Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa, French Polynesia

Often overshadowed by big sister Bora Bora, Moorea, an island in French Polynesia, also impresses with its clear waters and mountainous backdrops.

Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Built along with a small islet, or motu, the overwater bungalows at the Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora rise over the island’s turquoise waters, doling out views of the colossal Mount Otemanu and Mount Pahia.

Six Senses Laamu, the Maldives

Sustainability lies at the core of the sole, luxurious resort in the Maldives’ secluded Laamu Atoll. (The triple-tiered overwater villas are constructed of local materials, which brings money to nearby island communities.)

Niyama Private Islands Maldives, the Maldives

We love Niyama’s understated overwater bungalows, each with a partial open-air shower, private pool, and deck with stairs leading directly into the lagoon below.

Bawah Reserve, Indonesia

There are far-flung, extravagant private islands, and then there’s Bawah, which resides in a league of its own. This Indonesian paradise comprises six islands, blue lagoons, and unspoiled white beaches in the heart of the remote Anambas Archipelago.

Laucala Island, Fiji

You can live out the ultimate Fiji private island experience in any of Laucala Island’s 25 glamorous thatch-roofed bures so expect the best-of-the-best in private island pampering.

Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas, the Maldives

This Maldives resort is exactly what overwater dreams are made of. Kihavah is located off a beautiful sandy island in the Baa Atoll, which has been officially designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve for its stunning coral reefs and prolific marine life.

Song Saa Private Island, Cambodia

On Cambodia’s Koh Rong archipelago, some 15 miles south of the mainland city of Sihanoukville, this private island resort is home to nine overwater bungalows (and 18 island villas) that are glamorous yet unfussy.

Brando Suites Bora Bora at the InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa, French Polynesia

Beachfront retreat The Brando has everything one could want out of an ultra-luxury South Pacific retreat—everything except an actual overwater bungalow, that is.

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