There’s getting away from it all, and then there’s escaping from reality. When booking a private bungalow, not only are you spared from dealing with strangers during your precious vacation time, but you’re treated to unobstructed views of whatever incredible destination you happen to be in. While plenty of bungalows can charge a hefty rate per night, privacy and paradise are mutually accessible at a wide range of prices. Whether you’re on a tight vacation budget or want to splurge a little, here’s where to book your next bungalow getaway. Do keep in mind that bungalow rates can vary greatly between peak season and other months with lower demand, so always be in touch with the property directly to confirm the best rate.
Breathtaking Overwater Bungalows For Every Budget.
Avani
AVANI Sepang Gold Coast Resort in Selangor, Malaysia (GBP80 per night) – A short ride from the Kuala Lumpur airport, AVANI Sepang Goldcoast is known for packing in nearly 400 private bungalows over the dazzling turquoise waters that lure so many travellers to this part of the world. You’re not getting a sprawling mansion over the ocean, but the price is right for the 52sqm romantic couples’ suites suspended directly over the ocean. Air conditioning, high-speed WiFi and other modern amenities – like 24-hour in-villa room service – don’t make this escape feel too rustic. The property is home to five restaurants serving Asian and Western fare, while river cruises, local tours and water sports are all available for those eager to explore more of the surroundings.
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Breathtaking Overwater Bungalows For Every Budget.
Vedana
Vedana Lagoon Resort and Spa in Hue, Vietnam (GBP65 per night) – Located on Vietnam’s north central coast, Vedana Lagoon offers a slew of affordable waterfront bungalows in various sizes, each offering its own unique sequestered Southeast Asian experience. Enjoy unobstructed lagoon and mountain views from bed, wake up with Vietnamese coffee and spend the day lounging by the calm waters. Cooking classes, a piano lounge and private tours to explore nature, as well as immerse yourself in local culture, are on offer for guests.
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Breathtaking Overwater Bungalows For Every Budget.
Faro
EI Faro del Colibri in Bocas del Toro, Panama (GBP70 per night) – A true gem in an up-and-coming holiday hotspot, EI Faro del Colibri offers all the charm of an overwater bungalow – without the obscene pricing. Sunny yellow cabins are planted directly on the Caribbean Sea, and the snorkelling gear provided allows guests to easily dive into the aquatic surroundings by just hopping off the back porch. Air conditioning, WiFi and cable are included, as is a breakfast of fresh tropical fruits and Panamanian fare each morning.
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Breathtaking Overwater Bungalows For Every Budget.
belize
Saint George’s Caye Resort in Belize City, Belize (GBP98 per night) – Just a few miles from Belize City, this Crusoe-style getaway includes transfers from the airport to an island free of cars and, more importantly, crowds. The resort is adults-only, and air-conditioned overwater cabanas can sleep 2-3 people, though single occupancy will incur an extra charge. Diving, local excursions and a spa are all offered on-site, and communal farm-to-table dining lets you socialise with other guests and Belizeans – should you choose to not get dinner in your room.
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Breathtaking Overwater Bungalows For Every Budget.
vanuatu
Holiday Inn Resort in Port Vila, Vanuatu (GBP140 per night) – Those collecting IHG Rewards points may want to consider a getaway to this unique Holiday Inn property. Perfect for families, this South Pacific resort not only has a kids club to keep little ones entertained, but kids eat free when sharing accomodations with their parents. Though not all-inclusive, the resort’s many restaurants and bars, as well as beachside dining with live entertainment, keep you well-fuelled to enjoy days in the sun. A palm-tree-surrounded gym, golf course, day spa and two large pools – one including a play area for kids – offer plenty of options for daily recreation. Off-site market tours allow guests to load up on fresh fruit and local goods.
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Breathtaking Overwater Bungalows For Every Budget.
Santana
Rancho Santana in Popoyo, Nicaragua (GBP175 per night) – Though they may not be floating on water, the Garden View Casitas at Rancho Santana offer secluded two-bedroom huts just steps from the beach on the Pacific coast of Nicaragua. Amenities include in-home dining, pre-stocked groceries (if you want to cook on your own), surfing or fishing excursions, ground transportation, yoga and massage therapy. Three farm-to-table restaurants on the resort property provide more dining options, while a turtle sanctuary, horse stables, and hiking and biking trails, plus adventure sports like sandboarding, surfing and paddleboarding, offer a host of diversions should you wander out from your casita.
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Breathtaking Overwater Bungalows For Every Budget.
huahine
Royal Huahine in Huahine, French Polynesia (GBP155 per night) – Shall it be a beach, garden or overwater bungalow? Take your pick at Royal Huahine. All west-facing, the private bungalows allow guests to enjoy the spectacular sunsets in privacy, should they opt out of the sunset cruise. The sundecks (with bath tubs!) attached to overwater bungalows ensure you truly never have to leave your thatched-roof suite to enjoy the tropical outdoors, but a pool, boating and other excursions may lure you out of seclusion to enjoy the destination to its fullest.
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Breathtaking Overwater Bungalows For Every Budget.
Melia
Meliá Cayo Coco in Ciego de Avila, Cuba (GBP300 per night) – Supported by stilts over a saltwater lagoon, the grande suites at Meliá Cayo Coco are a uniquely Cuban take on the bungalow experience. Connected to the mainland via a stone causeway, these adults-only suites are complete with sundecks, rocking chairs and umbrellas. The all-inclusive property also provides a full day and evening of scheduled activities, as well as multiple restaurants and nightly entertainment to help you relax during your tropical retreat.
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Breathtaking Overwater Bungalows For Every Budget.
moorea
Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa in Moorea, French Polynesia (GBP270 per night) – Bookable with Hilton Honors Points – or cash, of course – the best discounts at the picturesque Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa are found with non-refundable fares: so if you’re 100% sure you’ll make the trip, a luxury bungalow on the cheap is yours. Various sizes and tiers of bungalows are available, either in gardens with pools or hovering over the turquoise waters with panoramic ocean views. Resort amenities are plentiful, ranging from babysitters for kids to beach sports, water sports and sightseeing tours out of the resort. Breakfast is included in the room rate, meal plans are available, and for those staying more than six nights, a promotion earns you a bonus night and breakfast for free.
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Breathtaking Overwater Bungalows For Every Budget.
El nido
El Nido Resort in Apulit Island, Philippines (GBP305 per night) – El Nido’s gorgeous water cottages are suspended over the sea at this Filipino island paradise. The room rate includes round-trip boat transfers to the island, as well as meals, some water sports and guided tours and activities from the resort. Children are welcome, and activities for younger visitors, like a special scavenger hunt and traditional Filipino games, can be arranged. Billed as an eco-adventure resort, El Nido’s Apulit property encourages exploration: discover caves by boat, go cliff jumping, do some island hopping, enjoy snorkelling and, of course, bask in the white sand beaches and tropical sunshine.
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