Have you ever stayed in an overwater bungalow? Of course not. For most people – and most lovebirds – an overwater bungalow is a special travel experience to be reserved for a honeymoon, when you save up your time, money, and energy for the perfect, most exceptional post-wedding experience. As far as life experiences go, getting married is superb in and of itself – but it deserves to be embellished with a luxurious honeymoon in an overwater bungalow. For many couples, a honeymoon is their one — and perhaps their only time — to really splurge and go all out on a trip — so why not opt for the ultimate? That means a beautiful, sexy bungalow that’s built right over the water.
In a word, an overwater bungalow is thrilling. Beyond the best. The Rolls-Royce of relaxation. A posh playground for Hollywood A-listers, and the world’s most sophisticated travelers, a romantic overwater bungalow in a tropical location is a gorgeous, glitzy, and overwhelmingly glamorous getaway. It’s a luxurious little-grass-shack in a superb setting.
Think about it – you will stay in a charming thatched hut just steps above calm, shallow, azure waters. In some bungalows, the living room has a specially constructed hole in the floor, covered by a glass-topped coffee table. Just remove the glass and Voila! You can easily view the fish below, right from the comfort of your bungalow. (Others simply have see-through glass floors.) The honeymoon memories you will make here will be unforgettable. In addition, the rays of light that permeate the room are radiant. And typically, there are butlers to handle every extra-special request, to make you two very-well-cared-for castaways.
Factor in high-thread-count sheets, comfy outdoor lounge chairs on your lanai, well-stocked kitchens, and plunge pools, and you’ve got yourself the perfect, seductive, exotic honeymoon escape.
Having a post-wedding holiday in a beautiful destination that offers overwater bungalows is a honeymoon experience at its finest. Over-the-water bungalows are over-the-top! Each is your own private, posh playground — and wonder-filled personal water park.
In this blog, we list 25 of the best overwater villas and rooms in the world’s most romantic honeymoon spots, including the Caribbean, the Maldives, the South Pacific, and iconic Asian destinations. Discover the perfect blend of luxury and romance, and start your married life right with any of these top-rated options.
You’ll make honeymoon memories that will last from here to eternity.
And take it from us — Don’t forget to bring your inflatable tube, for floating and frolicking in the lagoon!
Sandals Royal Caribbean
Location
Montego Bay, Jamaica
Why Stay Here
Sandals is one of the world’s best hospitality companies, offering a wealth of luxuries that are tailor-made for honeymooning couples. Choosing an overwater bungalow at an all-inclusive resort such as Sandals is one of the best decisions you’ll make in your (newly) married life. Think about it: As an all-inclusive, Sandals offers extraordinary amenities that are included in the price of your honeymoon and do not cost extra — and that also includes all of your gourmet meals, and all spirits. Take it from us: Once you stay at an all-inclusive resort such as Sandals — you will find it hard to go back to a typical hotel, where it is “cost-plus” and you are charged for everything. At Sandals — go ahead — order that second dessert, have a Nutella crepe as a snack, and share that extra pina colada in the pool!
And if you’re escaping to Jamaica for your post-wedding getaway, Sandals Royal Caribbean offers two types of overwater accommodations located off the resort’s own private island. One is a “regular” overwater bungalow, and the other is an overwater villa. Although both options are already way more gorgeous than your typical hotel room, the latter adds an extra touch of indulgence: It comes with its own infinity pool. Regardless of which of the two you choose, you’ll receive Butler Elite service that will take care of your 24-hour in-room dining and travel to and from the mainland. Even better — and this is a unique distinction — with see-through glass floors in your Sandals overwater bungalow, you can experience the ocean below from the comfort of your suite — and lit water ensures you can enjoy the turquoise waters and rich marine life anytime, day or night. It’s an extraordinary, unforgettable experience.
And here’s something else to consider: Sandals offers its honeymooners a 20-minute complimentary photo shoot. What this means is that you and your spouse can have gorgeous photos taken of yourselves enjoying yourself in your overwater bungalow — and you will be professionally posed and lit by an expert photographer. The results are remarkable — and you will have honeymoon photos to accompany your wedding photos, which are magazine-quality. We have indulged in Sandals photo shoots at many of their locations — and the images are second to none, and ideal for immortalizing in their own special keepsake book. Five, ten, 20, 50 years from now — when you look at the honeymoon images from Sandals, you will re-experience the thrill of your trip — and isn’t that what a great getaway is all about?
Other Notable Features
- Honeymooning couples receive a special package that includes chilled sparkling wine, artistic flower-petal turndown service (totally Instagrammable!) plus one decadent breakfast-in-bed (think chocolate pancakes).
- Stylish mahogany king-size beds feature soft linens and plush, posh pillows
- Access to Sandals Montego Bay, which has its own over-the-water collection inclusive of gazebos, a bar, and a chapel
Sandals South Coast
Location
Whitehouse, Jamaica
Why Stay Here
Twelve of the most beautiful overwater bungalows Caribbean are at Sandals South Coast. What makes it a must-book? Not only will you experience the luxury — and convenience — of an all-inclusive resort, you will stay right above the famed Caribbean azure waters, complete with glass-vision floor panels so you can enjoy undersea views at any time. You’ll also have the pleasure of a private outdoor Tranquility Soaking Tub-for-Two — or over-the-water hammocks — plus your own private beach cabana. Besides, it’s a feature that’s exclusive to this Sandals property. Sandals’ overwater bungalows — which are all-inclusive — are a knockout in every way possible.
Bathrooms feature his-and-hers sinks, and a walk-in rainshower — but there’s also a private patio with an extended sundeck and outdoor shower — for good clean fun!
This is a dreamy sanctuary for couples who wish for a true disconnect from the world in order to truly reconnect with each other. It’s nestled within a 500-acre wilderness preserve thick with palm groves. It’s home to nine world-class eateries, seven bars, and an array of exciting amenities and excursions. Travel is convenient from the airport because there’s a newly built road and Sandals also covers roundtrip transfers. Plus, it has Jamaica’s largest sloping walk-in pool — it is known as a “zero-entry” pool. What more can you ask for?
Other Notable Features
- You receive a welcome gift of a branded tote and towel set
- Caribbean’s longest river pool, which spans more than 17,000 square feet
Four Seasons Bora Bora
Location
Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Why Stay Here
These overwater bungalows at The Four Seasons Resort will have you desiring more-a, more-a, of Bora Bora.
The traditional thatched-roof roof of your overwater bungalow is made from the leaves of the indigenous pandanus tree, grown on local plantations, and woven by local craftsmen. Of the 108 one- and two-bedroom overwater bungalows here, 27 of them have private plunge pools, and all have outdoor lounging and dining areas, plus a ladder right into the warm, calm, turquoise waters of the lagoon! In your bungalow, you can view schools of fish below — and even swim among them, from your private berth. Everything here is a “wow moment” in the making!
You can also opt for opulence with floral baths, Panpuri bath amenities, private dinner on your deck, surrounding yourself in the comfort of your Four Seasons signature mattress covered in sateen sheets, and a Taurumi Mind and Body spa ritual incorporating body scrub and massage. And make sure to book the helicopter tour that takes off from the resort’s landing pad!
Here, in French Polynesia, you can enjoy resort perks that include daily breakfast, round-trip airport transfers, non-motorized watersports, cultural and marine biology classes, and even tennis clinics.
When not staying in your own private paradise, you can explore the rest of the amenities within the property. The resort also offers on-site yoga classes and a unique shopping experience with three retail stores. One of the shops sells jewelry, and here’s where you will want to whisper to your spouse those three little words – No, not, “I love you,” but “Tahitian black pearls.” These beautiful baubles are born of the French lagoons, and it is said that they come in every color of the waters — azure, pistachio, gray, purple, turquoise, and many more. Shopping for black pearls, together, in Bora Bora, is not only fun — it is fascinating.
Other Notable Features
- Services designed for couples include spa treatments for two, in-bungalow dining, sunset cruises, private nighttime snorkels, and even a shark snorkel (Don’t worry — you will see non-aggressive reef sharks and it is one of the world’s greatest adventure experiences. We did it and loved it!)
- Complimentary services that range from premium WiFi to marine-life demonstrations
- Remember to bring an inflatable pool tube for even more romantic fun together
The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort
Location
Vommuli Island, Dhaalu Atoll, Maldives
Why Stay Here
You and your loved one can soak up the sun and luxuriate as long as you want, when you head to this paradise in the Maldives.
St. Regis Maldives Vommuli has 44 overwater bungalows, each with its own private plunge pool, for divine decadence — and pure delight. Each of the bungalows is also designed to mimic graceful manta rays. The beautiful bungalows, situated by the reef, also offer up-close-and-personal views of eagle rays, shoals of young squid, and tropical fish of all shapes and sizes. You’ll enjoy swimming in your own private aquarium, in one of the world’s most exclusive adventure experiences. St. Regis’ famed Butler Service is also included in your special honeymoon stay here.
Resort perks include the St. Regis Bed, with linens from French luxury company Frette, daily breakfast, sunset yoga, snorkel equipment, stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking and even cycling.
And here’s a fun fact: Did you know that the Bloody Mary cocktail was invented in 1934 at the St. Regis New York? Here in the Maldives you can order an outstanding “Island Mary” featuring the distinctive flavors of the island, including Himalayan black salt, a seasoning that’s popular in South Asian cuisine.
Cheers!
Other Notable Features
- A luxury yacht that you can book and charter so you can enjoy a sunset cruise, an afternoon tea time while cruising, or even stargazing
- Ask about arranging for in-bungalow amenities that can include champagne, chocolates and tropical fruits (bring on the mango and mangosteens!), romantic bubble baths, and more.
Sandals Grande St. Lucian
Location
Gros-Islet, St. Lucia
Why Stay Here
Picture-perfect is an excellent word to describe the beauty of Sandals Grande St. Lucian, which is set along a long stretch of pristine beach. A few steps from the main property will take you to their nine over-the-water accommodations offering outstanding views in every direction.
Sandals’ all-inclusive resorts offer honeymooners world-class gourmet restaurants, premium drinks, and water and land activities, which do not cost extra. What does this mean? When you arrive at your bungalow, just put your wallet in the safe — and forget about it. Everything you need for an ultimate stay is already included.
As with other Sandals resorts, overwater bungalows offer personalized butler service and a bungalow with glass floors (so you can view the fish from your room), a soaking tub, and an over-the-water hammock to swing into luxury and worry-free escape. Have we already mentioned it’s adults-only?
Other Notable Features
- Access to two nearby Sandals resorts (Sandals Regency La Toc and Sandals Halcyon) and golf courses (Cap Estate Golf & Country Club and La Toc Golf Course)
- 24-hour in-room dining (that’s a thrill in a bungalow) and luxurious Molton Brown bathroom amenities
Song Saa Private Island
Location
Koh Rong Archipelago, Cambodia
Why Stay Here
Have you considered the Cambodian coastline? If you seek a luxurious — and ethical — resort for your honeymoon, Song Saa Private Island is the place to be. This sustainable property in the Ko Rong Archipelago offers one-bed overwater villas that capture the beauty of nature. Each villa is a posh, private sanctuary that is suitable for swooning. They are a refined blend of thatched roofs, linen-draped canopy beds, up-cycled décor and repurposed furniture. Discarded oil drums find new life as lamps. Driftwood serves as a table or bench. Salvaged wood from old fishing boats and factory yards create decks, floors and beams. Moreover, it offers the best of the Cambodian coastline with vibrant reefs, sugary sand beaches, and incredible views, especially during sunset.
For even more magical moments, you can book an in-villa barbecue, as well as a private beach picnic, or a sunset cruise. Make sure to order the fantastic vegan and vegetarian dishes, which are locally sourced and include plenty of coconut, cashews, and Kampot pepper.
Despite the one-hour boat ride and drive from the Sihanoukville International Airport, the experience of staying in an all-inclusive hideaway is really worth it. These overwater villas offer direct ocean access so you can indulge in easy-access water sports activities such as sailing, kayaking, and snorkeling.
Other Notable Features
- Spa and wellness sanctuaries
- Ecological and cultural programs
- Peek at the natural reef through your villa’s portholes
Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay
Location
Momi Bay, Fiji
Why Stay Here
Why Fiji? Located in the Southwest Pacific Ocean, Fiji is the “Soft Coral Capital Of The World,” so nicknamed by the famous oceanographer Jacques Cousteau. That makes it a superb snorkeling and scuba diving destination, where you are likely to encounter tiger sharks, wahoos, tuna, humpback whales, and manta rays.
The most beautiful base for you in Fiji is at the Fiji Marriott Momi Bay, home to 22 overwater bures (villas) with direct lagoon access — these are the only overwater bungalows on the Fiji mainland, and they are perched right above the lagoon. The lagoon? Well, there’s nothing quite like it. An aptly named blue lagoon is picture-postcard beautiful, calm, warm — and totally inviting. Direct access to the lagoon means that you can totally indulge and luxuriate in one of the world’s best travel experiences. Venturing into the South Pacific is always a good idea, especially for a memorable trip like a honeymoon. The bungalows themselves have high-vaulted ceilings, a private outdoor deck, and a distinct Fijian styling. And there’s no better place to watch the sunset.
And here’s an important distinction: Fiji Marriott Momi Bay is dedicated to sustainability. So, complimentary activities here include fish-house-building initiatives, where you can directly contribute to the protection of marine-life habitats. You can also dive into the crystal-clear waters to assist in coral-restoration efforts, to play a unique “hands-on” role in the rejuvenation of the underwater ecosystem. You’ll have an enriching opportunity to actively participate in the conservation of Fiji’s natural wonders.
The resort offers honeymooners an all-inclusive “package” that includes daily breakfast, lunch and dinner; free-flow of beverages including wines, beers and spirits, and daily use of non-motorized water sports.
Take advantage of the award-winning Quan Spa, a renowned wellness destination featuring Pure Fiji locally-made skincare products. Made with coconut, dilo oil, and macadamia, this exotic upscale brand is one of our favorites, and their aromas are intoxicating. (The coconut cleanser with papaya is a bestseller.) Having an authentic Fijian spa experience at this world-class resort is one of the world’s most tempting treats. After your facial and massage, there’s nothing better than taking a nap in your bungalow, on the signature, superb, soft sheets.
Other Notable Features
- Schedule a gourmet picnic on a secluded beach, and a private, candlelit cabana dinner.
- A packed event calendar that includes wide-ranging classes and activities (cocktail-making, fish feeding)
Cayo Espanto Belize
Location
Cayo Espanto
Why Stay Here
Cayo Espanto is more than your ordinary private island. In essence, It is an oasis just two hours from Miami and Houston. Located just off the coast of Belize, it’s the perfect setting for an exclusive escape for your post-wedding retreat. While it’s a secluded sanctuary, it’s a great place for celebrity sightings. (Past guests include Bill Gates and Tiger Woods.)
This award-winning enclave offers oceans of TLC so you can feel like a VIP. You’ll honeymoon in ultimate, perfect privacy. That means that it’s just you two — in your bungalow – esconced in nature – and you just may not see any other guests for the duration of your stay.
Casa Olita, for example, is a villa with a private dock, plunge pool and alfresco showers. But the star of this resort is its overwater bungalows that the Caribbean Sea surrounds on all sides. Casa Ventanas is a 1100-sq.-ft. overwater bungalow with its own private dock, nightly turndown services, and access to award-winning chefs. This is five-star frolicking at its very best.
Other Notable Features
- Luxurious spa treatments
- Wide-ranging activities include fishing, scuba diving, snorkeling, bird watching, and Mayan ruin explorations
Sweet Bocas
Location
Bocas del Toro, Panama
Why Stay Here
The Caribbean coast of Panama is home to this enchanting 15-acre private island — complete with its own organic farm, delicious farm-to-table cuisine from your own personal chef, and a superlative overwater villa set above the jade-colored bay. Nestled in a lush jungle surrounded by waters where turtles and dolphins take refuge, it’s a self-sustainable sanctuary for travelers who want a secluded honeymoon experience — and in a seven-bedroom bungalow that is perfectly pristine. The rooms are decorated with whimsical furnishings from around the world, and feature king-size beds, rain showers, and indoor and outdoor lounge areas.
On the island, you’ll also find the second-largest freshwater lake in the region, gardens, whimsical social areas, and art installations to complete a truly rejuvenating escape.
Other Notable Features
- Special surfing packages to enjoy Bocas del Toro’s famous waves
- Excursions to local villages
InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa
Location
Faa’a, Tahiti, French Polynesia
Why Stay Here
We stayed in these overwater bungalows years ago — and the experience was so unique and extraordinary that we are still dreaming about it! We loved everything about our stay here in French Polynesia — the decor, the direct access to the lagoon below, and especially the Canoe Breakfast, where locals in Polynesian attire, and outfitted in flowers, brought us a boatload of gourmet goodies for our first meal of the day. It is totally Instagrammable! The InterContinental Tahiti Resort and Spa offers a wealth of “magical moments” such as these.
The resort offers 13 overwater bungalows that are oceanview, and decorated in a modern Polynesian style. Then there are eight Suite overwater bungalows that are built around the resort’s own private islet — known as a “motu” in the Polynesian language. Finally, there is one especially large bungalow with a deck, featuring thatched walls, wide floor-to-ceiling windows (to-die-for views) and charming tropical decor.
Restaurants include Te Tiare (so named for the local gardenia flower), which is famous for its authentic dinner shows with Polynesian dances. Take it from us — the Tahitian “tamure” with its hip-shaking energy, is probably the sexiest dance you will ever see. At dinner, you can order the resort’s signature, tropical cocktail: The Beachcomber, made with Dark Havana Club Especial rum, mixed with cocoa cream, coconut, pineapple juice — and served in a coconut. Yum’s the word!
And here’s an insider tip: In our free time, we loved going to the local Tahiti marketplace, where we purchased the famous, locally made monoi oil (made from sweet-smelling gardenias), and yes, we also bought Tahitian black pearls as a superb souvenir! We had six of them (all in different colors) made into a charm bracelet, and with the seventh, we designed a diamond ring with a pistachio black pearl at the center. They are cherished — and well-worn — honeymoon keepsakes — that we treasure.
Other Notable Features
- Spa treatments and therapies, Tahitian-style
- On-site dive center, the only PADI Five-Star diving facility in French Polynesia
Palafitos Overwater Bungalows at El Dorado Maroma Resort
Location
Playa Del Carmen, Mexico
Why Stay Here
Mexico’s coastal resort town features many high-end resorts — but one of the best is El Dorado Maroma, an all-inclulsive resort by Karisma in Riviera Maya, which takes pride in having the first overwater bungalows in the area.
Its magnificent Palafitos Overwater Bungalows are perched above the pristine waters of award-winning Maroma Beach, and feature glass-bottom floors, and special ladders leading right into the ocean. Each offers a private infinity pool, an outdoor shower called “Aguas del Amor,” and postcard-worthy views of the Caribbean Sea. Moreover, it offers full butler service, 24-hour room service, and daily in-bungalow breakfast. Another highlight? 1000-threadcount 100% cotton sheets! You will also enjoy top-notch cuisines that celebrate vibrant Latin flavors.
Another huge advantage: El Dorado Maroma is an all-inclusive resort, which means that all of your meals and beverages and alcohol are included. After you arrive, put your wallet into the hotel safe, and forget about costs — just enjoy your heavenly honeymoon.
Other Notable Features
- Customized beach picnics
- A range of excursions, including scuba diving, swimming with dolphins, and camel safari tours
COMO Laucala Island
Location
Laucala Island, Fiji
Why Stay Here
COMO Laucala Island in Fiji is an extraordinary natural paradise and it’s one of the world’s largest private-island resorts. It’s five-star – all the way. It even has its own private airstrip, and can arrange connecting flights from the airport on resort-owned planes. This is one of the world’s most preeminent posh resorts, and its overwater bungalows are jaw-dropping.
It features just 25 villas that are suspended over the lagoon waters, on hilltops, amidst rainforest and beside rolling waves.
Fantastic farm-to-table cuisine features numerous local ingredients and produce.
The spa itself is spectacular. COMO Shambhala Retreat is a celebration of the many fresh, nourishing resources that can be found in Fiji. Treatments make use of the island’s herbs, stones, flowers, fruits and soils, with the spa located on a forested hilltop location among the birds.
Other activities include tours of the island’s 240-acre farm, horse riding, hiking, diving, surfing, snorkeling, and deep-sea game fishing. Likewise, you can keep your fitness goals in check at their state-of-the-art fitness center.
Other Notable Features
- Cultural activities: Cooking classes, island survival skills, and Fijian Kava ceremonies
- Access to an 18-hole championship golf course
Hôtel Palafitte
Location
Neuchâtel, Switzerland
Why Stay Here
Switzerland attracts millions of tourists, and the image of the country that may first come to mind is the stunning Swiss Alps and its cozy mountain villages. However, Hôtel Palafitte is here to give you another picturesque side of the country.
Hotel Palafitte, on Lake Neuchatel, is the only hotel in Europe with five-star rooms — on stilts! It has 24 pavilions positioned over the lake that radiate romance and luxury, offering you incredible views of the clear waters and the world-famous Alps. The 24 pavilions offer direct access to the lake via a small ladder from your private terrace. The hotel itself is a “work of art” that was built in 2002 as part of a Swiss natural exhibition.
Other Notable Features
- Various wellness activities, including massage rituals and fitness sessions
- Bike rentals, tandem paragliders, kayaking, and more land-, air-, and water-based activities
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
Location
Lake Buena Vista, Florida
Why Stay Here
Wondering if you can have an overwater honeymoon experience right within the US? This Disney property is the answer. Located on the southern side of the man-made Seven Seas Lagoon, this expansive resort draws inspiration from Polynesian above-water structures.
While it’s best for families, this is an excellent place for honeymooners who desire an enchanting escape. Swaying palm trees, tikis, and verdant gardens characterize the resort’s ambiance. You’ll also enjoy access to nearby fun attractions.
Other Notable Features
- A variety of activities at the Seven Seas Lagoon include fishing and boating
- Access to experiences such as campfires and movies under the stars
Likuliku Lagoon Resort
Location
Yaro, Fiji
Why Stay Here
The shores of a tranquil lagoon serve as the home of Likuliku (which literally translates to “calm waters”). This is an idyllic, couples-only resort with 45 bures – the Fijian name for its rooms. There are 35 that have direct beach and lagoon access, and just 10 sit majestically over the coral reef, allowing you access from your own private balcony into the ocean. What could be more gorgeous?
As a resort that wholly supports sustainable tourism, its waters and reef are a Marine-Protected Area.
The cuisine is fresh, clean and creative, showcasing the finest local and international produce with an emphasis on local seafood and lush tropical fruits from the South Pacific.
Complete your laidback luxurious experience with activities such as sunset cruises and island hopping.
Other Notable Features
- Access to cultural experiences like village trips and Fijian Kava ceremonies
- Access to a vibrant underwater world via snorkeling or diving
Conrad Bora Bora Nui
Location
Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Why Stay Here
Here, there are a total of 86 idyllic overwater bungalows for you to enjoy, including two Presidential overwater villas. You can even extend your living space by opening the fully retractable windows, and stepping outside onto your private terrace, featuring direct access into the lagoon. In addition, there’s nothing quite as romantic as floating on your overwater hammocks while admiring the panoramic views of the horizon and the spectacular sunsets! The resort even provides inflatable tubes for the water, for fantastic frolicking. King-sized beds are covered in oh-so-gorgeous luxury Frette sheets. And the round tubs in the bathroom are ideal for romantic baths. Splash away!
More than just an idyllic honeymoon destination, it can also serve as your wedding venue (they offer wedding planning services). World-class dining experiences will round up the list of things to love on this side of the South Pacific. For an ultimate experience, book the private diving tour complete with souvenir video — and even a Tahitian pearl offered to you at the end of the excursion!
Other Notable Features
- Exclusive access to Motu Tapu, considered the region’s most photographed islet
- Couple-centric activities like a canoe breakfast, dinner-for-two, and a romantic stargazing experience (complete with champagne and sweet treats)
Banyan Tree Mayakoba
Location
Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Why Stay Here
This beautiful Banyan Tree resort is a luxury five-star property in a world of lush mangrove forests and pristine shores. A special sanctuary, it is immersed in a unique tropical landscape of lush mangroves, tranquil waterways, and pristine coastlines, offering the luxury of connecting with nature.
The resort’s world-class dining and wellness program makes it a true escape for the senses, a place for relaxation, rejuvenation, and romance. A Five-Star Forbes and AAA Five-Diamond resort, Banyan Tree Mayakoba is nestled within a private gated community linked by canal waterways, offering complete privacy.
The villas and suites are exquisite spaces offering large terraces and timeless design in harmony with the natural surroundings.
Make sure to experience Banyan Tree Spa! Its signature range of Asian therapies offered in opulent treatment pavilions are adorned by distinct Balinese interior design. (We had a Thai massage at the Banyan Tree in Thailand, and it was oh-so-wonderful!)
Other Notable Features
- Access to El Camaleon Golf Course, which is Latin America’s first PGA Tour course
- Excursions to Riviera Maya’s cenotes, ruins, and local festivals and attractions
Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort and Spa
Location
Moorea-Maiao, French Polynesia
Why Stay Here
Want an eco-friendly honeymoon experience in the South Pacific? Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa should be your top choice. While supporting sustainable practices, you can indulge in decadent amenities and accommodations — including over-the-water bungalows.
Nestled in the heart of a tranquil lagoon, the overwater bungalows here are the epitome of luxury and serenity. Each bungalow is a harmonious blend of modern comfort and traditional Polynesian decor. One of its greatest features are the glass floor panels offering an intimate view of the vibrant marine life dancing beneath you! Another huge advantage: These bungalows have a north-facing orientation, offering you the unparalleled opportunity to bask in direct sunlight from sunrise to sunset. Each day of your heavenly honeymoon will be filled with the warm glow of the tropical sun. Don’t forget your sunscreen! And during whale-watching season, you can witness the majestic ballet of whales, right from your private sundeck. Make sure to sip on the resort’s signature cocktail — the Eimeho Vice, a tropical fusion of vodka, pineapple, strawberry puree — and coconut ice cream. Yum! And we can tell you from personal experience — there’s nothing in the world like the Canoe Breakfast delivery, to be truly pampered, Polynesian style. It’s totally Instagrammable!
Other Notable Features
- Natural white-sand beach and protected coral gardens
- Pampering spa services inspired by ancestral Tahitian techniques — try the Romance Royal featuring coconut milk body mask
- Polynesian-themed evenings, held three times a week
JOALI BEING
Location
Muravandhoo Island Raa Atoll, Maldives
Why Stay Here
JOALI is more than just a resort. It’s an immersive escape that helps you rejuvenate your well-being. Staying in an overwater villa here means being surrounded by crystalline lagoons and shimmering beaches. The music from the breeze and swaying coconut palm trees delight the senses. And the presence of your own butler takes away any stress.
Nestled on the secluded island of Bodufushi in Raa Atoll, amid crystalline lagoons, pristine beaches and lush coconut palms, JOALI BEING is a 40-minute seaplane journey from Malé International Airport. With 68 villas, each with its own butler or “Jadugar,” it is the region’s first wellbeing island of its kind.
Extraordinary amenities pair well with wellness programs that aim to offer you and your loved one a transformative journey toward rejuvenation. Isn’t it a meaningful way to commence a brand-new chapter in your life?
All food and beverage options at JOALI BEING have been expertly curated with the help of the island’s nutritionists, offering a selection of flavors and cuisines with healthy and indulging dining options.
Here, wellbeing is so much more than just an expression – it is a way of life, of being. This resort believes in savoring the joy of here and now.
Other Notable Features
- Well-curated wellness programs
- Access to an open-plan dining space, which is home to three restaurants
InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa
Location
Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Why Stay Here
There is a reason this InterContinental property is called the Pearl of the Pacific. Situated in Motu Piti Aau, it’s a resort and spa that epitomizes tropical wonder. And what better way to bask in such magical beauty than staying at a bungalow perched above the clearest of waters?
Imagine waking up to the gentle lapping of waves and a breathtaking view of Mount Otemanu. The overwater bungalows here redefine luxury – perched above crystal-clear waters, they are the epitome of a romantic escape. Each has a private sundeck, Polynesian decor, a bathtub that is ideal for romantic soaking, plus, in the lounge area, a signature glass floor — perfect for viewing the tropical fish below. It’s like a dream!
Sit back and sip a Thalasso Negroni, a gin-based cocktail infused with hibiscus and oh-so-delicious Tahitian vanilla. (Make sure to purchase some Tahitian vanilla to bring home for your own culinary escapades!)
The resort’s acclaimed Deep Ocean Spa uses deep ocean water (sourced at a depth of 3,000 feet) for special treatments, and features a cold saltwater plunge pool. The signature pampering at the spa is a Bora Bora Bliss – a Tahitian massage with local monoi — a mixture of coconut and gardenia oils. Monoi is perhaps the most fabulous, fragrant elixir you will ever inhale!
Other Notable Features
- Onsite Lagoonarium where you can see a variety of marine creatures
- Excursions including diving and shopping trips
- Book a special professional photoshoot to capture your married bliss in your bungalow
Six Senses Ninh Van Bay
Location
Ninh Van Bay, Vietnam
Why Stay Here
You’ll pull out all the stops when you stay in one of this resort’s overwater bungalows. While this award-winning Six Senses resort is set on a bay overlooking the East Vietnam Sea, it will feel like a remote island. The beachfront and overwater villas are nestled into the island’s rock formations.
Famous for their Six Senses Sleep Experience, the resort has worked with internationally-renowned experts including Sleep Doctor Michael J. Breus to develop a sleep standard to ensure that each day ends in peaceful slumber. And getting superb sleep makes for a great honeymoon, right? You’ll luxuriate on a handmade mattress made from organic lamb’s wool, with fibers from a certified organic coconut plantation, along with temperature-regulating pillows and superfine linens.
Six Senses resorts are also dedicated to wellness in every possible way. You will enjoy local and sustainable cuisine, mindfulness programs, and private wellness classes. A sanctuary in the hilltops, Six Senses Spa Ninh Van Bay is a treat from top to toe. Bliss out with traditional Vietnamese therapies, local body treatments, and rejuvenating journeys, while relaxing to the sound of the natural streams flowing by.
You two lovebirds can also nurture yourselves with cooking classes, hiking and island hopping. Certainly, there won’t be any dull moment when you head to this Asian gem.
Other Notable Features
- Boat charters, cruises and cycle rides into the charming Vietnamese countryside
- Top-class eateries offering East-meets-West dishes
Soneva Fushi
Location
Baa Atoll, Maldives
Why Stay Here
Soneva Fushi is an unparalleled paradise of barefoot luxury, in a sustainable ecosystem of lush jungle, pristine beaches and crystalline waters.
This is a luxury island hideaway in the Maldives that is the ideal honeymoon haven. Barefoot elegance bounds here – in a sustainable ecosystem of lush jungle, pristine beaches and crystalline waters. Soneva Fushi in the Maldives – an award-winning resort and one of the world’s best – provides an idyllic setting that combines the beauty of unspoiled beaches and stunning landscapes.
Its elegant 55 private-island villas are ensconced in a verdant expanse of rich jungle. All feature vast living spaces and views towards the sunrise or sunset, and most enjoy their own pools, and are steps from the beach. The eight Water Reserves are among the largest of their kind in the world, featuring a terrace with a private pool and a water slide into the ocean. On the sunset side, you are likely to spot dolphins in the channel. All Soneva Fushi villas come with personalized Butler service 24/7.
Check out the sensational spa. Soneva Soul at Soneva Fushi offers transformative treatments in an idyllic tropical island setting. Encircled by the island’s lush jungle, the two-story wellness complex is inspired by its tranquil location, inviting guests to rejuvenate, restore and relax. RxR on your honeymoon? That sounds right!
Other Notable Features
- Movie-watching experience under the stars
- An immersive three-day, two-night journey into the best of the Baa Atoll (including snorkeling, diving, garden explorations, and cultural experiences)
Conrad Maldives Rangali Island
Location
South Ari Atoll, Maldives
Why Stay Here
Nestled in the serene waters of the Indian Ocean, the overwater villas here are sanctuaries of luxury and tranquility. Each category of villa, from the Sunrise Water Villa to the world’s first underwater residence – the Muraka – is thoughtfully designed to offer an unparalleled experience of island living. The Sunrise, Sunset, and Deluxe Water Villas are ideal for honeymooners, featuring private sundecks with infinity plunge pool (idyllic!), glass-paneled floors for up-close-and-personal viewing of tropical fish, and bathrooms with oceanview tubs. Each villa captures the essence of Maldivian elegance and the enchantment of oceanfront living. The posh pampering includes Serta mattresses covered in luxurious Frette linens.
Make sure to sip the signature cocktail: The Maldivian Passion fuses fresh vanilla, passion fruit, lime and apple, with vodka. Here’s to your new life together!
Other Notable Features
- 12 dining venues including the world’s first undersea restaurant, emphasizing local flavors
- Exotic spa services include the Maldivian Indigenous Treatment featuring a coconut scrub, Indian-inspired head massage, and full body massage with heated coconut sticks to improve sleep
Royalton Antigua
Location
Five Islands Village, Antigua
Why Stay Here
The newest all-inclusive resort in Antigua, Royalton Antigua, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort & Casino ( a Marriott Bonvoy property) offers honeymooners a luxurious escape with exceptional service and fine dining featuring flavors from around the world, in an elegant setting. Nestled on a stunning private beach with breathtaking clear waters, guests can relax in an upscale setting and explore everything this resort has to offer. You can get from the airport runway to the pool in just 30 minutes. From unlimited à la carte dining to signature DreamBed mattresses in each well-appointed room, guests can take advantage of Royalton’s All-In Luxury concept, carefully designed to deliver personalized service.
Royalton Antigua offers adults-only over-the-water bungalows featuring a posh king-sized bed, an overwater hammock, and a beautiful swim-out infinity plunge pool. It’s married bliss at its best.
The advantages of this all-inclusive resort are numerous, meaning that all of your meals, beverages and spirits are included with your private bungalow.
Other Notable Features
- A spa and a casino
- Wide-ranging excursions include eco explorations, catamaran cruises, and Land Rover tours
Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort
Location
East Crescent, Palm-Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Why Stay Here
Palm Jumeirah is an iconic, truly extraordinary, tree-shaped island in Dubai. On its eastern crescent, you will find the gem that is Anantara. This cosmopolitan resort offers a world of luxury, and features 18 overwater villas — the only overwater villas in Dubai. They all have glass floors so that you can easily view the tropical fish from the comfort of your villa. How fabulous is that?
Each has an oversized soaking tub-for-two (which can be decorated with rose petals) with incredible views of the Arabian Gulf. You’ll wake up to stunning sunrises and spend sun-dappled days on your terrace, which is suspended over the water.
Your villa host can arrange romantic dinners on the beach, private cooking classes, or a Thai longboat cruise all around The Palm. On property are seven restaurants and an award-winning spa of 24 treatment rooms featuring couples massages. Be sure to sip the Palm Paradise cocktail made with gin, white wine, passion fruit and orange. Put it all together — and is it any wonder that professional athletes, singers and movie stars have stayed here?
The resort’s prime location puts you near glistening waters and some of the city’s best attractions, including Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa. As for your adventures, you can check out in particular their nearby Dolphin Bay, Lost Chambers Aquarium, and the Aquaventure Waterpark.
Other Notable Features
- Its infinity pool is surrounded by unique architecture and picturesque shoreline vistas
- Desert safaris, and helicopter and boat rides can all be arranged
