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The Maldives, with its crystal clear waters, stunning coral reefs, and white sandy beaches, is a dream destination for many. But what makes this island nation truly special is its collection of the best luxurious overwater bungalows. Imagine waking up to the sound of waves lapping beneath you and stepping out onto your private deck to enjoy panoramic views of the turquoise lagoon. In this article, we will take you through the top 15 best overwater bungalows & villas in the Maldives, each offering a unique experience of paradise on the water.
Best Overwater Bungalows & Villas in the Maldives
Soneva Jani – Medhufaru Island
Soneva Jani is a luxurious resort located on Medhufaru Island in the Maldives. The resort is known for its stunning overwater bungalows, which offer guests a private pool and a water slide. Each villa is spacious and well-appointed with modern amenities, including air conditioning, a minibar, and a Nespresso machine.
The overwater bungalows at Soneva Jani are designed to blend in with the natural surroundings, with sustainable materials used in the construction. The villas feature a private deck with sun loungers, a daybed, and a dining table. Guests can enjoy the stunning views of the lagoon and the Indian Ocean from the comfort of their own villa.
Soneva Jani also offers a range of dining options, including a farm-to-table restaurant, where guests can enjoy fresh produce from the resort’s own organic garden. The resort also has a spa, where guests can indulge in a range of wellness treatments, and a fitness center, where they can stay active during their stay.
Guests at Soneva Jani can enjoy a range of activities, including snorkeling, diving, water sports, and island hopping. The resort also offers a range of experiences, including stargazing, dolphin watching, and a sunset cruise.
Six Senses Laamu – Olhuveli Island
Six Senses Laamu is a luxurious resort located on Olhuveli Island in the Maldives. The resort is known for its beautiful overwater bungalows, which offer guests stunning views of the Indian Ocean. Each villa is spacious and well-appointed with modern amenities, including air conditioning, a minibar, and an espresso machine.
The overwater bungalows at Six Senses Laamu feature a private deck with sun loungers, a daybed, and a dining table. Guests can enjoy the beautiful views of the lagoon and the Indian Ocean from their own villa. The resort also has beachfront villas, which offer guests direct access to the white sand beach.
Six Senses Laamu offers a range of dining options, including a restaurant that specializes in organic, locally-sourced ingredients. The resort also has a spa, where guests can indulge in a range of treatments using natural, sustainable products. Other amenities at the resort include a fitness center, a library, and a boutique.
Guests at Six Senses Laamu can enjoy a range of activities, including snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. The resort also offers a range of experiences, including a sunset dolphin cruise, a visit to a local island, and a cooking class.
Gili Lankanfushi – Lankanfushi Island
Gili Lankanfushi is a luxurious resort located on Lankanfushi Island in the Maldives. The resort is known for its beautiful overwater bungalows, which offer guests a private water garden and stunning views of the lagoon. Each villa is spacious and well-appointed with modern amenities, including air conditioning, a minibar, and a sound system.
The overwater bungalows at Gili Lankanfushi are designed to blend in with the natural surroundings, with sustainable materials used in the construction. The villas feature a private deck with sun loungers, a daybed, and a dining table, as well as a hammock suspended over the water.
Gili Lankanfushi offers a range of dining options, including a restaurant that specializes in seafood and a Japanese restaurant that serves sushi and sashimi. The resort also has a spa, where guests can indulge in a range of treatments using natural, organic products. Other amenities at the resort include a fitness center, a library, and a boutique.
Guests at Gili Lankanfushi can enjoy a range of activities, including snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. The resort also offers a range of experiences, including a sunset cruise, a cooking class, and a visit to a local island.
Read More: List of The Top 15 Luxury All-Inclusive Resorts in Maldives
Velassaru Maldives – Velassaru Island
Velassaru Maldives is a luxurious resort located on the private island of Velassaru in the Maldives. The resort is known for its beautiful overwater bungalows, which offer guests stunning views of the turquoise lagoon. Each villa is designed to blend in with the natural surroundings and features modern amenities, including air conditioning, a minibar, and a flat-screen TV.
The overwater bungalows at Velassaru Maldives feature a private deck with sun loungers, a daybed, and a dining area. Guests can enjoy the beautiful views of the lagoon and the Indian Ocean from the comfort of their own villa. The resort also has beachfront villas, which offer guests direct access to the white sand beach.
Velassaru Maldives offers a range of dining options, including a restaurant that specializes in Asian cuisine and a seafood restaurant that serves fresh, locally-sourced fish. The resort also has a spa, where guests can indulge in a range of treatments using natural, organic products. Other amenities at the resort include a fitness center, a library, and a boutique.
Guests at Velassaru Maldives can enjoy a range of activities, including snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and windsurfing. The resort also offers a range of experiences, including a sunset cruise, a cooking class, and a visit to a local island.
Anantara Veli Maldives Resort – Veligandu Island
Anantara Veli Maldives Resort is a luxurious resort located on Veligandu Island in the Maldives. The resort is known for its stunning overwater bungalows in the Maldives, which offer guests a private retreat in paradise. Each villa is designed with traditional Maldivian decor and features modern amenities, including air conditioning, a minibar, and a flat-screen TV.
The overwater bungalows at Anantara Veli Maldives Resort feature a private deck with sun loungers, a daybed, and a dining area. Guests can enjoy the beautiful views of the lagoon and the Indian Ocean from the comfort of their own villa. The resort also has beachfront villas, which offer guests direct access to the white sand beach.
Anantara Veli Maldives Resort offers a range of dining options, including a Thai restaurant and a seafood restaurant that serves fresh, locally-sourced fish. The resort also has a spa, where guests can indulge in a range of treatments using natural, organic products. Other amenities at the resort include a fitness center, a library, and a boutique.
Guests at Anantara Veli Maldives Resort can enjoy a range of activities, including snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. The resort also offers a range of experiences, including a sunset cruise, a cooking class, and a visit to a local island.
Niyama Private Islands Maldives – Olhuveli Island
Niyama Private Islands Maldives is a luxurious resort located on the private Olhuveli Island in the Maldives. The resort is known for its beautiful overwater bungalows, which offer guests stunning views of the turquoise lagoon. Each villa is designed with modern decor and features state-of-the-art amenities, including air conditioning, a minibar, and a flat-screen TV.
The overwater bungalows at Niyama Private Islands Maldives feature a private deck with sun loungers, a daybed, and a dining area. Guests can enjoy the beautiful views of the lagoon and the Indian Ocean from the comfort of their own villa. The resort also has beachfront villas, which offer guests direct access to the white sand beach.
Niyama Private Islands Maldives offers a range of dining options, including a restaurant that serves international cuisine and a seafood restaurant that serves fresh, locally-sourced fish. The resort also has a spa, where guests can indulge in a range of treatments using natural, organic products. Other amenities at the resort include a fitness center, a kids’ club, and a boutique.
Guests at Niyama Private Islands Maldives can enjoy a range of activities, including snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and windsurfing. The resort also offers a range of experiences, including a sunset cruise, a cooking class, and a visit to a local island.
COMO Cocoa Island – Makunufushi Island
COMO Cocoa Island is a stunning resort located on the private Makunufushi Island in the Maldives. The resort features a collection of overwater bungalows in the Maldives, which are designed to resemble traditional Maldivian fishing boats. Each villa is designed with contemporary decor and features modern amenities, including air conditioning, a minibar, and a flat-screen TV.
The overwater bungalows at COMO Cocoa Island feature a private sun deck with sun loungers, a daybed, and a dining area. Guests can enjoy the beautiful views of the lagoon and the Indian Ocean from the comfort of their own villa. The resort also has beachfront villas, which offer guests direct access to the white sand beach.
COMO Cocoa Island offers a range of dining options, including a restaurant that serves international cuisine and a seafood restaurant that serves fresh, locally-sourced fish. The resort also has a spa, where guests can indulge in a range of treatments using natural, organic products. Other amenities at the resort include a fitness center, a library, and a boutique.
Guests at COMO Cocoa Island can enjoy a range of activities, including snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. The resort also offers a range of experiences, including a sunset cruise, a yoga class, and a dolphin watching excursion.
Constance Moofushi – Moofushi Island
Constance Moofushi is a luxurious resort located on the private Moofushi Island in the Maldives. The resort is known for its beautiful overwater bungalows, which offer guests stunning views of the turquoise lagoon. Each villa is designed with natural materials and features modern amenities, including air conditioning, a minibar, and a flat-screen TV.
The overwater bungalows at Constance Moofushi feature a private deck with sun loungers, a daybed, and a dining area. Guests can enjoy the beautiful views of the lagoon and the Indian Ocean from the comfort of their own villa. The resort also has beachfront villas, which offer guests direct access to the white sand beach.
Constance Moofushi offers a range of dining options, including a restaurant that serves international cuisine and a beach grill that serves fresh, locally-sourced seafood. The resort also has a spa, where guests can indulge in a range of treatments using natural, organic products. Other amenities at the resort include a fitness center, a library, and a boutique.
In addition to the overwater bungalows and beachfront villas, Constance Moofushi also has a range of other villas, including a family villa and a senior water villa. These best water villas in the Maldives are ideal for families or groups of friends and offer a range of amenities and activities.
Guests at Constance Moofushi can enjoy a range of activities, including snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and windsurfing. The resort also offers a range of experiences, including a sunset cruise, a Maldivian cooking class, and a dolphin watching excursion.
Taj Exotica Resort & Spa – Emboodhu Finolhu Island
Taj Exotica Resort & Spa is a luxurious resort located on the private Emboodhu Finolhu Island in the Maldives. The resort features a collection of overwater bungalows, which offer guests stunning views of the Indian Ocean. Each villa is designed with natural materials and features modern amenities, including air conditioning, a minibar, and a flat-screen TV.
The overwater bungalows at Taj Exotica Resort & Spa feature a private deck with sun loungers, a daybed, and a dining area. Guests can enjoy the beautiful views of the lagoon and the Indian Ocean from the comfort of their own villa. The resort also has beachfront villas, which offer guests direct access to the white sand beach.
Taj Exotica Resort & Spa offers a range of dining options, including a restaurant that serves international cuisine and a seafood restaurant that serves fresh, locally-sourced fish. The resort also has a spa, where guests can indulge in a range of treatments using natural, organic products. Other amenities at the resort include a fitness center, a library, and a boutique.
In addition to the overwater bungalows and beachfront villas, Taj Exotica Resort & Spa also has a range of other villas, including a presidential villa and a two-bedroom beach villa. These best water villas in the Maldives are ideal for families or groups of friends and offer a range of amenities and activities.
Guests at Taj Exotica Resort & Spa can enjoy a range of activities, including snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. The resort also offers a range of experiences, including a sunset cruise, a Maldivian cooking class, and a dolphin watching excursion.
Hurawalhi Island Resort – Hurawalhi Island
Hurawalhi Island Resort is a stunning adults-only resort located on the private Hurawalhi Island in the Maldives. The resort offers guests a range of accommodation options, including overwater bungalows that are situated above the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean.
The overwater bungalows at Hurawalhi Island Resort are spacious and well-appointed, with luxurious amenities and stunning views of the ocean. Each villa features a private sundeck with a daybed, sun loungers, and stairs leading down to the water. Guests can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities right from their villa.
The resort offers a range of dining options, including a restaurant that serves international cuisine and a seafood restaurant that specializes in fresh seafood. There is also a bar and lounge area where guests can relax and enjoy cocktails and other beverages.
Hurawalhi Island Resort offers a range of activities for guests to enjoy, including snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. There is also a fitness center, a spa, and a tennis court for guests to use.
In addition to the overwater bungalows, the resort also has beachfront villas and a presidential villa, which offers even more luxurious amenities and space. The resort is ideal for couples and honeymooners, as well as anyone looking for a luxurious and relaxing escape in the Maldives.
Baros Maldives – Baros Island
Baros Maldives is a luxurious and romantic resort located on the private Baros Island in the Maldives. The resort features overwater bungalows that are situated above the clear turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean.
The overwater bungalows at Baros Maldives are spacious and elegantly designed, with hardwood floors, high ceilings, and large windows that offer breathtaking views of the ocean. Each villa has a private deck with sun loungers, a daybed, and steps that lead directly into the water. Guests can enjoy snorkeling, swimming, and other water activities right from their villa.
The resort offers a range of dining options, including a restaurant that serves international cuisine and a bar that specializes in cocktails and fine wines. There is also a spa that offers a range of treatments and a fitness center for guests who want to stay active during their stay.
Baros Maldives offers a range of activities for guests to enjoy, including snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. The resort also has a library and an art gallery for guests who want to relax and explore the local culture.
In addition to the overwater bungalows, the resort also has beachfront villas and a luxurious water pool villa. The resort is ideal for couples and honeymooners who want to experience a romantic and intimate escape in the Maldives.
Meeru Island Resort & Spa – Meerufenfushi Island
Meeru Island Resort & Spa is a popular resort located on the private Meerufenfushi Island in the Maldives. The resort offers a range of accommodation options, including overwater bungalows that provide guests with stunning views of the ocean.
The overwater bungalows at Meeru Island Resort & Spa are spacious and elegantly designed, with wooden floors, thatched roofs, and large windows that offer panoramic views of the surrounding turquoise waters. Each villa has a private deck with sun loungers, a daybed, and steps that lead directly into the ocean. Guests can enjoy snorkeling and other water activities right from their villa.
The resort offers a range of dining options, including a buffet restaurant that serves international cuisine, a seafood restaurant that offers fresh seafood, and a Japanese restaurant that specializes in sushi and teppanyaki. There are also several bars and a café where guests can enjoy drinks and light snacks.
Meeru Island Resort & Spa offers a range of activities for guests to enjoy, including snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and windsurfing. The resort also has a spa that offers a range of treatments and a fitness center for guests who want to stay active during their stay.
In addition to the overwater bungalows, the resort also has beachfront villas and garden rooms. The resort is ideal for families, couples, and honeymooners who want to experience a relaxing and luxurious vacation in the Maldives.
Kandolhu Maldives – Kandolhudhoo Island
Kandolhu Maldives is a beautiful resort located on the private island of Kandolhudhoo in the Maldives. The resort features several overwater bungalows that offer guests a unique and luxurious vacation experience.
The overwater bungalows at Kandolhu Maldives are spacious and elegantly designed, with wooden floors, thatched roofs, and large windows that offer stunning views of the ocean. Each villa has a private deck with sun loungers, a dining area, and steps that lead directly into the crystal clear waters of the lagoon.
The resort offers a range of dining options, including four restaurants that serve international cuisine, fresh seafood, and Japanese specialties. Guests can also enjoy drinks and snacks at the resort’s two bars, one of which is located over the water and offers breathtaking sunset views.
Kandolhu Maldives offers a range of activities and amenities for guests to enjoy, including snorkeling, diving, and windsurfing. The resort also has a spa that offers a range of treatments, as well as a fitness center and a library for guests who want to relax with a good book.
St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort – Vommuli Island
St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort is a stunning luxury resort located on Vommuli Island in the Maldives. The resort features several overwater bungalows that offer guests a unique and unforgettable vacation experience.
The overwater bungalows at St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort are spacious and beautifully designed, with wooden floors, high ceilings, and large windows that offer panoramic views of the ocean. Each villa has a private deck with sun loungers, a dining area, and steps that lead directly into the turquoise waters of the lagoon.
The resort offers several dining options, including six restaurants and bars that serve international cuisine, fresh seafood, and cocktails. Guests can also enjoy drinks and snacks at the resort’s pool bar and beach bar, both of which offer stunning views of the ocean.
St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort offers a range of activities and amenities for guests to enjoy, including snorkeling, diving, and windsurfing. The resort also has a spa that offers a range of treatments, as well as a fitness center and tennis court for guests who want to stay active.
Six Senses Laamu – Laamu Atoll
Six Senses Laamu is a luxurious resort located in the Laamu Atoll of the Maldives. It is the only resort in the atoll, providing guests with a unique and secluded experience in the heart of the Indian Ocean.
The resort features 97 villas, including several overwater bungalows that offer breathtaking views of the crystal-clear waters. The bungalows are spacious and well-appointed, with natural materials and neutral tones that blend seamlessly with the surrounding environment. Each bungalow has a private deck with direct access to the ocean, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing in the sun.
Six Senses Laamu offers a range of dining options, including several restaurants that serve international and local cuisine made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Guests can also enjoy drinks and snacks at the resort’s bars, including a pool bar and a beach bar.
The resort offers a range of activities and amenities, including water sports such as snorkeling, diving, and surfing. Guests can also take part in yoga and meditation classes, or relax at the resort’s spa, which offers a range of treatments inspired by traditional Asian and Ayurvedic healing techniques.
Six Senses Laamu is committed to sustainability and eco-friendliness, with a number of initiatives in place to reduce the resort’s impact on the environment. Guests can take part in conservation activities such as coral planting and beach cleanups, and the resort uses renewable energy sources and minimizes its use of plastic.
Velassaru Maldives – Velassaru Island
Velassaru Maldives is a luxury resort located on the stunning Velassaru Island in the Maldives. This island paradise is surrounded by crystal-clear waters and pristine white-sand beaches, making it the perfect destination for a tropical getaway.
The resort offers 129 villas and bungalows, including overwater bungalows that provide stunning views of the ocean. The bungalows are designed with modern furnishings and feature a private terrace with direct access to the sea. Guests can enjoy the sound of the waves and the stunning sunsets from the comfort of their own bungalow.
Velassaru Maldives offers a range of dining options, including five restaurants and two bars. The resort’s signature restaurant, Vela, offers a fusion of European and Asian cuisine in a stunning oceanfront setting. Guests can also enjoy fresh seafood, Mediterranean dishes, and Japanese cuisine, among other options.
The resort offers a range of activities, including water sports such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and surfing. Guests can also take part in yoga and meditation classes or relax at the spa, which offers a range of treatments inspired by traditional Asian and Ayurvedic healing techniques.
Velassaru Maldives is committed to sustainability and eco-friendliness, with a number of initiatives in place to reduce the resort’s impact on the environment. The resort uses renewable energy sources, minimizes its use of plastic, and has a coral propagation program that helps to conserve the local ecosystem.
Gili Lankanfushi – Lankanfushi Island
Gili Lankanfushi is a luxurious resort located on Lankanfushi Island in the Maldives. The resort is surrounded by crystal-clear waters and pristine white-sand beaches, making it the perfect destination for a tropical escape.
The resort’s overwater bungalows, known as the “Crusoe Residences,” are designed to provide guests with the ultimate in luxury and privacy. Each bungalow features a private deck with direct access to the sea, as well as an outdoor shower and soaking tub. Guests can enjoy stunning views of the ocean and the Maldivian sunset from the comfort of their own bungalow.
Gili Lankanfushi offers a range of dining options, including a main restaurant, a seafood restaurant, and a wine cellar. The resort’s signature restaurant, By The Sea, offers an intimate and romantic dining experience with fresh seafood and a selection of fine wines. Guests can also enjoy cocktails and snacks at the resort’s beach bar or at the overwater bar.
The resort offers a range of activities, including snorkeling, scuba diving, and fishing. Guests can also take part in yoga and meditation classes or relax at the spa, which offers a range of treatments using natural and organic ingredients.
Gili Lankanfushi is committed to sustainability and eco-friendliness, with a number of initiatives in place to reduce the resort’s impact on the environment. The resort uses renewable energy sources, minimizes its use of plastic, and has a coral propagation program that helps to conserve the local ecosystem.
Soneva Jani – Medhufaru Island
Soneva Jani is a stunning overwater bungalow resort located on the serene Medhufaru Island in the Maldives. It is one of the best overwater bungalow resorts in the Maldives and is perfect for travelers looking for an exclusive and luxurious experience.
Soneva Jani features 24 water villas and a large island villa, each offering breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean. The villas are built with sustainable materials and feature private pools, sunken seating areas, and retractable roofs for stargazing. The resort also offers a range of amenities including a spa, a fitness center, and a variety of restaurants and bars.
The Soneva Jani experience is unique in that it offers guests the opportunity to explore the surrounding marine life through a range of activities including snorkeling, diving, and a glass-bottomed observatory. Guests can also indulge in a range of cultural experiences such as stargazing, island hopping, and sunrise and sunset cruises.
Some of the standout features of Soneva Jani include:
Water Retreats – The Water Retreats at Soneva Jani are incredibly spacious, spanning over 400 square meters, with a private pool, water slide, and sunken seating area. The villas also feature retractable roofs, allowing guests to sleep under the stars.
Overwater Cinema – Soneva Jani features an overwater cinema, where guests can enjoy a movie under the stars while floating on the Indian Ocean.
Observatory – Soneva Jani has a state-of-the-art observatory that is perfect for stargazing. Guests can even embark on an astronomy cruise to learn more about the stars and constellations.
Soneva Spa – The Soneva Spa offers a range of treatments that are designed to promote relaxation and rejuvenation. The spa features a sauna, steam room, and plunge pool, and offers treatments using natural and organic products.
(FAQs)
Q: What is the best time to visit the Maldives?
A: The best time to visit the Maldives is from November to April when the weather is dry and sunny.
Q: Are overwater bungalows expensive in the Maldives?
A: Overwater bungalows in the Maldives can be expensive, but there are affordable options available as well.
Q: What activities can I do in the Maldives?
A: The Maldives offers a range of activities, including snorkeling, diving, water sports, island hopping, and spa treatments.
Conclusion
The Maldives is a dream destination for many travelers, and staying in an overwater bungalow is the ultimate experience. These 15 best overwater bungalows & villas in the Maldives offer luxury, privacy, and stunning views of the Indian Ocean. Whether you’re on a honeymoon, celebrating a special occasion, or just looking for a relaxing vacation, these resorts will not disappoint. Book your stay now and indulge in the beauty and serenity of the Maldives.