Overwater bungalows were first introduced in the South Pacific decades ago, where they became an instant hit with couples and honeymooners. These huts on stilts have come of age today and are now the hottest vacation trends with families and adventure seekers as well.
While almost all the overwater bungalows were concentrated in the Maldives and Bora Bora, some in small and remote areas, the entry of the Caribbean islands into the water villa scene in 2016 has made royalty more affordable for those looking for an affordable vacation over the water.
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With options on many Caribbean islands, you can catch a flight from any North American city and spend the afternoon sipping a cocktail in your private house on the water. Alternately, if you are cruising the Caribbean in 2022, you can include an overwater bungalow experience in your sailing package.
Here is a quick peek at some of the best overwater bungalows for the ultimate Caribbean getaway…
Sandals Royal Caribbean Resort…Montego Bay, Jamaica
Sandals are the pioneers of the overwater bungalow concept in the Caribbean with Sandals Royal Caribbean Resort being their flagship property. Set on a private island in Jamaica’s stunning Montego Bay, the resort specially caters to couples only.
There are fifteen rooms on the water here, each with glass floors with underwater lighting to allow guests to marvel at the diverse marine life, night and day. Other features include an infinity pool, hammocks, sliding doors opening to floating decks, a large soak tub meant for two, a butler and a private water taxi to whisk you away to the mainland resort whenever you want.
So soak up the sun at Sandals and don’t forget to deep condition your tresses whilst enjoying your beach holiday.
The Palafitos… Playa del Carmen, Mexico
One of the largest overwater accommodations in the Caribbean, consisting of as many as 30 bungalows can be found at the luxurious Karisma Resorts’ El Dorado on Maroma Beach, near Playa del Carmen, Mexico.
The stylish rooms on stilts above the ocean have top-class service with all meals served ensuite by butlers. If that doesn’t tempt you to stay here longer, the special message on the deck surely will.
Aruba Ocean Villas, Savaneta
These stunning upscale villas will take you to the next level of luxury and comfort. Built over turquoise blue waters, the seven ocean villas of Aruba, are the only ones to be found in this country.
Guests are treated to excellent service, whether you are soaking for hours in the pool or swinging in the hammock with lush green jungles above and the swirling waters of the Caribbean below.
Cayo Espanto, Belize
If you are looking for an island to escape in the Caribbean, where there is a lush green jungle and total isolation, then the paradise of Cayo Espanto will leave you mesmerized.
The single overwater bungalow and six beautiful villas, all with sun decks, lie just offshore in the Ambergris Caye region of Belize.
The only true overwater bungalow is 150′ away from the shore and provides total privacy amidst amazing views. Book well in advance, as Cayo Espanto usually gets sold out six months before.
Royalton Antigua Resort, Antigua
This upscale property is the only one of its kind in Antigua and features six two-storey bungalows on stilts overlooking the azure blue waters of the Deep Bay. While the upper floor has open decks, the lower level floor has an over-the-water hammock and direct access to the sea.
This luxurious escape is just thirty minutes away from the international airport and offers its guests fine dining options with exceptional service. The Royalton sits on a pretty secluded beach on the Five Islands Peninsula and has the usual glass bottom floors and personal butler service to boot.
Sandals Grande St Lucian, St Lucia
Sandals are known for its luxury all-inclusive resorts around the Caribbean, and their popular addition, Sandals Grande St Lucian is no exception. Enjoying a fantastic location on the tip of the peninsula near the Pigeon Island National Park, this adults-only resort has some of the most picturesque overwater bungalows, all with personal butler service. Each unit has lounge chairs, swimming platforms, overwater hammocks, a couple of soaking tubs and whatnot. The resort has its own mile-long beach and there are twelve restaurants and six bars to indulge in.
Rosewood Mayakoba, Mexico
Rosewood Mayakoba is a luxury property of River Maya Resorts and is located in a picturesque location amid mangrove forests right next to a pristine white sand beach. Amenities in each of the 18 bedrooms include an outdoor garden shower, a heated plunge pool and a boat dock.
Rosewood is within easy reach of most cities on the US air and an hour’s drive from the Yucatan Peninsula. The bungalows are extremely popular with couples and honeymooners alike due to their easy accessibility.
That’s all in this blog on the best overwater bungalows in the Caribbean. If you have anything to add to the list, please leave a comment below.