When you think of the Maldives, images of turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and luxury overwater bungalows probably come to mind. This stunning Indian Ocean paradise is often associated with high-end, ultra-luxurious resorts catering to celebrities and honeymooners. But what if we told you that experiencing this dream destination doesn’t have to break the bank?
Yes, affordable overwater bungalows in the Maldives do exist. With the right planning and savvy picks, you can indulge in iconic water villas, glass-bottom floors, and endless ocean views — all without spending a fortune.
In this 2025 guide, we’ve rounded up the best affordable overwater bungalows in the Maldives, offering the perfect mix of value, comfort, and stunning settings. Whether you’re a budget-conscious honeymooner or a solo traveler chasing the dream, this list will help you experience paradise at a fraction of the typical cost.
Why Choose Overwater Bungalows in the Maldives?
The Maldives is made up of 1,200+ coral islands grouped into 26 atolls, many of which feature private island resorts. What makes the Maldives especially unique is its abundance of overwater villas — accommodations perched directly above the sea, often with ladders leading right into the warm Indian Ocean.
Staying in an overwater bungalow means waking up to ocean sunrises, snorkeling from your deck, and basking in the privacy of a floating haven. But it also usually means luxury price tags. Thankfully, with new resorts, competition, and evolving travel trends, budget-friendly overwater stays have become increasingly accessible.
How to Score Affordable Overwater Bungalows
Before diving into the resort recommendations, here are a few tips to help you secure the best deals:
Travel in the shoulder season: May to October is considered the Maldives’ low season. Prices are lower, and many resorts offer special discounts.
Book early or last-minute: Depending on availability, booking months in advance or grabbing a last-minute deal can help you save.
Opt for full-board or all-inclusive packages: Meals and transfers can get pricey — packages that include these often offer better overall value.
Look for flight-inclusive deals: Some travel agencies and platforms offer bundled packages with flights from major cities, making them cost-effective.
Join loyalty programs: Hotel chains like Marriott and Hilton offer excellent perks through their membership programs.
How to Score Affordable Overwater Bungalows
Before diving into the resort recommendations, here are a few tips to help you secure the best deals:
Travel in the shoulder season: May to October is considered the Maldives’ low season. Prices are lower, and many resorts offer special discounts.
Book early or last-minute: Depending on availability, booking months in advance or grabbing a last-minute deal can help you save.
Opt for full-board or all-inclusive packages: Meals and transfers can get pricey — packages that include these often offer better overall value.
Look for flight-inclusive deals: Some travel agencies and platforms offer bundled packages with flights from major cities, making them cost-effective.
Join loyalty programs: Hotel chains like Marriott and Hilton offer excellent perks through their membership programs.
The 10 Best Affordable Overwater Bungalows in the Maldives (2025)
Here are our top picks for budget-conscious travelers seeking the magic of an overwater experience without the luxury price tag:
1. Reethi Faru Resort – Raa Atoll
Starting from: $275/night
Meal Plan: Bed & breakfast or full-board options
Transfer: 45-minute seaplane or domestic flight + speedboat
Reethi Faru offers an exceptional blend of value and beauty. The Water Villas come with ocean-facing decks and direct lagoon access. The coral reef just off the villa is perfect for snorkeling.
Why it’s affordable: Independent ownership and flexible meal plans keep costs down while maintaining excellent service.
2. Sun Siyam Olhuveli – South Malé Atoll
Starting from: $320/night
Meal Plan: All-inclusive deals available
Transfer: 45-minute speedboat from Malé
Sun Siyam Olhuveli is often mentioned among the most value-packed resorts in the Maldives. Their Deluxe Water Villas are spacious and modern, offering private terraces and direct ocean access.
Perks: Multiple dining venues, three pools, and a house reef ideal for snorkeling and diving.
3. Adaaran Club Rannalhi – South Malé Atoll
Starting from: $260/night
Meal Plan: All-inclusive
Transfer: 45-minute speedboat
If you’re seeking one of the cheapest overwater bungalows in the Maldives, this is a strong contender. While the villas are a bit smaller than luxury counterparts, they still offer crystal-clear views and ocean steps.
What to love: Amazing value with meals and drinks included, plus close proximity to Malé for shorter transfers.
4. Fihalhohi Island Resort – South Malé Atoll
Starting from: $290/night
Meal Plan: Half-board or full-board
Transfer: 45-minute speedboat
This charming island resort features cozy overwater bungalows with traditional Maldivian decor and sweeping sea views. It’s great for couples who want a quiet getaway.
Pro tip: Book directly through their website for additional discounts or upgrades.
5. Embudu Village – South Malé Atoll
Starting from: $250/night
Meal Plan: Full-board included
Transfer: 20-minute speedboat
Embudu is one of the closest resorts to Malé, which drastically reduces transfer costs. Their overwater rooms are basic but offer authentic charm and unbeatable snorkeling.
Ideal for: Travelers looking for peace, a great house reef, and close proximity to the airport.
6. Thulhagiri Island Resort – North Malé Atoll
Starting from: $270/night
Meal Plan: Half or full-board
Transfer: 25-minute speedboat
Set on a small, secluded island, Thulhagiri’s overwater rooms offer privacy and prime marine life viewing. It’s perfect for romantic escapes without a lavish price tag.
What’s special: Resident turtles often swim beneath the villas — a favorite for wildlife lovers.
7. Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma – South Malé Atoll (IHG)
Starting from: $350/night (with IHG points discounts)
Meal Plan: Optional full-board
Transfer: 40-minute speedboat
As part of the IHG family, Kandooma often offers promotions and points deals. Their overwater bungalows are contemporary, with indoor and outdoor showers, and spectacular sunrise views.
Tip: Book using IHG Rewards points to slash prices further.
8. Biyadhoo Island Resort – South Malé Atoll
Starting from: $220/night (Beach villas with water access; overwater optional upgrade)
Meal Plan: Full-board
Transfer: 40-minute speedboat
While not entirely overwater-focused, Biyadhoo offers affordable upgrades to water-facing suites. It’s a good compromise for those looking to split time between land and sea.
Standout feature: House reef is considered one of the best in the Maldives.
9. Villa Park (formerly Sun Island Resort) – South Ari Atoll
Starting from: $280/night
Meal Plan: Half or full-board
Transfer: Domestic flight + boat
A sprawling resort with multiple restaurants, activities, and overwater accommodations, Villa Park is a value-packed destination in the stunning South Ari Atoll.
Why it’s great for longer stays: The variety of food and excursions keep things exciting.
10. Equator Village – Addu Atoll (Unique Southern Experience)
Starting from: $180–$220/night
Meal Plan: All-inclusive
Transfer: Domestic flight
While Equator Village doesn’t offer traditional overwater bungalows, they have lagoon-facing villas on stilts that offer similar vibes at unmatched prices.
Best for: Adventurous travelers who want an off-the-beaten-path Maldivian experience in the far south.
Bonus: How to Make Your Stay Even More Affordable
Use points and miles: Programs like Marriott Bonvoy, Hilton Honors, and IHG Rewards can unlock huge savings. Many of these resorts allow points bookings or offer discounted rates for members.
Travel with a friend: Splitting the room cost in double occupancy can bring the per-person price down significantly.
Skip alcohol packages: Drinks are often the most expensive part of all-inclusive packages. If you don’t drink much, it’s often cheaper to go with half-board and buy beverages à la carte.
Bring your own snorkel gear: Some resorts charge rental fees. Bringing your own can save you money and let you explore whenever you want.
In Other Words: Affordable Overwater Luxury Is Possible
There’s no need to drain your savings to enjoy a bucket-list trip to the Maldives. These best affordable overwater bungalows in the Maldives prove that with the right strategy, you can wake up to the sound of lapping waves, watch sunsets over the horizon, and dip straight into the ocean — all while staying within budget.
Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a solo digital detox, or a celebration with friends, these budget-friendly resorts deliver the postcard-worthy experience you’ve been dreaming of — for a fraction of the cost.