There are few things dreamier than staying in an overwater villa with turquoise water right beneath your feet. Lucky for us dreamers, you don’t have to go all the way to Tahiti. Overwater villas have become a thing in the Caribbean, just a short flight from home. If that sounds enticing, read on as we’ll tell you all you need to know about overwater villas in Jamaica.
It only makes sense to book an overwater villa in Jamaica. This island boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. Not to mention the clearest aquamarine waters to dive into, and plenty of other things to do when you’re not in your villa. In fact, there are few things not to love about Jamaica. The local people make it a delight too – they’re always warm and welcoming, waiting to greet you with a smile.
To date, there are only two resorts in Jamaica that have overwater bungalows. But they just so happen to be Sandals resorts. That means with these overwater bungalows you get the big benefit of being right above the water along with the renowned list of amenities at Sandals.
The Only 2 Resorts with Overwater Bungalows in Jamaica
Sandals Royal Caribbean Overwater Villas
If you’re looking for something as close to the Maldives, Tahiti,or Bora Bora experience as possible without taking a long-haul flight, Jamaica is definitely it. The country’s overwater villas are located on Sandal’s private island off the shores of Montego Bay. In our humble opinion, these are the ultimate. It means you can indulge in one of the world’s most extraordinary escapes. Float, swim, snorkel, lounge, munch, drink, cozy up together and enjoy the breathtaking view. All in total privacy and unbridled luxury.
All-inclusive Overwater Villas in Jamaica
Remember, Sandals is a luxury all-inclusive resort, so you can have that second (or third) pina colada as you float around. Sample an extra dessert at dinner or even request your favorite late-night snack at 3 a.m. Everything is included. And, that means all meals at fine restaurants, high-quality snacks (just ask for whatever you want!), room service, premium spirits, a wide range of refreshing cocktails, non-alcoholic beverages like the amazing Jamaican ginger beer, and so much more.
What do you need to do after your seamless check-in? Just show up. That’s it. But we highly recommend you bring an inflatable water toy. Your butler will even inflate it for you. Floating around in the warm azure waters is our idea of bliss. And such a luxury with all worries fading away.
The Overwater Villas Experience
There’s nothing quite like it in the Caribbean. When you arrive to Sandals Royal Caribbean, a private water taxi will bring you straight to your villa. Your butler will be there to greet you with welcome drinks and a hot towel. Next, the butler will customize you stay to accommodate specific desires, from choosing your pillows to making spa reservations. At Honeymoons.com, we promise you this, couples are very well-cared-for castaways in the overwater bungalows here.
As you walk through your villa doors, you’ll see a full kitchen with a dining table, and a large bedroom with a seating area. The entire bedroom opens up to the villa deck, showcasing an expansive ocean view. And , what makes it extra-special are the glass floors. You can watch “Fish TV” right below your feet.
The bathroom features his-and-hers vanities, a large rainfall shower, and a two-person soaking tub. The tub looks out to floor-to-ceiling windows that open to provide an indoor-outdoor feel. No matter what the weather you’ll be able to immerse yourself in the beauty of your surroundings while soaking in warm water. We personally love the upscale Red Lane Spa bath amenities, which include sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner that make your hair feel as smooth as silk.
Of course, your deck is probably where you’ll spend most of your honeymoon. It comes with a swinging day bed, an overwater hammock for two, a private plunge pool, two outdoor showers, a swimming deck, and lounge chairs.
Bonus
And, bonus! Your stay comes with a FREE Sandals honeymoon photo shoot. Be sure to take advantage of the opportunity for professional photographs of your blissed-out time in an overwater bungalow among the crystal-clear, calm blue waters.
Sandals South Coast Overwater Bungalow
Sandals South Coast is located along the much more remote southern shoreline of Jamaica. This resort took the overwater theme and very impressively rolled with it. There are overwater bungalows, an overwater bar, an overwater chapel, and overwater cabanas.
You’ll get the same services and amenities as the overwater villas, but they’re cozier with less square feet. These overwater bungalows are right on the beach in front of the resort. It’s ess secluded than a private island but the benefit is that you’ll have easier access to a larger beach, multiple pools, and all of the other resort amenities. And, all gourmet meals, including room service, premium spirits, fine wines, delicious cocktails, snacks, some watersports, and more are complimentary.
What is Included in Overwater Villas in Jamaica?
Sandals Resorts is a brand known for its fantastic inclusions that go beyond what’s expected at an all-inclusive resort. Its overwater villas in Jamaica take those inclusions a step further, delivering an experience unlike anywhere else in the Caribbean. Take it from us, once you stay at a luxury all-inclusive resort such as Sandals, you can never go back to the regular hotel/resort experience. Who wants to be nickel-and-dimed for everything, having to constantly focus on budgeting on a honeymoon or any other getaway? At Sandals, you can feel free to break out all the stops, indulge in two desserts at dinner, have that second margarita or Red Stripe without the guilt. It’s your time to enjoy delicious soft-serve ice cream and mouthwatering pastries at Cafe de Paris. Of course it’s not all about dining and drinking. You can snorkel among an awe-inspiring underwater world and enjoy a wealth of other watersports too.
Dining and Drinks
But back to the dining and drinking! It is a big part of your stay, with a dozen bars and restaurants at Sandals Royal Caribbean, with one on the private island hosting overwater villas. Menus offer a wide range of cuisine, from Caribbean and Thai to French, Italian, Indian, and even English pub fare.
All drinks are included in your stay, even premium liquor. You’ll actually find a fully-stocked bar right inside your overwater villa. If you’re celebrating a special occasion, you can request that champagne be delivered to your room. Cheers!
The overwater villas have a few bonuses when it comes to dining. You’ll be able to enjoy 24/7 room service, but here, that means the total dining experience right in your room. You can have continental breakfast delivered and enjoyed in bed. Or maybe order dinner for a feast on the deck while watching the sunset. It adds a ton to the romance factor!
Butler Service
Butler service only comes with certain room categories. The good news is that overwater villas are one of those room categories. Each butler is trained by the Guild of Professional English Butlers, so you know you’ll be getting top-tier service at Sandals.
The butlers will cater to your every need during every step of your vacation, front the time you arrive until you step off the property. Just a few of the services they can provide include unpacking your luggage, booking reservations during your stay, providing romantic turndown service, and serving you right at poolside or at the beach.
You’ll be given a cell phone upon arrival so that you can contact your butler any time. Even though Sandals has a list of things that butlers can do, you can pretty much ask them for whatever you want. Maybe you want to explore some beaches nearby? You might ask if your butler can pack you a picnic lunch and some cold beers to take along with you.
Entertainment and Activities
All Sandals Resorts offer a long list of things to do and see. Some unique activities include PADI-certified scuba diving trips, complimentary green fees at nearby golf courses, and live performances with talented entertainers.
Your overwater villa comes with snorkeling gear so you can enjoy the nearby reef at any time. There are also kayaks, stand-up paddle boards, Hobie Cats, and aqua trikes. If you ask your butler, you can even have your favorite option delivered to your room when it’s time to play on the water. If you bring your own inflatable water toy, your butler will gladly inflate it for you. Oh, and if you’re looking to surprise your beloved with something special, like a trail of rose petals leading to a bubble bath, your butler will be more than happy to arrange that too.
The private island on which the overwater villas are located has its own beach and pool with Bali-inspired cabanas. It is also one of the only places in Jamaica with a clothing-optional beach. Only guests are allowed to visit the island, so it never gets crowded. And, be sure to pack your most stylish swimsuits so you can pose like professional models in your FREE photo shoot. A Honeymoon snapshot book is the perfect complement to your wedding photos.
VIP Arrival
This is one of the nicest perks included with your overwater villa in Jamaica. Instead of your stress-free vacation starting once you get to the resort, it starts as soon as you step off the plane. VIP arrival means that someone from Sandals will be there to take care of everything from the moment you’re greeted at the gate.
Sandals is there to help you with customs and immigration, ensuring that you get through the tedious process as quickly and seamlessly as possible too. Once you’ve breezed through that, you’ll be helped with your bags and escorted to your private BMW transfer.
When you arrive at the resort, you’ll be taken to the lavish lounge to enjoy cocktails and snacks while everything is being taken care of for your check-in. From there, you’ll hop on a short boat ride that will bring you to your villa. It’s a seamless journey and one that’s very welcome after a long flight.
Overwater Villas vs. Overwater Bungalows
Sandals Royal Caribbean offers both overwater villas and overwater bungalows. There are also overwater bungalows at Sandals South Coast in Jamaica. So, what is the actual difference other than the price?
The main difference in the villas is their size. The overwater villas are nearly double the size of the overwater bungalows.They also include an extra outdoor shower, a shaded daybed, a private plunge pool, and a full kitchen, which the bungalows don’t have.
The bathrooms in the bungalows have double sinks, but not double vanities. There is a seating area in the bungalows, but it’s not nearly as spacious as what you’ll find in the villas. Overall, you’ll have a lot more room in the villas as compared tothe bungalows.
How Much Does an Overwater Villa in Jamaica Cost?
The overwater villas in Jamaica start at $2,337 per person a night. That price can fluctuate depending on the time of year you are visiting and how long you stay. You will want to stay five nights or longer for the best price. However, the rate is significantly lower if you stay at least three nights.
Are Overwater Villas Worth It?
The overwater villas at Sandals Royal Caribbean are one of those once-in-a-lifetime vacations meant for a very special occasion. I can’t imagine splurging on one for anything other than my honeymoon, a significant anniversary, or something similar. But that just makes it an even more decadent treat. Nothing is quite as romantic as feeling like you’re on your own little island with your significant other. It’s the fantasy, with magical mornings, glorious afternoons, and Some Enchanted Evenings, to quote the music from the hit film “South Pacific.”
Staying in the overwater villas is also perfect for anyone planning a destination wedding at Sandals. They are large enough so that you can invite at least a few of your wedding guests to hang out with you. There is no way couples could comfortably host others in the overwater bungalows due to their smaller size.
Overall, we think these overwater villas in Jamaica are totally worth it. There isn’t one thing that would make them any more perfect. Who knows, maybe a water slide? Although, if you ask your butler for one, you might just be pleasantly surprised. And, it would probably be in your favorite color.
