The Top 6 All Inclusive Overwater Bungalows in Belize

February 20, 2025
by belizehubstaff +

If the idea of snoozing in an overwater bungalow sounds like the most romantic tropical vacation on earth, you can thank a bunch of U.S. ex-pats living on the tiny Tahitian island of Ra’iātea for coming up with this concept, launched in the 1950s to lure travelers away from traditional accommodations.

Their first effort was a failure but their second coincided with an explosion in Tahitian tourism. The group’s first thatched-roof, overwater bungalow was featured in “Life” magazine in 1960, launching an accommodation trend that found its way to Belize.

If you’re curious about what it would feel like to stay at one of these lodgings, these 6 Belize resorts represent diverse options, one of which is sure to appeal to you.

Thatch Caye Resort

Called “the closest thing to Tahitian-style architecture in the Western Hemisphere,” Thatch Caye Resort is pricey but you’ll have a choice of 5 overwater lodgings, one of which is large enough to suit a small family. Thatch Caye’s guest capacity is just 24 people at any given time so staff can properly prioritize every guest’s wishes. Perks include gourmet dining, exceptional service delivered by one of the most discreet staff in Belize, and because this property isn’t as pricey as competitors, it’s not unusual for groups to rent the entire island. A virtual visit to the Thatch Caye resort is all it takes to imagine yourself vacationing at one of the resort’s 5 authentic bungalows.

St. George’s Caye Resort

Add this romantic resort to your shortlist for myriad reasons. Choose from 6 overwater bungalows that offer all-inclusive extras like fabulous cuisine, amenities galore and since nobody under the age of 15 can stay at this lush resort, no screaming babies will be around to disrupt your perfectly tranquil tropical stay. A favorite of romantics and guests who live to scuba dive, snorkel, and engage in all manner of aquatic activities, this tiny piece of heaven knows how to keep small numbers of guests happy: In addition to those gourmet meals, you enjoy a rum punch daily, so if making your final decision is based on small touches of welcome, this could be your destination.

Coco Plum Island Resort

Management calls this exotic-looking hideaway an overwater villa because it is so expansive and roomy. The 3-bedroom; 3-bath lodging is built to accommodate up to 6 people, but if you just want a haven that manages to be both massive and intimate, this villa fits that description perfectly. A veranda – situated on the Caribbean Sea side of the dwelling – plus a sunbathing deck both offer privacy that gives you an opportunity to return home without a single tan line. This overwater haven comes with gourmet meals, transport to and from the island and so many amenities, you won’t want to leave.

Tobacco Caye Paradise Resort

Choose from 6 private over-the-water dwellings that are an homage to sustainability. This island is an off-the-grid property, which means rainwater and solar power “are in charge” and Mother Nature’s breezes provide the air conditioning. Belizean cuisine plus a social hall are favorites of folks who love the idea of gathering for meals and drinks at the water’s edge with this small resort’s handful of other guests. Yes, there’s Wi-fi available, but Tobacco Caye visitors taking a break from the world frequently decide this is as good a place as any to disconnect during their relaxing holidays.

Glover’s Atoll Resort and Island Lodge

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For travelers more excited by “back-to-nature” experiences than posh accommodations, Glover’s Atoll is your dream come true. Eight overwater cabins are available for guests and you’ll find pricing to be downright affordable because this property is more like a campground than a fancy resort. Every type of aquatic sport awaits guests who find swimming, snorkeling, diving, and kayaking to be just what the doctor ordered for stressed-out visitors. Additionally, Glover’s Atoll is a World Heritage Site and Marine Reserve, so for tourists who prioritize sustainability over luxury, this bare-bones resort may be the most satisfying choice on this list.

Cayo Espanto

There’s only one overwater bungalow at this resort so if you can’t get a reservation you might have to settle for one of the resort’s 7 suites. The secret to getting the bungalow is booking early, of course. Located just off Belize’s hottest destination for partiers, Ambergris Caye, Cayo Espanto’s overwater lodging doesn’t come cheap, but if your idea of paradise is sojourning in unabashed luxury where a private butler is assigned to you throughout your stay, only Casa Ventanas, the 1,100-square foot haven with private dock will do. Visit the Cayo Espanto website for a glimpse of this posh retreat.