What is the best time to visit Jamaica?

When it comes to planning a vacation to any destination, it is essential to consider the climate and weather patterns, as well as peak and off-peak seasons, all of which can make or break your experience. Since Jamaica is in the Caribbean, one thing to consider is that this region has a hurricane season which runs from June – November, making this the low or off-peak season due to the heavy downpours and the risk of dangerous tropical storms and hurricanes. The best time to visit Jamaica is in the dry season which runs from December – mid April, which is when the risk of hurricanes and storms is at its lowest and the weather is glorious and sunny. During this period visitors can make the most of the various activities on the island, and if staying in a fabulous overwater bungalow in Jamaica, guests will have plenty of hours of sunshine to enjoy on their private deck, or in the crystal-clear waters below. For safety reasons, it is advised to only travel to Jamaica and surrounding regions, when the risk of hurricanes is at its lowest and the weather is mild. If you find a good deal during the off-peak season, which sounds too good to be true, it generally is, so it is best to plan to visit in the dry season.

What are the most luxurious overwater bungalows in Jamaica?

Both Sandals adults only all-inclusive resorts are incredible choices for the best overwater bungalows in Jamaica. This hotel chain is world renowned for its high standards, luxurious accommodation and excellent service – after all their overwater bungalows come with private butler service. Another fantastic option is the new Princess Senses the Mangrove, which features 14 overwater bungalows, and offers the choice of a livelier atmosphere, with a nightclub and aquatic park, if that is what you want. While these three options are the best luxurious overwater bungalows in Jamaica, it is worth noting that the Sandals Resorts are ideal for couples seeking a relaxing escape, honeymooners who want a memorable getaway or those who want a destination wedding. Princess Sense the Mangrove also has a romantic flavor, especially at the stunning overwater bungalows, but this is a great option for those who want entertainment, more activities and a vibrant atmosphere.

How much do overwater bungalows cost in Jamaica?

When it comes to prices, Sandals and Princess Senses the Mangrove have the highest prices, with nightly rates starting at $1,500 which is subject to change and depends on the time of year. Overwater bungalows are one of the best luxuries accommodations to choose, for the experience they provide, so you can expect to pay more than your average hotel room. In some destinations like Panama for example, you can find affordable laid back overwater bungalows, which could be a great alternative if you are on a budget and want to visit the Carribean. Alternatively opting for a cliff side cottage or villa in one of the other Jamaican hotels and resorts mentioned, will vary in price, so it is worth comparing before booking. Either way, there is no doubt that whatever you choose from this list, will not be a disappointment.

The 7 Best Overwater Bungalows In Jamaica, [2025 Exclusive Guide]

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Jamaica is a destination that comes to mind for many who are seeking a truly tropical escape, not to mention the rich heritage and culture that this Caribbean Island nation oozes. There are plenty of things to see and do in Jamaica, considered it has an idyllic location, surrounded by crystal clear waters, filled with tropical marine life, making it a haven for water sports.

If that wasn’t enough, Jamaica is one of the best places to stay in an all-inclusive resort, with many options to choose from, and if you ask us, you cannot overlook their variety of fabulous overwater bungalows.

So, why stay in an overwater bungalow in Jamaica? Overwater bungalows offer an added sense of luxury, since you have your own private space, sensation views and direct access to the calm waters below, and Jamaica is not lacking these stunning accommodation options. So, whether you seek an ultra-luxe escape to a world-famous resort, or prefer a low-key, laid-back option with family or loved ones, then Jamaica may have just what you are looking for.

Montego Bay is one of the main hubs for visitors to Jamaica, and you will find many of the all-inclusive resorts here, but when it comes to overwater bungalows, you can find them just about everywhere in the country. From boutique resorts in remote locations to all-inclusive options in a vibrant environment, Jamaica has something to suit everyone.

In this article we will explore the best overwater bungalows in Jamaica, divulge the answers to some frequently asked questions and reveal the best time to stay in an overwater bungalow in Jamaica.

So, let’s check it out.

The 7 Best Overwater Bungalows in Jamaica

1. Sandals South Coast

One of the best honeymoon destinations

If it’s the 5-star luxury you seek, then you should consider staying at the opulent overwater bungalows of Sandals South Coast. This stunning adults’ only all-inclusive resort leaves nothing to the imagination, and if you are in search of a memorable vacation spot or honeymoon destination, then we must admit this will blow you away. As you can imagine, Sandals is well known for their high standards and lavish resorts worldwide, so what guests can expect at their South Coast Jamaica location is nothing short of incredible. In addition, both Sandals locations are only two of three adults only all-inclusive resorts in Jamaica, so you are in for a treat, with whichever one you chose.

The resort features an over the water bar, over the water chapel – if you fancy renewing your vows or eloping while you are there, and fabulous overwater bungalows, which are a must. If we could suggest a sensational option for a luxury vacation, we would have to say that the Blue Mahoe Overwater Butler Villa is a fantastic choice.

From the pristine location above the crystal-clear waters, to the plush interiors that ensure comfort and luxury, Sandals South Coast overwater bungalows are well worth considering. Did we mention that these overwater bungalows include butler service, as per the name, so every detail will be taken care of, leaving you with more time to soak up the experience.

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2. Sandals Royal Caribbean, Montego Bay

Overwater bungalows off a private island

Sticking with Sandals, a resort that is luxurious in every sense of the word, we move on to their Montego Bay location, which is just as fabulous as the South Coast. This resort is adults only, all-inclusive just like its sister hotel, and embraces its British heritage with manicured gardens, an on-site British Pub as well as Georgian style architecture and delightful afternoon tea traditions.

What’s more, is that this opulent resort has its very own private island which allows guests to enjoy two vacations at once, both at the resort and on the nearby island, a short ferry away.

Without a doubt their overwater accommodation options are some of the bests in Jamaica and guests can expect 24-hour butler service, a location just off the resorts private island, private infinity pools and direct access to the calm waters below. The bungalows are tastefully decorated with plush decor and mahogany king size beds, floating water hammocks outside as well as glass panel flooring inside to enjoy the rich biodiversity below.

If this is not the holiday of a lifetime, we don’t know what it is! Sandals Royal Caribbean is an excellent option for couples in search of a tranquil, serene and remote escape to nature.

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3. Princess Senses The Mangrove

One of the best overwater bungalows in Jamaica

This new adults-only beachfront resort is one of a kind in Jamaica and features 14 incredible overwater bungalows. Located in Negril, on the west side of Jamaica, nestled along the serene shores of Green Island, Princess Sense The Mangrove has a lot of exciting features and amenities to offer guests.

The 5-star resort boasts a luxurious and well-equipped wellness and fitness center, a wide range of swimming pools and an aquatic park as well as a vibrant nightclub and relaxing spa, so as you can see this is a resort that caters to everyone, wherever your priorities lie.

For a truly exclusive experience, guests should opt for some of the best overwater bungalows in Jamaica, which are right here at Princess Senses. These stunning villas feature private infinity pools, stunning vistas of the crystal-clear waters and a private bedroom which includes partially glassed floors, allowing you to spot Nemo and his friends from the comfort of your bed. If that wasn’t enough, guests have the option to upgrade to a Princess Overwater Villa, of which there are just two.

This ultra exclusive option means that guests will have expanded space both inside the villa and on the terrace, suitable for two guests. Both options for overwater bungalows at Princess Senses included Platinum Club benefits, opening up a world of premium services to enhance their experience.

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4. Rockhouse Hotel

A fantastic take on traditional overwater bungalows

While the accommodation at Rockhouse Hotel is not the typical overwater bungalow you might imagine, let us tell you why it has made our list. This boutique style hotel is nestled among lush, tropical gardens, high above the cliffs, giving the hotel a charm like no other. Priding themselves on being ‘the islands best kept secret’, The Rockhouse is a fantastic option for those who want the experience of a lifetime in a hotel that is far from resort life.

To enjoy an overwater bungalow feeling, guests can opt for one of many accommodation options, such as the ocean view suites or premium villa, which deliver sensational panoramic vistas. The layout of this rock-built hotel is certainly one to write home about and is one that is picture perfect in every way, boasting 800ft of pristine cove, a sixty-foot horizon pool and picturesque thatched roof villas perched on the water’s edge.

A fantastic take on the overwater bungalows, you might have seen before. Guests have access to complimentary paddle boards to enjoy the surrounding area and there is an on-site spa, providing luxurious treatments, so no wonder this is an iconic celebrity hangout in Negril.

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5. Golden eye

A magical resort attracting creative minds

Golden-Eye-Resort — Ste out from your waterfront cottage to the sea Image by: goldeneye.com

From the name, you might assume this has something to do with James Bond, and you would be right. Golden Eye is a stunning collection of iconic beach huts, private villas and cottages, which was once the holiday retreat of Ian Fleming, who wrote 14 James Bond novels throughout the years on the grounds of the property, adding to its charm, history and allure.

Here guests can enjoy the tranquility of private beaches and secluded coves as well as the hotels on site facilities which include a luxurious spa, tropical gardens and those staying in the beautiful villas will have direct access to the lagoon.

Each villa offers sensational sea views, access to the water or the beach and some even feature their own full kitchen and large private veranda. For that overwater bungalow feel, guests can opt for the lagoon villa, which features an outdoor garden shower, large private porch, full private kitchen and a fabulous stone deck that has a ladder giving you direct access to the lagoon below. What more could you want?

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6. Tensing Pen

An award-winning cliff side boutique hotel

Tensing-Pen-hotel — One of the most picturesque waterfront hotels in Jamaica Image by: tensingpen.com

If you are searching for the best overwater bungalows in Jamaica, why not consider Tensing Pen, a four-star hotel with a 5-star location. This award-winning Jamaican resort may not feature typical overwater bungalows, but what you will find at this romantic, boutique resort is just as impressive.

Located in Negril, Jamaica a town on the western side of the country known for its wild and rugged cliffs, Tensing Pen has weaved its hotel into the dramatic landscape, creating something entirely unique. Moreover, this awe-inspiring resort is proudly handmade using local wood, stone and thatched roofs, giving way to a unique design and decor.

When it comes to their rooms, you cannot go wrong with your choice, since all rooms are complete with panoramic vistas of both the ocean and the garden, feature an intimate setting and feature a private deck to enjoy it all. If you had to choose, we would say that Cove Cottage is an excellent choice, and truly one of the most sought-after accommodation options for what it offers.

Featuring a breathtaking ocean view and a location perched 10ft above the cove, this envied cottage provides guests with a birds eye view of the surrounding area, leaving you with many memorable experiences. This cozy and romantic boutique hotel must be one of the best alternatives to the traditional overwater bungalows in Jamaica, and we are sure you can see why.

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7. Half Moon, Montego Bay

Indulge in an overwater spa experience

What if we told you that there is a stunning resort located in Montego Bay, that features an 18-hole golf course, a swim up pool bar and a luxurious overwater spa? Yes, Half Moon Resort is an exceptional 5-star property located within 400 acres (about half the area of Central Park in New York City), complete with a private white sand beach and plenty of fantastic facilities.

Food lovers can enjoy dining at one of the seven on-site restaurants, while there is also an equestrian center and fitness center for those who want to stay active or seek an outdoor adventure.

What makes this place so unique is its overwater spa and overwater bungalows, which offer guests the chance to melt their stress away. Providing sound bath classes, private yoga and meditation sessions and a range of spa treatments directly above the water, this luxurious spa is the icing on the cake at Half Moon.

While the resort does not offer private overwater bungalows to stay in, there are many beautiful rooms, suites and villas to choose from, with the ocean suites and villas being the most impressive. The overwater bungalows are an extension of the stunning spa and available for reservation, should you wish to enjoy some well-deserved pampering sessions with a sensational view.

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