The Best Overwater Bungalows in Jamaica

1. Sandals Royal Caribbean Overwater Bungalows

Welcome to Paradise:

Nestled on the crystal-clear waters of Montego Bay, the Overwater Bungalows at Sandals Royal Caribbean offer an escape to a world of unparalleled serenity and luxury. Opened in 2016, these exquisite hideaways provide the perfect blend of modern luxury and tropical splendor. Designed specifically for romance, each bungalow is a private sanctuary where you can watch fish dart beneath your feet through glass floor panels, or soak up the sun on your private deck that seems to float above the shimmering sea.

This resort is known for its unique blend of British colonial architecture and lush tropical gardens, with a private offshore island that adds to its exclusivity and appeal.

From the moment you arrive, you’ll be enveloped in an atmosphere of exclusivity and relaxation. The journey from nearby Sangster International Airport is a brief, ten-minute drive, whisking you quickly from the plane to paradise. Here, every detail is meticulously crafted to ensure guests experience a stay unlike any other—from the personal butler service to the over-water hammocks, each element is a testament to luxury and comfort.

Whether you’re sipping a cocktail under the stars or snorkeling right from your deck, the Overwater Bungalows at Sandals Royal Caribbean are a truly sublime retreat. Here, the beauty of Jamaica not only surrounds you but also welcomes you beneath its waves, making every moment a treasure and every view a masterpiece of natural beauty.

Sandals Royal Caribbean was the first to introduce overwater bungalows to Jamaica.

Let’s Explore the Sandals Royal Caribbean Overwater Bungalows in Greater Detail:

• Location: The Sandals Royal Caribbean Resort is located in Montego Bay, on the northwest coast of Jamaica.
• Address: Mahoe Bay, Montego Bay, Jamaica.

Getting There

• Nearest Airport: Sangster International Airport (MBJ).
• Distance from Airport: Approximately 10 minutes by car.
• Transportation: The resort offers complimentary airport transfers for guests, making it convenient and stress-free to get from the airport to the bungalows.

Accommodation Details

• Overview: These bungalows are a feat of luxury, built directly over the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea. Each bungalow features glass floor panels ensuring you can enjoy underwater views anytime. They are equipped with king-size beds, large ceiling fans, and spacious patios with swim-up platforms.
• Amenities: Guests can enjoy butler service, 24-hour room service, a private soaking tub, outdoor showers, and over-the-water hammocks. The bungalows also come with smart TVs and Wi-Fi connectivity.
• Privacy: Designed for privacy and tranquility, these bungalows are perfect for couples and honeymooners looking for a romantic retreat.

Resort Amenities and Activities

• Dining: Multiple gourmet dining options are available on-site, offering everything from traditional Jamaican dishes to international cuisine.
• Activities: Guests can enjoy snorkeling, scuba diving, paddle boarding, and sailing. The resort also offers various land activities including tennis and beach volleyball.
• Spa: The Red Lane Spa provides a wide range of treatments incorporating local ingredients for a truly Caribbean spa experience.
• Entertainment: Nightly entertainment includes live music, cultural shows, and beach parties.

Pricing and Reservations

• Booking: It’s advisable to book well in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, as these exclusive bungalows are in high demand.
• Rates: Prices can vary significantly based on the season, length of stay, and package deals. Typically, rates start from about $1,200 per night, inclusive of all meals, drinks, and most activities.

Special Tips for Visitors

• Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit for the best weather is from November to mid-December when the island’s weather is most pleasant and the resort is less crowded.
• Local Tours: Consider exploring local attractions like the Montego Bay Marine Park or taking a day trip to nearby towns.

Final Thoughts

Staying at the Overwater Bungalows in Sandals Royal Caribbean offers a unique opportunity to experience unparalleled luxury with the beauty of Jamaica’s waters just beneath your feet. It’s perfect for a romantic getaway or a special celebration, combining privacy with the all-inclusive comforts of a world-class resort.

2. Sandals South Coast Overwater Bungalows

Welcome to Your Dream Getaway:

Set against the pristine shores of Jamaica’s South Coast, the Overwater Bungalows at Sandals South Coast are your gateway to a luxurious and peaceful retreat. Opened in 2017, and launched as part of a magnificent expansion, these bungalows offer modern elegance mingled with the charm of Caribbean culture. Each structure is delicately placed over the clear blue waters, providing guests with uninterrupted views of the ocean and sky. Ideal for romance, these bungalows feature exquisite architectural details and are a sanctuary of privacy and comfort.

The resort’s design draws heavily on the European influence with Italian, French, and Dutch themed villages, creating a picturesque escape that feels both exclusive and intimate.

Your journey into tranquility begins with a scenic drive from Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay, taking you straight to a secluded beachfront that feels worlds apart. Every aspect of your stay from the moment of arrival is carefully curated to provide an experience of luxury that is both effortless and unforgettable.

From lounging on your private deck to snorkeling in waters just steps away, the Overwater Bungalows at Sandals South Coast are not just a place to stay, but a place to be elevated.

Let’s Explore the Sandals South Coast Overwater Bungalows in Greater Detail:

• Location: Located on the secluded South Coast of Jamaica, enveloped by 500 acres of wilderness preserve.
• Address: Whitehouse P.O., Westmoreland, Jamaica.

Getting There

• Nearest Airport: Sangster International Airport (MBJ), Montego Bay.
• Distance from Airport: Approximately 90 minutes by car.
• Transportation: Complimentary airport transfers are provided, ensuring a smooth and scenic ride to the resort.

Accommodation Details

• Overview: These luxuriously appointed bungalows are meticulously crafted right over the serene waters. They boast glass floor panels, spa-style bathrooms, and private patios equipped with sun loungers and swim-up platforms.
• Amenities: Enjoy elite services including personal butler service, 24-hour gourmet dining, an in-room bar, and individual yoga sessions on the deck. High-speed Wi-Fi and large flat-screen TVs are also included.
• Privacy: Designed with seclusion in mind, these bungalows are perfect for those seeking a peaceful and romantic retreat away from the hustle and bustle.

Resort Amenities and Activities

• Dining: The resort features 9 world-class restaurants offering everything from authentic Jamaican cuisine to international gourmet dishes.
• Activities: Enjoy a variety of water sports, such as kayaking, windsurfing, and scuba diving. Land activities include tennis, squash, and nightly live entertainment.
• Spa: The full-service Red Lane Spa offers a blend of traditional and tropical treatments that promise rejuvenation and relaxation.
• Entertainment: Themed nights, live shows, and beach parties keep the atmosphere vibrant and engaging.

Pricing and Reservations

• Booking: Advanced reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak seasons and holidays, as the exclusive bungalows book up quickly.
• Rates: Pricing varies based on seasonality and length of stay but is inclusive of amenities, making it a superb value for an all-inclusive luxury experience.

Special Tips for Visitors

• Best Time to Visit: Mid-November to early December and March to early April are ideal for enjoying excellent weather and fewer crowds.
• Local Tours: Explore the natural beauty of the South Coast with guided tours to local waterfalls, the Black River, and the surrounding wilderness areas.

Final Thoughts

Staying at the Overwater Bungalows in Sandals South Coast offers a unique blend of privacy, luxury, and natural beauty. This idyllic retreat is perfect for those looking to celebrate love, life, and the beauty of the Caribbean in grand style.

Which Overwater Bungalow in Jamaica Should You Choose?

Choosing the between Sandals Royal Caribbean and Sandals South Coast for their Overwater Bungalows in Jamaica depends largely on your preferences and what you value most in a vacation.

• For a Lively Experience Close to the Airport: Choose Sandals Royal Caribbean if you prefer minimal travel time from the airport, enjoy exploring local culture and nightlife, and appreciate the option of visiting a private island.
• For Seclusion and Unique European Flair: Opt for Sandals South Coast if you value privacy, enjoy being surrounded by nature, and prefer a quieter, more laid-back vacation with fewer crowds and a romantic European vibe.

Ultimately, both locations offer the luxury and high-quality service Sandals Resorts are known for, so your decision may hinge on the type of experience you wish to have and the ambiance that suits your personal taste best.

When Is The Best Time to stay at the Overwater Bungalows?

The best time to a stay at the Overwater Bungalows at Sandals Royal Caribbean in Montego Bay or Sandals South Coast in Whitehouse largely depends on your preferences for weather, crowd levels, and potential travel deals. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:

For the Best Weather

• November to mid-December: This period offers warm and mostly dry weather, making it excellent for beach activities and outdoor adventures.
• Late February to April: Post the peak of the winter crowd, the weather continues to be pleasant with reduced chances of rain, providing great conditions for enjoying all that Jamaica has to offer.

For Avoiding Crowds

• May to early June: Just after the peak season, the weather remains quite nice, and the tourist numbers start to dwindle, offering a more relaxed atmosphere.
• Late October to early November: Before the holiday crowds begin to arrive, the weather starts to improve, and you can enjoy the resort with fewer guests.

For the Best Rates

• May to June: The start of the off-peak season often brings lower accommodation and activity rates.
• September to October: Despite being the peak of the hurricane season, if you’re willing to take a chance (with appropriate travel insurance), this period often features the lowest prices.

Overall Recommendation

If you’re seeking the optimal balance of good weather, manageable crowd sizes, and reasonable rates, late November to early December is an ideal time. The weather is pleasant, the hurricane season has just ended, and the peak holiday crowds have not yet arrived, making it a prime time for enjoying the resort’s amenities and the natural beauty of Jamaica.

Best Overwater Bungalows In Jamaica: FAQs

These Frequently Asked Questions are specific to the Overwater Bungalows at Sandals Resorts in Jamaica, covering both Sandals Royal Caribbean in Montego Bay and Sandals South Coast in Whitehouse:

1. What makes the Overwater Bungalows at Sandals unique?

• Answer: The Overwater Bungalows at Sandals offer a unique experience of luxury and intimacy, featuring glass floor panels for underwater viewing, private infinity pools or soaking tubs, over-the-water hammocks, and personalized butler service. They provide a perfect blend of privacy and spectacular natural beauty, set on the serene waters of Jamaica’s coastline.

2. Are the Overwater Bungalows all-inclusive?

• Answer: Yes, like all Sandals Resorts accommodations, the Overwater Bungalows are all-inclusive. This means that the room rate includes meals, beverages (including premium liquors), water sports, land sports, entertainment, tips, and taxes. Butler service and 24-hour room service are also included in the stay.

3. How do I get to the Overwater Bungalows from the airport?

• Answer: Both Sandals Royal Caribbean and Sandals South Coast offer complimentary airport transfers for guests. Sandals Royal Caribbean is about a 10-minute drive from Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay, while Sandals South Coast is approximately a 90-minute drive from Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay.

4. Can I snorkel directly from the Overwater Bungalows?

• Answer: Yes, guests staying in the Overwater Bungalows can snorkel directly from their private decks. The surrounding waters are clear and calm, providing a safe and enticing environment for snorkeling.

5. What are the best times to visit the Overwater Bungalows at Sandals Resorts in Jamaica?

• Answer: The best times to visit for optimal weather are from mid-November to mid-December and from March to early April. These periods offer pleasant weather conditions while avoiding the busiest tourist seasons.

6. Are children allowed in the Overwater Bungalows?

• Answer: No, Sandals Resorts are adult-only properties, catering exclusively to couples. This policy ensures a romantic and tranquil atmosphere suited for honeymooners and couples seeking a private and serene getaway.

7. What activities are available at the resorts with Overwater Bungalows?

• Answer: Guests at both Sandals Royal Caribbean and Sandals South Coast can enjoy a variety of activities, including water sports like kayaking, windsurfing, and scuba diving, as well as land sports such as tennis and beach volleyball. The resorts also offer unique experiences like candlelit dinners on the beach, spa treatments, and local excursions.

8. How much do the Overwater Bungalows cost per night?

• Answer: Prices for the Overwater Bungalows can vary widely depending on the time of year, length of stay, and specific promotions. Generally, rates start around $1,200 per night, with a lot of perks!

9. What can I expect when staying in an overwater bungalow in Jamaica?

• Answer: Overwater bungalows in Jamaica offer a luxurious and intimate experience with stunning Caribbean Sea views, high-end amenities such as glass floor panels and outdoor showers, and direct water access for swimming and snorkeling. These bungalows come with exclusive services like butler service and are part of all-inclusive resorts, ensuring a hassle-free stay focused on relaxation and privacy.

10. What should I pack for a stay in an Overwater Bungalow?

• Answer: For a comfortable stay, pack light and casual beachwear, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a camera to capture the breathtaking views. Also, include some elegant casual wear for evening dining at the resort’s restaurants.

11. Are the Overwater Bungalows worth the cost?

• Answer: For those seeking a truly luxurious and unique experience, the Overwater Bungalows at Sandals Resorts in Jamaica are well worth the investment. They offer unparalleled privacy, direct access to the ocean, and high-end amenities, making them a popular choice for special occasions like honeymoons or significant anniversaries.

Final Thoughts: Are Overwater Bungalows in Jamaica Worth It?

YES — The overwater bungalows in Jamaica are definitely worth the splurge, even if only for one night. The two options available will provide an unforgettable vacation, as unique experiences often do.

My personal pick? The Overwater Bungalows at Sandals Royal Caribbean, featuring glass floor panels that let you watch the tropical marine life in the crystal-clear Caribbean Sea right beneath your feet.

While typically associated with the luxury of the Maldives, Jamaica’s versions of these iconic accommodations offer a similar exotic appeal but are nestled within the vibrant and culturally rich Caribbean atmosphere. These aren’t the most budget-friendly options out there; however, for those looking to enjoy this type of luxury while still managing expenses, choosing travel dates outside the peak tourist season can make a significant difference in cost.

Ultimately, although Jamaica’s overwater bungalows are limited in number, they are set in some of the most stunning parts of the Caribbean, offering unparalleled privacy and luxury. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to indulge in a lavish getaway, Jamaica’s overwater bungalows promise an experience that is both majestic and memorable.