Its allure lies not only in its natural beauty but also in the vibrant cultures, rich history, and warm hospitality of its people.
The Caribbean is a paradise that draws travelers from around the world. Water enthusiasts can revel in the crystal-clear waters, participating in snorkeling, scuba diving, and sailing.
However, what takes this paradise to another level is the experience of staying in overwater bungalows. This luxurious and unique accommodation option enhances the Caribbean getaway in truly unforgettable ways.
The sense of seclusion and privacy is unmatched, making overwater bungalows an ideal choice for honeymooners and couples seeking a romantic getaway. With direct access to the crystal-clear waters below, you can snorkel, swim, or simply relax on your private deck, enjoying the breathtaking sunrise and sunset views.
In addition to the unparalleled natural beauty, overwater bungalows are often equipped with lavish amenities and world-class service, ensuring a pampered and unforgettable stay in the heart of paradise.
In this guide, we are going to look at the 8 best resorts with overwater bungalows in the Caribbean.
| Name | Phone Number | Number of Reviews | Average Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sandals Royal Caribbean | N/A | N/A | N/A / 5 |
| Nayara Bocas del Toro | N/A | N/A | N/A / 5 |
| Thatch Caye | N/A | N/A | N/A / 5 |
| Sandals Grande St. Lucian | N/A | N/A | N/A / 5 |
| Aruba Ocean Villas | N/A | N/A | N/A / 5 |
| Royalton Antigua | N/A | N/A | N/A / 5 |
| Sandals South Coast | N/A | N/A | N/A / 5 |
| Banyan Tree Mayakoba | N/A | N/A | N/A / 5 |
The Caribbean’s Best 8 Overwater Bungalows
Staying in an overwater bungalow takes the Caribbean experience to an entirely new level of luxury and romance. These exclusive accommodations are perched above the gentle lapping of the Caribbean Sea, offering uninterrupted views of the horizon.
Ready to dive in? Here’s our list so you can check them out for yourself:
- Sandals Royal Caribbean, Montego Bay, Jamaica
- Nayara Bocas del Toro, Bocas Del Toro, Panama
- Thatch Caye, Dangriga, Belize
- Sandals Grande St. Lucian, Rodney Bay, St. Lucia
- Aruba Ocean Villas, Savaneta, Aruba
- Royalton Antigua, Five Islands Village, Antigua
- Sandals South Coast, Whitehouse, Jamaica
- Banyan Tree Mayakoba, Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico
Let’s dive in!
Nayara Bocas del Toro
Bocas del Toro, Panama
Nayara Bocas del Toro is a celebrated, intimate, and adults-only resort situated on a private island off the picturesque north-central coast of Panama.
Why We Love It:
Nayara Bocas del Toro comprises 16 luxurious overwater villas and 2 captivating tree houses, creating an atmosphere of tranquility and exclusivity that beckons to travelers seeking a refined escape.
Nestled on Isla Frangipani, Panama, this distinctive resort offers a range of amenities and services designed to elevate the guest experience.
You can indulge in the restorative offerings of the spa, savor delectable culinary delights at the resort’s restaurant, and bask in the sun at the outdoor swimming pool. Dining at the resort is a treat for the senses, with high-quality cuisine that tantalizes the palate and a selection of delicious cocktails to complement the experience.
Inside Scoop:
For those seeking to stay active, a fully equipped fitness center is at their disposal, while the lush garden and shared lounge areas provide serene spaces to unwind.
Nayara Bocas del Toro prides itself on delivering exceptional services, including room service and convenient airport shuttle options, ensuring your comfort and convenience throughout your stay.
The resort’s atmosphere exudes relaxed luxury, offering a subtle blend of sophistication and understated charm that resonates with discerning travelers.
Nature enthusiasts will find themselves captivated by private saltwater pools and floor-to-ceiling windows that seamlessly connect the interior with the breathtaking natural surroundings.
The Green Side:
With its meticulously designed accommodations, exceptional amenities, and commitment to delivering an atmosphere of relaxed luxury, this resort promises an unforgettable escape for those seeking the finest in travel experiences.
Not only that, but Nayara Bocas del Toro deeply cares about the environment.
“Sustainability is in our DNA. That’s why we built Nayara on stilts and completely off-grid to not harm the native mangroves and coral reefs,” affirms Dan Behm, the Founder of Nayara Bocas Del Toro.
The decision to construct the resort on stilts and off-grid is a testament to their dedication to preserving the delicate ecosystems of the native mangroves and coral reefs. Their thoughtful approach extends to the sustainable design of water, power, and wastewater systems.
Travel Time:
Nayara Bocas del Toro is located on Isla Frangipani, Panama, situated in the Bocas del Toro region with the postal code 00001. This splendid retreat is conveniently located just 8 miles away from Bocas Del Toro International Airport.
Nayara Bocas del Toro offers a complimentary airport shuttle service, simplifying the process of reaching the resort from the airport.
Alternatively, you can opt for a direct flight from Panama City to Bocas del Toro with either Air Panama or FlyTrip, a scenic journey that typically spans approximately 60 minutes.
Sandals Grande St. Lucian
Gros Islet, St Lucia
Aruba Ocean Villas
Savaneta, Aruba
Aruba Ocean Villas is the only overwater resort in Aruba, offering you the unique experience of staying in overwater villas and authentic beach bungalows. The resort caters exclusively to guests 21 and above, providing a serene sanctuary tailored for couples seeking an intimate and tranquil getaway.
Why We Love It:
When you stay at Aruba Ocean Villas, you can anticipate a refreshing and captivating vacation experience that transcends the ordinary.
With a limited collection of just 13 meticulously crafted villas, Aruba Ocean Villas focuses wholeheartedly on delivering an unparalleled experience that consistently surpasses expectations.
Every facet of the villas has been meticulously crafted to ensure an unforgettable experience. From the luxurious canopy beds adorned with pristine white linens to the invigorating ocean breeze that fills the air and the breathtaking panoramic vistas of the Caribbean Sea, each detail has been thoughtfully designed to offer a sense of comfort.
These cozy retreats, with their charming simplicity and proximity to nature’s beauty, provide an idyllic escape for sun-soaked relaxation and a seamless connection with the natural surroundings.
The resort’s seaside restaurant, The Old Man and the Sea, provides an exceptional dining experience where the sand beneath your feet and the open-air setting combine to create an unrivaled ambiance.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a unique dining experience, the restaurant offers an idyllic romantic setting for couples.
Inside Scoop:
Aruba Ocean Villas offers a diverse range of experiences designed to cater to all your desires. Whether one yearns for a tranquil and rejuvenating afternoon massage to melt away stress or seeks an exhilarating adventure exploring the island on UTVs, the resort ensures an unforgettable stay.
For those seeking a more secluded experience, the resort offers the Owner’s Estate, an off-property villa located just 5 minutes from the main property.
Situated on the ocean’s edge, this villa serves as a sanctuary where the symphony of crashing waves and golden sunsets intertwine.
With 4 beds, 3.5 baths, a spacious overwater deck, and a fully equipped kitchen, it is an ideal accommodation choice for groups of up to 8 people.
The Green Side:
At Aruba Ocean Villas, the resort has a deep commitment to sustainable development. They recognize the importance of environmental protection and economic progress.
Their site talks about how they firmly believe in the coexistence of fostering a thriving economy while preserving the environment.
Travel Time:
Aruba Ocean Villas can be found at 356-A Savaneta, Aruba, conveniently just 7 miles away from Queen Beatrix International Airport. You can expect a quick 14-minute taxi ride from the airport to the hotel.
Royalton Antigua
Antigua and Barbuda
Banyan Tree Mayakoba
Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico
Last, but not least on our list, is Banyan Tree Mayakoba – a prestigious AAA Five Diamond luxury resort, gracing the shores of Riviera Maya, Mexico.
Why We Love It:
The resort boasts an impressive collection of 162 villas, each adorned with a private pool, ensuring an unparalleled level of comfort and exclusivity.
Set amidst a breathtaking natural ecosystem of lagoons, mangroves, coral reefs, and pristine beaches, Banyan Tree Mayakoba offers an immersive and serene escape.
Accommodations at the resort feature private pool villas and suites, providing you with a comfortable and tranquil retreat.
Spacious terraces, full-size and mid-size swimming pools, and modern amenities define the experience.
Golf enthusiasts can indulge in 18 holes of golf, complete with tee time reservations and convenient transportation to and from the course.
After, don’t forget to check out the award-winning spa, which promises rejuvenation and relaxation.
Inside Scoop:
For those seeking a beachside refreshment, the beach bar provides a perfect oasis, while the poolside bar offers a delightful respite.
Amenities at Banyan Tree Mayakoba include direct beach access, allowing guests to enjoy the shoreline without the need to cross a public road.
Convenience is paramount, with luggage storage and other thoughtful features. Business travelers will find dedicated rooms available for meetings and conferences, ensuring that both work and leisure seamlessly blend.
The Green Side:
Banyan Tree Mayakoba demonstrates a profound commitment to sustainability through a range of initiatives. Their sustainable operations are aimed at minimizing their environmental footprint, while also fostering awareness and education through activities such as paper recycling workshops.
The resort actively engages in conservation efforts, including the preservation of sand dunes, the restoration of coral reefs, and the rehabilitation of mangrove forests, ensuring the protection of vital ecosystems.
Banyan Tree Mayakoba also actively involves guests through its Citizen Science program, fostering a sense of participation in environmental conservation.
The resort has taken concrete steps to reduce plastic waste by replacing plastic water bottles with eco-friendly glass bottles and substituting plastic straws with sustainable paper alternatives.
Travel Time:
The Banyan Tree Mayakoba is located at 298 km Carretera Federal Chetumal-Puerto Juárez, Mayakoba, Riviera Maya, Quintana Roo, 77710.
It’s a 20-minute drive from downtown Playa del Carmen and a 45-minute drive from Cancún International Airport. The resort offers shared shuttle and private transfer services from Cancun International Airport.
Thanks for Checking Out Our Guide to the 8 Best Overwater Bungalows in the Caribbean!
The Caribbean’s allure is undeniable, with its turquoise waters, vibrant marine life, and lush landscapes providing an idyllic backdrop for a dream vacation.
From the romantic ambiance of St. Lucia to the adventure-packed waters of Jamaica and the serene seclusion of Antigua, these overwater bungalows offer a diverse range of experiences for travelers seeking the ultimate luxury escape.
Each of the featured resorts in this guide presents a unique experience, catering to various tastes and preferences. In these luxurious havens, you can savor the tranquility of waking up to the gentle lapping of waves, take in panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea, and indulge in world-class amenities.
Whether it’s swimming in crystal-clear waters, snorkeling with vibrant marine life, or simply unwinding on a private deck, these bungalows provide an unparalleled level of serenity and relaxation.
We hope our guide helps you as you explore the Caribbean’s most enchanting overwater bungalows. No matter which of these idyllic resorts you choose, we’re sure you’ll have a wonderful time!
