks or are adults-only resorts.
Staying in it gives an intimate view of the ocean (or lake), as many villas have glass floors. You can watch the marine life and their environs below the crystal clear waters.
Luxurious overwater bungalows offer exquisite amenities, including jacuzzis, private infinity pools, butlers, and 24-hour room service.
What Activities Can You Do While Honeymooning in an Overwater Bungalow?
- Lounging and sunbathing: Most overwater villas have sunbeds on private outdoor decks. So you and your sweetheart can have a romantic time together as you soak in the sunshine, enjoy the gentle ocean breeze, and sip your cocktails.
- Romantic dinner or cinema night: There’s no better way to catch the sunset than having a romantic candlelit dinner on your private deck. Enjoy the tranquility of the turquoise waters surrounding your overwater bungalow as you sample tropical delicacies like fresh seafood and fruits. Then, welcome the night by watching a romantic film with a bottle of champagne and a bowl of popcorn on the side.
- Scuba diving and snorkeling: Explore the marine wonderland below your overwater villa. Grab your diving or snorkeling gear, dive into the crystal clear waters, and marvel at the untamed beauty of coral reefs. You’ll also have a close encounter with the friendly manta rays, colorful reef fish, and harmless black-tip reef sharks.
- Water sports: For a jolt of adrenaline, engage in thrilling water activities like swimming, kayaking, windsurfing, canoeing, and paddleboarding. Take in the beautiful scenery as you explore the areas surrounding the overwater bungalows.
- Spa treatment: Overwater bungalows scream ultimate relaxation and pampering. So why not use spa treatment services like rejuvenating massages and facials? Then, soak in the jacuzzi with your sweetheart for a hydrotherapy dose as you unwind and unplug from the outside world.
- Beach picnics: Missing the tingling feeling of the sand under your feet? Walk to the shore and find a unique spot for a romantic picnic. Snack on your food choice as you enjoy panoramic views of the ocean and the environs.
How Much Does an Overwater Bungalow Honeymoon Typically Cost?
An overwater bungalow typically costs $120 to $1,100 per night (for two) during off-seasons and $210 to $2,800 during peak seasons.
But this price depends on several factors, including:
- The destination: Overwater bungalows in the Caribbean and Central America are generally cheaper than in Asian and South Pacific destinations.
- Accommodation type: All-inclusive packages are pricier than half-board options.
- Amenities included: Overwater bungalows offering more amenities (and luxuries) are costlier than standard ones.
- Season: You’ll pay less for an overwater bungalow during off-season months than during the peak seasons.
9 Best Destinations For an Overwater Bungalow Honeymoon
1. Bora Bora
Bora Bora, in French Polynesia, boasts some of the best overwater bungalows in the world. You’ll find various villa options overlooking the Polynesian white sand beaches. The choices are endless, from one-story beach resorts to world-class king villas, beachfront villa estates, and two-story presidential villas.
Some overwater bungalows are arched on islets (motu). In contrast, others are built on shallow calm waters on private islands. These exquisite accommodations offer panoramic views of Bora Bora’s attractions, including Mount Otemanu, beautiful lagoons, and lush islands.
The most famous and exquisite overwater bungalows include Conrad Bora Bora Nui, The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort, and Intercontinental Bora Bora Resort.
When to visit: April and November
How to arrive: Boat ride from Motu Mute Airport
2. Maldives
Another dream destination, Maldives, flaunts the most overwater bungalows in the world. Due to the high competition, these water villas offer the highest standards and competitive prices.
Overwater offerings include overwater boutique resorts, villas, and luxe suites spread across the island series on the Indian Ocean.
The allure of these overwater bungalows screams romance and relaxation since they have different amenities for a memorable honeymoon. The best overwater villas include Baros Maldives, Four Seasons Maldives, and Soneva Jani.
When to visit: November to April
How to arrive: By speedboat or seaplane from the airport
3. Jamaica
Jamaica is a tropical paradise with jaw-breaking attractions. And it also makes it to the bucket list of overwater bungalow honeymoon destinations.
Most overwater bungalows are perched on Jamaica’s Pristine Cove and Montego Bay, providing gorgeous views of the Caribbean. And a majority are all-inclusive resorts with top-notch amenities like personalized butler services and complimentary boat transfers.
Jamaica’s finest overwater bungalows are the Sandals South Coast and Sandals Royal Caribbean.
When to visit: December to March
How to arrive: Drive from Sangster International Airport
4. Moorea
Although this tiny South Pacific island is less famous than its sister Tahiti, Moorea is home to some of the best overwater bungalows. The overwater villas are perched on private beaches surrounded by emerald-green waters.
A honeymoon in this magical setting offers an exceptional opportunity to marvel at the Polynesian beauty of the white sand beaches, tropical rainforests, and fascinating wildlife.
Moorea’s world-class overwater bungalows include Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea, Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort and Spa, and Manava Beach Resort and Spa.
When to visit: May to October
How to arrive: Ferry ride from Tahiti
5. Belize
This fascinating country is nestled between the Caribbean Sea and the eastern part of Central America. It flaunts some of the best overwater bungalows in the Caribbean, providing an unforgettable over-the-water getaway.
These eco-friendly overwater stays combine luxury, comfort, and sustainability. You get the chance to immerse in Belize’s tropical beauty and unplug from the rest of the world.
Thatch Caye Resort and Cayo Espanto Island Resort top the list of the best overwater bungalows in Belize.
When to visit: January to May
How to arrive: Boat ride from Belize City
6. Fiji
Fiji is an idyllic honeymoon destination in the South Pacific, thanks to its rugged landscapes of white sand beaches and lush islands. But beyond the natural beauties are five resorts with fantastic overwater bungalows (“bures”).
They’re in a pristine environment surrounded by clear lagoons, fringed coral reefs, and palm-lined beaches. Their design is similar to traditional Fijian bures but with a contemporary twist.
Its top overwater bungalows include Likuliku Lagoon Resort and Fiji Marriott Resort.
When to visit: May to October
How to arrive: Car or seaplane ride from Nadi International Airport
7. St. Lucia
Although a tiny island nation in the Caribbean, St. Lucia is a bucket-list honeymoon destination. Plus, it boasts of having one of the most coveted accommodation facilities, the overwater bungalows. These exquisite stays are only found at Sandals Grande St. Lucian, a 5-star resort.
The overwater bungalows scream luxury and serenity, offering top-notch accommodation and amenities. The 9 villas are all-inclusive and adults-only, providing ultimate privacy.
When to visit: December to February
How to arrive: Drive from Hewanorra International Airport
8. Mexico
Nothing spells romance like bonding with your partner on a secluded beach or private island. Overwater bungalows in Mexico offer exclusive features that make this fantasy a reality in a destination closer to home.
These water villas are perched on the Caribbean or the Bacalar Lagoon. They provide a perfect chance to relish the tranquility of the Caribbean Sea. Top-rated overwater bungalows in Mexico include the Palafitos at El Dorado Maroma, Rosewood Mayakoba, and Banyan Tree Mayakoba in Riviera Maya.
When to visit: December to April
How to arrive: Drive from Cancun International Airport
9. Antigua and Barbuda
Located between the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, Antigua and Barbuda is a dreamy tropical getaway. The island country is home to one of the best overwater bungalows in the Caribbean.
The overwater bungalow at Royalton Antigua sits above the clear waters of Deep Bay, offering a romantic ambiance and great ocean views. Its world-class amenities are enough to make any couple’s honeymoon dreams come true.
When to visit: May to November
How to arrive: Drive from V.C. Bird International Airport
What Amenities to Look For in an Overwater Bungalow
- Private plunge pools
- Personalized butler service
- 24-hour room service, nearby beach
- Hammocks on private decks
- Walk-in rain showers and outdoor showers
- Soaking tub or jacuzzi
- On-site spas
- Concierge services like bespoke excursions and private dining
- Private infinity pools
- See-through glass floors
- A ladder into the ocean
- Fitness centers and exercise classes
- Underwater suites and restaurants
- Tennis courts
- Access to water activity gear
What to Pack For an Overwater Bungalow Honeymoon
Lightweight, comfortable clothing, including summer dresses, cotton and line shorts, shirts, pants, and t-shirts are best. Add swimsuits and cover-ups as well.
Don’t forget wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses for perfect honeymoon photos. Sunscreen (sunblock) and bug repellant are a must.
Flipflops and sandals, lassy evening attire, and water or reef shoes are good to have.