Experience Life Under the Sea: 10 of the Best Underwater Hotels in the World
Planet Ocean Underwater Resort, Florida
As well as the modestly sized Jules’ Undersea Lodge, Florida is the site of another underwater hotel that might blow all of the others out of the water — if it is ever completed. Planet Ocean Underwater Hotel in Key West, Florida, is a building that is actually classed as a vessel and when complete will take a place in history as the world’s first movable underwater resort.
An exact location for the hotel hasn’t yet been chosen. As it will be able to navigate waters, it might end up roaming around the ocean floor.
To do justice to the impressive technology involved in the hotel, the interiors will be kitted out with every luxury. Each of the 12 “aqua pods” will feature amenities worthy of any 5-star resort. The project — perhaps the most ambitious underwater construction to date — is still under construction, but is reported to have cost more than $18,000,000 USD so far.
Despite there being no completion date in sight, Planet Ocean Underwater Resort is accepting deposits for bookings, according to their website. The price for a 1-night, all-inclusive stay is $3,000 USD.
Manta Resort, Pemba Island, Tanzania
The Manta Resort features several rooms out of the water, set on the luscious sandy beaches of Pemba, an island just north of Zanzibar. This is a deliciously remote island escape, and any room in the resort is a treat to sleep in. The most famous suite, though, is the floating island tethered just off the coast, complete with an underwater bedroom.
The floating structure has three levels. At sea level are a lounge area and bathroom. Climb up a ladder and you’ll find yourself on the roof, which is an additional sun lounging or stargazing spot. Down below, of course, is the bedroom with 360-degree views of the surrounding tropical waters. You’ll have front-row seats to an underwater world — shoals of colorful reef fish flit right past the windows.
Whether sunbathing on the top deck or sleeping with the fishes down below, spending time here is an immersive experience. Staying here for one night will set you back $1,700 USD.
These Kauai helicopter tours will fly you over (and sometimes land you next to) the most remote and beautiful sights the island has to offer.
Conrad Rangali Island, Maldives
As well as the overwater bungalows that the Maldives is famous for, resorts in this island paradise are branching out into underwater hotels as well. There is the underwater restaurant and world’s only underwater wine cellar at Anantara Kihava, and the underwater spa at Huvafen Fushi Maldives, where visitors can enjoy a relaxing massage in the blue glow from windows looking directly into the water.
However, the most enticing underwater hotel option in the Maldives is found at Conrad Rangali Island.
Conrad Rangali Island is one of the best hotels in the world full stop, but it also features an underwater restaurant which makes it even more alluring. The Ithaa Undersea Restaurant is a fine dining experience like no other. This is the world’s first undersea restaurant, 16 feet below the surface with panoramic views of coral gardens.
The menu and wine list are superb. There are only seven tables, so if you want a spot you’ll need to book weeks in advance.
The space can be reserved for private dining or special occasions such as weddings. And if you’re willing to shell out a little more than $11,000 USD, the hotel can convert the dining area into a bedroom for two for one night.
