Romance in an Overwater Bungalow

By Bronwen Hill

Dreaming of that perfect romantic getaway for you and a special someone – Overwater Bungalow!

The overwater bungalow is synonymous with romance, couple getaways, perfect food (gourmet room service food) and crystal clear waters. When dreaming about this getaway, the first place to consider is always French Polynesia aka Tahiti . And why wouldn’t it be, it meets all the criteria, located in the pacific, fresh fruits, privacy, and clear waters.

Why is French Polynesia the poster-child for overwater Bungalows? Because the first one was built there in 1967. According to Conde Nast Traveller, the concept was born from 3 Americans who had relocated to a remote island in Tahiti that didn’t have a beach. They therefore built “three rooms on stilts, from which you could snorkel directly around the reef. They were to become the world’s first overwater bungalows.”

Now you can find overwater bungalows in Tahiti with thatched roofs all throughout all the islands, the most iconic being in Bora Bora . But did you know, there are other destinations that provide that romance and overwater bungalow experience too?

So, if you don’t go to Tahiti, where can you go?

Heard of the Maldives? Located in southeast asia in the Arabian sea, this little paradise allures the romantic traveller. It has white sand beaches, crystal clear waters and is a collection of 26 atolls. This remote, romantic and warm destination well known for honeymooners, caters to families also. There isn’t an official competition for largest overwater ‘bungalow’ but the Maldives would seem to be giving other destinations a run for their money.

The Lux resort on North Male Atoll boasts an impressive ‘bungalow’ that is 3 storeys, 1000sqm and has an infinity pool. Of course, this ‘bungalow’ is not so much for the romantic honeymoon getaway, however, provides the opportunity for a family to experience the overwater bungalow accommodation style as it accommodates up to 8 guests.

For a more private experience, the Como Cocoa Island in the Maldives is the place to go. With only 33 bungalows located on South Male Atoll, you are sure to not bump into someone snorkelling off your private deck. Encircled by a turquoise lagoon this island resort focuses on exceptional cuisine, wellness and romance for its guests.

Again, the overwater bungalows in the Maldives are not necessarily going to be convenient for that quick romantic getaway. The third most prominent destination for this experience would be the Seychelles, with multiple resorts offering the accommodation experience of dreams. Again, not so convenient for a quick getaway.

A little closer to home though, consider Mexico. Yes, there are overwater bungalows in Mexico. The El Dorado Maromo has realised this experience is envied by many and enjoyed by only a few. They therefore created the Palafitos Overwater Bungalows. The Palafitos overwater bungalows are located on the Riveria Maya in Playa del Carmen – yes right down there in Mexico.

With just 30 guestrooms the Palafitos Overwater Bungalows feature private plunge pools and spa tubs, you are sure to have a unique, romantic and memorable getaway at this Mexican resort. Opened in 2016, this property provides you with the opportunity to experience the overwater bungalow with all the amenities provided at an all-inclusive resort experience that you are used to in Mexico.

For your next romantic getaway, there only a handful of destinations that can provide the private, overwater water experience. Imagine, how your special someone will feel, walking into the bungalow, with an unobstructed view of blue waters, fish swimming under their feet and the privacy that comes with not sharing a wall with another unit.

Connect with one of our travel agents for that next romantic getaway!