Hey there! If you’ve been dreaming of that classic “little hut perched above turquoise water” vibe but want to stay in the U.S., the options are (surprisingly) super limited.
Below, I’ve rounded up the true overwater bungalows plus a couple of worthy “almost-there” alternatives. Let’s dive in!
What Exactly Is an Overwater Bungalow?
Before we jump into your U.S. options, let’s clarify exactly what we mean by “overwater bungalow.”
Traditionally, these are accommodations built on stilts directly above a body of water—often connected to land via a wooden walkway or boardwalk.
They typically feature:
- Private Decks: Offering direct access to the water—just climb down a ladder for a quick dip.
- Glass Floor Panels: Many come with a glass section in the floor so you can watch fish swim beneath your feet.
- Rustic-Luxe Design: Think thatched roofs, warm wood interiors, and breezy, open-air living spaces.
The phenomenon started in French Polynesia (specifically, in Bora Bora) and spread to other tropical regions, such as the Maldives, the Caribbean, and beyond.
Because they’re so dependent on calm, shallow waters and stable weather conditions, they aren’t quite as common in places like the continental U.S.—hence the rarity.
So, are there any genuine overwater bungalows in the U.S.?
Yes, though only one set truly fits the bill—and it happens to be in the most magical place on Earth: Walt Disney World. Let’s dive in!
True Overwater Bungalows in the United States
Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows (Lake Buena Vista, Florida)
Let’s just say it: If you’re looking for that “classic” overwater layout in the continental U.S., you’re going to find it at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort.
Located on the shores of the Seven Seas Lagoon (across from the Magic Kingdom), these bungalows are perched on stilts over the water, connected by a wooden boardwalk.
If you can handle the whimsical combination of South Pacific theming meets Mickey Mouse, then buckle up for a truly unique treat.
- Price Range: Typically $2,100–$3,500 (or more) per night, depending on the season and availability.
- Accommodations:
- Each bungalow is designed to sleep up to 8 guests, perfect for families or groups.
- Featuring 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, a full kitchen, and a washer/dryer.
- Living area with pull-out sofa and a cozy vibe.
- Key Features:
- Private Deck with Plunge Pool: Step outside to your own plunge pool and lounge area, complete with lounge chairs and views of the lagoon.
- Direct View of Magic Kingdom Fireworks: Can’t beat the front-row seat to Disney’s nightly fireworks show, complete with the synchronized soundtrack piped in through your bungalow’s speakers.
- Polynesian Décor: They really lean into the tropical vibe, from the artwork on the walls to the tropical color palette in the rooms.
- Kitchen Amenities: If you want to whip up a quick breakfast or snack, you have the facilities to do so.
- Pros:
- Location, Location, Location: You’re literally minutes away from the Magic Kingdom, and you can catch the monorail for easy park access.
- Genuinely Over Water: You can peer out over the lagoon, watch the boats go by, and dip in your plunge pool (not the lagoon itself, though).
- Perfect for Families: Sleeps a larger party, plus Disney’s entertainment is right there.
- Cons:
- Steep Price Tag: This is one of the priciest room categories at Walt Disney World.
- Theme-Park Environment: Some travelers might prefer a more remote, tropical island feel without roller coasters in the background.
- Limited “Ocean” Feel: It’s a lagoon, not a crystal-clear reef environment. You won’t be snorkeling off your deck to see coral and fish.
Is It Worth It?
If you’re a Disney fanatic or you have kids (or kids at heart!) who love the parks, yes—it’s pretty magical.
If you’re craving a quiet, remote, tropical-lagoon-on-a-private-island vibe, you might be disappointed. But hey, if you want an overwater experience in the continental U.S., this is basically it.
“Almost Overwater” Options in the U.S.
Now, let’s move on to the places that aren’t perched above the water in the literal sense—at least not the way you’d picture in Bora Bora—but still give you that overwater bungalow essence.
These “almost overwater” resorts often feature standalone bungalows or huts right on the shoreline, built mere steps from the water, or otherwise providing an ultra-close-to-nature vibe.
Little Palm Island Resort & Spa (Florida Keys)
If the thought of an exclusive, private-island experience with thatched-roof bungalows nestled among palm trees makes you swoon, Little Palm Island Resort & Spa might be your dream scenario.
Located off Little Torch Key in the Florida Keys, you can only get there by boat or seaplane.
- Price Range: Approximately $3,000–$5,000 per night, often depending on the season and the specific suite.
- Accommodations:
- 30 suites, each with its own personal touches—some offer canopy beds, outdoor soaking tubs, and waterfront views.
- Thatched roofs, tropical decor, and private outdoor spaces for sunbathing or dining.
- Key Features:
- Private Island Vibe: It’s as remote as you can get in the Florida Keys, meaning you won’t be dealing with crowds.
- Adults-Only: Perfect for honeymooners, anniversary trips, or anyone who wants a romantic, child-free zone.
- SpaTerre: Their on-island spa offers ocean-inspired treatments, including couples’ massages.
- Gourmet Dining: The resort’s dining is top-notch, featuring a blend of French and Latin influences.
- Pros:
- Incredible Seclusion: You truly feel away from it all.
- Tropical Luxury: Every detail is designed for relaxation.
- Crystal-Clear Waters: You can hop on a paddleboard or kayak, explore the surrounding waters, or enjoy the small private beach.
- Cons:
- Not Technically Over the Water: The bungalows sit on land, albeit very close to the shoreline.
- High Price Point: This is a luxury splurge for sure.
- Limited Activities on the Island: If you need city nightlife or tons of shopping, you’ll have to boat back to the mainland.
Who’s It For?
If you want serious pampering, no kids, an island aura, and you have the budget, Little Palm Island is a fantastic choice.
It’s not a stilt bungalow over a lagoon, but it’s pretty close to that fantasy—plus you get the “private island” bragging rights.
Bungalows Key Largo (Florida Keys)
Another Florida Keys gem, Bungalows Key Largo describes itself as an “all-inclusive, adults-only luxury resort.”
While these bungalows aren’t suspended over the water in a Bora Bora style, they’re perched just steps away from it, often featuring private verandas and lush, tropical landscaping that maintains a sense of intimacy.
- Price Range: Roughly $1,300–$2,500 per night (all-inclusive), dependent on room type and season.
- Accommodations:
- Standalone bungalows with bougainvillea-draped outdoor tubs, garden showers, and tasteful coastal decor.
- Each bungalow has a private outdoor area—some face the waterfront directly, others are tucked into gardens.
- Key Features:
- All-Inclusive Concept: Your rate includes meals, beverages, and many activities.
- Adults-Only Policy: Like Little Palm, this ensures a calm, romantic atmosphere.
- Water Activities: Paddleboards, kayaks, snorkeling—plenty of ways to explore Key Largo’s famous marine life.
- Multiple Dining Venues: Ranging from a seafood-centric restaurant to a casual poolside grill.
- Pros:
- Ease of Access: It’s in Key Largo, so you can drive from Miami (about 1–1.5 hours).
- Lush, Romantic Setting: Lovely landscaping and private corners for relaxation.
- Inclusive Pricing: Not having to worry about a la carte costs can be liberating.
- Cons:
- “Near Water” Versus Over It: If you’re after that stilted experience, you won’t find it here.
- Pricing Fluctuations: Rates can climb during peak season, especially weekends.
- Less Secluded: It’s not as remote as Little Palm Island, so you’ll feel more in the heart of Key Largo’s bustle (though the property itself is serene).
Who’s It For?
Couples or solo travelers seeking a high-end getaway with an almost-overwater feel—plus the convenience of an all-inclusive setup.
If you love the Florida Keys vibe (think seafood, sunsets, and water sports) but you also want a taste of tropical-luxe living, Bungalows Key Largo is an excellent option.
Other Waterfront Villas & Unique Stays
Because actual overwater accommodations are so scarce in the U.S., it’s worth noting that many properties now offer “waterfront villas” or “floating homes” that might scratch that itch.
For instance:
- Houseboat Rentals: In places like Lake Powell (Arizona/Utah) or Seattle’s Lake Union, you can rent a houseboat for a night or longer. This is over the water technically (it floats!)—but it’s not quite the dreamy tropical scenario you might envision.
- Floating Cabins: Some lakes and rivers in states such as Texas or Tennessee have small floating cabins. They’re typically more rustic, oriented toward fishing or quiet getaways.
- Dockside Tiny Homes: Certain marinas along the East or West Coast rent out tiny homes that sit at the dock’s edge, though this can feel more “urban-living-on-a-marina” than “tropical paradise.”
While these options may not replicate that turquoise-lagoon-on-stilts fantasy, they can provide a unique overwater experience that’s still in the U.S.
Close-to-USA Overwater Bungalows
What if you’re willing to take a short flight or quick hop to a nearby region (think Mexico, the Caribbean, or Central America)?
Then you’re in luck, because these spots offer some bona fide overwater bungalows.
While we won’t get lost in all the international options (like the Maldives or Bora Bora), here are some top picks close to U.S. shores.
Mexico
El Dorado Maroma – Palafitos Overwater Bungalows (Riviera Maya)
Located along the famed Riviera Maya (about 40 minutes south of Cancun International Airport), El Dorado Maroma introduced the first set of true overwater bungalows in Mexico—called Palafitos.
These bungalows extend out over the Caribbean Sea’s shallow waters.
- Price Range: Generally around $1,200–$2,000+ per night (often all-inclusive, but check specific packages).
- Key Features:
- Authentic overwater design with glass floor panels.
- Private Infinity Pools on the deck.
- Direct ladder access into the ocean for snorkeling.
- Gourmet, all-inclusive dining (the El Dorado brand is known for its “gourmet inclusive” concept).
- Why It’s Great:
- Closest “Bora Bora” Feel Near the U.S.: You’ve got that turquoise water, seclusion, and luxurious touches.
- Easy Flight From Many U.S. Cities: Cancun is a major hub.
- All-Inclusive Perks: Minimal stress about meal or drink bills.
Rosewood Mayakoba (Riviera Maya)
While not exclusively “overwater bungalows” in the sense of being over the ocean, Rosewood Mayakoba does have lagoon suites built over freshwater lagoons, giving a partial overwater vibe—though the accommodations are more modern-luxe than the typical thatched-roof style.
- Price Range: Can start around $1,000+ per night, depending on the season.
- Why It’s Worth Considering:
- Ultra-luxurious suites, private plunge pools, and high-end amenities.
- Gorgeous setting amidst mangroves and a tranquil lagoon system, plus a pristine beachfront.
- Caveat:
- This is more “lagoon suite” than “Caribbean stilt bungalow,” so adjust expectations accordingly.
The Caribbean
The Caribbean has been catching on to the overwater trend.
A few Sandals Resorts in particular have built luxurious overwater villas in places like Jamaica and St. Lucia, and they’re a relatively short flight from the U.S.
Sandals Royal Caribbean (Montego Bay, Jamaica)
Sandals is famous for its couples-only, all-inclusive resorts, and their overwater bungalows in Jamaica are genuinely over the sea, offering direct water access and plenty of romance.
- Price Range: Typically $2,000–$3,000+ per night (all-inclusive).
- Key Features:
- Overwater hammocks, glass floor panels, private patios, and tranquility tubs for two.
- Butler service, 24-hour room service, and all-inclusive dining and activities.
- Access to multiple Sandals resorts in the Montego Bay area for a variety of dining and entertainment.
- Pros:
- Classic Overwater Experience: You’ll feel that open-ocean vibe.
- All-Inclusive Ease: Food, drinks, many activities included.
- Romantic Atmosphere: Perfect for honeymoons, anniversaries, or vow renewals.
- Cons:
- High Demand: Booking can be tricky—these villas often sell out months in advance.
- Flight Required: Not in the U.S. proper, but close enough (short flight from Florida).
Sandals South Coast (Whitehouse, Jamaica)
Another Sandals property in Jamaica featuring overwater bungalows set around a heart-shaped walkway—talk about romantic Instagrammable moments!
- Price Range: Generally $1,800–$3,000+ per night, all-inclusive.
- Key Features:
- Overwater bar and overwater wedding chapel (if you’re feeling extra).
- Similar butler and 24-hour room service perks.
- Exquisite beaches and multiple pools.
- Overall Vibe: A bit more remote than Montego Bay, but still very accessible.
Sandals Grande St. Lucian (St. Lucia)
If you’re eyeing the lush tropical scenery of St. Lucia—famous for the dramatic Pitons, volcanic beaches, and jungle landscapes—this Sandals outpost also features a handful of overwater bungalows.
- Price Range: Often $2,000–$3,500+ per night.
- Key Features:
- Stunning views of Rodney Bay.
- Personal butler service, infinity-edge plunge pools, and see-through glass floors.
- Island-hopping tours, water sports, and easy access to St. Lucia’s natural wonders.
Panama’s Bocas del Toro
For adventurous travelers, Bocas del Toro in Panama has some super-charming overwater eco-lodges. These often have more of a bohemian, laid-back vibe compared to the glitzy all-inclusive resorts.
You’ll find Punta Caracol Acqua Lodge, Azul Paradise, and other smaller properties offering stilt huts above calm Caribbean waters.
- Price Range: Can vary from about $300–$700+ per night, depending on the lodge.
- Key Features:
- Authentic, rustic designs with direct water access.
- Opportunities for snorkeling, paddleboarding, and exploring vibrant coral reefs right off your deck.
- A more low-key, eco-conscious atmosphere compared to high-end resorts.
- Travel Considerations:
- You’ll likely fly into Panama City, then take a domestic flight or boat to Bocas del Toro.
- Once you’re there, the vibe is ultra-casual, so if you crave nightlife or city amenities, it’s limited.
- Who’s It For?
- Nature lovers, snorkelers, divers, or anyone who wants a more authentic overwater stay without the fuss of a big resort chain.
Tips for Booking and Maximizing Your Experience
Whether you decide on Disney’s Polynesian in Florida or a quick hop to Jamaica, here are some pointers:
- Book Early: Overwater bungalows are in high demand, especially the real-deal ones. Some resorts, like Sandals, can sell out a year in advance for peak travel dates.
- Check Seasonal Rates: Off-peak times (e.g., hurricane season in the Caribbean, late summer in Florida) might yield slightly lower prices. If you’re flexible, you can save thousands.
- Look for Package Deals: All-inclusive resorts sometimes run promotions that bundle flights or offer resort credits.
- Consider Travel Insurance: When you’re splurging on a high-ticket trip, it’s wise to protect your investment in case of unforeseen cancellations or weather issues.
- Plan Excursions: Overwater stays often include or are near water activities—snorkeling, paddleboarding, diving. Book these in advance to ensure availability.
- Know What “Overwater” Means to You: If you specifically want a deck ladder into crystal-clear water, verify the property truly offers that. A “waterfront bungalow” might not be the same.
FAQs: Overwater Bungalows in The USA
Q: Why are overwater bungalows so rare in the U.S.?
A: Two big reasons—geography and regulations. The shallow, calm lagoons that are ideal for stilted bungalows are more common in tropical regions like French Polynesia or the Maldives.
Moreover, local environmental and zoning regulations in many U.S. coastal areas discourage or outright forbid building over the water to protect marine ecosystems.
Q: Are the overwater bungalows at Disney’s Polynesian worth the splurge?
A: It depends on your priorities. If you adore Disney, want to be near the parks, and have the budget, it’s a memorable one-of-a-kind experience.
If your heart’s set on snorkeling off your deck in turquoise seas, you might be disappointed—this is more about the Disney magic than a tropical marine adventure.
Q: Which “close to the U.S.” location offers the most authentic overwater experience?
A: Many travelers point to the Palafitos at El Dorado Maroma in Mexico or the overwater bungalows at Sandals Resorts in Jamaica for that classic “private deck ladder, glass floor panel, over-the-sea” vibe.
Q: Are there any overwater bungalows in Hawaii?
A: Surprisingly, no. While Hawaii is tropical and part of the U.S., the shallow, calm lagoons that facilitate stilt bungalows are scarce—and environmental regulations tend to be strict. You’ll find plenty of stunning beachfront resorts, but not overwater huts.
Q: What’s the best way to save on an overwater bungalow stay?
A: Travel during shoulder or off-peak seasons, sign up for resort newsletters for promotional deals, and consider all-inclusive packages where your meals, drinks, and some activities are included.
Parting Thoughts
Overwater bungalows in the U.S. might be almost as elusive as a Disney fairy godmother—but they do exist! Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows is essentially the only true option you’ll find within the continental United States.
It marries that iconic stilted-over-water concept with the unabashed whimsy of a major theme park environment—perfect for families, Disney enthusiasts, or anyone who wants a whimsical take on a bucket-list lodging experience.
For those craving a more authentic, tropical-island vibe, the Florida Keys offer some excellent near-water bungalows.
They may not be stilted over a lagoon, but they’re steps away from the ocean and often come with a heavy dose of luxury (like at Little Palm Island Resort & Spa or Bungalows Key Largo). You’ll still feel that warm breeze and wake up to ocean views—just don’t expect fish swimming under your floorboards.
If you’re open to traveling a bit beyond U.S. borders, you’ve got plenty of alluring choices: the overwater Palafitos in Mexico’s Riviera Maya, the romantic Sandals bungalows in Jamaica or St. Lucia, and the laid-back eco-lodges of Panama’s Bocas del Toro.
Each of these destinations delivers that quintessential “walk out onto your private deck, slip into the turquoise sea” experience.
Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on:
- Your Budget: Overwater bungalows often carry a hefty price tag, whether in Florida or the Caribbean.
- Your Desired Destination Vibe: Are you looking for the high-energy fun of Disney? The chill, boho atmosphere of Panama? The romantic, all-inclusive glitz of Sandals?
- Your Travel Logistics: How far do you want to fly? Are you comfortable with boat transfers? Do you want quick access to a city, or do you prefer complete seclusion?
One thing is certain: Whether you choose Disney’s stateside bungalows or a short flight to an all-inclusive overwater paradise, the experience of waking up above the water is unforgettable.
From morning coffee on your private deck watching fish jump, to moonlit swims steps from your bed, it’s a style of travel that redefines the meaning of “room with a view.”
So go ahead—scroll through photos of thatched-roof huts, daydream about sipping tropical cocktails over a shimmering sea, and start planning! A true overwater escape might be closer to home (and your travel plans) than you think. If you’re ready to splurge, these resorts won’t disappoint.
Happy bungalow hunting and may your next vacation be filled with salty air, ocean breezes, and plenty of overwater magic!
