After spending three incredible days in the Park Hyatt Maldives Beach Pool Villa, my wife and I finally moved to the most iconic accommodation at the hotel: the Overwater Sunset Pool Villa.

This was the moment we had been waiting for.

When people imagine a trip to the Maldives, this is the experience they dream about. A private villa perched above the turquoise waters, a plunge pool overlooking the endless Indian Ocean, and complete seclusion in one of the most beautiful destinations in the world.

Booking this villa was a major splurge for us. We had spent over a year saving up to make the most of our time in the Maldives, and we wanted to experience something truly unforgettable.

The idea of waking up to the sound of gentle waves, swimming in crystal-clear waters right from our deck, and watching breathtaking sunsets from our private pool made this upgrade impossible to resist.

Looking back, I can confidently say this villa exceeded all expectations. From the luxurious design to the unbeatable views, every moment felt like a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

In this review, I will break down everything you need to know about the Overwater Sunset Pool Villa, including what makes it special, whether it is worth the upgrade from a standard overwater villa, and why I am already planning my return.

Credit. Hunter Threadgill. Park Hyatt Maldives Overwater Sunset Villa Dock.

How To Book The Overwater Sunset Pool Villa

Before diving into the full review, I want to explain how I book this stay. As I mention in an earlier post, booking an overwater villa at the Park Hyatt Maldives requires more than just World of Hyatt points.

Unlike some other luxury Hyatt properties, I cannot use points alone to secure an overwater villa – I need to pay a cash upgrade.

Upgrade Cost Breakdown

To maximize my stay, I use World of Hyatt points and pay a cash upgrade rather than booking entirely with cash. Here is what the pricing looks like for various upgrades at the time of my booking:

• Beach Pool Villa: $319.00 per night
• Overwater Villa (No Pool): $701.80 per night
• Overwater Sunset Pool Villa: $1,020.80 per night
• Deluxe Beach Pool Villa: $1,212.20 per night
• Two-Bedroom Beach Pool Villa: $1,786.40 per night

I originally book a Beach Pool Villa using 35,000 Hyatt points per night and then pay an additional $1,020.80 per night to upgrade to the Overwater Sunset Pool Villa. While this is a significant expense, it is still far more affordable than paying the full cash rate.

For those planning a trip to the Park Hyatt Maldives, this hybrid approach – redeeming points and paying for an upgrade – offers an incredible way to experience an overwater villa at a fraction of the full price.

The Park Hyatt Maldives Overwater Sunset Pool Villa

For this stay, I am in Villa 46, one of the Overwater Sunset Pool Villas. These villas sit the farthest from the main island, offering incredible privacy and uninterrupted ocean views.

Credit. Hunter Threadgill. Park Hyatt Maldives Overwater Sunset Villa 46.

Despite the distance, getting to the main island is easy. It is just a short walk along the wooden boardwalk, and if I ever need a ride, a quick call to the front desk sends a golf cart my way.

Arrival And Transfer

On the day of my transfer, I have my bags packed and ready to go. My host, Shahum, picks me up in a golf cart and drives me to my new villa, while my luggage follows separately, arriving just a few minutes later.

As I ride along the boardwalk leading to the overwater villas, I cannot help but admire how long and impressive it is. The fact that they have managed to build these villas over the water amazes me.

Villa Entrance And Layout

Each overwater villa has the same entrance design. The entrance sits at the back right side of the villa, away from the sunset-facing deck.

Credit. Hunter Threadgill. Park Hyatt Maldives Overwater Sunset Villa Entrance.

Unlike traditional hotel rooms, these villas do not use key cards. Instead, they feature old-fashioned physical keys, which adds to the secluded and exclusive feel of the stay.

Credit. Hunter Threadgill. Park Hyatt Maldives Overwater Sunset Villa Key.

When I open the door, I step directly into the main living space, with the bathroom located to my right. In the sections below, I will break down each area, starting with the bedroom, then the bathroom, and finally, the outdoor deck – the highlight of the villa.

Overwater Sunset Pool Villa: Bedroom And Living Space

As I step inside Villa 46, I immediately notice the familiar layout, but this space feels even more open and luxurious than the Beach Pool Villa.

The king-sized bed takes center stage, and a sleek built-in cabinet doubles as both a desk and storage area. Floor-to-ceiling windows showcase breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean, and sliding doors lead out to the private deck and plunge pool.

While the overall design mirrors that of the Beach Pool Villa, this villa includes a seating area with a couch and coffee table, adding an extra touch of comfort. The stunning overwater setting and thoughtful design make this space feel like the ultimate Maldivian retreat.

The Bedroom

The king-sized bed dominates the room, positioned perfectly to take in the view of the ocean through the massive glass doors.

Credit. Hunter Threadgill. Park Hyatt Maldives Overwater Sunset Villa Bedroom.

Each side of the bed features a nightstand with USB and electric outlets, making it easy to charge my devices. The right-side nightstand holds the “Island Time” clock, which is set an hour ahead of the time in Male – helpful, since my phone does not update automatically.

Above the bed, a ceiling fan works alongside the air conditioning to keep the room cool. In the afternoon, I slide the blackout doors across the windows, creating both a dark space perfect for a relaxing nap and to help keep the space cool as the hot sun bears down on the space.

The Living Space

Behind the bed, a long built-in cabinet serves as both a desk and storage unit, running the length of the room.

On the left side, I find a coffee maker, bottles of still and sparkling water, and a minibar stocked with sodas, liquor, and snacks.

The Park Hyatt Maldives bottles its own water in reusable glass bottles, which are refilled twice a day – so I never worry about staying hydrated.

At the center of the desk, there is a workspace with a notepad, a pen, and a phone for room service requests. A handwritten welcome note from the General Manager sits here, a thoughtful touch that makes the experience feel even more personal.

In the corner, I find a relaxing chair with an ottoman and side table where I am able to sit down and read a book while dreamily looking out over the water.

Credit. Hunter Threadgill. Park Hyatt Maldives Overwater Sunset Villa View From Bed And Sitting Chair.

Facing the bed, a television is mounted near the sliding doors. Most of the channels are Middle Eastern, with a handful of Western options. Since navigating the TV is frustrating, my wife and I decide to stream shows on our tablets instead.

Thankfully, the Wi-Fi is fast, allowing us to stream Netflix and listen to Spotify without interruption.

Overwater Sunset Pool Villa: Bathroom

The bathroom entrance sits to the right of the front door, leading into a short hallway with a unique feature – an opening near the floor that allows me to look straight down into the clear water below.

Watching fish swim beneath the villa as I walk by is a small but incredible detail that makes this space feel even more special.

Inside, the bathroom is spacious and well-designed, with plenty of towel hooks throughout the space. Every section of the bathroom feels carefully thought out, making it both functional and luxurious.

Bathtub And Shower

On the left side of the bathroom, a large soaking bathtub sits beneath a set of windows with adjustable privacy blinds. While filling the tub takes nearly an hour, the setting is undeniably beautiful, making it the perfect place to unwind.

Credit. Hunter Threadgill. Park Hyatt Maldives Overwater Sunset Villa Bathtub.

A small drying rack nearby holds four towels, and a remote control adjusts the shades.

To the right of the bathtub, I find a massive walk-in shower with a beautiful skylight. During the day, natural light floods the space, and at night, I can shower with a view under the stars – one of my favorite details.

The shower features both a rainfall shower head and a handheld nozzle, offering a luxurious experience. Cleaning products are in bulk containers, but filled with luxury eco-conscious products, demonstrating a fantastic sense of place.

Credit. Hunter Threadgill. Park Hyatt Maldives Overwater Sunset Villa Shower.

Closets And Vanity

Directly across from the entrance to the bathroom, three spacious closets provide more than enough storage. Unlike the Beach Pool Villa, this villa does not have a luggage rack, but the ample closet space more than makes up for it.

Credit. Hunter Threadgill. Park Hyatt Maldives Overwater Sunset Villa Closet.

Running along the far side of the bathroom, his and hers sinks sit beneath a large mirror. The amenities here are identical to those in the Beach Pool Villa, providing all the essentials needed for a comfortable stay.

Credit. Hunter Threadgill. Park Hyatt Maldives Overwater Sunset Villa Sinks.

To the right of the entrance, tucked behind a partial wall, is the toilet area. Like the shower, it features a skylight, allowing natural light to brighten the space.

Overwater Sunset Pool Villa: Outdoor Space

Stepping outside through the sliding glass doors, I find myself in the stunning outdoor space of the villa, complete with a private plunge pool, a shaded lounging area, and direct ocean access. This is the most exciting part of my accommodations.

Credit. Hunter Threadgill. Park Hyatt Maldives Overwater Sunset Villa View From The Deck.

The villa has two outdoor exits, one near the bedroom and another closer to the bathroom. I primarily use the door near the bathroom so I do not have to leave the sliding glass doors open all the time.

Layout And Seating Area

Starting from the farthest end of the deck, I find a small wicker table with two chairs tucked into the corner. Since the table is lightweight, I move it closer to the pool to hold water bottles and a tripod for capturing selfies in the pool.

Credit. Hunter Threadgill. Park Hyatt Maldives Overwater Sunset Villa Table And Chairs.

Credit. Hunter Threadgill. Park Hyatt Maldives Overwater Sunset Villa Pool And Ocean View.

A privacy wall and a row of lush greenery separate this seating area from the view of the ocean, where people are snorkeling. I appreciate this added touch, as it makes the villa feel even more exclusive and secluded.

Private Pool And Lounging Area

The plunge pool is about three feet deep and maintains a perfect temperature throughout my stay. At night, the built-in pool lights create a beautiful ambiance, making it an ideal spot for stargazing.

Credit. Hunter Threadgill. Park Hyatt Maldives Overwater Sunset Villa Plunge Pool And Lounge Chairs.

On the right side of the pool, an in-water ledge holds two plastic loungers. These loungers are not attached to the pool, so they can be moved around, but they do slide easily.

As a larger person, I have to be careful when sitting on them to avoid shifting unexpectedly. That said, they are extremely comfortable – perfect for reading or simply soaking in the view.

To the right of the pool, I find a large cushioned lounger under a wooden pergola. Unlike standard pool loungers, this is a single oversized lounger with adjustable sides, so one person can lay flat while the other sits upright.

The pergola provides ample shade, making it much easier to relax outside during the day without being directly under the sun.

Ocean Access

One of the best features of this villa is the direct access to the Indian Ocean. A small wooden gate separates the pool deck from the stairs leading down to the water.

Credit. Hunter Threadgill. Park Hyatt Maldives Overwater Sunset Villa Ladder Entrance To Ocean.

The gate locks from the inside, so I make sure to secure it before bed – otherwise, the wind causes it to bang against the fence, which can be annoying at night.

Descending a few steps, I reach the sturdy metal ladder that leads into the ocean. The ladder is quite tall, so guests with limited mobility may find it difficult to use. However, even in windy conditions with waves, it remains solid and does not sway.

The bottom rung sits just 1.5 to 2 feet (0.5 meters) above the ocean floor, so I never feel like I am jumping into deep, unpredictable water.

Note: Jumping into the water from the deck is incredibly dangerous and is not allowed. The ocean here is relatively shallow, with coral formations scattered throughout.

Privacy Considerations

While this villa offers incredible views and direct water access, it is not as private as the Beach Pool Villa.

Other guests passing by on the boardwalk can see parts of the deck, and anyone swimming in the ocean may catch a glimpse as well.

That said, with only 53 villas on the entire island, I still feel a strong sense of seclusion. The design and layout of the villa ensure that I can fully enjoy my outdoor space without feeling exposed.

Tips For The Sunset Overwater Pool Villa

While my stay in the Sunset Overwater Pool Villa is unforgettable, I pick up a few tips along the way that can help make the experience even better.

Keep The Shades Drawn In The Afternoon

One of the first things my host, Shahum, tells me upon arrival is to keep the window shades drawn during the afternoon to prevent the villa from overheating.

The afternoon sun shines directly into the villa, and while the air conditioning and ceiling fan do a good job, the space can still get uncomfortably warm if the shades remain open.

I find that keeping the shades closed from around 11 AM until sunset helps maintain a comfortable temperature. I can still wake up to soft natural light in the morning and enjoy the ocean views outside of peak sun hours without sacrificing comfort.

Unlocking The Front Door In Strong Winds

Since the wind blows across the island toward the overwater villas, it constantly pushes against the front door. This makes unlocking the villa a bit tricky at first.

I quickly learn that the best way to unlock the door is to pull it toward me while turning the key. This counteracts the pressure from the wind and allows the door to open easily.

Finding The Best Time To Swim

The ocean beneath the villa is relatively shallow, and getting over the coral can be challenging during low tide. Since touching or stepping on the coral is not an option, I want to find the easiest path to deeper water.

Credit. Hunter Threadgill. Park Hyatt Maldives Overwater Sunset Villa Ocean View From The Deck.

I discover that the best time to go snorkeling or swimming is right after breakfast, when the tide is at its highest. On my first swim, I make sure to look for a clear path to deeper water through the coral.

Once I find a good route, I use it consistently throughout my stay to avoid disturbing the reef.

Each villa is labeled with its number on the ocean side of the structure, making it easy to find my way back after a snorkeling session.

Enhancing The Atmosphere With Music

Inside the villa, there is an A/V receiver that theoretically connects to the outdoor speakers, but I never try using it. Instead, I bring a small waterproof Bluetooth speaker and quietly play relaxing music while lounging on the deck.

The soft sounds of instrumental music, the ocean breeze, and the gentle lapping of waves create an incredibly peaceful atmosphere.

These small adjustments make my stay in the Sunset Overwater Pool Villa even more enjoyable, allowing me to fully relax and appreciate this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Is The Upgrade Worth The Cost?

As I mention in the introduction, there is an approximately $300 per night price difference between the Overwater Villa (No Pool) and the Sunset Overwater Pool Villa.

The big question is: Is the upgrade worth it?

For me, the answer is a resounding YES, and here are the two main reasons why.

The Private Pool Adds A New Level Of Comfort

Since the coral reef surrounding the villas is protected, there are limited times of the day when getting into the ocean is possible without disturbing the ecosystem. The private plunge pool provides a perfect alternative, allowing me to cool off, relax, and enjoy the water at any time.

Additionally, night swimming in the pool is a highlight of my stay. While I could technically swim in the ocean at night, I do not think it is the safest option.

Having a well-lit, temperature-controlled pool right on my deck makes all the difference.

The Pergola Provides Essential Shade

One of the biggest differences between the base Overwater Villa and the Sunset Overwater Pool Villa is the pergola. The standard overwater villas do not have any shade over their decks, which means the intense afternoon sun can make the outdoor space unbearably hot.

The pergola on the Sunset Overwater Pool Villa provides essential relief, allowing me to spend more time outside without worrying about overheating or sunburn. It creates a comfortable, shaded area, making the deck much more usable throughout the day.

Final Thoughts

Staying in the Sunset Overwater Pool Villa at the Park Hyatt Maldives is truly an unforgettable experience. From the breathtaking ocean views to the luxurious private plunge pool, every detail of this villa makes it feel like a once-in-a-lifetime getaway.

The private pool adds a level of convenience and relaxation that a standard overwater villa simply does not offer. Whether I am drinking a coffee in the morning, cooling off in the afternoon, taking a peaceful night swim, or just enjoying the scenery from the water, it enhances the entire experience.

Credit. Hunter Threadgill. Park Hyatt Maldives Overwater Sunset Villa Coffee In The Morning.

The pergola is another major highlight, providing much-needed shade and making the outdoor space far more enjoyable throughout the day.

While the $300 per night price difference between the Overwater Villa and the Sunset Overwater Pool Villa may seem steep, I believe the upgrade is absolutely worth it.

The additional comfort, privacy, and flexibility make a significant impact on my stay. If I am traveling all the way to the Maldives for a bucket-list trip, I want to make the most of every moment – and this villa does exactly that.

For those planning a visit to the Park Hyatt Maldives, I highly recommend booking the Sunset Overwater Pool Villa.

It takes an already incredible stay to the next level, creating a truly luxurious and unforgettable escape in one of the most beautiful destinations in the world.

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Hunter Threadgill