Aruba Ocean Villas: Are These Overwater Bungalows Worth It?

Dreaming of a private overwater bungalow in Aruba?

Aruba Ocean Villas is the island’s only resort offering this rare experience—but is it worth the splurge?

From jaw-dropping sunsets to must-know booking tips, this honest review dives into everything you need to know before you go. Let’s explore!

Overview & First Impressions

Aruba Ocean Villas (AOV) is not your typical high-rise resort.

In fact, staying here feels like discovering a secret hideaway—tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the Palm Beach strip.

The property’s biggest claim to fame?

Overwater bungalows in the Caribbean, which is quite rare outside of places like Jamaica or Mexico’s Riviera Maya.

From the outside, the place emits bohemian, tropical vibes: think thatched roofs, wooden walkways, and whimsical décor blending Aruban touches with something reminiscent of the Maldives or Polynesia.

You’ll find only a small handful of bungalows and beach villas, meaning it’s more personalized, with staff greeting you by name rather than a massive front desk queue.

First-time visitors are often amazed by how different this experience is from the big resorts up in Eagle Beach or Palm Beach.

It’s quiet, laid-back, and almost feels like an off-the-grid retreat—yet you’re only about 15–20 minutes from the airport. If you’ve spent any time reading online testimonials, you’ll see words like “intimate,” “charming,” and “secluded” appear repeatedly.

Location & Surroundings

Savaneta: The Sleepy Fishing Town

Aruba Ocean Villas is located in Savaneta, on the southwestern coast of Aruba.

Savaneta is a local fishing district, with little stands offering fresh fish, mini markets, and local spots away from the main tourist zones.

Here you will enjoy seeing a more “authentic” side of Aruba—where you might observe fishermen heading out at sunrise or families enjoying the calm waters.

Access & Proximity

From the Airport: It’s around a 15- to 20-minute drive from Queen Beatrix International (AUA).
To Oranjestad: The capital city is about 20 minutes away by car or taxi. If you want a dose of shopping, restaurants, or nightlife in the city, it’s still reasonably convenient.
To Palm Beach: ~25-30 minutes by car, depending on traffic. This distance is a bonus: you escape the crowds and come back to your tranquil paradise.

Beach & Ocean Conditions

The water around Savaneta is known to be calmer than Aruba’s windward northern coast. You get a gentle, shallow lagoon effect, which is perfect for a morning dip or casual snorkeling.

Something to note is that the water near the bungalows can be very shallow, especially at low tide, so serious swimmers may venture slightly further out.

Arrival Experience & Check-In

Pre-Arrival Communication

The owners or management team email well before arrival, confirming flight times, offering optional airport transfers, and inquiring about special preferences (like anniversary celebrations).

The Aruba Ocean Villas property is small enough that they handle these details with personal care.

Greeting & First Impressions

Upon arrival, staff or a manager typically meets you with a friendly welcome, sometimes a tropical welcome drink (rum punch or fruit juice).

You’ll check in at a small reception area—not a massive lobby. It might feel more like you’re visiting a friend’s private estate than a resort.

Because of the boutique nature, the process is quick, with minimal paperwork. Soon, you’ll be led to your villa or bungalow along wooden pathways or boardwalks over the water (in the case of the overwater structures).

From some TripAdvisor stories, a few couples arrived late in the evening and found staff waiting patiently, ready to show them around by lantern or subtle lighting. It sets a cozy, almost magical ambiance from the get-go.

Accommodations

The heart of Aruba Ocean Villas’ appeal lies in its unique accommodations.

While they do have some beach villas on land, the real showstoppers are the overwater bungalows.

Overwater Bungalows

These bungalows are perched on stilts above the shallow Caribbean Sea.

Some highlights include:

Wood & Thatch Construction: Giving it a Polynesian meets Caribbean vibe.
Private Decks: Often with lounge chairs, hammocks, or netted platforms where you can watch fish swim beneath you.
Open-Air Design: Some have partially open-air bathrooms, letting in sea breezes.
AC in Sleeping Area: Past visitors reassure future guests that you won’t be sweltering at night—there’s air conditioning in the bedroom.
Romantic Touches: Net draped four-poster beds, string lights, or subtle artwork.
Direct Sea Access: Some units have steps leading down into the water; others are a short hop from the edge. The water is often waist-deep, perfect for a quick dip.

Overall vibe:

Pros: Indescribable serenity—waking to sunrise over the water, minimal noise except gentle waves or distant seagulls. Perfect for honeymooners.
Cons: The overwater structures can show slight wear (saltwater is harsh on wood). There may be minor maintenance quirks, like creaking boards or small leaks when it rains. However, we just see this as part of the “rustic-chic” charm.

Beachfront Villas & Suites

Not everyone secures an overwater bungalow (there are only a few). The property also features select beach villas or suites steps from the sand. In addition, these rooms are:

More spacious, sometimes with separate living rooms.
Decorated in a similar boho-luxe style—driftwood furniture, bright tropical accents, maybe some local art.
Some come with plunge pools or private gardens.
Great for families or travelers wanting a bit more space or those who prefer slightly more stable ground than a bungalow that can shift with the tide.

In-Room Amenities & Décor

Across all categories, expect:

Wi-Fi: Some bungalows have decent Wi-Fi, though you may experience occasional spotty connections.
Coffee Maker or Kettle: For morning coffee on your deck.
Mini-Fridge: Stocked with water or optional beverages.
Shower vs. Bathtub: Overwater units usually have large walk-in showers, sometimes partially open-air. Some beach villas might include a soaking tub.
Styling: Almost every guest raves about the cozy, eclectic design—shell chandeliers, whimsical paint colors, or hand-carved wooden details. It’s not uniform corporate minimalism, but a personal, artsy feel.

Dining & Culinary Highlights

Aruba Ocean Villas is not an all-inclusive megaresort with 10 restaurants.

Instead, it focuses on intimate, high-quality dining experiences. Some packages include breakfast and dinner. Others offer an à la carte or half-board approach.

Breakfast

Served typically in a communal dining area or on your private deck if you prefer. Dishes might range from fresh fruit platters and pastries to eggs, bacon, or local specialties.
The staff happily accommodates dietary needs (gluten-free, vegetarian, etc.).

Lunch & Dinner

Seafood-Centric: Being in Savaneta, you’ll often find fresh catch-of-the-day fish or shrimp.
Fusion Flavors: Some menu items blend Caribbean spices with Dutch or international touches.
Private Romantic Dinners: Another highlight is setting up a candlelit table on a pier or your bungalow deck. Many honeymooners post photos of flickering lanterns, starry skies, and elegantly plated lobster or steak dinners.

Nearby Eateries

Because you’re in Savaneta, a few local restaurants are within walking or a short drive distance:

Zeerovers: A casual, very local spot for fried seafood and ice-cold beer. People rave about the shrimp.
Flying Fishbone: A more upscale restaurant with tables in the sand and at times in the water—some travelers combine a stay at AOV with at least one dinner here.

In short, if you want a mellow vibe with chef-prepared meals, you can dine on-site, but adventurous souls can sample local cuisine around Savaneta, too.

Resort Grounds & Facilities

Size & Layout

Aruba Ocean Villas is quite small, so there’s no sprawling campus.

A short path leads from the entrance to the main dining hut, with boardwalks branching off to the overwater bungalows or beach villas.

You will love the sense of never bumping into a crowd—feeling at times, you have the entire place to yourselves.

Common Areas

Lounge Deck: Sometimes used for social gatherings or evening drinks, featuring comfortable loungers or daybeds.
Beach Section: Small patch of sand with a handful of chairs, though the highlight is arguably your private deck or the tranquil lagoon.
Bar: A modest but well-stocked bar area, with staff mixing up classic tropical cocktails, from mojitos to rum punches.

Pools

It’s important to note that not all bungalows or suites come with private pools, and the property, in general, doesn’t revolve around a big communal pool.

The lagoon effectively becomes your “giant saltwater pool.” Some beach villas might include plunge pools or jacuzzi tubs. Those who prefer a large infinity pool or a lively swim-up bar scene might look to bigger resorts in Palm Beach.

Staff & Service Quality

A major plus of Aruba Ocean Villas is the friendly, personalized service.

With fewer guests, the staff can devote genuine attention—learning your name and preferences. Here’s a sampling of feedback gleaned from various online comments:

“The staff treated us like family; by our second day, they knew exactly how I like my coffee.”
“Our bungalow had a minor AC glitch, and they fixed it promptly with genuine apologies.”
“They arranged a surprise birthday dinner for my partner with a cake—no extra fuss.”

The staff are notoriously low-key, not in-your-face but there when you need them.

If you’re used to 24/7 butler service, you might find it more relaxed. But our general consensus is that the personal touches and can-do attitude surpass that of many larger resorts.

Romantic Touches & Honeymoon Appeal

Aruba Ocean Villas is especially popular among couples celebrating honeymoons, anniversaries, or any romantic milestone.

Private In-Bungalow Meals: Staff can set up a table on your deck at sunset, sprinkling it with rose petals if requested.
Couples’ Massage: Some mention in-room or on-deck spa treatments, with local therapists who come to the property.
Sunset Cocktails: Overwater hammocks become prime spots for sipping on a rum cocktail while the sky glows pink and orange.
No Large Groups: The boutique size means minimal chance of wedding parties or rowdy kids. Perfect for honeymooners craving peace.

If romance is your main priority, you’ll likely find it here – feeling like you are in your own little world.

Activities & Nearby Exploration

While you could laze away days in your overwater bungalow, Savaneta’s location also places you near several local adventures:

Snorkeling: Right off the property, you can spot small fish among rocks or seagrass. For bigger reefs, join a boat trip or drive to Mangel Halto, a popular snorkeling site close by.
Kayaking or Paddleboarding: The resort provides kayaks or that staff can help arrange rentals. The lagoon’s calm waters are beginner-friendly.
Local Eateries: As noted, Zeerovers is down the road—fresh shrimp in a paper basket, plus beer or soda. Another local gem is The Old Man and The Sea restaurant, sometimes affiliated with Aruba Ocean Villas or adjacent properties.
Day Trips: If you want to see Eagle Beach or the bustling Palm Beach area, it’s a short drive. Many do half-day visits for the big resorts’ restaurants, casinos, or to catch a catamaran excursion from Palm Beach piers.

Rent a car if you plan to do multiple day trips, or budget for taxis. It’s not a high cost if you only do one or two short jaunts.

Common Praises & Compliments

Reading through reviews across the internet, these recurring praises pop up:

“We’ve never stayed anywhere like this in Aruba!” The novelty of stilted lodging in a region that rarely offers it.
Warmth of the Staff: Many mention specific staff by name, describing them as “always smiling” and “treating us like royalty.”
Peaceful Atmosphere: No loud parties, minimal ambient noise except lapping waves. Great for decompressing.
Tropical Décor & Rustic Charm: People love the boho, whimsical finishing touches—shell chandeliers, driftwood art, woven hammocks.
Sunsets: The vantage points from each bungalow or common deck are described as magical. You can watch the sun dip behind the horizon with an unobstructed ocean view.

Points of Critique & Things to Keep in Mind

No property is universally perfect. Aruba Ocean Villas, being small and somewhat “rustic-chic,” does have recurring criticisms:

Minor Maintenance Issues
- Some mention squeaky wooden boards, or that the older bungalows show wear from saltwater exposure.
- Occasional notes about small repairs needed (loose drawer handle, minor plumbing hitches). Staff reportedly fix issues promptly but be prepared for a more “island-living” standard, not a sterile five-star chain vibe.
Mosquitoes & Insects
- Overwater and beach areas can attract bugs, especially at dusk. A few visitors suggest bringing strong repellent or ask staff for a net or coil. Some bungalows have netting around beds to minimize nighttime bites.
Lack of Big Resort Amenities
- If you want a large pool, multiple on-site bars, 24/7 room service, or nightly entertainment, you might feel limited. The property thrives on small-scale intimacy, so it’s intentionally less about glitzy extras.
Cost
- With only a handful of overwater bungalows, demand is high, meaning rates can be expensive. Some guests accept the uniqueness as worth it, while others find it pricey for the level of refinement.
Location is Secluded
- Savaneta is about 25–30 minutes from the main tourist zone (Palm Beach). Those who want to bar-hop or casino-hop nightly may find commuting inconvenient. On the flip side, those wanting tranquility see it as a plus.

Overall, these downsides rarely overshadow the experience for those seeking something off the typical resort track. But it’s wise to know your preferences before booking.

Practical Tips & Recommendations

Book Early: With few overwater bungalows, availability can vanish months in advance, especially during winter or holiday seasons.
Check Package Inclusions: Some rates might include breakfast or a romantic dinner. Others are room-only. Understand what’s covered to avoid surprises.
Transport: Decide if you want a rental car. If you’re content chilling at your bungalow, maybe just taxi or staff-arranged rides for occasional outings. But if you want to roam the island, a car adds freedom.
Bring Bug Spray: As recommended by multiple reviews, the lagoon environment can invite mosquitoes, especially at dusk. The staff can help, but come prepared if you’re prone to bites.
Don’t Expect Nightly Shows: This is not a big chain with scheduled entertainment. Instead, relish the stillness, have an intimate dinner, then stargaze from your deck.
Ask for Private Experiences: If celebrating a honeymoon, anniversary, or proposal, mention it ahead of time. The staff is known to arrange special flourishes—flower petals, a surprise dessert, or custom décor.

Final Thoughts

Aruba Ocean Villas offers an incredibly rare treat: a chance to sleep over the ocean in Aruba, an island more famed for its wide beaches and desert-like interior than stilt lodging.

Travelers who stay here often refer to it as a “boutique slice of paradise”—boasting a low-key yet romantic atmosphere, heartfelt service, and mesmerizing sunsets viewed from your private deck.

If you relish uniqueness and can look past a few rustic edges, you’ll likely find it enchanting.

However, the property’s intimate scale and remote setting won’t suit everyone. Those who want robust resort amenities, big pools, multiple restaurants, or instant access to nightlife might feel out of place.

But for honeymooners, anniversary celebrants, or couples yearning for a hideaway that merges the best of Aruban sunshine with a dash of Polynesian-like stilt-living magic, it can be a dream come true.

In the end, many visitors conclude that Aruba Ocean Villas breaks the mold of typical high-rise tourism.

It’s about slow mornings with coffee on your deck, lazy midday dips in the lagoon, and candlelit evenings spent listening to gentle waves under a star-filled sky.

If that resonates with your travel soul—and you’re open to a smaller, homier vibe—then perhaps there’s no better vantage point in Aruba than from a hammock-laden overwater bungalow in Savaneta.