The hype
The bungalows are visually stunning and the butler service makes you feel like royalty, but the price sets an impossibly high bar that maintenance sometimes misses.
Palafitos Overwater Bungalows At El Dorado Maroma
$1,500-2,500/ night
Book this if You want the bucket-list 'Maldives' overwater experience without the 20-hour flight or jet lag.
Why People Love It
- Glass-bottom floors in every bungalow (even the toilet)
- Private infinity plunge pools on every deck
- Exclusive access to the Overwater Grill & Wine Bar
Quick Take: It’s the closest you’ll get to Bora Bora in North America, but you're paying a premium for the novelty rather than absolute perfection.
Reviewed by @jessicatakesflight: Staying in these overwater bungalows was a dream. Waking up to the ocean under my glass floor and ordering coffee via the app made this the most relaxing trip I've ever taken. It’s pricey, but the all-inclusive gourmet food and butler service are 100% worth it.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The '24/7 butler' service is hit-or-miss; some guests rave about WhatsApp responsiveness, while others find it slower than just walking to the bar yourself.
- You are on a honeymoon or anniversary and want zero children around
- You love the idea of waking up and jumping directly into the ocean from your room
- You want all-inclusive convenience with high-end dining options
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8.8
- Housekeeping: Twice daily service (cleaning + turndown). Generally thorough, though sand is a constant battle.
- Bathroom hygiene: Sparkling. Jacuzzis are well-maintained, though some guests note the lighting makes it hard to spot details.
- Maintenance: Good, but the harsh salt environment takes a toll. Expect minor rust on exterior fixtures or weathered wood.
- Linens & towels: High quality, plush, and plentiful. Beach towels are replaced constantly by the butler.
- Odors & scents: Fresh ocean breeze mostly, but occasional sulfur/seaweed smell depending on the wind and season.
Sleepability™
7MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Plunge pool filtration systems gurgling at night
- Music from the main walkway speakers drifting into rooms
- Golf carts rumbling down the wooden pier
Before you book
Good to know
- You have full access to the main El Dorado Maroma resort amenities and restaurants
- Room service menu can be limited compared to the main restaurants
- The 'Aguas del Amor' outdoor shower is romantic but visible from the walkway in some standard units
What to pack
- Biodegradable sunscreen (strictly enforced to protect marine life)
- Water shoes (ladder rungs can be slippery and sea floor is natural/rocky)
- Bug spray (mosquitoes and sand fleas are active at dusk)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Elite Bungalows (end of the pier) for unobstructed ocean views and actual privacy
- Bungalows on the 'sunrise' side if you're an early riser and want calmer water
Rooms to avoid
- Standard Bungalows near the beach (often have obstructed views and more seaweed buildup)
- Rooms directly facing the main resort beach (less privacy from beachgoers)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am celebrating a special occasion and requesting an Elite Bungalow at the very end of the pier for maximum privacy. Please avoid units closest to the shore or main walkway to minimize noise and foot traffic.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the water clear enough to see fish through the glass floor?
Yes, usually. You'll see small fish, but don't expect a massive coral reef ecosystem directly under your bed.
Can I swim directly from my bungalow?
Yes, every bungalow has a ladder. However, check the current and depth before jumping; it can be shallow at low tide.
Is the food at the Overwater Grill included?
Yes, it is exclusive to Palafitos guests and included in your rate, unlike for guests at the main resort who pay extra.
Are there hidden fees?
There is a small environmental sanitation tax (~$2-4 USD/night) payable at check-in.
How private are the decks?
Not very, unless you book an Elite bungalow. Standard decks often have sightlines to neighbors or the pier.
Is it adults only?
Strictly yes. You must be 18+ to stay here.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Book the 'romantic dinner' on your deck early; slots fill up fast.
- ✨
Use the main resort's beach for swimming if the water under your bungalow is choppy or has seaweed.
- ✨
The 'butler' is best reached via WhatsApp; save their number immediately upon arrival.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'glass floor' in the toilet area is a quirky (and slightly weird) feature.
💡Plunge pools can be noisy if the water level drops and the pump starts sucking air.
💡The wooden pier amplifies the sound of golf carts and footsteps, which can be heard in the room.
💡Lighting in the bathroom and dressing area is often criticized as too dim for getting ready.
💡You might smell the seaweed (sargassum) if you are in a bungalow closer to the shore during the summer months.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Palafitos Overwater Bungalows At El Dorado Maroma is located and what's nearby.