12 of the Cheapest Overwater Bungalows in Maldives
Maldives, famously known for the beauty of its underwater world, is also home to some of the most luxurious overwater bungalows in the world.
The combination of crystal clear waters, stunning scenery, and unique location is hard to beat.
With food, drinks and entertainment within arms reach, you can spend your days in total comfort without having to venture out.
The potential downside? The price.
However, with a little bit of research you can find overwater resorts in the Maldives that meets your budget and expectations.
Here’s a guide to the cheapest overwater bungalows in the Maldives without breaking the bank.
1. Meeru Island Resort & Spa
By far one of the cheapest overwater accommodations in the Maldives, Meeru Island Resort & Spa offers guests all-inclusive services and extensive facilities (think tennis courts and golf courses).
Two arms of Jacuzzi Water Villas extend over an expansive shallow bay, the outdoor tub and patio hidden from view.
Turtle and coral reefs are short swims away; cruises take you to a sandbank and fishing spots.
Best yet, it’s the sole resort on Meerufenfushi Island. Privacy is guaranteed.
2. Reethi Beach Resort
Looking from above, it’s hard to say what catches your eye first – the crescent-splay of traditionally-styled overwater bungalows or the tennis courts nestled inside lush plantations.
If sleeping over gently lapping water isn’t enough, make sure to eat at the Overwater Restaurant too.
The buffet is highly praised; diving, water sports, beachside pools and a spa fill in the rest of your itinerary.
A budget resort with full amenities, Reethi Beach Resort is incredibly value-for-money.
3. Riu Atoll
On the private island of Maafushi, impeccable service greets you at the harbor.
The all-inclusive Riu Atoll Hotel takes a contemporary approach in style, featuring white-wash over wooden exteriors.
Overwater suites come with a Balinese bed on the patio for optimal lounging – of course, with direct access to the sea too.
The long, skinny island rimmed with white sand features a variety of pools, restaurants and activities. The Lounge Bar and Sports Bar are open 24/7.
Don’t forget the spa for a full Maldives experience!
4. Reethi Faru
The Reethi Faru experience begins with a seaplane transfer, which softly touches down where the vibrant house reef and tropical grove meet.
150 eco-friendly villas, restaurants and shared facilities are set within the natural landscape of this tiny isle.
A curved boardwalk connects the overwater bungalows; patios and outdoor hot tubs come attached.
Take ten steps down into the waters for a morning swim!
Peaceful, teeming with coral nurseries and thatched bars everywhere – it’s truly a “little gem” in the Maldives.
5. Sun Siyam Vilu Reef
Like a lasso, Sun Siyam Vilu Reef’s water villas form a ‘pool’ that you can spot miles away. But your playground is much larger than that!
Ranging from private cinemas on the beach to coconut palms you can climb, you can unwind in the spa or opt for island-hopping day trips.
The overwater bungalows sit directly above some of Maldives’ best coral reefs, complete with a private deck.
Warm wooden flooring and French doors give every room an airy feel – welcoming honeymooners and families alike.
6. Siyam World
Likewise, sister resort Siyam World offers affordable bungalows in Maldives but with slides.
The newest addition is a 24-hour all-inclusive deal at very reasonable prices.
Each luxury villa embodies laidback comfort, bedroom views opening out onto the ocean. The patio pool and slide combo however, steals the show.
Cool activities like snorkel scooters also make the list of things to do.
Because they’re so new, they do have some kinks to work out – but they wow in all the ways that matter.
7. Angaga Island Resort & Spa
More affordable overwater stays in the Maldives are found within South Ari Atoll, where crystal clear waters fan out for prime snorkeling and diving.
A deep beach offers plenty of lounging space; there’s also a pool, fitness center and spa facility on the island.
Angaga Island Resort & Spa’s uniquely-shaped bungalows feature spacious rooms, wrap-around balcony with unfettered views, and direct access to the sea.
With ample space to run freely, this all-inclusive resort is a prime choice for families.
8. Cinnamon Velifushi
While Cinnamon Velifushi isn’t exactly “cheap”, it is an affordable 5-star water villa resort by Maldives standard.
Close to many dive sites and home to a house reef, it’s perfect for scuba divers and snorkelers.
Grey sharks weave in and out of sight – but don’t worry, they’re harmless!
At night, enjoy a romantic dinner at one of their gourmet restaurants. Or, settle on your private patio to stargaze.
Sandbank picnics, beach volleyball and cultural tours also keep you busy.
9. Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa
One of the cheapest overwater bungalows in the Maldives that require a sea plan transfer, Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa is truly bang-for-buck.
You get Whale Sharks!
Incredible diving aside (often described as “mind-blowing”), the long stretch of island comes with ample deck lounging, terrace seating, beach and lush greenery.
Their Jacuzzi Water Villas are as luxe as they sound, with a private jetty and hot tub.
On top of the meals, the all-inclusive package comes with water sport lessons, free equipment use and a sunset cruise.
10. Summer Island Maldives
Go barefoot at Summer Island Maldives to feel the fine, icing-sugar-colored sand under your soles.
The water glows a light blue as you cut across the surface on a kayak or speedboat; fish are always underfoot.
To evoke those ‘summer never ends’ vibes, ocean and land villas alike are designed with clean lines and simple décor.
It’s by far one of the quietest lagoons, perfect for relaxing.
Sit at your private overwater patios and let your feet dangle; save the snorkeling for tomorrow.
11. Sun Island Resort and Spa
Located on a sting ray-shaped island, Sun Island Resort and Spa is pretty cool.
The ‘tail’, an extended sweep of beach, is lovely to lounge on.
Large fish and small sharks swim up to snorkeling spots regularly; it also features a pool, more dining areas and a sports center.
Before you retire to your overwater bungalow, enjoy nightly entertainment, whether it be Fakirshow or belly dance.
Of the 72 water bungalows, 4 are Presidential Suites – but all offer a back porch for sunset viewing.
12. Kandima Maldives
Yes, you can have a cheap overwater bungalow in Maldives and nightlife.
Rather than take on the honeymooner route, Kandima reinvents your Maldives experience with active fun.
Wild parties, large range of dining options, a game room, a library… you name it.
Your overwater bungalow comes in various shapes, sizes and amenities too.
Opt between an outdoor plunge pool, cozy hot tub, family suites or couple rooms. Everything about it is playful and genuine.
