Planning an upcoming getaway and searching for beautiful overwater bungalows in Malaysia to make your trip unforgettable!? Well, you’ve come to the right place, because I’ve compiled stunning Malaysia resorts with overwater villas and suites that will leave you speechless!
Staying in an overwater bungalow should undoubtedly be one of the things ticked off on your bucket list. The thought of an overwater bungalow conjures the image of an ultra-luxurious tropical paradise. Malaysia offers this kind of heaven – sitting over the water in a private resort with glass bottom floors watching marine life darting around beneath you.
Malaysia consists of 878 islands, surrounded by glistening jewel-like waters and dazzling white sandy beaches. It offers epic getaways for all types of travelers. This strikingly beautiful country now has the third most overwater bungalows in the world to call its own.
Malaysia has a lot to offer in terms of the ideal getaway: stunning national parks and beaches, aquatic life, delicious cuisine, rich history, and vibrant culture.
A Quick Breakdown of Overwater Bungalows in Malaysia
There are so many different options available to choose from when looking at overwater bungalows in Malaysia, and choosing the right one to suit your interests can be daunting. So here is a pick of a few winners in 5 popular travel styles!
- Best budget overwater bungalow in Malaysia – Mabul Paradise Lodge
- Best overwater bungalow for a romantic getaway – Pangkor Laut Resort
- Best luxury overwater resort – Lexis Hibiscus – Port Dickson
- Best scuba diving overwater bungalow – Sipadan Kapalai Dive Resort
- Best Spa overwater resort – Avani Sepang Goldcoast Resort, Malaysia
I’ve also included tons of fun videos I found about each of these Malaysian hotels and resort with overwater villas, so be sure to check them out to get a better idea of what it would be like to stay there! They all look pretty damn fantastic, and have pretty much added all these to my Southeast Asia Bucket List! Also, be sure to check out my article on The 20 Best Beaches in Malaysia | Epic Islands & Hotels & my Two Weeks in Malaysia Travel Itinerary for more trip-planning inspiration!
1) Mabul Paradise Lodge
https://www.booking.com/hotel/my/mabul-paradise-lodge-ma-bu-tian-tang-xiu-xian-lu-guan.en-gb.html
The Mabul Paradise Lodge is located on Mabul Island. It opened in October 2015, offering charming waterfront views overlooking the ocean. This lovely family-run resort offers a beautiful sun terrace, BBQ facilities, and an in-house restaurant serving a variety of Asian cuisines.
Guests can enjoy island aquatic activities such as snorkeling, diving, canoeing, fishing, and other on-site water sports.
Price: $70 – $72 + USD per night
Location: Mabul Island, Pulau Mabul, Malaysia
2) Pangkor Laut Resort – Malaysia
Location: Pangkor Laut Island, Malaysia
Price: $223 – $606 + USD per night
https://www.booking.com/hotel/my/pangkor-laut-resort.en-gb.html
Pangkor Laut is a deluxe 5-star resort on a privately owned island located just off the West Coast of Malaysia. It’s a perfect getaway for honeymooners and romantic couples on holidays, as well as families looking for something special.
This island resort is best suited for relaxation and exploration in the age-old wilderness. It offers 45 classically styled overwater bungalows, a first-class spa, and a variety of aquatic activities.
The Spa Village offers a world-class experience, with various facilities to accommodate your treatments. This resort features action-packed activities such as waterskiing, sailing, yoga classes, jungle trekking, multiple island excursions, and a fitness center.
There are great Wedding & Honeymoon packages perfect for a romantic getaway with your partner.
View Photos, Read Reviews & Check Availability
3) Lexis Hibiscus – Port Dickson
Location: Jalan Pantai, Pasir Panjang, Malaysia
Price: $163 – $278 + USD per night
https://www.booking.com/hotel/my/lexis-hibiscus-port-dickson-port-dickson14.en-gb.html
Lexis Hibiscus is somewhat out of the ordinary, as though it was made for the Maldives or Dubai. This luxurious resort fans out over the turquoise waters in the shape of a giant flower.
This 5-star resort has a whopping 552 water bungalows directly over the Strait of Malacca. In addition, it has 117 villas on land. That’s one of the most overwater bungalows in the world! There are over 800 square feet of spacious rooms with private plunge pools and steam rooms.
Each room welcomes serenity through its floor-to-ceiling glass doors. It has fantastic room service, Wi-Fi, and entertainment systems, and private plunge pools.
This private resort features restaurants, bars, a sauna, indoor and outdoor pools, kids pools, and extras such as laundry services. It has an amazing spa, the LexSpa, offering a variety of treatments. The Lexis Hibiscus is one of the most beautiful all-inclusive Malaysia beach resorts.
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4) Sipadan Kapalai Dive Resort
Location: Celebes Sea, Semporna, Malaysia
Price: $438 – $608 + USD per night
https://www.booking.com/hotel/my/sipadan-kapalai-dive-resort.en-gb.html
The Kapalai Dive Resort sits on a world of its own, just a few minutes boat ride from its neighboring islands Sipadan and Mabul. This spectacular 3-star resort sits entirely on stilts nested on the sandbanks of Ligitan Reefs.
Guests can gaze into its clear turquoise waters or walk along its powdery soft white sand. For dive enthusiasts, Sipadan and Mabul can be reached within a few minutes by boat – offering some of the best dive spots in Malaysia.
The resort features a private white sandy beach and stunning lagoon views. It also offers PADI courses (all-inclusive dive packages), kayaking, rental equipment, internet access, boat excursions. Keep in mind there is no spa at the resort.
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5) Avani Sepang Goldcoast Resort – Malaysia
Location: Bagan Lalang, Malaysia
Price: $98 – $206 + USD per night
https://www.booking.com/hotel/my/avani-sepang-goldcoast-resort.en-gb.html
The Avani Sepang Goldcoast Resort (formerly known as the Golden Palm Tree Resort & Spa) opened in Spring 2011. The massive resort features 392 Polynesian and Maldivian-inspired overwater villas on a secluded beach. It comprises of five restaurants, and 2 bars, located in Bagan Lang.
This magnificent 5-star resort features an in-house spa, an infinity pool, and tours to the nearby elephant sanctuary. And it’s only a 40-minute drive from the airport. The tropical oasis is a treat for the whole family, with splendid kids’ facilities and adult luxuries.
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6) Mabul Water Bungalows – Malaysia
Mabul Water Bungalows are located on Mabul Island off the southeast coast of Borneo Island. This resort offers wooden-type bungalows that are built entirely over water. It consists of 16 villas and six exclusive suite villas. The resort itself may be small compared to hotels in the water; however, the rooms are large and comfortable.
This resort is the perfect paradise for scuba divers, as it neighbors the Sipadan Island dive site. A 15-minute boat ride away from Sipadan Island, a world-famous dive site.
Transportation to and from the island resort is available.
Price: $643 + USD per night
Location: Pulau Mabul, Mabul Island, Malaysia
7) The St. Regis Langkawi
Location: Jalan Pantai Beringin, Langkawi, Malaysia
Price: $303 – $1 008 + USD per night
https://www.booking.com/hotel/my/the-st-regis-langkawi.en-gb.html
The St. Regis Langkawi is considered the “Jewel of Kedah,” a beautiful 5-star water resort overlooking the Andaman Sea. This large resort offers 89 rooms and four overwater villas.
It houses a fitness center, five dining options, and a spa. It features private balconies and elegantly furnished suites. The rooms are air-conditioned and equipped with home entertainment systems. Walking among the overwater villas is beautifully luxurious, with over 100sqm of sunset-facing private rooms.
There is an array of facilities to use and things to do in the area. You can contact a concierge about day trips and excursions, or indulge in spa therapies and treatments at the on-site Iridium Spa. Try out the fantastic overwater dining at Kayu Puti restaurant. This luxury resort offers aquatic sports such as scuba diving, parasailing, snorkeling, and island tours. You’ll never want to leave.
Ideal for those looking to wallow in the perfect turquoise waters, or spend their day on their private deck with an infinity pool. This gorgeous resort is a favorite amongst couples and a great option for honeymooners.
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8) Berjaya Langkawi Resort
Location: Kampung Kok, Langkawi, Malaysia
Price: $96 – $336 + USD per night
https://www.booking.com/hotel/my/berjaya-langkawi-beach-spa-resort.en-gb.html
Perched overlooking the ocean and sitting on the edge of abundantly green tropical rainforest, this 5-star resort sets the scene. Located on Langkawi Island, off the coast of northern Malaysia, it’s well-known for its sightseeing attractions.
The Berjaya Langkawi Resort is within walking distance to the Oriental Village. It’s perfect for snorkeling and other aquatics. This resort has traditional Malay-style chalets, four restaurants, and 3 bars. There are 47 overwater bungalows seated on one of the best beaches in Malaysia.
Berjaya Langkawi features aquatic sports such as parasailing, scuba diving, jet skis, banana boats, and fishing, amongst others. The Ayura spa is perfect for relaxing, with a steam room, sauna room, and outdoor jacuzzi. Langkawi Island is also the perfect base for your explorations of Malaysia. From here you can go island hopping, and jungle trekking, as well as explore the mangrove forests.
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9) Gayana Eco Resort
Location: Malohom Bay, Gaya Island, Malaysia
Price: $213 + $369 per night
https://www.booking.com/hotel/my/gayana-eco-resort.en-gb.html
The 5-star Gayana Eco Resort is ideal for an indulgent, luxurious stay surrounded by wilderness. The environmentally friendly resort nests 45 water villas and is situated close to the airport – yet remote enough to feel as though you’re in another world. It wallows at the edges of Gaya Island just off the coast of Borneo.
This Malaysian Hotel offers both ocean and palm villas, with private balconies. The floating bungalows come with glass-bottom floors and private plunge pools.
The stunning resort features a PADI dive center, a Jacuzzi, tours, water sports, an infinity pool, and an in-house eco wellness spa and fitness classes. Guests can get involved in the Marine Environment Education Programme, such as replanting coral and propagating Giant Clams.
The Gayana Eco Resort offers a perfect balance between indulgent luxury and dynamic ecology.
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10) Sipadan Water Village Resort, Malaysia
Location: Tawau, Pulau Sipadan, Malaysia
Price: $443+ per night
The Sipadan Water Village Resort sits on Mabul Island, resting on stilts above the water. It offers 45 rooms and four different room categories.
This floating island resort offers fantastic packages that include transportation, which is helpful when finding your way around resorts. It’s directed at diving enthusiasts and is near the famous Sipadan Island dive spot.
There are other activities and amenities it provides apart from diving, such as snorkeling and other aquatics.
11) Grand Lexis Port Dickson
Location: Jalan Seremban, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia
Price: $173 – $198 + USD per night
https://www.booking.com/hotel/my/the-legend-water-chalets.en.html?
The Grand Lexis Port Dickson offers a private and opulent experience. It is located 500m from Tanjung Gemuk Beach and offers a variety of recreational activities.
There are 159 overwater villas, in 4 different room categories. Each room features a private pool, WiFi, a 32” flat-screen TV, a mini-fridge, and of course, a transparent glass floor area to view the marine life beneath your feet.
This resort offers a fitness center, bicycle rentals, an outdoor pool, shops, a kids pool, and a spa on-site.
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12) Lexis Port Dickson
Location: Jalan Seremban, Port Dickson, Malaysia
Price: $111 – $159 + USD per night
https://www.booking.com/hotel/my/the-legend-water-chalets.en-gb.html
The Lexis Port Dickson is a luxury 4-star Balinese-inspired resort located near the town of Lukut in Port Dickson. It features 174 overwater bungalows. Though it’s right next door to the Grand Lexis Port Dickson, and shares the same parking lot, this resort is entirely private.
The water villas are large and fitted with exciting amenities. It caters to those looking for a variety of activities during their stay. Some features include Wi-Fi, bicycle rentals, karaoke, a sauna, KMX, a gym, fishing, volleyball. It offers a kids pool and indoor playground for those looking to keep their little ones busy.
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13) Avillion – Port Dickson
Location: Jalan Pantai, Port Dickson, Malaysia
Price: $77 – $170 + USD per night
https://www.booking.com/hotel/my/avillion-port-dickson.en-gb.html
The Avillion Port Dickson is the original overwater bungalow. It’s a classic luxury hotel that overlooks the Straits of Malacca. The stunning resort is situated on the coast of an old Malay fishing village.
The Avillion has 80 overwater villas connected to several piers leading outwards from the main resort area.
With two restaurants, nature walks, spice farms, shops, concierge, a sauna and steam room, a tennis court, and a gym, you can spend weeks right here.
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14) Lankayan Island Resort
Location: Lankayan Island, Sandakan Malaysia
Price: $172 + USD per night
The Lankayan Island Resort stands to peer out over strikingly beautiful translucent waters in the Sulu sea. Situated in the north of Sandakan, this resort is ideal for scuba divers. You’ll find both land-based and overwater bungalows here.
The overwater villas have an island-style interior with awe-inspiring ocean views. Two packages are provided for non-divers and divers. Some fun resort activities for non-divers include snorkeling, canoeing, babysitting, and beach volleyball. Keep in mind there is no spa in this resort.
Lankayan Island is a Marine Protected Area. This tiny island offers a little slice of heaven, ringed by a dazzling white sandy beach — an epitome of the Maldives floating villas.
15) Pom Pom Island Resort – Malaysia
Location: Jalan Karamusing Lorong Kapital, Malaysia
Price: $438 – $608 + USD per night
This majestic 4-star island resort is a 45-minute boat ride off the coast of Borneo. It’s a paradise on a remote coral island with turquoise waters and white-sand beaches. It offers 30 overwater villas with a panoramic view of the ocean.
Its main attraction is scuba diving. The restaurant and lounge is a popular place to relax between your snorkeling and diving trips. The rooms do not offer Wi-Fi or Tvs, so planning your activities is a must.
Stay alert for the green and hawksbill turtles as they dart around your bungalow.
16) Gem Island Resort and Spa, Terengganu
Location: Pulau Gemia, Mukim Rusila, Malaysia
Price: $93 – $132 + USD per night
https://www.booking.com/hotel/my/gem-island-resort.en-gb.html
The Gem Island Resort & Spa is located on a Marine Conservation Park. This gorgeous beach getaway is built on one of the private islands in Malaysia. The resort has 45 sea villas that lie along the coast, offering peaceful waterfront villas and luxurious spa treatments. There are two suits, four hidden villas, and 35 water villas.
The villas extend out to the ocean, each with a private balcony with wooden flooring, and air-conditioned rooms. It’s situated on the coastline, and the restaurant serves Asian and Western meals. Room service is available if wanted. The resort features concierge services and aquatics facilities.
Guests can lounge out at the pool or opt for a relaxing spa body massage. The front desk can arrange various activities such as diving, water sports, and caving trips. At the jetty, guests can visit the baby greenback turtles or see the turtle hatchery program on the island.
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17) Dragon Inn Floating Resort, Semporna
The Dragon Inn Floating Resort, also known as Semporna Floating, provides an ideal vacation for those looking for comfort, convenience, and value. It’s located near the town center and is a popular choice for those visiting Semporna Island.
This traditional Bajau water village gives visitors the true feel of the local Bajau people. The resort provides an array of amenities such as air-conditioned rooms with Internet access.
It is great for travelers looking for an overwater bungalow experience – an inexpensive alternative to other island resorts.
Price: $46 – $51 + USD per night
Location: Jalan Kastam, Semporna, Malaysia
18) Seaventures Dive Rig
The Seaventures Dive Rig is one of the most unique floating hotels in Malaysia. This amazing scuba diving platform is located just off Mabul Island, a 30-minute boat ride to Sipadan.
Sipadan Island is world-renowned for its scuba diving. What once was a working oil rig is now a rustic resort and a world-class diving location.
The resort offers packages including diving around Mabul Island, Sipadan Island and Kapalai Island. All rooms facilitate Wi-Fi and are air-conditioned. Seaventures Dive Rig is a PADI 5-Star Dive Center. The Dive resort offers other recreational activities for those who want to relax on the deck or take an island hopping tour.
This unique floating hotel offers an ‘out of the ordinary experience’ and an unobstructed view of the island.
Price: $86 + USD per night
Location: Mabul Island, Pulau Sipadan Malaysia
19) Wonderland Private Chalet at Port Dickson
https://www.booking.com/hotel/my/wonderland-private-chalet-at-port-dickson.en.html
Located in Port Dickson, the Wonderland Private Chalet at Port Dickson offers beautiful sea view villas and spacious rooms. It features outdoor and indoor swimming pools and a hot tub. The resort is located 26 km from Pasir Panjang.
This 4-star accommodation offers air-conditioned rooms with a balcony and a sea view. It’s a perfect family destination and great for romantic couples. There is a children’s playground available at the resort. Guests can enjoy the swimming pool or settle on the quiet serene beachfront.
This beautiful resort offers various facilities for the whole family. There is a luxurious spa and wellness center for those looking to relax. The Wonderland Private Chalet at Port Dickson offers quality accommodation in a convenient location.
Price: $49 + USD per night
Location: Jalan Seremban Taman Tanjung, Port Dickson, Malaysia
View Photos, Read Reviews & Check Availability
Am I Missing Any Overwater Villas in Malaysia?
While doing research for this article, we discovered A LOT more Malaysia hotels & resorts that offered overwater villas, and were quite surprised we got this list up to 19! But if you think we’re missing any key overwater bungalow villas in Malaysia, please do let us know! I’d love to keep this list as up-to-date as possible!
Planning a trip to Malaysia?
So I’ve traveled quite extensively around this unbelievably beautiful country (and corner of the world), and my travel blog is filled with incredible articles, destination guides, and detailed itineraries! I’d love for you to take a look at a few of them below, and let me know what you think!
- The Ultimate 2 Days in Kuala Lumpur Itinerary & Travel Guide
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Last thoughts on Panoramic Overwater Malaysia Bungalows
Everyone has different reasons for traveling. Some travel to destinations to relax on a beautiful pristine beach and catch a tan – followed by an afternoon snorkel in the transparent waters. Some travel for a romantic getaway with their significant other. For others, they may travel to immerse themselves in the culture of the country.
Malaysia has some gorgeous overwater bungalows at some of the lowest prices. These beautiful overwater villas offer complete paradise. For anyone seeking the ultimate, serene getaway, overwater bungalows offer the ideal location.
Malaysia has over 100 parks to explore, and hundreds of islands to visit. The resorts offer a range of facilities and have world-renowned 5-star dive resorts.
You will find some of the most beautiful gem-like waters surrounding gorgeous islands and beautiful landscapes. These overwater resorts in Malaysia are every bit as impressive as their peers in the Maldives. Follow the salty waters, and get your Malaysia travel guide ready for a trip to this spectacular country.
I adore your description of the hotel’s air-conditioned rooms with balconies and sea views. It’s wonderful for amorous couples as well as families. I want to take my husband on a vacation for our anniversary. I’ll look for hotel beachfront balconies with sea views that are appropriate for us as passionate couples.