The Best Overwater Bungalows in the Maldives
The Maldives is a South Asian country that consists of more than one thousand islands. This area has gorgeous blue and green waters, sandy beaches for miles, and luxurious overwater bungalows. Vacationers love to travel to the Maldives to enjoy water sports like diving into one of the 26 coral atolls with stunning marine life and picture-perfect sunsets. With numerous overwater villas, you have the chance to swim in a private lagoon right from your room. Check out the best overwater bungalows in the Maldives so you can plan a breathtaking journey in the Indian Ocean.
Angsana Velavaru
Nestled on a private lagoon in South Nilandhe Atoll lies some of the most beautiful turquoise waters you'll ever see at Angsana Velavaru. There are two categories for overwater villas, including island-based beach villas or in-ocean villas that are completely in the water. Five one-, two-, or three-bedroom beachfront villas are available, all with ocean views, direct access to the beach, and most with private infinity pools. Out of the in-ocean villas, there are three selections, including a one- or two-bedroom bungalow. They all have infinity pools, rooftop terraces, ocean-suspended hammocks and can sleep three to five people.
This luxury resort offers three delectable restaurants, including beachfront dining and poolside drinking. Relax in the tranquil spa with native ingredients, fragrant aromas, and luxury spa treatments. Book here
Soneva Jani
The Maldives overwater bungalows at Soneva Jani are the utmost in elegance and indulgence. This luxury retreat comprises five islands in the Noonu Atoll at the Medhufaru lagoon. Each of the 27 family-friendly villas is set within the crystal-clear waters, surrounded by beaches and lush tropical greenery. A four-bedroom water reserve with a personal gym, wine cellar, pool, and water slide into the lagoon. Alternatively, the four-bedroom island reserve is a beachfront mansion with a personal sauna, pool, and wine cellar. Smaller versions include the one-bedroom water retreat with pool, lagoon slide, and open-air bathroom, while the two-bedroom has a pool and retractable roof. A three-bedroom water reserve has a lagoon slide, outdoor deck, and spectacular dining area.
Enjoy unlimited spa days with cutting-edge therapies as well as traditional techniques for the best in holistic wellness. Some delicious dining options include So Wild By Diana Von Cranach for a plant-based menu, while So Primitive has mouthwatering firepit food. Book here
The Ritz-Carlton
Located on Fair Islands in the Maldives, the Ritz Carlton features some of the best overwater bungalows because all villas have ocean or lagoon views. You'll love the wall-to-wall glass doors for a complete indoor/outdoor ambiance, along with the private infinity pool and sundeck with each villa. Enjoy rain showers, marble soaking tubs, Wi-Fi, complimentary bar snacks, and nightly turndown service. Enjoy direct beach access in select villas. Although beach estates are available, the ocean pool villa and two-bedroom water pool villa are overwater escapes for three or four adults. With overwater hammocks, personal butlers, and complimentary bicycles to explore the island, these overwater bungalows fit the definition of luxury.
Guests will also feast on global cuisine within the five onsite restaurants and bars, including two in Fari Marina Village. The elite spa has nine treatment rooms, including a suite as well as relaxation areas and an upscale salon. The 24-hour fitness center includes a sauna, steam room, and yoga studio. A dive center has a selection of underwater activities and watersports, while the Art Collection is a selection of work from world-renowned and local artists. Book here
Soneva Fushi
All of the gorgeous luxury villas at Soneva Fushi have white-sand beaches and clear blue waters, but these overwater bungalows either face the sunset or sunrise sides of the island. The sunset side is for snorkelers because it has reef access and frequent dolphin sightings. Since the neighboring island is about 650 meters away, guests should opt for the sunrise side if they want extra privacy. It is also ideal for morning risers who love tranquility at sunrise. Many villas feature private pools, terraces, outdoor bathrooms, and one or two bedrooms.
Signature experiences at Soneva Fushi include feasting on international cuisine or delightful treats at nearly two dozen restaurants and bars. You can also enjoy a stargazing dinner cruise, castaway picnics, complimentary water sports, glass blowing classes, private cinema and dinner, and more. Book here
LUX* South Ari Atoll
Soak in jaw-dropping sunsets from the overwater bungalow at this Maldives destination. Located at the tip of the jetty, the one-bedroom presidential suite boasts of a minimalist design full of elegant amenities. Guests can enjoy private buggy service, a personal butler, a selection of wines and drinks, and premium bicycles. From the infinity pool, deck, and sun terrace to the see-through glass floors in the living room, you'll love this stylish seaside resort. Besides the LUX* villa, there are smaller overwater Maldives bungalows, like the Romantic Pool Water Villa and the Temptation Pool Water Villa with round beds, hot tubs, and drop-down projectors. All villas come with air conditioning, wifi, still/sparkling water, coffee, and fully-stocked minibars.
LUX* South Ari has eight restaurants and five bars for a worldwide gourmet experience. You can dine in secluded spots, too, like the herb garden, by the pool, on the beach, and more. There's a beach with tons of watersports, endless wildlife, a lavish spa, family-fun activities, and all-inclusive options. Book here
