Jamaica is one of the Caribbean's most popular islands, especially for all-inclusive resorts, and starting late in 2016 it also became the region's capital of overwater bungalows. There are now two amazing overwater bungalow resorts on Jamaica, and we are hoping to welcome more in the future.
Fans of all-inclusive resorts will be happy to hear that both of the Jamaican resorts are part of the famous luxury Sandals chain, so guests pay one price and nearly everything they can think of (including premium items and excursions) is included. The bad news for most of us is that the overwater bungalows are quite expensive, starting around US$2,000 per night for two people. Even more challenging is the fact that unless you book at least 3 nights, the rate you'll be quoted will be over US$6,000 per night. Yikes!
If that is out of your budget like it is mine, you should strongly consider a normal room at one of the Sandals resorts, which start around US$400 per night. If your budget is lower than that you should check this list of cheapest all-inclusive Caribbean islands, and look for a great package deal.
Looking for one in Zanzibar for two? Any recommendations? Or Capetown?
Brian,
Sorry, but I’m not aware of any overwater resorts in Zanzibar or South Africa. Hopefully they will be planned in the coming years. -Roger
There are 4 of us that would like to depart Seattle and get to Sunshine in January. We were thinking Bora Bora but are wide open. I was wondering if there are any water bungalows that accommodate 4 people but are still affordable?
Theresa,
Most of the Bora Bora resort hotels allow 3 guests per room, but I’ve only heard about a couple that allow 4, and those are the super expensive ones that go for close to US$2,000 per night.
The option that might work are the so-called Brando overwater bungalows, which are privately run and not part of a resort. A couple of them have two bedrooms and they are actually more reasonably priced. Good luck! -Roger
Hi, there is 5 of us wanting to stay closest to Jacksonville Florida (Mom not doing well). That has the bungalows over the water, but HAS to be clear water? Can you help me? I am a disabled vet, and they wanted to do this for me. Thank you, Lisa🌞
Lisa,
The closest real overwater bungalows to Florida are in Jamaica at two different Sandals resorts, but the water isn’t turquoise like it is in Bora Bora and the Maldives. Unfortunately Florida is pretty much half a world away from the ones with clear water. The closest are probably in Tahiti, but if you go there you might as well go to Moorea, which is right next door. -Roger