Imagine waking up to the sound of gentle waves lapping beneath your feet, stepping out onto your private deck, and taking in breathtaking views of the turquoise Caribbean Sea. Overwater bungalows offer a unique and luxurious way to experience paradise, combining the serenity of the ocean with the comfort of upscale accommodations. In this post, we’ll explore the 8 best overwater bungalows in the Caribbean, each offering its own blend of stunning scenery, exceptional amenities, and unforgettable experiences.
Palafitos at El Dorado Maroma
The Palafitos overwater villas was the first to introduce this type of luxury stay in Mexico, on the shores of Maroma Beach – known as one of the top 10 beaches in the world. These bungalows are an add-on to the already-luxurious El Dorado adults-only, all-inclusive resort. The bungalows come with infinity pools, Aguas del Amor™ outdoor showers, and steps that lead you right into the water. Inside, there are spa tubs, glass-bottom floors, and a free mini-bar.
Royalton Antigua
There’s a glorious combination of tranquility and excitement on offer at Royalton Antigua’s Chairman Overwater Bungalows Diamond Club™. The Royalton Antigua Resort & Casino sits on Five Islands Village. The overwater bungalows here are adults-only (although the resort itself is not) and all-inclusive. They including welcome drinks, complimentary laundry services, butlers, and an infinity pool that has a full glass front.
Sandals Royal Caribbean
Built in the shape of a heart over the waters of Montego Bay, this Sandals resort is pure romantic luxury. These bungalows are great for honeymooners, providing couples with privacy and exquisite comfort. The overwater bungalows feature overwater hammocks, ‘sea-through’ glass floors, and large windows that let in all of that stunning Jamaican sunshine. You can swim in the private infinity pool, or soak in the Tranquility Soaking Tubs which overlook the ocean and fit two.
Aruba Ocean Villas
There are seven indulgent overwater bungalows available at this resort in Aruba. The resort is boutique, so the staff is able to focus fully on each guest. It’s also adults-only, which makes for an ideal place for couples to relax. Each bungalow has a thatched roof and is complete with air-conditioning, a minibar, and an iPod docking station. You’ll have direct ocean views from both the bedroom and private patio.
Sandals South Coast
Sandals South Coast is another Jamaican resort (similar to Sandals Royal) with overwater bungalows. The resort is situated on a two-mile stretch of beach – one of the longest beaches in Jamaica. These bungalows come with butler service, 24-hour room service, and private infinity pools. The resort has an overwater bar and a unique overwater chapel — perfect for couples looking for a wedding ceremony with a view.
Banyan Tree Mayakoba Resort
Situated in Mexico’s Riviera Maya, this resort boasts six overwater villas that sit atop a lagoon. In true Banyan Tree style, they are some of the most unique overwater bungalows we’ve seen, with a modern Asian design. This is a AAA Five Diamond resort and winner of Tripadvisor’s exclusive Best of the Best award, so you can expect nothing but the best.
Sandals Grande St. Lucian
Situated on the beautiful island of St. Lucia, Sandals Grande St. Lucian has overwater bungalows with their own plunge pools, butler service, and 24-hour room service. The outdoor patios offer stunning views and are equipped with sun loungers, a Tranquility Soaking Tub for two, over-water hammocks, and outdoor rain showers. The bungalows also offer direct access to the lagoon, making it easy to take a dip or go for a swim. Glass floor panels and lit water ensure you can enjoy undersea views at any time.
Amanyara Resort
On the secluded shores of an 18,000-acre nature reserve, Amanyara Resort’s bungalows overlook white sand beaches. Spend your Caribbean vacation in one of these Turks & Caicos Islands overwater bungalows. This resort is adults-only and is a true escape to paradise. While not the traditional overwater bungalows — being over a large pond rather than the ocean — these still deserve mention. The overwater bungalows here come with their own infinity pools, which offer stunning views of the ocean.
Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.