Dreaming of a romantic or luxurious stay in overwater bungalows similar to those iconic Maldivian resorts? Here’s a guide to alternative countries offering equally breathtaking overwater accommodations, along with the best seasons to visit.

1. French Polynesia

Home to the legendary overwater bungalow, islands like Bora Bora and Moorea offer luxury resorts perched over turquoise lagoons, promising spectacular views and world-class amenities.

• Best Season: May to October

2. Fiji

With stunning island resorts like Likuliku Lagoon Resort and Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay, Fiji provides intimate overwater villas blending traditional style with modern comfort, surrounded by pristine coral reefs.

• Best Season: May to October

3. Seychelles

At resorts such as Constance Ephelia and Hilton Seychelles Northolme Resort & Spa, experience luxury villas with unparalleled views of lush islands, crystal-clear waters, and granite boulders.

• Best Season: April, May, October, and November

4. Malaysia

In Malaysia, resorts like AVANI Sepang Goldcoast and Pangkor Laut Resort feature beautiful overwater villas, offering serene ocean views, luxurious interiors, and unique cultural experiences.

• Best Season: December to April (dry season)

5. Belize

Belize’s tranquil Caribbean waters house overwater resorts like Thatch Caye Resort and Cayo Espanto, where you can enjoy privacy, exceptional snorkeling, and tropical island luxury.

• Best Season: January to May

6. Jamaica

Sandals Royal Caribbean in Jamaica provides romantic, Caribbean-inspired overwater villas with glass floors, personal butlers, and panoramic ocean views, ideal for couples.

• Best Season: November to mid-December and mid-January to April

7. Mexico

Luxury resorts such as Rosewood Mayakoba and El Dorado Maroma in Mexico offer elegant overwater accommodations along the Riviera Maya, combining indulgence with vibrant cultural experiences.

• Best Season: December to April

8. Panama

The Caribbean side of Panama boasts stunning eco-resorts like Azul Paradise and Punta Caracol, offering charming overwater bungalows amid lush mangroves and vibrant marine life.

• Best Season: January to April

9. Indonesia

From the Gili Islands to Raja Ampat, Indonesia's overwater resorts such as Misool Eco Resort and Telunas Private Island provide spectacular marine biodiversity, natural beauty, and immersive cultural experiences.

• Best Season: April to October (dry season)

10. Philippines

Explore the serene El Nido resorts like Miniloc Island and Apulit Island Resort, offering rustic-chic overwater cottages surrounded by stunning limestone cliffs, clear waters, and diverse marine life.

• Best Season: December to May

Whether you're seeking romantic seclusion, family-friendly activities, or eco-conscious luxury, these captivating destinations offer incredible alternatives to the Maldives, each promising unforgettable stays in mesmerizing overwater accommodations.