Sandals Overwater Bungalows
Imagine waking up over crystalline waters, with sea breezes whispering through sliding glass doors. Picture sinking into a soaking tub for two, stepping onto your deck, and diving straight into warm Caribbean waves. That’s what Sandals overwater bungalows bring – an experience many dream of, now available just a few hours from the U.S.
I’ve stayed in each of Sandals’ overwater bungalows in the Caribbean, and they deliver the same romance and modern luxury you’d expect from destinations like Bora Bora or the Maldives, but at a much lower cost and far easier to reach. These bungalows offer glass floors for marine views, private decks with infinity pools, personal butler service, and all-inclusive access to resort dining, drinks, and activities. It’s the kind of vacation you plan once and never forget.
So let’s get into the details of what you will get once you decide to book your vacation at one of these resorts that have overwater bungalows!
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Key Takeaways
- Available only at four Sandals resorts: Royal Caribbean and South Coast in Jamaica, Grande St. Lucian in Saint Lucia, and the newest property on Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
- Every overwater suite comes with a butler service, private airport transfers, in-suite premium liquor, glass floor panels, an over-the-water hammock, and a tub for two
- Some locations have private infinity pools and larger two-story designs
- Prices are included for all four resorts (just so you could have an idea of how much it would cost you)
Sandals Royal Caribbean, Jamaica
Known as the Caribbean’s first overwater bungalow resort, Sandals Royal Caribbean stole the spotlight when it introduced this experience in 2016. Located just a few minutes via water taxi from the main resort, the bungalows and villas form a heart-shaped dock over shallow turquoise waters.
There are 12 overwater bungalows and 5 overwater villas. The villas are roughly double the size of the bungalows and include a private infinity pool with an outdoor shower. Each suite has a glass‑floor panel, an over‑water hammock, and plush king-size bedding.
Butler service here is impeccable – they handle everything, from unpacking luggage and handling reservations to serving meals and cocktails on your deck. Breakfast with bubbles in the hammock. Spa treatments arranged with zero effort. This location offers full resort access, including dining, pools, and beach amenities at Royal Caribbean and nearby Montego Bay.
Pricing typically starts in the range of $1,600 to $1,900 per person per night during low to shoulder seasons. High‑season (December through April) prices can rise beyond $2,200 per person for villa bookings. Special promotions (like early-booking or honeymoon packages) may bring the rate into the $1,400 range, though keep in mind, there is limited availability for this.
Sandals South Coast, Jamaica
If you’re chasing overwater romance on a budget, South Coast is your pick. It’s one of the most affordable Sandals overwater bungalows in Jamaica. These are separate from the sanctuary feel of the main grounds. But you’re only a short walk from the main dining and entertainment.
There are 12 overwater bungalows, each with glass floors, an overwater hammock, a tub, and full butler service. This setting is quieter and more intimate than Montego Bay, and yet the experience remains utterly indulgent: private patio, sunset views, all meals and drinks included, plus spa treatments if you choose. If you want magnificent views with a peaceful, low-key vibe (and at a lower nightly rate), South Coast Sandals overwater bungalows is a smart pick.
Pricing for these overwater units usually comes in around $1,100 to $1,300 per person per night during summer months. In winter or during holiday weeks, prices can rise toward $1,500. Since they are priced lower than overwater villas at other Sandals resorts, they’re often hailed as the most affordable overwater experience in the Sandals resort collection.
Sandals Grande St. Lucian, Saint Lucia
St. Lucia Sandals’ overwater bungalows are all about the drama. Situated on a private peninsula surrounded by towering mountains and sparkling shoreline, Grande St. Lucian offers nine overwater bungalows, built out over shallow, clear water near the shoreline.
Interior layouts are open and calm. On your patio, you’ll find a glass‑floor viewing panel, an overwater hammock, a tub, and loungers for drinks. These bungalows provide access to lush resort features including multiple pools, an international menu of dining, scuba diving, water sports, and complimentary golf and transition to nearby Sandals resorts. It’s ideal for couples who want the drama of Saint Lucia’s landscape paired with overwater luxury.
Pricing starts nearer $1,900 per person per night during low seasons, rising to around $2,300 in peak times. Promotions or bundled spa credits can reduce the per-night cost, but this remains a premium experience amid Saint Lucia’s dramatic terrain.
Sandals Saint Vincent & The Grenadines
The newest Sandals overwater bungalows, ones that feel like paradise, were redesigned. Located on Buccament Bay, tucked beneath rainforest slopes, the two-story overwater villas provide unmatched space – over 1,200 square feet each, each unit shared between two villas, but with privacy and elegant design.
The upper level offers a daybed and panoramic views. Below, glass floors, indoor-outdoor living, a fully stocked bar, a spa-style bathroom, and a private patio with a patio dining set and stairs into the ocean. Butler service is impeccable, transfers are private, and every luxury of Sandals is included. These villas feel closer to a Maldives-level escape than anything else in the Caribbean.
Pricing typically begins around $1,600 per person per night in low- and shoulder seasons, rising up to $1,900 or more during high winter months. Since each villa spans over 1,200 square feet and includes rooftop lounging, it offers standout value relative to luxury-size.
Is an Overwater Bungalow Worth It?
In my opinion, absolutely. They may not be a budget travel option, but they’re not unreachable either. When you consider what they offer – a cabin over turquoise water, full butler service, privacy, direct access to sea, in-room spa tub, premium drinks, and limitless dining – you’re not just paying for a room, you’re investing in an experience.
For about half the price of Maldives resorts (and only a few hours’ flight from most U.S. cities), Sandals overwater bungalows in the Caribbean deliver a few of the rarest perks:
- Closer timelines and easier travel logistics
- All-inclusive value – no surprise fees later
- Tropical marine life is visible day or night
- Romantic design built for two
That makes them worth it for honeymoons, anniversaries, or anyone who wants a worry-free escape with maximum intimacy and comfort.
Insider Tips to Book Smart
In my opinion, absolutely. They may not be a budget travel option, but they’re not unreachable either. When you consider what they offer – a cabin over turquoise water, full butler service, privacy, direct access to sea, in-room spa tub, premium drinks, and limitless dining – you’re not just paying for a room, you’re investing in an experience.
For about half the price of Maldives resorts (and only a few hours’ flight from most U.S. cities), Sandals overwater bungalows in the Caribbean deliver a few of the rarest perks:
- Closer timelines and easier travel logistics
- All-inclusive value – no surprise fees later
- Tropical marine life is visible day or night
- Romantic design built for two
That makes them worth it for honeymoons, anniversaries, or anyone who wants a worry-free escape with maximum intimacy and comfort.
Travel & Pack Like a Pro
Heading to a Sandals overwater bungalow in the Caribbean is a recipe for both beach luxury and marine access. If this is your first time visiting a Sandals resort, I can only imagine you need some help with packing. My extensive experience with these resorts comes in handy, so allow me – here’s how to pack smart:
- Reef-Safe Sunscreen Is a Must – You will probably enjoy the sea and the pool as well as the sunlit decks. While you do that, make sure your sunscreen is reef-safe, broad-spectrum SPF 50, and water-resistant. Buy full-size and small travel extras for the bungalows – they’re not cheap onsite.
- Water Shoes Are Worth It – The bottom below your deck may be sandy or have loose coral. Water shoes protect feet during in-water lounging and exploring the reefs. Plus, they’re ideal for boat boardings and beach cabanas.
- Light Layers for Breeze and Shade – Evenings on the deck can feel breezy. Bring light cotton shirts, sarongs, or wrap scarves to ward off wind or sand. The layered clothes are also great if you want to dine aboard the private dock or rooftop bars.
- Bring Extra Batteries/Power Bank – Your villa’s glass-floor panels and private pool will make you want to photograph everything, but you may need some extra power. Power banks can recharge phones and cameras into the night. This way, your dinner shots or balcony moments aren’t ruined by a low battery.
- Pack a Small First-Aid Kit – Include bandages, antiseptic wipes, sea-sickness medicine (just in case), and pain reliever. Remote accommodations may not have convenience stores, and pain meds or supplies can be pricey.
- Luxury Extras to Bring – If you plan private candlelit romantic dinners, you can bring small citronella candles or battery-powered flameless lights to decorate your deck. Some villas provide trays or tables.
I can honestly say that you will be amazed by everything these resorts have to offer. And when you pack your bags right, the only thing that is left for you to do is relax and enjoy your stay!
FAQS
Is transportation to the Overwater Bungalows included?
Yes. Guests staying in Overwater Bungalows receive complimentary private boat transfers between the main resort and their bungalow, ensuring a seamless and luxurious arrival experience.
Is there a minimum stay requirement for Sandals Overwater Bungalows?
Yes. Most Sandals resorts require a minimum of 3 nights for Overwater Bungalows due to their exclusivity and high demand, though many guests choose to stay longer for the full experience.
Is tipping required for overwater villa guests?
Gratuity for standard resort staff (servers, bartenders, general staff) is already included in the all-inclusive rate. For Butler Elite service in resorts with overwater villas, tipping is not mandatory, but widely appreciated for outstanding personalized service. A suggested range is $20-$40 USD per couple per day, and this is something most people decide to give at check-out. What I have noticed is that many guests choose to tip discretely at the end of their stay or before they leave their villa.
Are Sandals overwater bungalows adults-only?
Yes, I am happy to say that all of these Sandals resorts are adults-only and cater exclusively to couples.
Luxury doesn’t have to require 30+ hours of travel or mega-budgets. Now, the vacation of your dreams is only one click (and a few hours) away from you. With Sandals’ all-inclusive packages, overwater luxury is accessible – you only get more time to float, drink, relax, and enjoy the view.