The Maldives, Bora Bora, and Tahiti are often the first places that come to mind when you think of overwater bungalows, perfect for honeymoons or luxurious getaways. Imagine stepping off a 20-plus hour flight, walking straight to your private bungalow, drinking in hand, and basking in the panoramic ocean views. Indeed, it’s a dream come true—but the hefty price tag and long journey can make it feel out of reach. But, what if I told you that overwater bungalows are closer than you think?

Well, you CAN have your dream vacation with the overwater bungalow and (possibly) not break the bank. Thanks to a trend of exciting new developments in Mexico, Belize, Honduras, and the Caribbean, your daydream is now a reality. Overwater bungalows just a two-hour flight from Miami? Sign me up! With spectacular views, crystal clear water, and posh accommodations (some even all-inclusive), now is the time to book and plan your luxury escape to an overwater bungalow!

Palafitos Overwater Bungalows at El Dorado Maroma – Riviera Maya, Mexico

Making their debut in 2016, the Palafitos at El Dorado Maroma is the quintessential stilted overwater bungalow. Luxury features like full butler service, outdoor shower, glass-bottom floors, private plunge pool, and direct access to the ocean are included.

However, some key differences exist between the South Pacific and the Caribbean bungalows. These bungalows are adult-only, providing even more privacy and relaxation. The décor pays homage to the traditional Aztec style. As El Dorado Maroma Resort is part of Karisma Hotel & Resorts, guests of the Palafitos receive Karisma’s award-winning Gourmet Inclusive Experience, which aims to deliver a unique and authentic all-inclusive resort experience. Oh boy, and do they deliver on that promise.

Sandals Grande St. Lucian Resort – Saint Lucia

Boasting as the only resort with overwater bungalows on the island of Saint Lucia, Sandals Resorts was the first to combine the overwater bungalow and luxury all-inclusive experience in the Caribbean. Each of the resort’s nine bungalows is dripping in luxurious five-star details:

• Glass floor for viewing underwater sea life
• An outdoor shower
• King bed outfitted with high thread count sheets
• Smart TV (but who’s watching?!)
• Soaking tub
• Overwater hammock for two

And most important…unobstructed views of the turquoise sea. Frolic on the resort’s mile-long white sand beach and dine in your bungalow, on the resort, or at the sister properties Sandals Regency La Toc and Sandals Halcyon. Should you need dinner reservations for any of the resort’s restaurants or someone to take those Instagram photos? So, don’t forget your butler is ready to assist 24/7.

 Sandals Royal Caribbean All-Inclusive – Montego Bay, Jamaica

Following El Dorado’s Palafitos in Mexico came Sandals Royal Caribbean, with seventeen new overwater bungalows that reset the bar for luxury in Montego Bay and the Caribbean. Here’s what you’ll find:

• Floating decks with personal hammocks that double as living rooms
• Soaking tubs for two
• Infinity pools
• Private water taxis that whisk you to and from the main resort on your own time.

In addition, it also includes the exclusive indulgence of a Private Luxury Car Transfer in a chauffeur-driven BMW to and from the airport. Of course, glass floors to view the marine life, an outdoor shower, and white-glove butler service are included. Why not have breakfast brought to you, hang off the bed, and watch the fish swim by?

Sandals South Coast Resort – Whitehouse, Jamaica

Located on Jamaica’s northwestern coast, The 12 overwater bungalows at Sandals South Coast are new for 2018 and ooze romance. The bungalows are even arranged in the formation of a heart! This resort property has an overwater chapel, which is the perfect location for your destination wedding.

Like all Sandals properties, this resort is for adults only and is all-inclusive. Do you like Butler service? Your butler will greet you upon arrival (with a welcome cocktail waiting), arrange dining reservations, and unpack your luggage. Decks are private and decorated with day beds, hammocks for two, and outdoor showers and soaking tubs. And yes, the minibar is included, so pour up the Glenfiddich 12-Year and Hendricks Gin!

Cayo Espanto – A Private Island – Belize

Located three miles from San Pedro in the calm waters of the Western Caribbean Sea, off the coast of Belize, the private island resort Cayo Espanto is truly a private vacation retreat. This exclusive and intimate resort has only seven total villas and suites, including precisely one overwater bungalow (Casa Ventanas).

Surrounded by the Caribbean Sea, Casa Ventanas is a picture-perfect window into the sea life swimming right past or under the bungalow. This resort is complete luxury, including a butler for each suite among the many other amenities like a personal chef. And you can do the private island thing here, as they offer packages to rent the whole place out for one flat fee. Get your friend group together and rent out the entire resort for an epic experience!

 Chairman Overwater Bungalows at Royalton Antigua

Making their debut in June 2019, the Chairman Overwater Bungalows at Royalton Antigua are the first overwater bungalows on the island. Sitting on a private beach, Royalton Antigua offers luxurious all-inclusive amenities, breathtaking clear waters, and unobstructed views from the bungalows.

The adults-only Chairman Overwater Bungalows include luxury amenities such as :

• Private white glove butler service
• A king-sized bed
• A cozy seating area
• A dining room
• A swim-out infinity plunge pool
• An overwater hammock
• Glass floors for viewing sea life below

While the bungalows are adult-only, the resort is family-friendly. It’s an excellent option for a destination wedding, honeymoon, couple’s getaway, or family vacation.

The dream of staying in an overwater bungalow no longer requires a long flight or a fortune. With new options in Mexico, the Caribbean, and beyond, you can enjoy luxury and breathtaking views closer to home. Whether it’s a private island in Belize or an all-inclusive experience in Antigua, paradise is now just a short flight away. So why wait? Contact us today to plan your dream vacation and secure your overwater escape. Your slice of paradise is just a call away!

So why wait? Contact us today to plan your dream vacation and secure your overwater escape. Your slice of paradise is just a call away!