5 BEST Fiji Overwater Bungalows 2024: An Expert’s Guide On Fiji Resorts

Are you trying to find the best Fiji overwater bungalows?

Fiji is an exotic archipelago in the South Pacific comprised of over 300 islands. If you choose to holiday in Fiji, you’ll explore some of the world’s most beautiful coral reefs, beaches, lagoons, and jungles. 

In addition to the natural beauty of the island, people return again and again to Fiji for exciting adventures like snorkeling, scuba diving, waterfall treks, and unique cultural experiences. 

Plus, the chance to spend a few nights at an idyllic overwater bungalow.

We have personally had the opportunity to spend a few months on the South Pacific Islands, and our top experience (by far) is booking an overwater bungalow.

The feeling of waking up to the sound of crashing waves, being pampered with luxury amenities, and snorkeling right off your private terrace is unmatched.

So, in this post, we’ll share with you the best places in Fiji with overwater bungalows, which villas are best to book at each resort, as well as what makes the luxury accommodation worth your money. 

Best Overwater Bungalows In Fiji

Fiji has a surprising amount of overwater bungalows across its islands, whether you are staying close to Nadi on Viti Levu, Vanua Levu, or on smaller island chains in the region.

But compared to other tropical islands around the world, the overwater bungalows in Fiji look slightly different. 

Most of the tourism industry builds their overwater bungalows with inspiration from the traditional Fijian bures – which is the Fijian name for a wood and straw hut. 

This local design transported to an overwater stilt foundation, making the bures significantly more spacious than places like the Maldives or French Polynesian. 

Discover Fiji’s top overwater bungalow resorts for an unforgettable stay. 

1. Likuliku Lagoon Resort

Likuliku Lagoon Resort offers arguably the most exclusive and luxurious experience of all the overwater bungalows in Fiji.

“Likuliku” literally means “calm waters,” and that’s precisely what you’ll find here. The adults-only resort is an oasis of relaxation.

The resort is on a more secluded island called Malolo, but it’s not hard to get to the island from Nadi International Airport. It’s just 16 miles nautical miles off the coast, so guests typically take a speedboat, but you can also book a private catamaran or seaplane to get to Malolo Island once you arrive in Fiji.

Each traditional Fijian style bure is perched directly over a protected marine sanctuary. So, after relaxing on the private balcony, you can enjoy some of the best snorkeling in Polynesia right below your room.

As for the food at Likuliku Lagoon resort, there is a beautiful on-site traditional Fijian Restaurant with an open-air terrace and two private beachside dining decks (available by reservation only, so call ahead). 

Note: There are only 10 overwater bungalows, and they book up FAR in advance (about 6-12 months), so jump on it once you confirm your travel dates.

Best Overwater Bungalow to Book: Overwater Bure

The Overwater Bures are the only rooms that stretch out over the teal lagoon at Likuliku Resort, and they are also the most luxurious option. 

These overwater bungalows are over 600 square feet (60m²) and include a private deck, sun loungers, plus a separate ‘bathing pavilion’ with a massive soaking tub and a lagoon view.

Another thing people love about these overwater bungalows is the looking glass in the living room, which peers through the floor at the coral reef so that you can watch tropical fish swimming below the bungalow right from your room. 

And if that’s not enough, the resort spoils guests who book their Overwater Bure by bringing daily appetizers, desserts, and occasionally a sunset drink (free of charge).

2. Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay

If you book one of the 22 beautiful overwater bungalows at Fiji Marriott Momi Bay, you’re sure to have a once-in-a-lifetime experience. 

The massive complex has three swimming pools, two tennis courts, a full-service spa, a private beach, and free activities like kayaking, windsurfing, and snorkeling tours.

It also has SIX restaurants and bars on-site, so you won’t get tired of the same food each night. You can enjoy seafood BBQ, Italian cuisine, and Asian dishes or try something new, like Cawaki (edible sea urchin), at their traditional Fijian restaurant.

Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay is known for being one of the top resorts with overwater bungalows in Fiji, and it’s especially great for families. The resort has a kid’s club, a special kid’s pool, and a playground.

Additionally, this Marriott location is one of the few resorts with overwater bungalows on Fiji’s main island, so you won’t have to worry about seaplanes or private boat charters to get here. This convenience saves precious time you could spend snorkeling or relaxing on your private terrace.

➡️ Book transportation from the airport to Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay HERE! 

The only downside to these Fiji overwater bungalows is that the lagoon isn’t as clear and vibrant as other options in Fiji. You can still swim in the ocean outside your room, but you won’t see much marine life since there’s no coral reef. 

Recommended Room: Overwater Lagoon Bure

The Over-Water Lagoon Bure is the only overwater bungalow at Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay. If it happens to be available on your travel dates, you should snag it.

This room is super spacious, with high-vaulted ceilings, a chaise couch, and its own private terrace with sun loungers and steps leading down to the lagoon. It’s also entirely soundproof to guarantee privacy and quality sleep each night. 

3. COMO Laucala Island

Como Laucala Island is a resort on its own private island tucked away deep in the South Pacific, about 150 miles (250km) from Fiji’s main island of Viti Levu. 

The only way you can get here is through the resort seaplane, making these Fiji overwater bungalows as private and exclusive as it gets. 

The resort has 25 villas designed to feel like private homes, each prioritizing privacy and offering a slightly different Fijian experience. 

Although each resort villa is incredible, only one is suspended over the water. 

This overwater bungalow is considered one of the best in Fiji. It’s massive at 10,000 square feet (nearly 1000m²), and the room comes with a fully stocked mini-bar, private pool, and three restaurants with locally sourced food.

It’s everything you could ask for on a honeymoon or an upscale romantic getaway. 

Along with the incredible rooms, you’ll also have a great time exploring the rest of the resort. There’s even an 18-hole golf course for those who want to practice their game.

Recommended Room: Wai Residence

The Wai Residence is the only overwater bungalow at Como Laucala Island. This two-bedroom, split-level overwater villa stretches out over the water and has direct access to the turquoise Melanesian lagoon. 

This accommodation is also fit with a private pool carved out of the natural rock, a terrace with sun loungers, and a personal butler to wait on you. They can even arrange private picnics & dining experiences on the beach.

4. Koro Sun Resort

Koro Sun Resort is located on Vanua Levu, the second-largest island in Fiji. 

It offers a secluded and less-visited escape away from the more touristy areas of Fiji, making it an ideal destination for those who want to get off the beaten path and experience something truly unique. 

Plus, it’s easy to get to with direct flights between Nadi and Labasa daily. 

The resort has 15 overwater bures (overwater bungalows) that are much cheaper than other overwater bungalow resorts in Fiji.  

At Koro Sun Resort, guests love to take advantage of complimentary bicycles to explore the rainforest, free kayaks to get out on the lagoon, or use their savings to book a banana leaf body wrap at their private spa.

The resort also offers other activities like a golf course, tennis courts, cooking classes, and snorkeling trips. 

Overall, Koro Sun Resort is perfect for couples looking for a romantic getaway, nature lovers seeking out stunning scenery and rare wildlife encounters, or luxury travelers wanting a little extra adventure.

Recommended Room: Edgewater Floating Bure

There are seven exclusive “Edgewater Floating Bures” at Koro Sun Resort. These are the best rooms at the resort but are surprisingly affordable for an overwater bungalow in Fiji.

The room has a private plunge pool, spa treatments, a private beach with sunbeds, and a ladder for easy access to the lagoon. There’s also a tandem kayak connected to the Edgewater Floating Bure, so you can escape to the lagoon anytime you want.

5. Musket Cove Island Resort & Marina

Musket Cove Island Resort & Marina is located on the beautiful island of Malolo Lailai in Fiji. 

To get to the island, you’ll have to take a private catamaran (provided by the resort), but once you’re there, it’s easy to unwind and relax in this romantic paradise.

The private island resort has 55 traditional bures situated on small islets around the resort. Although they aren’t technically ‘overwater,’ the back patio has direct access to the lagoon, so it feels just like an overwater bungalow, with a slightly lower price tag.

You’ll also find more amenities here than nearly every other resort in Fiji. 

The slice of paradise sits on 400 acres of tropical gardens and has private beach access, pools with a swim-up bar, an onsite convenience store, and private dining pavilions.

Every room at the resort also comes with full board (meaning breakfast, lunch, and dinner). You can redeem your meals at any of the three Musket Cove restaurants – Dick’s Place Bar & Bistro, Trader Cafe, and the Island Bar.

Additionally, you’ll be privy to several activities right at your doorstep, from kayak rentals to snorkeling tours and a unique sailing adventure island hopping on your own private catamaran.

Recommended Room: Lagoon Bure

The Lagoon Bure is the best room to book at Musket Cove Island Resort. Although the resort is open to children, the bures with direct lagoon access are reserved for adults only. 

This policy makes them great for couples who want a more intimate and quiet tropical getaway.

The Lagoon Bures feature a large bedroom, a separate living space, and an outdoor lanai with a dining table and two comfortable adirondack chairs.

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BEST Things To Do In Fiji

Of course, you shouldn’t spend all your time lounging at your overwater bungalow in Fiji, no matter how tempting it may be. 

There are so many incredible things to do and places to see across Fiji’s main islands.

The most popular activities are on the water, and you can book these experiences with your overwater bungalow resort. Snorkeling, Kayaking, and Stand-Up Paddleboards (SUP) are usually free of charge for guests, so you won’t have to spend extra money to explore the surrounding lagoons.

But when you fly into Nadi International Airport, consider spending a day taking a couple of tours around Fiji’s largest island. You can learn about ancient Fijian culture, go island hopping, take ATVs around the island, or soak in the healing Mud Pools in the Sabeto Valley. 

Whether your final destination in Fiji is on Vita Levu (main island), the Mamanuca Islands, Vanua Levu, or a private resort island, here are some of the best tours to check out and things to do in Fiji.

• Garden of the Sleeping Giant & Mud Pools – Half-day tour that visits the Garden of the Sleeping Giant botanical garden, Namaka fruit market, and finishes with a mud-bath at the famous Sabeto Hot Springs. 

• Nadi City Cultural Tour – Half-day city tour that visits the best parts of Nadi, including Sri Siva Subramaniya Temple, Sabeto Hot Springs, and local markets. Along the way, you’ll learn all about the area with an experienced tour guide. 

• ATV Quad-Bike Adventure – Three-hour ATV tour into the lush mountains and on the beaches of Fiji, allowing you to see remote destinations not possible with public transportation.

• Fiji Day Cruise to The Mamanuca Islands – All-day tour island hopping around Mamanuca. You will visit Sand Island, Monu Island, and Modiriki Island. You will have free time for swimming and snorkeling at each stop. Transportation and a traditional Fijian BBA lunch are included. 

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Visiting Fiji: FAQs

Fiji is one of the most remote countries to visit in the world, so if you’re flying thousands of miles and booking an overwater bungalow in Fiji, we want to make sure we’re answering all your questions. 

Here are a few of the most common questions people ask about visiting Fiji’s overwater bungalows. 

Are overwater villas safe?

Yes, overwater villas are safe. They are typically built with a sturdy foundation to ensure the safety of guests and still provide beautiful views of the islands and lagoons.

How much are the overwater bungalows in Fiji?

Overwater bungalows in Fiji vary in price, depending on the resort you stay at, but the average price during high season is about $500 per night. However, the most luxurious villas can cost over $1,000 per night.

Is staying in an overwater bungalow worth it?

Yes! Staying in an overwater bungalow in Fiji is definitely worth the splurge. Whether you’re a luxury traveler or a couple on a honeymoon, overwater bungalows are a once-in-a-lifetime experience that gives you access to snorkeling, sunbathing, and most of all, stunning views right outside your bedroom.

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The Wrap-Up: Fiji Overwater Bungalows

Staying in an overwater bungalow is the ultimate experience in French Polynesia. 

If it still feels a little expensive, you’ll be glad to know that a few of these 5-star resorts in Fiji, like Koro Sun Resort & Fiji Marriott Momi Bay, have more affordable rooms just steps from the beach or with jungle views.

But if you have saved up for a vacation like this, we highly recommend booking the Overwater Bure at Likuliku Lagoon Resort. It’s unreal.

If you’re considering traveling to Fiji, you might also want to consider adding other South Pacific Islands to your itinerary. There are lots of overwater bungalows in Moorea and nearly all-inclusive resorts in Bora Bora, not far from the islands in Fiji. 

After staying in an overwater bungalow ourselves, we haven’t stopped talking about it and are already planning our next trip back to the South Pacific so we can spend a few more nights in luxury.