If you dream of staying in an overwater bungalow, you have more choices than you can probably imagine. While there are plenty of luxurious resorts that offer them, you’ll also find some incredible options available as vacation rentals via Airbnb and Vrbo. There’s something for everyone, with everything from budget-friendly to ultra-luxurious.
Imagination Island - Gizo, Solomon Islands
Enjoy a stay in a two-bedroom reef bungalow on what feels like your own private island in the South Pacific’s Solomon archipelago. The property includes just four bungalows total so it will never be crowded here. A complimentary range of natural plant and mineral-based soap and toiletry products are included, along with beach and bath towels. You will have Wi-Fi, but there’s no TV. Of course, who needs that when surrounded by breathtaking sea views?
Belize Private Island - Little Peter Oasis
Little Peter Oasis offers a private island stay in an overwater bungalow that lights up in ambient tones, right over a dazzling blue lagoon. Boat transfers to and from the island are provided and you’ll have easy access to a huge barrier reef for snorkeling among countless colorful fish, not to mention the endless water views. It includes two bedrooms, sleeping up to four guests, as well as a private chef and three meals a day, beverages, a personal concierge, and two caretakers.
Bora Bora Overwater Bungalow - French Polynesia
Formerly owned by actor Jack Nicholson, this overwater bungalow is ideal for a romantic retreat, sleeping up to two in one bedroom. You’ll enjoy 180-degree views of Bora Bora’s stunning aquamarine lagoon, watching incredible sunsets, easy access to swimming, and gazing at the fish that flock to the underwater lights at night. It includes a full kitchen and a BBQ grill, complimentary kayaking and snorkeling gear, Apple TV, and a Bose sound system. With the Pacific lapping right under your front porch and those endless breathtaking views, what more could you ask for?
Private Overwater Bungalow Lodge - Cristóbal Island, Panama
This Caribbean bungalow is located just off the shores of Cristobal Island, providing a “castaway” kind of retreat, off-grid in the perfect spot for escaping the chaos, yet reliable Wi-Fi is included. Enjoy the benefits of a private island experience, including endless outdoor activities, along with the opportunity to get to know the local culture with the help of your personal boat and captain. The bungalow/villa sits over the water adjacent to 60 acres of private jungle with a freshwater lake and lots of wildlife like parrots, toucans, sloths, and mini crocodiles.
You’ll be just 100 feet from a reef system for outstanding snorkeling and your stay includes unlimited free use of assorted snorkeling gear and a see-through kayak. Up to six guests can be accommodated in the three villa-style bedrooms and you’ll have the option for extras like a cook or masseuse too.
Secluded Coconut Cabin - San Cristóbal Island, Panama
Located at the southern tip of San Cristobal Island in Panama’s Bocas Del Toro archipelago, ‘CocoVivo’ sits in a pristine paradise untouched by roads. It’s tucked between the jungle and a vibrant coral reef providing an eco-friendly stay that aims to connect visitors to the islands’ beauty and biodiversity. You’ll be able to fall asleep to the sounds of the water and wake up to enchanting sunrises while the mangroves, just a few feet from your window are inhabited by lounging sloths. Howler monkeys, kinkajous, frogs, and dolphins are often spotted too. Guests have access to free snorkel equipment, kayaks and standup paddleboards, while private chefs cook up innovative fusion dishes using ingredients grown on the property, served at the communal dining table.
Over the Water Bungalow with Sea Views - Bocas, Panama
Located on the longest dock in Saigon Bay, this overwater bungalow is a cabin built on stilts. Enjoy endless sea and sunset views from your own private deck or second-story balcony. It comes with a complimentary kayak and daily guided excursions are available, accessed right from your accommodation. The open-concept space includes soaring open beam ceilings and a full staircase, a fully equipped kitchen, and a full-size bathroom with a shower. It’s air-conditioned, comes with Wi-Fi, and you’ll get plenty of drinking water, supplied at no cost, too. Plus, restaurants and grocery stores are nearby.
Casa Saraso: Bungalow Over The Water - Bocas del Toro, Panama
Casa Saraso is an off-grid overwater bungalow on a remote, private island in Bocas del Toro. It includes a swinging king-size bed that overlooks Volcan Baru and a bathroom with a sea view. You’ll have easy access to the translucent waters in the marine sanctuary which experiences a rare otherworldly phenomenon: bioluminescent algae. Kayaks and snorkeling gear are available for exploring the colorful coral reefs and a variety of tours can be arranged too, including excursions to indigenous villages. Meals are available for an additional fee and Internet can be provided for digital nomads seeking a long-term stay.
Tahiti Style Overwater Bungalow - Crescent City, Florida
If you want the picturesque views and peaceful setting that an overwater bungalow brings without having to travel far, consider this two-bedroom rental for up to six, centrally located between Orlando, Daytona Beach, and St. Augustine, Florida. ‘Lake House Blue’ sits at the end of a dock that stretches over 250 feet from the land. You can fish and crab right outside your door or just relax while watching the abundance of wildlife, including herons, ospreys, egrets, and occasionally, bald eagles. There are outdoor decks that surround the house, and an outdoor gas fire pit too. Inside you’ll have a wood-burning fireplace, a full kitchen, a 50″ Smart TV with a DVD player in the living room, and a flat-screen TV in the master bedroom. Free Wi-Fi is included too.
