From Maldives To Bora Bora: 5 Spectacular Overwater And Stilted Villas To Know Now

Overwater villas have evolved considerably since the first stilted bungalows appeared in Tahiti in the 1960s. Today, the category is wide, ranging from large private residences with pools and multiple bedrooms to more restrained villas designed around uninterrupted views of the lagoon. Here, we have curated a list of five worth knowing, including two Indian properties that offer a similar stilted-villa experience, though they are not technically overwater.

Stella Maris Ocean Villa, Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi

The Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi has two Stella Maris Ocean Villas, reached exclusively by boat. Each sits above the Arabian Sea and has indoor and outdoor living areas, a private infinity pool, a barbecue station and direct access to the water. The villas also have access to the resort’s dining and leisure facilities, including Zuma, whose restaurant is set above the water.

Overwater Royal Otemanu Villa With Pool, The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort

The Overwater Royal Otemanu Villa With Pool at The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort covers nearly 3,000 square feet and has views towards Bora Bora’s lagoon and Mount Otemanu. Its private infinity pool measures 20 by 16 feet, while glass panels and direct water access provide views of the marine life beneath the villa. The resort’s overwater accommodation is among the largest and most elaborate in French Polynesia.

Overwater Villa, Laucala Island, Fiji

Laucala’s Overwater Villa is a 3,000-square-foot, two-bedroom residence with extensive outdoor space and a pool built into the rocky shoreline. The villa is positioned above the lagoon and is connected to the main resort by a wooden pathway, while guests can also arrive by private yacht. Its scale makes it closer to a private residence than a conventional overwater bungalow.

Luxury Villa, Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Andamans

For an Indian alternative, Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Andamans has 147-square-metre Luxury Villas built on stilts. Their semi-circular thatched roofs take inspiration from local architecture, while the interiors include a four-poster bed, walk-in closet, bathtub and private patio with deck chairs and a sunbed. They overlook the resort’s tropical surroundings rather than sitting over the sea, so they should not be described as true overwater villas.

Havelock Water Villa, Symphony Palms Beach Resort & Spa

Symphony Palms’ Havelock Water Villa covers 465 square feet and accommodates up to three guests. It has a king-size bed, balcony, air-conditioning, Wi-Fi and a complimentary breakfast. Despite its name, the resort specifies a garden view rather than an ocean view, making this another Indian stilted-villa-style option rather than a conventional overwater villa.