Rated

4 Best Overwater Villas Right Now

Sarah Gallo

May 14, 2026

2 minutes

Relaxing Scuba Island

If you have ever spent hours looking at pictures of overwater villas at 1am you know how easy it is to think that every resort with a boardwalk and turquoise lagoon  is perfect.

When you actually visit you realize that some resorts are just pretty while others are amazing and will stay with you for months. Here are four resorts that fall into the category.

Remember: a villa can look outstanding, but that’s not what makes your stay memorable.

What’s important is the color and clarity of the water under your deck, whether you feel like you have your own space or are sharing your balcony with your neighbors, and if the resort offers enough amenities to make you never want to leave.

One&Only Reethi Rah, Maldives

Reethi Rah is on a private island in North Malé Atoll, and you feel the immensity of that as you arrive. The villas are not crowded, which is rare in the Maldives. Early mornings are not to be missed. The whole island feels like it’s waking up, and the lagoon is so calm that you can snorkel before breakfast. This is the type of quiet that makes you slow down and soak it all in.

Four Seasons Bora Bora

Most Bora Bora resorts look incredible online. Four Seasons is one of the few that looks even better in person. Mount Otemanu is behind the bungalows and the water changes colors in a way that seems unreal. If you can get a villa that faces the sunset, take it because the witnessing the light on the lagoon will be seared into your memory forever.

Velaa Private Island, Maldives

Velaa is modern, but not cold. The overwater pool villas are clean and simple. You can explore the reef in a private submarine (wow!). The dining program includes a Nobu concept. Evenings are long and relaxed with dinner, an extensive wine list, warm air and no need to check the clock.

North Island, Seychelles

While not an overwater villa, we want to include North Island for its eleven beachfront villas and complete tranquility. It’s inside a protected nature reserve, so the marine life feels untouched. There are even sea turtles nesting on the beaches! Nothing here feels overly polished in the best way.