The Islands of Tahiti might have the market cornered on overwater bungalows, but you can find them elsewhere on earth — some even close to home.
Cayo Espanto – Belize
There is just one overwater bungalow at this private island in Belize. Since there is no restaurant and most guests swim in their private plunge pool at Cayo Espanto, the only person you’ll see (other than your honey) is your personal houseman.
Sandals Royal Caribbean & Private Island – Jamaica
What will be the Caribbean’s most accessible overwater bungalows are set to make their debut at Sandals Royal Caribbean Resort & Private Island in Jamaica in 2015. Each of the five villas will have glass floors, a double hammock and a private hot tub.
Coco Island by COMO – Maldives
The eight overwater Dhoni Suites at Cocoa Island by COMO in the Maldives look like traditional dhoni sailboats, but while they appear to be floating, they are actually anchored to the sea floor. Inside, a Balinese daybed, flat-screen TV and private yoga terrace await.
Likuliku Lagoon Resort – Fiji
At Likuliku Lagoon Resort, Fiji’s only resort with overwater bures, each measuring 1,000 square feet, the real-life views don’t disappoint. Soak as long as you like in a separate bathing pavilion with lagoon views from your tub.
Rosewood Mayakoba – Riviera Maya, Mexico
Rosewood Mayakoba in Riviera Maya, Mexico, offers 18 overwater suites (each with a heated plunge pool) hovering above an emerald lagoon. Ask your butler to arrange a private boat tour for two through the mangroves.
Song Saa Private Island – Cambodia
Song Saa Private Island, perched on the dual islands of Song Saa (Khmer for “the sweethearts”) in Cambodia, boast not only overwater villas — each with fish-viewing windows and a private infinity pool — but also the resort’s overwater Vista restaurant featuring modern Khmer cuisine.
Coco View Resort – Honduras
For the most privacy at Coco View Resort in Honduras, a rustic all-inclusive with 16 overwater casitas, opt for a king-size bungalow and laze the day away in a hammock or pair of Adirondack chairs.
Hotelito Desconocido – Riviera Nayarit, Mexico
Find seclusion, simplicity, sustainable practices and no electricity: All 27 palafito overwater villas at Hotelito Desconocido on Mexico’s Pacific coast are cooled using solar power. Heat things up with a traditional temazcal steam-room treatment.
Pangkor Laut Resort – Malaysia
The 43 overwater villas of Pangkor Laut Resort‘s private island in Malaysia sit on a pristine strand and turquoise lagoon overlooking the Straits of Malacca. A serious foodie-couples’ resort, it offers more dining experiences than bungalows.
Punta Caracol Acqua-Lodge – Panama
Your suite’s master bedroom at Punta Caracol Acqua-Lodge in Panama is on the second floor of each two-story structure, and a large living area on the first floor opens to an expansive deck with uninterrupted vistas.
Hotel Palafitte – Neuchatel, Switzerland
Honeymoon wants: overwater bungalows, check. European charm, check. Hotel Palafitte‘s “lake pavillions” sit on glassy Neuchatel Lake in Switzerland looking out to the Swiss Alps. Hit up the onsite restaurant for ultra-modern cuisine like pumpkin “cappuccino.”
