Overwater villas have long been a dream for honeymooners, but now travelers of all ages are eager to experience these romantic floating retreats. If you’re seeking a genuine escape from the ordinary, it’s hard to surpass the allure of overwater villas. Perched just above the water, these overwater bungalows offer an ideal blend of seclusion and opulence. From outdoor showers to private infinity pools, along with a dedicated butler catering to your every whim, an overwater villa resort is the ultimate sanctuary. Immerse yourself in the natural surroundings of the area, whether it involves gliding over turquoise waters or strolling barefoot along pristine beaches.
The Maldives has become synonymous with overwater villas. However, there are dozens of resorts in other countries where you can find overwater bungalows.
In which other countries can you book overwater villas, and how similar are they to those in the Maldives?
Overwater villas can be found in the UAE, Qatar, Sri Lanka, Mauritius, Madagascar, Seychelles, Kenya, Tanzania (Zanzibar Island), Malaysia, the Philippines, Indonesia, Cambodia, Vietnam, French Polynesia, Fiji, as well as in Mexico.
The number of overwater villas in other countries is significantly fewer than in the Maldives, and in most cases, they are much more expensive. For example, in the UAE and Qatar, they represent the most costly category of accommodation. Some of the most luxurious overwater villas can be found in the UAE. For instance, Anantara The Palm Dubai hotel.
ANANTARA THE PALM DUBAI
The One Bedroom Overwater Villa features a zone with a transparent floor at the Anantara The Palm Dubai hotel.
ARUBA OCEAN VILLAS
Aruba is a petite island nestled in the southern Caribbean, just off the shores of Venezuela. Blessed with breathtaking beaches and vibrant nightlife, it’s a destination that captivates with its beauty. The beaches boast pristine white sand and crystal-clear waters, ideal for swimming, snorkeling, or simply unwinding and soaking in the scenery.
Aruba Ocean Villas stands as a charming boutique resort exclusively for adults on the island. Embracing a serene, natural ambiance, the resort offers eight distinct overwater bungalows. The accommodations are nothing short of splendid, featuring wrap-around decks complete with daybeds, outdoor rain showers, and direct ladder access to the ocean. It’s the quintessential romantic retreat, offering an exquisite vista of the ocean and an ambiance of tranquility.
BANANA ISLAND RESORT DOHA BY ANANTARA
In Qatar, the Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara offers overwater villas with private pools, a lagoon pool, and a surfing pool. Additionally, there’s a stretch of golden beach and a diving center, as well as amenities like a VIP cinema and bowling alley, a golf course, and much more. The villas, ranging from 120 to 360 square meters, fan out in a crescent-shaped layout. Each villa offers panoramic views, along with a private pool and direct access to the water. Additionally, the villa features a living room and a minimum of two bedrooms.
SURIYA LUXURY RESORT
In Sri Lanka, there are at least two hotels with overwater villas. One of them is the Suriya Luxury Resort / Water Chalet, a luxurious hotel with an open-air pool, fitness center, and restaurant. Six villas are built on stilts over the shallow waters of a lagoon on the river, resembling chalets with a total area of 90 sq. m.
CONSTANCE PRINCE MAURICE
Nestled in the Indian Ocean, Mauritius boasts a stunning island paradise renowned as one of the world’s top honeymoon destinations. Its picturesque white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and swaying palm trees create an idyllic setting for relaxation and rejuvenation. If you seek a luxurious vacation filled with exceptional cuisine, rich history, and thrilling adventures, look no further than an overwater villa in Mauritius.
Experience serenity, style, and seclusion at Constance Le Prince Maurice. Situated on a private estate spanning 60 acres along the pristine East Coast of Mauritius, this resort offers thatched-roof villas that exude luxury. While not entirely overwater, these accommodations boast heated private pools, romantic outdoor baths, and interiors inspired by Feng Shui principles. Constance Le Prince Maurice provides the ultimate romantic retreat for couples seeking an unforgettable getaway.
THE ST. REGIS LANGKAWI
At The St. Regis Langkawi, you can indeed find overwater villas on stilts, similar to those in the Maldives. In this case, you should book the Sunset Villa. With complete relaxation and comfort found in every corner of the suite, The St. Regis Langkawi’s expansive Sunset Over-Water Villa with a private pool exudes true honeymoon indulgence. Complete with separate living and dining rooms, a kitchenette, and a spacious walk-in wardrobe, the bespoke interior is a welcoming space to seek refuge in after a day spent exploring the town.
GAYANA MARINE RESORT
Located on the edge of a jungle on Gaya Island, Gayana Eco Resort features spacious overwater villas with wooden interiors. The resort’s remarkable 52 overwater tropical villas offer stunning views of the aquamarine sea, mangrove forest, or tropical jungle. Each villa is designed to amplify the soothing sounds of the surf below. At the heart of the resort lies the commitment to protect and regenerate the island’s precious marine environment. The on-site Marine Ecology Research Centre, the only one of its kind on an island resort, works to propagate endangered giant clams and coral reefs. The resort’s dining venues serve delectable local and international cuisine, while the spa awaits with a range of indulgent treatments.
SIX SENSES NINH VAN BAY
Situated right at the water’s edge, overlooking the coral formations of Ninh Van Bay, these villas offer unparalleled proximity to the sea. With wooden steps leading directly to the water, they serve as an ideal starting point for snorkeling adventures. Facing the tropical sunset, each villa boasts a private deck for sunbathing and a plunge pool. The split-level layout features open-plan bathrooms and an outdoor shower, all positioned over the water. Located at the eastern end of the bay, access is ensured by a scenic hillside staircase, providing utmost privacy. A stay in these serene havens promises an unforgettable experience.
All Six Senses water villas are meticulously designed to complement the stunning natural rock formations that define Six Senses Ninh Van Bay.
CAUAYAN ISLAND RESORT AND SPA
Allow the ocean breeze to wake you up and let the soothing waves serve as your lullaby at this stilt-raised villa nestled amidst the turquoise waters. The Water Villa offers a picturesque view of the island from its wooden deck, complete with a cozy drop lounge bed. This 60 sqm villa features a king-sized bed, indoor marble tub, and outdoor shower for an indulgent retreat experience.
ST. REGIS RESORT BORA BORA
Featuring bungalows starting at 1,550 square feet, The St. Regis Bora Bora offers the most expansive accommodations in French Polynesia. These luxurious water villas boast expansive private decks, glass floor panels, and decor that celebrates the natural materials of the islands. Beyond their size, what truly distinguishes these opulent bungalows is the resort’s breathtaking aesthetics, blending minimalist Polynesian design with the modern luxuries of the 21st century.
The resort features a spa located on a private island, a fitness center, and five restaurants. Additionally, a shuttle service to the main island facilitates easy exploration of Bora Bora. With world-class service and a plethora of water activities to enjoy, the overwater villas at this luxurious resort are guaranteed to delight. So grab a bike and set off to explore the expansive St. Regis resort in Bora Bora.
While the Maldives remains synonymous with overwater villas, many other countries now offer similar experiences. From the UAE to Fiji, these destinations boast luxurious accommodations that rival those in the Maldives, albeit in smaller numbers and often at higher costs.
