Discover the Top Overwater Bungalows

Sandy beaches, swaying palm trees, blue skies, and crystal waters all await you at Club Med Maldives.

For an experience like no other – book your stay in the Club Med overwater bungalows. Our luxurious and enchanting accommodations await you on the world’s finest beaches.

Here’s what you can expect and look forward to in Club Med’s exclusive overwater villas.

What Is an Overwater Bungalow?

An overwater bungalow, overwater suite, or a floating bure – the concept has many different names, but it remains the same.

An independent, detached building with one guest room inside, standing on stilts in the water, an overwater bungalow is the epitome of luxury and relaxation. It’s where you can truly immerse yourself in the seascape and the mesmerising surroundings.

You can find this type of unique island accommodation all over the South Pacific, with the most popular destinations including the Maldives, French Polynesia, Fiji, and Vanuatu. Also, you can see overwater bungalows in Southeast Asia, Mauritius, and the Caribbean.

The reason overwater bungalows are incredibly popular and worth the higher price tag is that they offer an incredibly unique experience. With unmatched views and luxurious amenities, the villas are a private paradise.

The Origins of Overwater Bungalows

Even though overwater homes have been around for centuries, the concept of overwater bungalows actually originated in the 1960s. The French Polynesian island of Moorea was the first to introduce the bungalows at the Club Bali Hai Moorea resort.

After a chance feature in the 1962 December issue of Life magazine, the resort’s popularity skyrocketed. Later, the concept spread throughout Tahiti, South Pacific, and the Maldives, and made it to the Caribbean in the 1980s.

While the style of the bungalow might vary from one island to the next, the exterior mostly remains the same. Most bungalows, no matter their location, are modelled on traditional village houses of the islands in the area. They are also connected to the main resort buildings and the beaches by wooden walkways.

Unique Features and Design of Overwater Bungalows

Now synonymous with romance, the unassuming facade of the underwater bungalow only hints at the bliss that can be found within the walls. The bungalow is the place where natural materials and traditional designs meet modern luxuries and amenities.

Overwater bures typically comprise thatched palm leaf roofs and handcrafted timber held together by sturdy bush poles and coconut fibres, anchored deep into the sand with concrete pillars.

Inside, you will typically find walls lined with woven bamboo and furnished in the style of a 5-star hotel suite with all requisite amenities.

A key feature of underwater bungalows is the panes of glass built into the floors or glass coffee tables. Dubbed the Tahitian television, the glass panes allow an up-close look at the marine life below.

Most of these villas will also have a private balcony so that you can snorkel right from the deck.

The Overwater Experience

Imagine this: you’re in your overwater bungalow, resting on the balcony, listening to the soothing sounds of the lapping waves. You might also see tropical birds flying over or hear boats as they travel by. What’s more, depending on the direction your villa is facing, you might be able to watch as the sun goes up or when it sets.

Most overwater bungalows also have their own private balconies where you can lounge in the comfort of your own space.

As we mentioned earlier, overwater villas have now become synonymous with romance and are a popular option for honeymooners. Their appeal lies in their seclusion and location, coupled with personalized but unobtrusive service.

The Best Times to Book an Overwater Bungalow

The best time to book your stay at an overwater villa will depend on where you’re going, what your budget is, and your personal preferences.

If you’re planning your stay in the Club Med overwater bungalows in the Maldives, you should know that the island nation is warm and sunny all year round. But like most tropical nations, it does have a dry and a wet season.

From November to April, the Maldives see very little precipitation and the temperatures are high. It’s the perfect weather for sunbathers and those looking to relax and unwind in their villa.

However, from May to October, the prices are much lower and the conditions are ideal for scuba divers. During this period, the reefs are truly a sight to behold and the colours of the sea are rarely seen elsewhere.

The Top Overwater Bungalows at Club Med

Are you dreaming of sandy beaches, crystal waters, and majestic views, all from the comfort of your own villa? If so, Club Med Kani and the Finolhu Villas have just what you need. With all-inclusive service, luxury accommodation, and gourmet cuisine, Club Med Maldives is the perfect getaway for both adventurers and those seeking relaxation. Take a closer look at Club Med Kani and Club Med Finolhu Villas.

Club Med Kani

Surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, white sands, and palm trees, Club Med Kani is truly a sight to behold.

This Club Med resort in the Maldives reflects the extraordinary beauty of this spectacular island. With exclusive spaces, extraordinary service, and fresh, gourmet delicacies, the resort is like no other in the world.

As part of the Exclusive Collection Space, our guests can enjoy a unique and intimate experience. What’s more, the Collection offers gorgeous suites, access to a private beach, an overwater lounge, and a beachside bar.

Guests of the Exclusive Collection Space also have access to dedicated concierge services, ready to cater to their every need. There is also luggage service, priority booking, and more.

Club Med Finolhu Villas

A private, eco-chic villa in the Maldives, the Finolhu Villas offers the finest experience. Stunning panoramic views, underwater discoveries, and pampering indulgences – all this and more awaits you there.

For your stay, you can choose between the Beach Villa, with a Sunrise or Sunset, or the Overwater Villa.

Our Overwater Villas can accommodate up to three people and guests can choose whether they want to overlook the Sunrise or Sunset. Along with a comprehensive list of amenities and services, the Villas feature a private terrace with a pool and outdoor patio.

What’s more, they feature direct access to the sea so you can easily go snorkelling and exploring. Guests will also receive one floating breakfast per stay, which they can enjoy with their partners, friends, or family.