The best overwater villas in the world

When you think of the Maldives, sprawling beaches, crystal-clear waters and pure luxury from start to finish come to mind and One&Only Reethi Rah is exactly this. A prime hotspot for honeymooners and couples celebrating anniversaries and special occasions, this hotel goes above and beyond in every way possible.

One&Only Reethi Rah is located on a private peninsula of North Malé Atoll and encompasses six kilometres of secluded beachfront along with 128 stunning beach and overwater villas. Each accommodation overlooks the sparkling lagoon and offers an outdoor sun deck complete with swinging hammock ideal for watching those Indian Ocean sunsets. Those looking for one of the best Maldives overwater villas should book a Grand Water Villa with Pool, featuring catamaran nets, an infinity pool, and a spectacular open-to-the-stars dining area - because at One&Only Reethi Rah, there’s no such thing as too much.

Cast your mind to a postcard image of a dreamy overwater villa. That’s exactly what Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora looks like.

This stunning hotel in the heart of the French Polynesian islands comes to life in more ways than one from the delicious four restaurants to the sumptuous spa offering a multitude of heavenly treatments. But let’s go back to the main event. The overwater bungalows here are second to none and our favourite choice has to be the One Bedroom Mountain View Overwater Bungalow Suite with Plunge Pool. The picture is enough to see why...

Rosewood Mayakoba is the true gem of Riviera Maya, located just 50 miles south of Cancun and provides a closer-to-home rival to the Indian Ocean and French Polynesia. The stunning hotel is a 600-acre resort community that provides a multitude of jetties and canals that link to the lush forests and sparkling lagoons.

After a short boat ride to your overwater villa upon arrival, you’ll receive a fresh fruit platter – but this is more than just your five-a-day. The fruit is sprinkled with fresh lime juice mixed with salt and a punchy Mexican pepper, just like the locals eat. Hoping for something stronger? There’ll also be a welcome tray of tequila! At Rosewood Mayakoba, the Deluxe Overwater Lagoon Suite is without a doubt the place to be, rising majestically over the blissful waters for incomparable views.

Finolhu offers 126 villas and rooms throughout the resort and provides some of the best overwater villas in the Maldives.

With direct access to the sea, the Ocean Pool Villa includes a private freshwater pool with an outdoor daybed and luxury rocking chairs. Alternatively, kick things up a notch with a stay in the Rockstar Villa. Defining luxury, these villas offer complete seclusion where guests get their own buggy to travel to and from the main resort. The 460 square metres of space includes two master bedrooms, an infinity pool, private bar, bathrooms with bathtubs, outdoor showers and much much more. 

Situated on Bora Bora’s longest stretch of sand, Conrad Bora Bora Nui is home to the region’s first two-storey overwater villas that certainly need to be seen to be believed.

The showstopper is the Presidential Overwater Villa, boasting 3,229-square-feet of space. This accommodation option offers two bedrooms, three bathrooms and a living room, not to mention a private swimming pool and a wellbeing room with a sauna and massage table. The Presidential Overwater Villa is an exotic haven, offering luxury to the highest standard.

Arguably showcasing the best overwater villas in the Maldives, Soneva Jani is five-star luxury at its finest.

The 51 water villas offer one to four bedrooms, and all boast their own private infinity pool. Perfect for families, couples and honeymooners, Soneva Jani certainly doesn’t disappoint when it comes to these fantastic floating accommodations. All seven options come with a luxurious sun deck and loungers, along with direct access to the ocean perfect for snorkelling and exciting underwater activities. Oh, and did we mention that they all feature their own water slide? Ideal for the kids and big kids alike!

Tahiti is often overshadowed by its big sister Bora Bora but trust us when we say that this island is truly mesmerising in every way possible. At Intercontinental Resort Tahiti, it’s beauty is an extension of the area’s paradise and is the biggest luxury resort on the island.

The Junior Suite Overwater Superior Lagoon Bungalows are something special, positioned in a stylish semi-circle. The suites overlook the gorgeous Moorea Island and are equipped with a lounge deck that’s perfect for soaking up the Polynesian rays and admiring the unobstructed views. Inside, the bungalows certainly don’t disappoint. Think dark wood furnishings with colourful splashes, a streamlined bathroom and a whole host of luxurious amenities. We told you it was paradise.