Overwater villas are an unforgettable way to experience paradise, combining luxury with direct access to shimmering waters and stunning views. Beyond the well-known destinations, there are incredible hidden gems around the world where you can indulge in privacy, unique wildlife, and eco-friendly stays. Discover these breathtaking escapes that rival the Maldives, each delivering a one-of-a-kind blend of natural beauty and exquisite comfort.
Banyan Tree Mayakoba Hotel (Playa del Carmen, Mexico)
Opened in 2021, this Riviera Maya resort offers overwater villas set above lush, winding waterways instead of the usual beachfront. Surrounded by wildlife like agoutis, tiger herons, and iguanas, the property blends natural beauty with eco-conscious design. Sustainability is central, with waste repurposing and a protected turtle nesting site.
Constance Prince Maurice Hotel (Mauritius)
Tucked between a natural lagoon and the Indian Ocean, this resort offers overwater villas above a protected fish reserve perfect for snorkeling. Set on a secluded peninsula with beautiful beaches, it also features an on-site kite-surfing school. Don’t miss the floating restaurant, where vibrant fish swim below as you dine above the water.
The Boat House, Pengelly Retreat (Cornwall, UK)
This charming overwater cabin in Cornwall offers a cozy lakeside escape with rustic wooden beams, a log burner, and Scandi-style interiors. Guests can row their own boat across the tranquil lake, then unwind in the outdoor bathtub or by the fire pit as the sun sets. It’s a serene and uniquely British take on overwater living.
Panvaree Resort (Khao Sok National Park, Thailand)
Set within Thailand’s Khao Sok National Park, these overwater villas offer a rare and breathtaking experience. Floating on a tranquil lake rather than the sea, they boast views of lush mountains, limestone cliffs, and emerald waters. It’s a peaceful, nature-immersed escape that feels far removed from traditional beachside luxury.
Misool Hotel (Raja Ampat, Indonesia)
Set in Indonesia’s remote Raja Ampat archipelago, this eco-lodge offers some of the most stunning overwater villas in the world. Built on a former shark-finning site, it’s now home to a thriving marine reserve and conservation foundation. With crystal-clear waters and a powerful mission, it’s a luxurious stay with real purpose.
The St Regis Langkawi Hotel (Malaysia)
Perched between lush rainforest and the Andaman Sea, these expansive overwater suites offer an ultra-luxurious escape with infinity pools, open living spaces, and sweeping views. Even without booking a villa, guests can soak up the atmosphere at the resort’s waterfront restaurant, where overwater hammocks invite you to sip and sway above the sea.
Hotel Palafitte (Lake Neuchâtel, Switzerland)
These sleek wooden cabins on Lake Neuchâtel showcase Swiss design at its best. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer stunning Alpine views, and many cabins sit directly over the water. Guests can climb down a ladder for a chilly lake swim, embracing the cold water therapy trend while enjoying a peaceful, scenic escape in nature.
Cayo Espanto Hotel (Belize)
With only seven overwater villas on this tiny four-acre island in Belize, privacy is practically guaranteed. For maximum seclusion, book Casa Ventanas, a one-bedroom villa set at the end of a pier. A mainland shuttle and activities like diving, bird-watching, and day trips ensure plenty to explore beyond the tranquil surroundings.
Bawah Reserve Hotel (Indonesia)
The overwater villas at this private island reserve offer stunning views of turquoise waters and nearby islands. Each villa includes a private deck and direct sea access, while being close to dining and a wellness spa. Known for its sustainability efforts, including a large floating solar farm, the resort immerses guests in nature and provides access to world-class snorkeling among protected coral reefs.
Underwater Room, The Manta Resort (Zanzibar)
This unique floating villa features both an overwater deck and a glass-walled underwater room, with the rooftop daybed offering the best views. The relaxed atmosphere extends to the nearby resort beach and on-site PADI dive school. Guests can also enjoy learning bao, a traditional Tanzanian board game, adding a cultural touch to their stay.
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