Introduction to Overwater Bungalows in the Caribbean

Overwater bungalows are relatively new to the Caribbean. But in the last decade, they have started to proliferate, both in islands like Jamaica and Antigua and their traditional stronghold in the Bocas del Toro archipelago on the Caribbean coast of Panama. (And there are more on the way, including the highly-anticipated new Four Seasons on a private island in Belize.)

Some of them are overwater sections of larger resorts, others are just a handful of bungalows in a far-off corner of the Caribbean Sea.

Some are all-inclusive, some are EP. But they all deliver the essence of the experience: water on all sides, endless romance, the privilege of waking up and diving (or climbing) right into the water.

These are our favorite overwater Caribbean vacations right now, selected by our editors from locations all across the region.

The brand known for its eco-luxe hotels in Costa Rica is now in Panama.

Top Overwater Bungalows in the Caribbean

Nayara Bocas del Toro You may know the Nayara name best for its eco-friendly retreats in Costa Rica. But the brand quietly expanded to Panama back in 2022 and it remains the most upscale of all of Panama’s overwater options. What do you get here? 16 adults-only, overwater bungalows with private pools, four-poster beds, Balinese wood and Nespresso machines. And it’s all-inclusive. Rooms from $1,460. (You can also stay in the property’s treehouse rooms, if you prefer to be overland) Of all of the overwater bungalows to choose from in the Caribbean, this one is probably the most memorable).

The two-story overwater bungalows at Sandals’ new resort in St Vincent.

Sandals St Vincent and the Grenadines Before Sandals debuted its first overwater villas in Jamaica back in 2016, overwater bungalows had exclusively been the purview of the Western Caribbean. Now, Sandals has seriously popularized the concept, and that includes at its newest resort, which is home to what Sandals calls “Vincy Overwater Two-Story Villas.” Thehy come with everything from butler service to ocean ladders to sweeping decks with umbrellas perched right over the sea. These start at $3228 per night, based on double occupancy.

Yes, Aruba has them.

Aruba Ocean Villas Overwater bungalows in Aruba? Yes, it’s real. Of the 12 bungalows at this resort, seven are full-fledged overwater rooms, and they’re some of the most strikingly designed overwater units in the Caribbean, with large floor-to-ceiling windows, most with plunge pools and all with deliciously large decks with a variety of seating options. Dushi Sue, for example, has an outdoor jacuzzi and a tiki bar. Isla Alistaire has a plunge pool and a palapa lounge. Rooms start at $579 in the summer.

A junior overwater suite at the Royalton CHIC Antigua.

Royalton CHIC Antigua The newest addition to the Caribbean’s overwater bungalow landscape has four different categories of overwater options, ranging from the Chairman Overwater Suite to the Chairman Two-Bedroom Overwater Suite.

They all come with butler service, in-room bars, plunge pools and cool touches like the ability to order room service from any eatery at the property. Rates from $1,983 per night, all-inclusive.

There are four of these.

Sol Bungalows This Bocas del Toro-area resort just added new bungalows, and they’re spectacular, with thatched roofs, ladders right into the water and, even better, they’re solar powered. We’ve called it halfway between an overwater resort and a bed-and-breakfast. Thing of it as an ocean-and-breakfast. Rates at $328 per night, a real bargain in the overwater world.

This is an overwater-style option in the Bay Islands of Honduras.

Anthony’s Key, Honduras So these may not be “traditional” overwater bungalows (then again, what’s traditional about them to begin with?), but they’re as near as makes no difference. Set on the 11-acre island, they’re wooden, water’s edge bungalows where you get all of the same sensory delights, along with hammocks and stunning perched-above-the-water views. Rooms start around $229 per night. You can also get packages that include all three meals per day.

It’s the overwater option at Cayo Espanto.

Cayo Espanto, Belize This is one of our favorite resorts in the Caribbean, and one of the standout places to stay in Belize. You should note that unlike the others, there’s just one actual overwater unit here, bu tit’s worth the trip: It’s called Casa Ventanas, and it’s a stunning, colorful 1,100-square-foot bungalow that includes its own private dock, replete with all the service you dream of (nightly turndown, custom meals) and outdoor showers. If you don’t stay here, we will say that the other bungalows at this resort are about as close as you can get to be overwater without actually being overwater.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Caribbean offers a wide range of overwater bungalows, each with its own unique features! and amenities. From the luxurious Nayara Bocas del Toro to the affordable Sol Bungalows, there’s an overwater bungalow to suit every taste and budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are overwater bungalows?

Overwater bungalows are rooms or villas built over the water, typically in a tropical location. They offer a unique and luxurious experience, with stunning views and direct access to the ocean.

Where can I find overwater bungalows in the Caribbean?

Overwater bungalows can be found in various locations throughout the Caribbean, including Jamaica, Antigua, Panama, Aruba, and Belize.

How much do overwater bungalows cost?

The cost of overwater bungalows varies widely, depending on the location, amenities, and time of year. Prices can range from around $200 per night to over $3,000 per night.

What amenities can I expect in an overwater bungalow?

Amenities in overwater bungalows can include private pools, butler service, ocean ladders, and outdoor showers. Some resorts also offer all-inclusive packages and fine dining options.