There’s something special about choosing an overwater bungalow as your lodging accommodation for a trip — luxurious vibes, undisturbed privacy and, of course, dazzling views of the destination are only some of those perks. However, many gorgeous bungalow options often fly under the radar as they sit nestled in unexpected destinations. Here are seven around the world that every traveler should know about.
Misool – Indonesia
Standing tall in its understated beauty, Misool is a breath of fresh air. The private resort island is located in Raja Ampat, hidden away among uninhabited islands and made even more secluded with its 40-guest capacity. Here, guests will find eight Water Cottages overlooking the North Lagoon, each one built from reclaimed tropical hardwoods.
The cottages are generously spaced at least 30 feet apart to ensure total privacy for guests, and the open-air concept embraces the best that Indonesia has to offer. Traditional grass roofing frames the veranda, hammocks sway from the ocean breeze and the private access to the reef below beckons travelers to explore the remarkably clear water. The remote location and natural feel of the Water Cottages make this ideal for small families or a romantic getaway. Help Misool protect the surrounding area by reading up on their Responsible Tourism Policy, which details how visitors can give back to the ocean, marine life and community that allow the resort to operate.
Anantara Mina Al Arab Ras Al Khaimah Resort – United Arab Emirates
UAE’s first overwater villas, there’s no better word to describe this resort than refreshing. Despite its proximity to the bustling city of Ras Al Khaimah, the traditional Thai healing and wellness experiences meshed with the private villas create the perfect recipe for relaxation. The villas sit on crisp white stilts as brown wood accents enhance the luxurious feel. Stunning blue furniture dots the private terraces, while the personal pool, sun decks and indoor-outdoor bathroom complete the light, airy atmosphere of the villas. With a total of 174 rooms, suites and overwater villas, Anantara Mina Al Arab can accommodate all types of travelers, including families, couples and large groups.
Six Senses Ninh Van Bay – Vietnam
Overwater bungalows with a twist, Six Senses Ninh Van Bay is sure to impress with its unique construction overlooking the East Vietnam Sea. The resort hotel is located in Nha Trang, though since it is technically only accessible by water, a quick boat ride from the coastal city is required to reach this destination. The expansive area offers a wide variety of lodging styles, from villas nestled into the hillside to beachfront properties, though The Water Reserve and The Rock Retreat options are what set Six Senses apart. Both villa options are raised above the sparkling water and burrowed into the hillside where large, flat rocks around the exterior add to the rugged beach feel. These options are great for larger groups of travelers and families as the layout features multiple bedrooms and en-suite bathrooms. The private infinity pool with a waterslide, handmade Vietnamese wooden bathtub, outdoor showers and a designated Guest Experience Maker available 24/7 are a handful of the perks travelers can look forward to at Six Senses.
As sustainability is a priority here, visitors will find that the nearby Ninh Van Greens farm supplies the resort with solar power, organic produce and hot water. A resident biologist also lives on the property, responsible for taking guests on guided hiking trips and teaching them about the conservation efforts in place to protect the endangered black shanked douc langur monkey.
Punta Caracol Acqua Lodge – Panama
Located on the stunning Bocas del Toro Island, the Punta Caracol Acqua Lodge is a quiet Caribbean escape. As an homage to the beauty of Panama, the nine overwater cabins are constructed using local materials like native clay, bamboo and wild cane, topped with a palm roof to bring the naturalistic atmosphere together. Enhancing this experience, the bungalows face west, ensuring visitors have the best seats in the house to witness Panama’s vivid sunsets.
Punta Caracol Acqua Lodge offers a variety of rooms, including five Punta Caracol suites, three Luna suites and one Master suite. Each cabin is two stories, with a king bed on the upper floor and individual beds on the lower. A larger front and rear terrace, hammock and expanded bathing platform distinguish the suite levels from one another. The Master naturally has the most amenities and accommodates the most guests.
Hotel Palafitte – Switzerland
Likely not the destination that comes to mind when thinking about overwater bungalows, Hotel Palafitte is coming in hot with its rustic twist on this luxury accommodation. Located in the town of Neuchâtel, 24 independent units overlook Lake Neuchâtel, bordered by dramatic views of the Alps. Each lake pavilion boasts an individual bedroom, bathroom, office corner and large terrace with private access to the lake below. While Hotel Palafitte may not have all the bells and whistles of other bungalows, its quiet beauty and dreamy atmosphere are hard to beat.
Hotel Palafitte is ideal for travelers who prefer a semi-private option. The independent cabins are a great reprieve and offer plenty of opportunity for relaxation, but the proximity to town means visitors can come and go as they please. From historic castles and botanical gardens to museums and beaches, a stay at Hotel Palafitte is sure to be well-rounded.
Song Saa Private Island – Cambodia
An idyllic paradise escape, Song Saa Private Island sits in a marine reserve in Cambodia’s Koh Rong archipelago. Considering its ultra-secluded nature, these bungalows are ideal for those in need of wellness and rejuvenation or a romantic getaway. The rustic wood exterior coupled with chic furnishings and glass accents combine to create a luxury experience, enhanced further by amenities such as private pools, indoor-outdoor showers and shaded daybeds. Given its gorgeous appearance, it’s hard to believe the décor is upcycled; driftwood serves as tables and benches; salvaged wood creates the floors, and oil drums are used as lamps.
Song Saa features a variety of room options, but the overwater element can only be found with the One Bed and Two Bed Overwater Villas in addition to the Royal Villa. The others, like the One and Two Bed Jungle Villas and the Ocean View Villas, perch in the lush vegetation along the shoreline. For visitors who want to get away and explore more of Cambodia, a 45-minute boat ride will take them to the popular coastal city of Sihanoukville. Certainly, a change of pace from the relaxing vibes of the island, but perhaps a welcome modification to the itinerary.
Banyan Tree Mayakoba – Mexico
Where local traditions meet Asian influence, kick back and relax at the opulent Banyan Tree Mayakoba. Located in Playa del Carmen and tucked away within a gated community, the five-star resort hotel offers undisturbed peace like no other. There are plenty of lodging options to choose from here; however, the star of the show may be the Lagoon and Sunset Rooftop Pool Villas. Don’t be fooled by the slated roofing and sun-kissed wood — the 2,385-square-foot setup is a romantic space for two, and the open-space concept brings the natural beauty of the surrounding lagoon in. The two-story layout features an outdoor bathtub and private heated pool, but the best part may be the remarkable views of Mexico’s sun setting over the glassy green water right at the villa’s doorstep.
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Paula O | 07/25/24 - 12:58 PM
These are great options to suggest to clients but unfortunately I find most not available with any of our ALG brands.
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