Overwater bungalows are usually associated with places like French Polynesia and The Maldives, but what if we told you that you could enjoy a sense of luxury and tranquility much closer to home? Let’s face it: the region of the South Pacific is quite a journey to get to, yet there are a variety of Caribbean destinations that boast stunning overwater bungalows, which are certainly worth considering.
The Caribbean has long been a popular destination to venture to for its vibrant culture, excellent weather, and incredibly inviting seas, and there are some incredible overwater bungalows to choose from across many of the lush islands.
From the luxury resorts of Jamaica to romantic Aruban accommodations, the Caribbean has an eclectic selection of fabulous overwater bungalows to choose from that suit all styles, interests, and budgets. As someone who has visited much of this stunning tropical region, I can safely say that I can recommend some of the best islands and places to stay. So, if you plan the adventure of a lifetime, a group holiday, or the ultimate honeymoon escape, this article will benefit your research.
In this article, we will explore the best overwater bungalows in the Caribbean, covering various islands, landscapes, amenities, and overall atmosphere so you will find something perfect for you. So, let’s get started!
The 10 Best Overwater Bungalows in the Caribbean
1. Sandals Royal Caribbean, Jamaica
The ultimate couples-only inclusive retreat
This ‘Couples Only’ resort is a fantastic choice for the ultimate romantic escape, not only because it is the prime destination in Montego Bay but also because the overwater bungalows here are some of the best you will find in the region. Guests can look forward to supreme privacy since this all-inclusive resort is on its private island, where the sand is powdery and white, and the water is crystal clear.
Now, let’s get to the good stuff – the overwater bungalows. Sandals Royal Carribean is one of the best overwater bungalows in the Carribean because of the luxury it oozes. These bungalows are nothing short of outstanding, featuring honeymoon suites with butler service and elite suites with balconies and hot tubs. Boasting ample space, a private entrance, infinity pools, and glass panel flooring, you can certainly see why this is a top choice for a luxury hideout in a stunning location.
2. Aruban Ocean Villas, Aruba
A one-of-a-kind boutique hotel
Situated in the idyllic Aruban town of Savaneta, this stunning resort is as unique as they come, and if you seek something out of the ordinary yet full of luxury, then this may just be the one for you. So, what makes Aruba Ocean Villas one of the best overwater bungalows in the Caribbean?
This is the ultimate destination to find peace, relaxation, and unmatched tranquility, and the fact that there are just four overwater bungalows available maximizes the chance to unwind in a low-key resort.
This one-of-a-kind boutique-inspired hotel is one of the best ‘hidden gems’ in the Caribbean, especially regarding its overwater bungalows. Featuring breathtaking views, eye-catching artwork, and all the space you could hope for, including a private plunge pool and overwater hammock, we cannot deny that this may well be the best choice for a serene and enchanting experience.
3. Thatch Caye Resort, Belize
A rustic and remote resort
Belize is a fantastic destination to visit for many reasons, and one of them is to stay at the Thatch Cay Resort, which will exceed any expectations you may have. Located on the private island of Dangriga, this rustic resort boasts sensational views, and there is plenty to do in the area if you are feeling adventurous.
The resort provides kayaks and snorkeling gear, so you can enjoy the inviting surrounding regions whenever you please. Regarding the overwater villas, each boasts a private entrance, 180-degree views from its suspended private terrace, and chic furnishings cut from local beech wood.
What makes this resort stand out is its uniqueness. It is far from the bustling hotel chains you might have heard about, and this is a little piece of paradise where you can escape from the hustle and bustle and be one with nature. Another benefit of this overwater bungalow is that it is easily accessible from Canada and the USA. Belize City is well connected to many North American airports, giving you more time to enjoy the sweet life.
4. Palafitos Overwater Bungalows, Mexico
The best resort for fun and relaxation
Mexico has long been a popular holiday destination for North Americans due to its great weather, affordability, and ease of access. But did you know that some fantastic resorts offer some of the best overwater bungalows in the Caribbean? One great example is Palafitos Overwater Bungalows at El Dorado Maroma, which is for adults only.
Located just a stone’s throw from Playa del Carmen beach, this idyllic resort is undoubtedly the place for fun, entertainment, and socializing.
If you fancy the combination of a luxurious overwater bungalow with fantastic views paired with vibrant communal facilities, this may be the perfect place for you. Here, guests can choose between relaxing in their fantastic accommodation, which features a pool with a view, direct sea access, and a hot tub, or taking part in a spot of karaoke, working out at the gym, or discovering the nearby tropical jungle. This is undoubtedly the best choice for a sociable streak combined with luxurious private accommodation.
5. Sandals South Coast, Jamaica
A resort that oozes romance
As you might have guessed from the name, Sandal’s world-famous resorts are well known for their luxurious streak and are popular with couples worldwide. Sandals South Coast is no different. This all-inclusive resort needs to be considered for the ultimate escape, especially since the resort oozes romance, so much so that the deck connecting the overwater bungalows is built in the shape of a heart. Could this be a more romantic location?
The overwater bungalows are some of the best in the region, and couples can enjoy soaking in their private hot tub, chilling in the overwater hammock, and enjoying romantic quality time together on their overwater patio. In addition, the bungalow’s glass panel flooring brings you marine life and adds a wow factor.
Plus, it can be viewed directly from the plush king-sized bed. If that wasn’t enough, the hotel offers nine restaurants, fire pits, and many activities like windsurfing, diving, and tennis.
6. Royalton Antigua Resort, Antigua
The only one of its kind in Antigua
Royalton Antigua Resort, An Autograph Collection is one of the best overwater bungalows in the Caribbean for several reasons. These are the only overwater bungalows on the island, giving them a unique flare you won’t find in other resorts around Antigua. The Chairman Overwater Bungalows at the resort boasts ample living space, and they are considered more like a home-from-home than a resort bungalow.
Featuring 132m2 (about half the tennis court area) of living space, including a separate bedroom, living room, and outdoor space, guests may never want to leave this stunning setup.
This slice of paradise in Five Islands village close to Eden Beach is an adult-only, all-inclusive resort where couples can relax and enjoy the surrounding area from their luxurious floating home. If that wasn’t enough to get you excited about planning your romantic getaway, imagine yourself swimming in your private plunge pool, which sits in front of the overwater bungalow and boasts stunning views of the surrounding seas. Sounds good, right?
7. Punta Caracol Acqua Lodge, Panama
A fantastic eco-sustainable resort in Panama
Punta Caracol Acqua Lodge in Panama is genuinely one of a kind in the area, and when you arrive, you will see why. Boasting an unmatched charming feel and cute and traditional-style overwater bungalows with direct access to the sea, this rustic resort is an experience like no other. Moreover, this is a fully sustainable eco-lodge, with plentiful solar panels and organic toiletries, so it is a far cry from many of the hotel chains you will see around the Caribbean.
This is the perfect place where nature and tradition meet luxury, where guests can spend their days kayaking, cooling off in the sea below, or enjoying a good book on the open patio. What makes this resort so picturesque is the colorful hut-like bungalows with thatched roofs and wooden furnishings, including a rustic wooden deck with a wooden ladder leading to the water.
This is the place to escape the crowds, offset your carbon footprint, and switch off from everyday life, but one thing to note is that the air con is a no-go, so it is best to visit when the weather is not hot and humid.
8. Anthonys Key Resort, Honduras
A humble overwater bungalow in a top diving resort
Honduras is an up-and-coming destination for holidaymakers, and you can see why. With its traditional Central American charm and thriving Caribbean culture, this place stimulates the sense of everyone who visits. One of the best overwater bungalows in the Caribbean is Anthonys Key Resort, a family-run resort oozing a rustic, homely feeling, which sets it apart from other hotels you may have visited.
Located in Sandy Bay, Roatan, just twenty minutes from the airport, this resort is ideal for its easy access, just a short taxi boat ride from the shore.
So, what makes this resort so unique? Diving enthusiasts and those eager to learn the skill will be in their element since this is one of the top diving resorts to stay in, offering a prime underwater experience for all. This nature-filled resort is humble and comfortable, with polished wooden floors, private balconies, and views of unspoiled nature surrounding you.
Separated from the resort’s leading facilities, this is the best place to get away from it all, where TVs don’t exist, and nothing is standing in the way of you and the vast ocean around you.
9. Sandals Grande, St Lucia
The epitome of luxury at Rodney Bay
St Lucia is one of the most stunning islands in the Caribbean and is well known for its lush, green, and hilly landscape paired with incredible beaches. If St Lucia is a contender for your trip, consider staying at the opulent Sandals Grande Couples Only Resort, part of the stunning chain of Sandals Resorts.
This fabulous all-inclusive resort leaves nothing to the imagination and is like something from a brochure – in fact, this hotel has most likely been used as an example of a dream getaway, and you will see why.
This resort boasts a prime location, from the onsite white sandy beach to the vivid, bright green waters surrounding the overwater bungalows. The overwater bungalows feature 24-hour butler service, glass floor paneling to seek out Nemo and his friends, overwater hammocks to soak up the sensational views, and a tranquility soaking tub for two.
But that’s not all; the resort has a championship-level golf course, five pools, and plenty of activities like paddle boarding in Rodney Bay.
10. Amanyara Resort, Turks & Caicos
An ideal resort suitable for families
If you seek nature, relaxation, and luxury, look no further than Amanyara Resort, which is part of the luxurious Aman brand. Nestled beside the 18,000-acre Northwest Point Marine National Park, there is no doubt that this resort attracts those who want to return to nature.
Moreover, unlike many of the overwater bungalows we have mentioned, this is a family-friendly resort that offers plenty of daily activities for all ages, and the overwater bungalows are large enough to suit all sized groups, ranging from 3–6-bedroom villas.
The overwater bungalows at Amanyara Resort are not the kind you may imagine, but instead, they overlook reflective ponds and gardens, with others offering direct beach access. While these villas may not be suspended on stilts, they are impressive and perfect for a family vacation.
The luxury villas are also a perfect option for a romantic escape, surrounded by water on three sides, offering privacy and encapsulating the surrounding nature. Guests can enjoy onsite amenities like a movie theater, spa, and gym or use complementary bicycles provided by the resort.
FAQs about overwater bungalows in the Caribbean
