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21 Overwater Bungalows That Are Truly Like Heaven on Earth

Updated on Sep. 12, 2024

The only thing that can make turquoise waters paired with sun and sand even more of a paradise are these villas that let you experience all three without having to set foot outside of your own private accommodations.

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Overwater bungalows in the MaldivesAnna Karsten/Shutterstock

What if you could get away from it all, including the land? Imagine enjoying your morning coffee as dolphins frolic around you or elephants bathe themselves in the warmth of the rising sun. At night, there will nothing to block the colors of the sun as they spread across the infinity of the sky. Perhaps you’ll take it in from the waters of your own private plunge pool. Whether you’re planning your future vacation or just daydreaming, all this, and more is possible in these incredible overwater bungalows.

Song Saa Private Island in Cambodia

Song Saa Private Island in Cambodia

The overwater bungalows at Song Saa Private Island in Cambodia live in harmony with their surroundings. Built from driftwood and reclaimed materials from old fishing boats, the bungalows feature touches like private pools, private decks with sunbeds, and indoor/outdoor showers while the interiors are appointed with furnishings and decor crafted by local artisans. You’ll enjoy views of old-growth rain forests, pristine beaches of white sand, and reefs swimming with colorful, tropical fish. The resort itself offers an infinity swimming pool, restaurant, spa, yoga, kayaking, and scuba diving.

Four Seasons Resort in Bora Bora via tripadvisor.com

Four Seasons Resort in Bora Bora

Constance Prince Maurice in Mauritius via tripadvisor.com

Constance Prince Maurice in Mauritius

Thatch Caye, A Muyono Resort in Belize via tripadvisor.com

Thatch Caye, A Muyono Resort in Belize

Thatch Caye in beautiful Belize is the perfect getaway from anyone who wants an unforgettable vacation filled with adventure, beauty, with eco-friendly sustainability. The majority of the power for Thatch Caye is generated by the sun and the wind and single-use plastic, including straws, cups, and utensils, is banned here. The water for their sinks and showers comes from rain and desalinated saltwater. The resort is on a small island limited to 30 guests at a time. Meals are served family-style and staff arrange excursions for snorkeling, fishing, diving, or visiting the mainland. The views from the cabanas are so beautiful, however, that many guests have a hard time tearing themselves away from swinging from hammocks on private porches.

Rosewood Mayakoba in Mexico

Rosewood Mayakoba in Mexico

Chobe Water Villas in Namibia via tripadvisor.com

Chobe Water Villas in Namibia

Six Senses Ninh Van Bay in Vietnam via tripadvisor.com

Six Senses Ninh Van Bay in Vietnam

Manava Beach And Spa Resort Moorea in Tahiti via tripadvisor.com

Manava Beach and Spa Resort Moorea in Tahiti

Overwater-Bungalows Courtesy Gili Lankanfushi

Gili Lankanfushi in the Maldives

Meeru Island Resort and Spa, Maldives via tripadvisor.com

Meeru Island Resort and Spa, Maldives

Overwater-Bungalows Courtesy One And Only ReethiRah

Water Villas at One&Only Reethi Rah

Overwater-Bungalows Courtesy Conrad Bora Bora Nui

Conrad Bora Bora Nui Resort & Spa

Overwater-Bungalows Couretsy Manta Resort

The Manta Resort in Tanzania

Punta Caracol Acqua Lodge, Panama via tripadvisor.com

Punta Caracol Acqua Lodge, Panama

Overwater-Bungalows Courtesy Sandals Jamaica

Sandals South Coast in Jamaica

Overwater-Bungalows Courtesy Casa Ventanas

Cayo Espanto in Belize

Overwater-Bungalows Courtesy Matt Stroshane/Disney Villas

Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows in Orlando, Florida

Overwater-Bungalows Courtesy Hamilton Lund Photography/Likuliku

Likuliku Lagoon Resort in Fiji

It doesn’t get better than a five-star resort on a small private island. That is until you add luxurious overwater bungalows called “bures.” With stunning Fijian decor, you can jump straight into the ocean from your private balcony perched over a coral reef. You can even lounge in your tub while taking in the ocean views. If you get bored in your little oasis, hop on over to one of the restaurants, spa, or gym for a break.

Sofitel-Moorea-la-Ora-Beach-Resort-Hotel-in-French-Polynesia- via tripadvisor.com

Sofitel Moorea la Ora Beach Resort Hotel in French Polynesia

Located a little ways from mainland Tahiti, this paradise boasts 113 overwater bungalows. You can experience the chic decadence of French-style cheese and wine with the vibrant culture of Moorea. And if an overnight stay is a little much, or if you’re taking a more varied vacation in that general area, there are day passes available.

Overwater-Bungalows Courtesy Las Lagunas Boutique Hotel

Las Lagunas Boutique Hotel in Guatemala

Overwater-Bungalows Courtesy Hotel Palafitte Switzerland

Hotel Palafitte in Switzerland