10 Caribbean Overwater Bungalow Resorts That Are Still Under the Radar
There’s a particular kind of silence that only happens when you’re staying over the water. The breeze moves differently. The sea seems close enough to touch from every angle. It’s a quiet that isn’t empty — it’s immersive. And for travelers chasing that feeling, the Caribbean now has a collection of hidden, often unexpected overwater bungalow retreats that capture it perfectly.
It’s not a secret that overwater bungalow resorts are becoming more popular in the region. But there are still countless tucked-away, hidden options, from exclusively overwater resorts to hotels that have in-the-know retreats.
Some of these hideaways are tucked deep in remote corners, reachable only by boat or a short flight. Others are hidden corners within larger resorts, worlds apart from the bustle just steps away. A few are tiny private islands with only a handful of bungalows. What they all share is that feeling of stepping into another world — where the horizon is your front yard.
Here are 10 of the Caribbean’s best-kept overwater bungalow secrets.

Thatch Caye Resort, Belize
A private island retreat set off the coast of Dangriga, Thatch Caye Resort is as close as it gets to a castaway fantasy. Its overwater bungalows sit above turquoise water, strung out along a wooden boardwalk that faces nothing but the Caribbean horizon. It’s adults-only, off the grid and intentionally low-key.
What We Like
This is overwater living stripped to its essentials — ocean breezes, wide decks, and long afternoons spent watching the sun arc across the sea. It’s peaceful, natural and personal.
The resort is intentionally unplugged, making it a favorite among couples looking to disconnect completely without sacrificing comfort.
How to Get There
Fly into Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport (BZE) in Belize City. From there, take a short domestic flight to Dangriga, followed by a 25-minute boat ride to the island.
Guy Britton is the managing editor of Caribbean Journal. With more than four decades of experience traveling the Caribbean, he is one of the world's foremost experts covering the region.