11 Islands Where You Can Find Affordable Overwater Bungalows
Dreaming of staying in an overwater bungalow but worried it’s out of reach? We’ve got great news! There are plenty of affordable options that let you enjoy the luxury of staying right on the water without the sky-high prices. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking for a romantic escape, an overwater bungalow offers the perfect mix of privacy, comfort, and stunning views.
From tropical islands to hidden gems, these destinations offer everything you’d expect from an unforgettable stay: crystal-clear waters, private decks, and the kind of peaceful seclusion that lets you completely unwind. And the best part? They won’t break the bank.
Ready to experience the ultimate in romance and relaxation? We’ve found 11 overwater bungalows that are surprisingly affordable, so you can enjoy the incredible beauty of staying over the water without stretching your budget too far.
Ready to plan your dream getaway? Here are the best options for a luxurious, budget-friendly overwater bungalow experience.
Panglao Island, Philippines
Panglao Island stays one of the easiest places for couples to experience overwater living without steep prices. The water stays calm, the beaches remain clear, and the pace stays slow year-round. Overwater villas at Panglao Island Overwater Villas sit above shallow blue water, giving couples gentle mornings and quiet deck time without the cost seen in larger resort islands. You can walk to beaches, explore local spots, or spend long hours on the deck watching the water shift.
Sunrise on the deck brings the calmest light of the day.
Sepang, Malaysia
Just off the coast of Malaysia, Sepang’s calm shoreline makes it a steady spot for affordable overwater stays. The palm-shaped boardwalk at AVANI Sepang Goldcoast Resort stretches across the water, offering wide views without high costs. Couples can bike along the boardwalk, sit outside in the afternoon, or watch the sky shift from their deck. Warm weather keeps outdoor time easy through winter.
Sunset along the main boardwalk brings soft light and open views.
Baa Atoll, Maldives
On Baa Atoll, couples find a calmer and far more accessible slice of the Maldives. Overwater villas at Reethi Beach Resort sit above clear lagoons, keeping mornings slow and the scenery steady. Couples can snorkel right from their steps, walk the beach, or rest on the deck without dealing with the crowds of larger islands. The atoll stays warm and peaceful, making the Maldives reachable for more travelers.
Early morning snorkeling offers the gentlest water.
Huahine, French Polynesia
Huahine is one of French Polynesia’s most relaxed islands, with quiet shores and a slower rhythm than Bora Bora or Moorea. Overwater bungalows at Royal Huahine sit above clear blue water, offering long, calm days without premium pricing. Couples can explore the small island, take a short boat ride into town, or spend the day on their deck. Huahine’s soft pace makes unwinding easy.
Late afternoon light brings calm skies over the lagoon.
Isla Colón, Panama
Isla Colón, part of Bocas del Toro, offers warm Caribbean water and an off-grid atmosphere perfect for couples seeking something simple and budget-friendly. Punta Caracol Acqua Lodge sits directly over the water, offering wooden bungalows shaped around quiet routines. Couples can paddle from the deck, watch fish below, or rest in the shade as the tide moves gently beneath them.
Use the free kayaks for an easy, peaceful outing.
St. George’s Caye, Belize
St. George’s Caye gives couples a small, adults-only island with a soft pace and steady water views. St. George’s Caye Resort features overwater cabanas above shallow, clear water, creating peaceful mornings and easy afternoons. The island is compact, helping couples enjoy slow movement and long conversations. Shared meals and quiet paths make planning simple.
Morning breeze on the deck sets a calm start to the day.
Vanua Levu, Fiji
On Vanua Levu, the quieter side of Fiji, couples find calm lagoons and steady warm weather. Koro Sun Resort offers floating bures that sit directly on the lagoon, swaying slightly with gentle movement. Couples can step into the water for a swim or rest on the deck as the island’s slow rhythm shapes the day. Vanua Levu stays peaceful, helping couples stay present.
Late afternoon swims bring clear water and soft light.
Thulhagiri Island, Maldives
Thulhagiri Island provides a classic Maldives experience at a lower cost than many nearby islands. Overwater rooms at Thulhagiri Island Resort sit above shallow blue water, offering steady light and quiet movement throughout the day. Couples can circle the island on foot, enjoy long deck time, or swim from their steps. The island’s simple, quiet layout supports slow pacing.
Bring snorkeling gear to explore the lagoon from your villa.
Langkawi, Malaysia
Langkawi combines rainforest scenery with calm bays, giving couples another approachable place for overwater stays. At Berjaya Langkawi Resort, the overwater villas sit at the edge of the rainforest, offering greenery and gentle water views. Couples can take nature paths, rest on their deck, or enjoy warm weather year-round. Langkawi’s soft pace makes settling in easy.
Morning walks through the rainforest paths start the day gently.
Berjaya Langkawi Resort, Malaysia
Berjaya Langkawi Resort combines rainforest scenery with overwater villas that look out onto calm bays. The blend of trees and water creates a balanced, peaceful atmosphere. Couples can take the nature paths, rest on their deck, or enjoy clear views from their villa throughout the day. Winter stays warm, making outdoor time comfortable. The resort’s layout keeps everything simple, helping couples enjoy slow hours without pressure to plan.
Take a morning walk through the rainforest paths before settling into your deck.
Cayo Espanto’s Casa Ventanas, Belize
Casa Ventanas is a single overwater villa that offers privacy, open water views, and a calm setting for couples who want a quiet escape. The villa sits on its own pier, which keeps the day free from noise or crowds. You can spend hours on the deck, watch fish beneath the bungalow, or relax in the shaded seating areas. Meals are delivered directly, so you never break the steady rhythm of the day. It’s a clear, simple experience well below typical luxury island pricing.
Keep the deck doors open in the morning for soft light and gentle breeze.
Where Romance Meets the Water
Affordable overwater bungalows may seem rare, but these islands prove that you don’t need a luxury price tag to enjoy views right above the water. Each destination offers its own charm, whether you prefer calm lagoons, vibrant marine life, or quiet stretches of sand where you can slow down and enjoy the moment together.
As you plan your next romantic getaway, remember that the setting matters just as much as the stay. These islands give you the privacy, beauty, and calm atmosphere many couples look for, all without stretching your budget too far. From sunrise breakfasts on your deck to peaceful evenings listening to the waves, these overwater stays create memories that last long after the trip ends.
If you’re dreaming about a getaway that feels special, simple, and within reach, these eleven islands are a great place to start. Your perfect overwater escape is closer than you think.
Planning Your Romantic Weekend in Carmel-by-the-Sea
Right between Southern and Northern California, Carmel-by-the-Sea is a picturesque beach destination for the perfect romantic getaway. This town may be known for its shopping, nearby 17-mile drive, and famous former civil servant, the Honorable Mayor Clint Eastwood, but it has no shortage of intimate experiences to enjoy. From romantic beaches to charming hotels and lavish art galleries—there’s something for everyone. Carmel-by-the-Sea is an ideal destination for a romantic weekend getaway. Whether you take a scenic road trip up the PCH or fly in, visiting Carmel during the summer months is a great place to spend a quick weekend getaway together.
Learn more here: Planning Your Romantic Weekend in Carmel-by-the-Sea
