Travel Glossary · Islands & Resorts
Overwater Bungalow
Definition
Overwater Bungalow: An overwater bungalow is a resort villa built on stilts above a lagoon, typically with a private deck and direct ladder access to the water below.
French Polynesia is widely credited with popularizing the overwater bungalow in the 1960s, and it remains the style’s spiritual home, with bungalows over the lagoons of Bora Bora, Moorea, Tahaa, Rangiroa, and Tikehau. The Maldives, Fiji, and parts of Mexico and the Caribbean now have them too.
Not all bungalows are equal. Position in the lagoon determines the view (open ocean, reef, or Bora Bora’s Mount Otemanu), the water depth for snorkeling off your ladder, sun and privacy, and how far you walk to restaurants. Higher categories can add glass floor panels, plunge pools, or extra space.
Choosing the right category is one of the most useful things an advisor does for a Tahiti trip, and Virtuoso benefits apply at participating resorts. Start with our overwater bungalow guide.
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Go deeper
- Travel GuidesOverwater Bungalow Guide: How to Choose the Right One in French PolynesiaHow to choose an overwater bungalow in French Polynesia: bungalow types, views, lagoon depth, location, kids, meal plans and which islands to consider.
- French PolynesiaBora Bora Island GuidePlan Bora Bora with a Tahiti specialist: where to stay, motu vs. main island, the best lagoon tours, when to go and how many nights to book for a honeymoon.
- CompareTahiti vs. the Maldives: Which Island Escape Is Right for You?Tahiti vs the Maldives compared: flight time from LAX, scenery, resorts, diving, best season, and cost, so you can choose the right overwater-bungalow escape.
- Travel GuidesFrench Polynesia Honeymoon: How to Plan the Perfect TripPlan a French Polynesia honeymoon: how long to go, which islands, overwater bungalows, romantic experiences, when to book and a sample 12-night itinerary.
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