The 9 Best Overwater Bungalows in the Philippines

Nothing says beach vacation quite like an overwater bungalow. The magic of sleeping atop the ocean while the sound of waves reaches your bed is just unmatched. Not to mention, the convenience of jumping straight into the water from the balcony. Plus, the front-row view of the sunrise and sunset every single day. Need we say more?
Though Bora Bora, Maldives, and Fiji are best known for these cottages on stilts, you really don't have to travel far and wide as there are a number of resorts in the Philippines that let you stay in overwater bungalows. From Davao's pristine beaches to the crystal clear waters of Palawan, here are the best overwater bungalows in the Philippines.
More: The Dreamiest Resorts in the Philippines
El Nido Apulit Island Resort
View this post on Instagram
It's clear El Nido Resorts take their overwater bungalows seriously. After all, three of the group's island resorts have water villas. Apulit Island is known as the eco-adventurer's dream destination. You can wipe yourself out with a bunch of crazy activities during the day, and rest and relax for the rest of the night in your own overwater bungalow.
El Nido Lagen Island Resort
View this post on Instagram
If you're less of an adventurer and prefer seeing what nature has to offer, Lagen Island is probably the best choice for you. The island resort offers birdwatching and mangrove exploration as activities. Other enriching encounters from the cove await you in Lagen.
More: El Nido Resorts Is Offering Open-Dated Travel Vouchers For Future Bookings
El Nido Miniloc Island Resort
View this post on Instagram
Where does that leave Miniloc? Well, the island is touted as the best resort for families out of the three. While parents can rest and relax as they want, the rest of the family can enjoy all that the island has to offer, from activities and excursions.
Huma Island Resort & Spa
View this post on Instagram
Huma Island is an island resort in Busuanga, Palawan. The hideaway describes itself as Maldivian-inspired which means the resort is the closest you can get to the Maldives without actually leaving the country.
More: The 10 Most Luxurious Resort Hotels in the Philippines
Pearl Farm Beach Resort
View this post on Instagram
Davao's Pearl Farm Resort has it all: sparkling waters, recreational activities, and perched cabanas. The resort's two-story Samal Suites fuse together Muslim-inspired design along with details from Mindanao's ethnic groups.
Cauayan Island Resort
View this post on Instagram
Located in Palawan, Cauayan Island Resort is a beachfront private resort that offers plenty of facilities, recreational activities, and picturesque views. And its water villas don't disappoint. Each villa gives you a view of the sea, with plenty of doors and windows so you can maximize it all.
More: Coron Vs. El Nido: Which One's Your Perfect Island Getaway?
Sunlight Eco Tourism Island Resort
View this post on Instagram
Set in the Calamianes group of islands in Northern Palawan, Sunlight Eco Tourism Island Resort is a luxurious resort that promises excellent service and superior facilities. The resort has 99 rooms (with 64 being villas), and you can choose from six types of accommodations. Our pick? The Sirakan villa which is known for its glass-bottom floors.
Tugawe Cove Resort
View this post on Instagram
Tugawe Cove Resort is a secluded getaway located in the Bicol Region. The resort offers a change of scenery in many ways. Aside from the fact that it's not in Palawan, the resort's overwater bungalows offer a view of a lake instead.
More: The Best Luxury Resorts in the Philippines With All-Inclusive Packages
Stilts Calatagan Beach Resort
View this post on Instagram
For something a bit closer, there's the Stilts Calatagan Beach Resort in Batangas. The resort's overwater bungalows—or floating cottages as they call them—has a master’s bedroom, guest room, loft and living area.