Imagine waking up to the soothing sound of gentle waves, stepping onto your private deck, and immersing yourself in crystal-clear, turquoise waters. Overwater bungalows in the Maldives are the epitome of luxury travel, offering unparalleled beauty, serenity, and exclusivity. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, an adventurous holiday, or simply a serene retreat, these bungalows provide a slice of paradise unlike anywhere else in the world.

This guide will take you through some of the best overwater bungalow accommodations in the Maldives, answer common questions about them, and help you decide if this dream experience is worth it.

Where is it?

Located in the pristine Noonu Atoll, Soneva Jani is a breathtaking luxury resort that feels like its own private paradise within the Maldives. Surrounded by crystal-clear turquoise waters and unspoiled white sand beaches, it offers an exclusive escape like no other.

Room Features:

Resort Features:

Price: Starting from AU$3,500 per night

Why It’s Special:

Soneva Jani redefines luxury with its thoughtful details and commitment to preserving the natural beauty of the Maldives. The resort’s “barefoot luxury” ethos ensures a relaxed and unforgettable experience.

Where is it?

Just a 25-minute speedboat ride from Malé, Baros is a serene tropical escape and one of the Maldives’ most established and iconic resorts. Surrounded by turquoise waters and lush greenery, it offers the perfect blend of luxury and convenience.

Room Features:

Resort Features:

Price: Starting from AU$1,200 per night

Why It’s Special:

Baros blends traditional Maldivian architecture with modern luxury, making it a favorite among couples and honeymooners. Its proximity to the capital adds extra convenience.

Where is it?

On the breathtaking South Ari Atoll, Constance Moofushi is celebrated for its blend of laid-back luxury, pristine natural beauty, and exceptional all-inclusive packages. Surrounded by turquoise waters and lively marine life, it’s the perfect escape for those seeking tranquility and indulgence.

Room Features:

Resort Features:

Price: Starting from AU$900 per night

Why It’s Special:

Constance Moofushi is perfect for travelers wanting high-end luxury without having to worry about the extras. The vibrant marine life surrounding the resort is a major attraction.

Where is it?

Found on the pristine Thaa Atoll, COMO Maalifushi provides a serene and intimate escape, far removed from the hustle and bustle of the busier islands. Surrounded by turquoise waters and untouched natural beauty, it’s the perfect haven for those seeking tranquility and luxury.

Room Features:

Resort Features:

Price: Starting from AU$2,200 per night

Why It’s Special:

COMO Maalifushi is a paradise for both adventurers and wellness enthusiasts. The resort combines luxury with sustainability and immersion in nature.

Where is it?

On the private island of Furanafushi in the North Malé Atoll, Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa offers a perfect blend of luxury and convenience. Just a 15-minute speedboat ride from Velana International Airport, it’s ideal for those seeking an accessible yet exclusive getaway.

Room Features:

Resort Features:

Price: Starting from AU$850 per night

Why It’s Special:

Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa offers a luxurious escape with easy access. Its combination of world-class amenities, stunning natural surroundings, and exceptional service makes it a perfect choice for both relaxation and adventure.

Overwater bungalows are engineering marvels designed to exist harmoniously with the natural environment of the Maldives. Typically, these bungalows are constructed on stilts made from eco-friendly materials, providing stability while minimizing the impact on marine ecosystems. Each stilt is carefully placed to avoid damaging coral reefs, and construction often employs floating platforms to transport building materials to the sites with minimal disruption.

These thoughtful construction methods ensure that guests can enjoy the stunning surroundings while protecting the delicate environment of the Maldives.

If you’re keen to enjoy the magic of overwater bungalows without breaking the bank, options are available. Resorts like Sun Siyam Olhuveli or Adaaran Club Rannalhi offer budget-friendly villas starting from AU$500 per night. These properties provide a more affordable way to experience this luxury while still delivering on accessibility and picturesque views.

Absolutely. Overwater bungalows offer more than just luxury—they provide a unique experience where you can immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Maldives. From the privacy of your villa, you can take a morning swim in the turquoise waters, sip coffee while watching fish glide beneath you, and drift off to sleep to the sound of the waves. For many, the serenity and exclusivity of these bungalows make them worth the investment.

While they may come at a premium price, the memories created in an overwater bungalow are priceless.

While the Maldives is arguably the most iconic destination for overwater bungalows, there are other incredible locations to explore, including:

Each location offers its own charm, but for many, the unmatched tranquillity of the Maldives makes it the ultimate destination for this unique stay.