Waking up to the view from a seaside suite or a cruise cabin in the middle of the ocean is pretty impressive—but underwater hotel rooms and suites take things to a whole new level. In fact, underwater hotels might be one of the coolest amenities for adults and little ones alike. Who wouldn’t like to be able to get a close-up view of coral reefs, rays, and tropical fish—without having to breathe from a tank?
Whether you’re interested in planning your own underwater excursion or you’re keen to see the sheer architectural feat of a hotel under the sea, you’ll want to read on. We’re taking you to some of the coolest underwater hotels on the planet, from the Atlantis the Palm in Dubai to the Reefsuites in Australia and beyond.
The Atlantis the Palm
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
The Los Chambers Aquarium at the Atlantis the Palm in Dubai is home to some 65,000 marine animals. The resort’s underwater suites provide a front row seat to their activities. Floor-to-ceiling glass gives guests an unfettered view of the 30-foot-deep Ambassador Lagoon, which holds many kinds of sharks, rays, and fish. Unlike many other underwater hotel rooms, the Atlantis suite offers a mix of aquarium and above ground views so you’ll still manage to get a glimmer of natural light. www.atlantis.com
The Hilton Conrad Rangali Island Resort
Maldives
The Maldives has become known for its lavish above water suites and villas—but the Hilton Conrad Rangali Island Resort allows guests to get even closer to its marine life thanks to its two-level Muraka suite. The exclusive underwater suite offers an above-ground sitting area and lounge and a fully acrylic bedroom 16 feet the seas, allowing you to literally submerge yourself in the scenery. conradmaldives.com
Resort World Sentosa
Singapore
The Resort World Sentosa offers visitors the chance to spend the night getting cozy with over 40,000 different species of marine life. The property boasts a total of 11 two-story townhouse-style suites that include incredible views of the world’s largest aquarium, an outdoor patio and Jacuzzi, and even personal butler service. rwsentosa.com
Jules Undersea Lodge
Key Largo, Florida
Jules Undersea Lodge is the only underwater hotel in the United States—and one of the most adventure-driven options on the list. The former underwater research habitat is tucked 30 feet into the sea, and the only way to access the room is by scuba diving (guests must be at least 12 years old). Despite that, the lodge is equipped with WiFi and overnight guests can even order pizza to their “room.” jul.com
The Reefsuites
Queensland, Australia
The Reefsuites is the first of its kind to offer overnight stays over the Great Barrier Reef, one of the seven wonders of the natural world. The below-deck accommodations are in a pontoon moored at Hardy Reef, and offer wall-to-wall and floor windows that look out into the ocean. There are also unforgettable add-ons like snorkel packages, submarine tours, and other unique ocean experiences. www.queensland.com
The InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland
Shanghai, China
Built on an abandoned quarry just outside of the Shanghai city center, the InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland features an abundance of underwater activities that range from fully submerged rooms and suites to underwater restaurants and swimming pools. The property also has a selection of above-ground rooms that offer expansive views of the waterfall and surrounding quarry. ihg.com
The Manta Resort
Pemba Island, Tanzania
The Underwater Room at the Manta Resort in Pemba Island is more like a private floating resort than a hotel suite. The three-story floating hotel is a sight to behold, offering views of sparkling turquoise waters and coral reefs, underground bedrooms, and even a rooftop deck for when you’re ready to relax and soak up the sun. themantaresort.com
Utter Inn Hotel
Västerås, Sweden
