Top overwater bungalows destinations

At Travel Associates, we pride ourselves on our deep knowledge of travel’s eccentricities and luxurious quirks. One of those is the alluring wonder of overwater bungalows.

Who in the world can say they are not furiously intrigued by the idea of lazing around on their balcony while completely surrounded by glistening cyan water; or being able to get straight into a canoe from their back steps before embarking on an adventure to a deserted island?

If this sounds like your idea of the perfect holiday, you’ll be pleased to know we have endless amounts of information (not to mention experience) to make planning your overwater bungalow experience a whole lot easier. To get you started, here’s our pick of the top five overwater bungalow destinations:

1. Tahiti
Overwater bungalows originated in Tahiti in the 1960s so it's no surprise that the majority

of luxury Tahitian resorts offer this type of accommodation. Overwater bungalows at the Bora Bora Lagoon Resort and Spa contain all the extras, including a satellite plasma TV, air-conditioning and a private security safe. At the InterContinental Bora Bora Resort, the floors are glass and coffee tables clear to ensure you don’t miss out of any of the spectacular underwater sights.  St Regis Bora Bora is also one of the stand out properties in Tahiti.

2. Maldives
The Maldives are perfect for an overwater bungalow holiday any time of year. The Conrad

Rangali Island Hotel not only offers stunning underwater bungalows but also has its own underwater restaurant, Ithaa, providing a truly unique dining experience. Alternatively, Cocoa Island Resort has the same elegance but is on the doorstep of one of the Maldives’ best dive sites, the Kandooma Channel.

3. Vanuatu
Le Lagon Resort Vanuatu is nestled within 75 acres of tranquil gardens, alongside the stunning Erakor Lagoon. Vanuatu's capital Port Vila is just three kilometres from the resort and offers the island’s best shopping. This spectacular resort boasts three restaurants and bars, each offering a vast array of delectable cuisines. The resort’s ‘island suites’ sit right over the lagoon and offer magnificent ocean views as well as easy access to several secluded beaches nearby.

4. Fiji
There is one overwater bungalows option in Fiji, Likuliku Lagoon Resort.  The resort is

designed to reflect an ancient village but all the modern conveniences are still there.  The many dining options, world class spa and range of on and off water activities are sure to keep you entertained.  But don't forget, it's easy to just sit back, do nothing and enjoy the Fijian hospitality.

5. Bermuda
9 Beaches Bermuda Resort is the Caribbean’s home of underwater bungalows. Choose from one of 84 stylish cabanas, all located over 18 acres of exquisite private waterfront. You can spend your days having a go at every imaginable water sport, or simply put your feet up and sip ice-cold cocktails on the beach or your private veranda.

Have you stayed in an overwater bungalow?  We'd love to hear about it.  Share your experience in the comments section below.