Overwater villas are the defining accommodation type in the Maldives. They sit on stilts above the lagoon and are accessed via a wooden jetty.
Common layouts
- Standard overwater: 80–110 sqm, sundeck, ladder access to the water.
- Overwater with pool: adds a private plunge or infinity pool on the deck.
- Two-bedroom & family overwater: 200+ sqm, two bedrooms, often two bathrooms.
What to ask before booking
- Lagoon depth at low tide — affects swimming directly from the deck.
- Sunrise vs sunset orientation.
- Distance from the main island and dining venues.
- Glass floor placement and size.