It’s one of the great fantasy vacations for every traveler — staying in an overwater bungalow.
There’s just something about being surrounded by sea, by waking up and hearing nothing but the waves, seeing nothing but sparkling blue.
And while the best overwater bungalow resorts were always focused in Polynesia, the Caribbean now teems with great overwater options, from the more luxurious to the eco-friendly.
Here are 10 resorts with overwater bungalows for your next dream getaway.
Punta Caracol Acqua Lodge The Caribbean coast of Panama is one of the region’s great off-the-radar destinations, and it’s anchored by the legendary Punta Caracol Acqua Lodge, a full-fledged overwater bungalow resort with classic bungalows joined by a narrow dock. It just might be the ultimate eco experience in the Caribbean.
Sandals Royal Caribbean, Jamaica There was much anticipation when Sandals first announced it was entering the overwater bungalow space, but they delivered — and then some. The overwater villas at Sandals’ Montego Bay flagship are stunning, with luxe amenities that don’t compromise the essence of the overwater experience.
Thatch Caye, Belize The lovely Thatch Caye has an overwater component that includes five spectacular overwater bungalows built on stilts right on the ocean. The bungalows all have their own private patios, colorful decor and either a king or two twin beds.
Cayo Espanto, Belize Perhaps the premier private-island destination in Belize, this boutique hotel has one signature overwater villa called Casa Ventanas, which has a total of 1,100 square feet of living space and is reached by its own private dock.
Aqua Lodge Guadeloupe Okay, so this is more like a house boat than a bungalow — but the effect is the same. Aqua Lodge, which launched a few years ago off the southeastern coast of Guadeloupe, is a “floating villa,” with everything from spacious bedrooms to sleek kitchens and dining areas.
Sandals South Coast Sandals’ newest overwater units in Jamaica are set on the raw, lush south coast of the island, most notable for their dramatic heart-shaped arrangement.
Coral Lodge Panama While Bocas del Toro is the most heavily trafficked spot on Panama’s Caribbean coast, it’s the San Blas Islands that are perhaps the most sought affter destination. The ultra-boutique Coral Lodge is set in the heart of this wonderfully untouched archipelago, a raw overwater experience that isn’t for everyone — but will reward those who take the leap.
Sandals Grande St Lucian, Saint Lucia Yes, you can even stay on the water in Saint Lucia. This collection of overwater units includes tranquility soaking tubs, sun decks, special “sea-through” floors and all the butler service you’ve come to expect at Sandals.
Eclypse de Mar Acqua Lodge, Panama Set in Panama’s Bocas del Toro, the Eclypse features eight overwater bungalows built out of local wood that include private decks, hammocks, room service and even Wi-Fi.
CocoView Resort, Honduras If you’re sensing a trend, it’s because the Caribbean coast of Central America is prime overwater bungalow territory. That includes the popular island of Roatan, where the CoCo View resort includes a portfolio of four bungalow units in two “overwater duplexes.”