10 Stunning Overwater Spas

Travel Smarter! Sign up for our free newsletter.

By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.

Sign Up

You’ve heard of overwater bungalows, but overwater spas take R&R to an entirely new level. These idyllic, wellness-centric spots represent the epitome of serenity and (completely uninterrupted) relaxation. A pampering body treatment or a therapeutic massage paired with panoramic water views? We’ll take that any day of the week. 

From a tranquil Maldives retreat to a super-cool Swedish locale, to a private island hideaway in the Bahamas, be prepared to be dazzled by these one-of-a-kind oases. Read on for 10 of the world’s best overwater spas to add to your bucket list.

Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them.

The Spa at Kamalame Cay: The Bahamas

This peaceful private island resort is best known for its beautiful turquoise waters, beachfront bungalow accommodations, and ample on-site activities and amenities (which range from kayaking to snorkeling, to gourmet picnics on the beach). However, no trip here is complete without a visit to The Spa at Kamalame Cay, which is connected to the property via a white walkway that’s suspended over a stunning stretch of sand. The overwater spa utilizes marine-based ingredients to offer innovative treatments like Vitamin Sea Brightening Facials and seaweed-infused body scrubs, plus a slew of soothing massages.   

The Spa at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island: The Maldives

Most people come to Conrad Maldives Rangali Island for seclusion and relaxation—both of which can be found at the property’s luxurious Spa Retreat. A romantic wooden pathway leads you to the romantic overwater spa, which comprises nine treatment rooms (five of which have private pavilions that house a sauna, steam room, and a Jacuzzi tub or two-person soaking tub). Guests can choose from an array of “rituals” (AKA services) designed to align your chakras, including aromatherapy, traditional Thai massages, radiance-boosting facials, and more. Afterwards, enjoy a meal at the spa restaurant, Mandhoo, which is also set on stilts over the Indian Ocean. 

Náay Spa at Palafitos Overwater Bungalows: Mexico

An escape to the adults-only Palafitos Overwater Bungalows in Playa Del Carmen calls for a day of pampering at the on-site Náay Spa. The 5,000-square-foot space has floor-to-ceiling windows, outdoor overwater treatment rooms, hydrotherapy facilities, and a relaxation lounge. Treatments here are inspired by ancient Mayan traditions, and highlights include the Tequila Ritual (which combines tequila and melon extract to exfoliate) and the Holistic Treatment (which features lovely scrub made with rosemary, sea salt, mint, and chamomile that’s inspired by traditional Mayan herbal remedies). Alternatively, sign up for a sunrise couples’ massage or the property’s signature Shirodara Experience, an enlightening meditation session. 

The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Canouan: Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

From the picture-perfect beach views to the ultra-luxe accommodations, Mandarin Oriental, Canouan is sure to please even the pickiest of travelers. The ritzy resort, which is located in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, is also home to an incredible on-site spa, where awe-inspiring overwater bungalows with sweeping ocean vistas set the serene scene. Post-massage or facial, take advantage of the bungalows’ furnished outdoor area to admire the calm waters. Many of the property’s signature services feature tropical-inspired botanicals like ginger, coconut, lemongrass, and sweet orange to keep the island-theme going.

Travel Smarter! Sign up for our free newsletter.

By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.

Sign Up

Spa at Song Saa Private Island: Cambodia

Wellness seekers can get their zen on at the overwater spa at Song Saa Private Island in Cambodia. The property has dubbed the facility as a “spa with no walls”– which, given its proximity to the water, makes total sense. The spa seeks inspiration from Buddhist principles and practices (including the practice of metta bhavana to foster love and kindness). As such, the menu is divided into three distinct categories: Stillness, Healing, and Blessings. A majority of the treatments utilize natural ingredients like Himalayan salt crystals, plant extracts, fresh lemongrass, lime, coconut, and lavender.  

Fern Tree Spa at Half Moon: Jamaica 

Half Moon is a luxury beachfront resort in Montego Bay, Jamaica that boasts elegant accommodations, several sparkling swimming pools, and, of course, the magnificent Fern Tree Spa. After taking some time to admire the lush tropical gardens and fruit trees, head to one of the overwater cabanas for a rejuvenating treatment that utilizes local ingredients, such as the Jamaican Allspice Sugar Scrub, Soothing Coconut Milk Soak, and the Detoxifying Seaweed Bath, as well as a special massage featuring locally sourced bamboo. The spa is also equipped with aromatherapy-infused steam rooms and saunas, a lagoon-style pool, an outdoor yoga pavilion, a relaxation lounge, a tea room, and a meditation labyrinth. 

Spa at Drift Thelu Veliga Retreat: The Maldives

Unspoiled beaches, magnificent flora, and more await at Drift Thelu Veliga Retreat in The Maldives. The retreat is flanked by natural beauty, including colorful coral reefs and clear-blue waters. After a day well spent in the sun, retreat to the overwater spa to indulge in some well-deserved R&R. Featuring treatments from Indonesia, Thailand, and India, the spa menu is specially curated to ensure peak relaxation. Treatment rooms (which are positioned right above the water) feature large windows, an open-concept design, and warm wooden accents. 

Spa at Arctic Bath: Sweden

Who would have thought that one of the world’s best overwater spas is located in Sweden? Arctic Bath is a floating hotel that combines wellness-centric amenities with contemporary design, and the overwater spa here is sure to impress. The spa boasts an eye-catching wooden exterior, a stunning sauna (which features fragrant essential oils to help you unwind even further),  and an open-air cold bath, the latter of which offers awe-inspiring views of the Scandinavian sky. After a soak and a spa treatment, lounge around in one of the plush bathrobes as you admire the almost-otherworldly surroundings. 

Spa at The Ritz-Carlton, Langkawi: Malaysia

The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Langkawi in Malaysia looks and feels surreal with six overwater dome-like spa pavilions (three of which can accommodate couples) that seem to magically float over the calm waters just below. Guests here can choose from a handful of offerings to help them feel even more connected to the destination’s vibrant culture and rich history. The property’s three signature experiences—The Mandi Bunga Inspired Ritual, the Mystic Ocean and Earth Ritual, and the Lulur Hamman Experience—are all inspired by sacred healing and beauty rituals practiced by shamans and midwives. 

Te Mahana Spa at Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora: Tahiti

The Te Mahana Spa at Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora is a true haven for relaxation—especially if you book the Overwater Spa Suite which is equipped with glass-bottom flooring and a private outdoor tub overlooking the iconic Mount Otemanu and is a worth-it splurge for couples. The resort’s signature spa services are inspired by ancient traditions and feature indigenous ingredients like locally sourced algae and Tahitian black pearl powder. Alternatively, indulge in essential oil-infused body scrubs and treatments featuring real 24K gold.  

Travel Smarter! Sign up for our free newsletter.

By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.

Sign Up

You Might Also Like:

• The One Lie You Should Always Tell While Traveling
• Why Didn’t I Get TSA PreCheck on My Boarding Pass if I’m a PreCheck Member?
• Traveling with Medications: What You Need to Know
• No Signal? 5 Ways to Use Your Phone GPS Without Data
• How to Make Your Home Smell Like a Hotel