No trip to Southeast Asia is complete without visiting the Philippines; a country known for its outstanding natural beauty, pristine beaches, and diverse landscapes.
With over 7,000 islands, thousands of sea creatures, and a HUGE variety of activities, it’s no wonder this spectacular country is so popular.
You’ll find endless things to do in the Philippines, but during your visit, you HAVE to stay in an overwater bungalow!
They offer a way to get up close to nature, admire stunning views, and live out that bucket list experience that many people dream of.
This guide is going to cover the fifteen best overwater bungalows in the Philippines ranging from budget to luxury, so let’s get started…
Huma Island Resort & Spa is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful resorts in the Philippines!
Located on a breathtaking island, the resort is made up of over 80 villas with many of them being situated over gleaming turquoise waters.
These villas offer a luxurious getaway with an exclusive sundeck, an outdoor jacuzzi, and stunning ocean views. You’ll also find five overwater spa villas on-site if you’re looking to splash the cash.
Boasting seven restaurants, a spa & wellness centre, an outdoor pool, and a private beach area, this resort has so much to offer!
Covering an area of approximately 9.3 miles (15 km), this pendant island can be accessed via a 20-minute seaplane flight from the mainland.
Not only does Huma Island Resort & Spa have excellent facilities, but you’ll find plenty of fantastic snorkelling and diving spots nearby.
Aside from the teeming marine life, you’ll also get to explore sunken Japanese warships and planes if you decide to explore under the waves.
It’s not hard to see why Huma Island is one of the best overwater bungalow resorts in the country!
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If you’re looking for cheap overwater bungalows in the Philippines then make sure you check out Club Tara Island Resort!
Club Tara Island Resort is situated on the beautiful island of Bucas Grande and is the perfect option if you’re looking to save a bit of cash.
They offer stunning water cottages for a steal, and each one features a private balcony, a hot tub, and of course - sea views.
You’ll also have a private spa bath which is located right next to large glass windows, so you can enjoy the views whilst you relax.
Not only are the cottages at Club Tara Island Resort a bargain, but you’ll find plenty of awesome facilities on-site too.
With a restaurant serving local cuisine, a poolside bar, a common lounge area, and a private beach area, this resort has so much to offer!
If you decide to stay here, you’ll also have use of FREE kayaks and you can request massage services, private transfers, and room service.
Still not convinced? The overwater bungalows are situated in a great location for snorkelling so don’t forget your gear!
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You’ll find plenty of overwater bungalow resorts in the Philippines so you won’t be short of choice.
However, some are more catered to romantic getaways whilst others are perfect for a family trip!
If you’re travelling with children then Matinloc Resort is a fantastic option as there are so many activities available.
With complimentary snorkelling and kayaking, table tennis, and an infinity pool, this resort has plenty of awesome facilities on-site.
Not only that but Matinloc Resort offers sea-based excursions, boat hire, a private beach area, and a library that offers books, computers, and other recreational facilities.
Honestly, what more do you need?
Matinloc Resort is also a great option if you’re travelling as a family as there’s an on-site restaurant so you won’t have to worry about nipping out to grab food.
If you’re travelling with teens, then you’ve also got the option of water sport activities, the spa & wellness centre, and the nearby nature trails.
There are so many fantastic things to do at this resort, but its breathtaking beauty makes it stand out from the rest!
So if you’re dreaming of clear blue waters, luxurious rooms, and stunning views, then this may be the place for you…
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If you’re looking for a romantic getaway then make sure you check out El Nido Lagen Island Resort!
Offering a variety of awesome activities that you can do together, a beautiful location, and luxurious suites, this place is truly a dream.
Although you’ll find plenty of accommodation options at Lagen Island, the highlight of this place has to be its 18 water cottages.
These water cottages are set on stilts and are connected by a boardwalk. Offering stunning ocean views and plenty of space, these cottages will take your breath away.
Boasting a spa and wellness centre, an on-site marine sports centre, and a variety of excursions, you won’t run out of things to do as a couple.
Whether you’re looking to hit the nearby hiking trails, head out on a mangrove or cave tour, or relax in the outdoor pool - this resort has something for everyone.
Not only that, but you’ll find tons of fantastic activities on-site including badminton, billiards, table tennis, and volleyball. You can even get involved with traditional Filipino games.
Something else that makes Lagen Island so special is the fact that it’s situated near lush forests and a shallow lagoon, so you’ll find a huge variety of wildlife here!
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You’ll find plenty of Maldives-like resorts in the Philippines, but not many of them are as luxurious as this one!
Cauayan Island Resort and Spa is easily one of the most beautiful resorts in the country with crystal clear waters, lush forestry, and a pristine beach.
The overwater villas here are out of this world and are the definition of luxury!
Featuring a private wooden deck with lounge beds, an indoor marble bathtub, a king-sized bed, and of course - stunning ocean views, staying here will be a dream come true.
If that’s not enough to convince you then just wait until you hear about the facilities on-site…
With an infinity bar, a fantastic restaurant, a spa & wellness centre, and an activities centre, you won’t run out of things to do at Cauayan Island Resort.
This resort also offers island-hopping tours, diving activities, guided hikes, and sunset cruises, so you know that you’re in for an out-of-this-world experience.
During your time at the resort, you can even try your hand at kayaking, snorkelling, or yoga.
So if you’re looking for El Nido overwater bungalows, then you NEED to take a look at this place!
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Apulit Island Resort is one of the most popular El Nido overwater bungalows and it’s not hard to see why…
Boasting a breathtaking island location, stunning views of Taytay Bay, and luxurious overwater villas, this place has so much to offer.
It’s the perfect destination for adventure travellers as you can rappel down the 60m limestone cliff to get a birds-eye view of the island or head out to explore underneath the waves.
If you choose the latter option then you’ll get to marvel at a sunken Japanese shipwreck that sits on the ocean floor.
Not only that, but Apulit Island offers a variety of other excursions including island-hopping tours, cave explorations, and water sports.
To help you plan your dream trip, the resort has guest activities coordinators that will detail all the options available to you!
This includes popular sports like badminton, billiards, table tennis, and volleyball. You can even get involved with sand sculpture making.
If you’re still not convinced, then Apulit Island even has a private beach area, a clubhouse serving international cuisine, and a bar!
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If you’re searching for the best Palawan water bungalows, then El Nido is often the best place to look.
You’ll find plenty of options but it’s Pangulasian Island that truly stands out with its fantastic location, stunning views, and excellent facilities.
Pangulasian is known as ‘the Island of the Sun’ and is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful spots in the Philippines with a pristine beach, tropical forests, and a marine sanctuary.
With over 40 villas in total, luxurious amenities, and personalised service, you’ll be thoroughly looked after if you decide to stay here.
There are plenty of fantastic facilities on-site including a restaurant, a fitness centre, a private beach, and a yoga room.
You can also try your hand at water sports during your stay, simply relax on the beach or head out for a swim.
El Nido Resorts Pangulasian Island is another fantastic option for a romantic getaway, as the hotel offers spa & wellness services, the opportunity to dine on a private island, and sunset cruises.
What more could you need?
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Cebu is one of the most scenic islands in the Philippines, so we couldn’t leave this place out!
Nalusuan Island Resort and Marine Sanctuary is situated close to Mactan Island and Olango Wildlife Sanctuary so is in a fantastic location.
Whether you’re looking for rest and relaxation or an action-packed adventure, this resort has something for everyone!
There are 17 rooms in total, but you’ll want to stay in the stilt cottages during your visit as these offer the best views and experience.
Now, on to the facilities…
Nalusuan Island Resort has plenty to offer with an on-site bar and restaurant, room service, island-hopping tours, and boat transfers.
If you decide to stay here you’ll also benefit from a wide variety of sports and recreation facilities!
This includes beach volleyball, ping pong, paddle boats, and kayaks. You can even enjoy some fun on a banana boat or jetski, try your hand at scuba diving, or head out to snorkel.
As you can see, there’s so much to do at this resort but there’s also a private beach area and garden if you’re just looking to relax.
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You’ll find plenty of beautiful Philippine overwater bungalows, but Pearl Farm Beach Resort often steals the show!
As the name suggests, this resort was once home to a successful pearl farm but today, it’s a luxurious private retreat that’s situated just off the coast of Davao City.
You’ll find a variety of beautiful suites at this resort and some of them even offer a private beach, a balcony, and stunning sea views.
For the best experience, you’ll want to choose the Samal Suites as they have private stairs that will take you directly into the crystal clear waters below.
Not only is Pearl Farm Beach Resort stunning, but its facilities are top-notch!
With the Maranao Restaurant, Parola Tapas Bar, and the opportunity to have your own candle-lit dinner on the beach, you won’t run out of dining options.
You’ll also have the use of endless facilities at this resort including multiple swimming pools, lounge areas, aqua sports activities, and Mandaya Sports Centre.
This resort also offers movie nights, coral tours, and the Torogan House where you can get pampered.
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It’s a dream of many to stay in a luxurious hut on the water, and although the most popular destination for this is the Maldives, the Philippines has plenty of resorts to rival this!
Sunlight Eco Tourism Island Resort is one of the largest privately-owned island resorts in Palawan.
Featuring 18 hectares of rolling hills, two pristine private beaches, and a variety of gardens, this is easily one of the best options in the Philippines!
Aside from its obvious beauty, what makes this place stand out is its luxurious overwater bungalows.
Each one has been designed so that they have an outstanding ocean view that captures sunrise or sunset, so you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking experience.
Sunlight Eco Tourism Island Resort also has plenty to offer in terms of facilities with an outdoor infinity pool, a spa & wellness centre, water sports, and a fitness centre.
They even offer day tours of Palawan and Coron, a souvenir boutique selling local crafts, and a seaside playground for the little ones.
So if you’re looking to stay in an overwater villa in Palawan then make sure you check out this resort!
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If you’re looking for all-inclusive overwater bungalows in the Philippines then Grace Island Resort may be the place for you!
Although they offer room-only deals too, you can book the bungalows as a package with all meals included.
Located in San Jose, this beautiful resort offers both beachfront accommodation and overwater bungalows so it’s completely up to you which one you choose.
Surrounded by crystal clear waters, abundant marine life, and lush forests, the scenery and nature here are unparalleled.
If that alone isn’t enough to convince you then Grace Island Resort also has plenty of awesome facilities!
This includes bicycle rentals, water sports, an on-site restaurant, BBQ facilities, and massage services. There’s also a chapel located on the hilltop where you can take part in mediation!
Although Grace Island Resort isn’t one of the most popular options when it comes to overwater bungalows in the Philippines - it has a lot to offer.
This is especially the case if you’re looking to relax and get close to nature, as there are plenty of snorkelling and diving opportunities here too.
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Plantation Bay Resort and Spa offers a luxury experience like no other, as it’s situated in one of the world’s largest privately owned lagoons.
Boasting 5* amenities, world-class service, and stunning suites, this resort is one of the most popular options in Cebu.
The resort is set on 11 hectares of private property and you’ll find a wide variety of facilities on-site including three swimming pools, a spa & wellness centre, and a fitness centre.
You’ll also find plenty of leisure activities at Plantation Bay Resort and Spa including water slides, archery, wall-climbing, tennis courts, and golf.
During your time at the resort, you can even try your hand at snorkelling or scuba diving, go bird watching, or have fun in the games room.
Plantation Bay also offers tours and excursions including coral reef adventures, island experiences, coastline cruises, and whale shark adventures.
Whether you’re looking to relax or you’re looking to try out a load of activities, this place has something for everyone.
So, if you’re looking for a Philippines overwater bungalow resort then don’t miss out on this place!
Trust me, you won’t regret it.
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Although only a stone’s throw away from the bustling capital of Manila, Stilts Calatagan Beach Resort offers the ultimate relaxing getaway.
The resort is set among 24 hectares of pristine beaches and rolling hills so as you can imagine, you won’t run out of things to do.
From spa treatments to water sports, this spectacular resort has something for every type of traveller!
Stilts Calatagan Beach Resort has a wide variety of recreational activities available including biking, volleyball, kayaking, paddle boarding, and snorkelling.
You can also have some fun on a banana boat or hire some water sports equipment like fins, and snorkel masks.
If you’d prefer something a bit more relaxing then there are spa treatments and massages available too! You can choose from body scrubs and massages, and then head out to watch the sunset for the ultimate relaxation.
Not only that, but this resort offers ‘adventure packages’ that include boat tours, ATV adventures, and eco-tours.
As the name suggests this resort is most famous for its floating cottages that are situated on stilts out of the water!
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Although not as well known as other bungalow resorts in the Philippines, Tugawe Cove Resort is still a fantastic choice.
Situated along the Caramoan Peninsula, this resort is in a beautiful location as it’s nestled within limestone hills and offers stunning sea views.
If you decide to stay here you'll be surrounded by crystal clear waters, abundant marine life, and plenty of birdlife in the trees all around you.
Although this resort’s beauty is what makes it stand out, Tugawe Cove Resort also has plenty of fantastic facilities.
This includes a private beach area, an infinity pool, a games room, and a viewing deck where you can admire the spectacular views all around you.
If that’s not enough to convince you then there are also kayaks and paddleboards available, a tram that will take you around the resort, and a souvenir shop.
Tugawe Cove Resort has lots of on-site dining options too including Cecilia’s Restaurant, the Pizza Bar, and Tugawe Cove Cafe.
Lastly, this resort offers plenty of awesome activities including beach bonfires, island-hopping tours, watersports, and bioluminescent plankton tours.
What more could you need?
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Last but not least on this list is Kamana Sanctuary Resort & Spa!
Situated between an old rainforest and Nabasan Bay, this resort offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
Also known for its delicious cuisine, luxurious suites, and variety of recreational activities, Kamana Sanctuary Resort & Spa is a fantastic option.
Boasting an outdoor infinity pool, a spa & wellness centre, an on-site restaurant, and a bar, this place has so much to offer.
There are also plenty of activities for you to get involved with including basketball, beach volleyball, frisbee, and tennis.
If you’re keen to get in the ocean, then you’ve also got the option of kayaking or snorkelling!
Kamana Sanctuary Resort & Spa is a great choice if you’re travelling as a family too, as there’s a children's playground on-site and lots of board games to keep you entertained.
You’ll have plenty of areas to just relax, but it’s the beachside hammocks that offer the most peaceful experience. Here, you can read a book, listen to music, or sip your favourite drink.
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There are so many incredible places to visit in the Philippines that it can sometimes feel impossible to choose the perfect base.
When it comes to overwater bungalows, you’ll find the majority of the best options located on the island of Palawan; more specifically in and around El Nido.
Coron is also located in the Palawan Province and is another fantastic spot that’s known for its overwater bungalow options.
Moving on from Palawan, there are plenty of other breathtaking islands in the Philippines including Bohol, Boracay, Cebu, Siargao, and Siquijor.
Where you decide to visit will ultimately depend on what you’re planning to do there, as each island offers something unique.
You can also spend your time island-hopping if you wish, as there are frequent ferries and flights that will take you between the different islands.
So which overwater bungalow has caught your eye?
As you can see there are so many fantastic options to choose from, and it all depends on your budget, travel style, and your preferred location.
Whether you’re looking to relax in El Nido or admire the beauty of Cebu Island, the Philippines has something for everyone.
Full of wildlife, epic scenery, and endless activities, this country is the perfect destination to live out your bucket list dream of staying in an overwater bungalow!
Here are some more useful guides to help you plan your Philippines trip:
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