50 Best Places to Stay in India with Stunning Water Facing Views

A good waterfront view makes your stay at a retreat worthwhile, a great one however, makes you want to remain there forever. We present to you fifty such spectacular sights that simply take your breath away and transport you to another world.

Get entranced by sparkling turquoise waters, mountains that appear to be melting into the lakes, roaring waves that hit the bottom of a cliff and a lot more…

1. Leela, Kovalam Beach Resort…living on the edge

Perched on the edge of the cliff with roaring waves hitting the shores below, Leela Kovalam Beach Resort’s view in undoubtedly a sight to behold. Just imagine, taking your morning sip of your coffee in the beach facing room, soaking in the sunlight seeping through your window while you see the azure sky on top, the blue Arabian sea waters below amalgamated with the greens of the swaying trees on land.

In the night too, you hear the sweet sounds of the water and get an equally alluring vision.

 2. SwaSwara, Gokarna …experience zen

It is difficult to put the magnificence of this place into words. For nature here beautifully intertwines with the living spaces offering a zen like aurora. Hidden away and embraced by dense mushroom of trees on three sides, and fringing upon the calm waterscape surrounded by land are the rustic villas that often cast their brown reflection on the water.

Gokarna is also known as a spiritual retreat and the ideal way to experience this is by meditating on top of the olive hued hill overlooking the sparkling waters of the beach.

3. Oceans Spray…get captivated

A man built environment can seldom match the beauty of nature. Oceans Spray in Pondicherry however, is an exception to this fact. Formed around a man-made lake and spread across five acres of land, this resort is quite a sight.

Making this land exquisite are the differently adorned circular patches connected with a small bridge. Get captivated by towering palm trees, green velvety grass, and a bright blue swimming pool overlooking the lake.

4. Mayfair Palm beach Resort,  Gopalpur on Sea…a vision of sunrise and sunset

Located on the Bay of Bengal, Mayfair Palm Beach Resort, Orissa is a paradise of sorts. The hundred old place offers an old warm charm along with the new. Opt for the rooms with sea facing balconies.

It is from here that you get to watch the splendour of the Gopalpur Sea through a beautiful stretch of garden along with swaying trees and plants. The resort has both sunrise and sunset points where you can watch the sun appear and disappear through picturesque sceneries.

5. Hotel Sea face, Kovalam…myriad hues

Hotel Sea face, Kovalam is a place where you get to witness various hues of nature. The greens of the palm trees, browns of the sand, blues of the water, black of the rocks along with the orange of the sun makes for a wonderful sight.

An ideal beach retreat, the hotel is located on the breezy Hava beach of Kovalam. The sit out area facing the sea gives you a sense of oneness with the waters. And to get a view from above, head to the sumptuous terrace restaurant.

 6. Camp Chhatra Sagar…witness the sights of nature

With Camp Chhatra Sagar in Pali-Marwar, Rajasthan, you get to witness the myriad breath-taking sights that nature provides. As you lay in your white tents, you get the uninterrupted view of the calm waters of the reservoir on one hand and the thick green jungle that stretches across miles on the other.

The tents on the hilltop too give you a great view of green slopes that appear to converge into the water. Do not miss out the sea of swans sauntering about on the waters during sunny days. For an unbridled view of nature in its rusticity, head to this place.

7. Sharoy Resort…a majestic view

The Sharoy Resort in Wayanand, Kerala is a perfect nature’s retreat. Tucked away in the regal Sayadri, you get the mesmerising views of the Western Ghats and the quiet waters of Banasura dam. That along with well-maintained gardens, vibrant flowers, betel nut trees and towering coconut trees add to the rustic feel. And yes, do not miss the fireflies in the night that bring about fiery sparks in the night.

8. Marbela Beach Resort….sand in my shoes

Bang on the beach, the tents of Marbela Beach resort gives you a sense of oneness with nature. You get a great view of the clear sands and water through the palm trees. The highlight of the place is the beach beds aesthetically covered with white cloth and dried leaves, giving it a royal and romantic feel.

It is from here that you get the best sight. While you lazily sit here and bask in your vacation, you get that tingling sensation of excitement when the blue waves come closer and closer to your feet as the high tide commences.

9. Fragrant Nature Resort…enchanting whiffs of nature

Just as the name suggests, this resort gives you the enchanting whiffs of nature. Fragrant Nature Resorts in Kollam district is almost a spiritual experience. The view full of greenery from tended lawns to arching trees overlooking the peaceful waters of Mala Lake and the lush land beyond makes for a reveling stay.

The best vision is by the canopy that lines the waters. It offers unmatched sight of the clear blue skies and the water below. The sights and the fragrances, sweet sounds of nature along with the birds chirping make for the complete experience.

10. Zuri White Sands Resort and Casino…holiday retreat  

Etched across the rather long beach of Varca in Goa is the Zuri White Sands Resort and Casino. It is here that you get to indulge in a waterfront retreat that spells holiday and relaxation. The views are best from the tents where you get the sight of pristine sands that line the glistening waters. A must is a candle light dinner at the beach. Adding to the holiday feel are the bright blue pools flanked by greenery.

 11. Paradise Isle Beach Resort

Situated bang on the Maple Beach in Karnataka is the luxurious Paradise Isle Beach Resort. Best views are from the restaurant and see facing rooms. From here you get to bask in the sun, sand and sea. During the day you can see the sun making the off-white sands and silver waters sparkle. In the night however the whole landscape of the sky and water get painted a deep blue.

12. Kumarakom Lake Resort…emerald green backwaters

Get enchanted by the emerald green backwaters of Lake Vembanad. Heralded as the longest lake in India, the sights offered here are one of a kind. Providing this very view is the Kumarakom Lake Resort that stretches across twenty five acres of verdant greenery. Adding to the plush experience are the quaint villas embraced by little bunches of shrubs. These shrubs also tether along the swimming pool that looks as if it is opening up to the distance beyond.

13. Cidade De Goa…expansive view of the beach

Resembling a Portuguese hill hamlet, and spread across forty acres of greenery, Cidade De Goa that is located at Vainguinem beach offers an expansive view of the seashore. The suites with their sea facing balconies especially provide the best views of the isolated azure waters along with the blue skies and swaying trees.

14. Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur…water, water everywhere

A floating image of splendour, Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur is a treat for the eyes. However, the main attraction of this place lies in not only its view but also the view that it provides. The palace is one thing. Along with it, you get to see a panoramic vision of Aravalli Mountains and the majestic city palaces of Udaipur.

Watch the sun receding into the mountains at sunset. Nights too are spectacular and almost dream-like with the bright lights of the hotel giving the waters a golden tinge, making it sparkle. Also twinkling, are the city houses far away on the land.

 15. Grand Hyatt, Goa…overlooking sparkling waters

Overlooking the sparkling waters of the Bambolim Bay is the majestic Grand Hyatt Hotel in Goa. This five star hotel stretches beautifully across twenty eight acres of landscape gardens that roll out like a carpet into the sea.

The subtlety of the cream and brown edifices contrasting with the hypnotic splendour of the nature add to the charm of the place. You can also take delight in the streams and pebbles on one side of the hotel.

16. JW Marriot, Mumbai…sight to behold

Situated at one of the prime localities in Mumbai, JW Marriot is a famous hub where businessmen, movie stars and others of their ilk meet and relax. While the front side overlooks the busy streets of Mumbai, it is the other side that offers a sight to behold.

The best view would undoubtedly be by the Lotus pond, a scenic water body of floating lotuses and leaves that is amidst landscaped gardens set right alongside the hotspot, Juhu beach.

 17. Radisson Blu Resort Temple Bay Mamallapuram …aesthetic landscapes

The Radisson Blu Temple Bay Beach Resort, Mamallapuram (Mahabalipuram) offers sights that will make your trip here worthwhile. It provides aesthetic landscapes of palm trees rising from blue lagoons, small isolated sliding roof shelters and a delightful tiny bridge.

It is from this resort that you also get a good view of the Shore Temple from the comfort of your balcony. And how can we forget, the spectacular vision of the inviting beach as well.

 18. The Leela Palace, Udaipur…experience grandiose

To experience grandiose and royalty, head to the Leela Palace, Udaipur. Standing tall on Lake Pichola and staying true to its five star roots, this hotel offers majestic views of the calm waters and verdant Aravalli Mountains.

This along with plush interiors and well-manicured gardens add to the royal aura. Spectacular are the nights at the alfresco Sheesh Mahal. While the restaurant glows in the lanterns and candle light, you can see the edifices on the opposite side twinkling too, casting a mesmerising reflection on the waters below.

19. Kenilworth Resort & Spa, Goa…tropical beauty

Right amidst the tropical beauty, Kenilworth Resort & Spa, Goa is a place to get pampered with great views. Giving a slight Victorian feel, the best views in this resort are provided by the sea facing rooms. Observe the tides rise and ebb through the cluster of palm trees. The dark blue swimming pool contrasted with the light blue of the sky along the rich green gardens are a sight in itself.

20. The World Backwaters, Thanneermukkom…of paddy fields and backwaters

Located on Vembanad Lake, The World Backwaters in Thanneermukkom makes a pretty picture. The vast stretch of green plantations and paddy fields here are refreshing to see. That, teamed up with the waters of the lake and backwater add to the allure. The ideal place to stay here are rooms with the lake facing view.

The vision is especially beautiful in the night. The heart shaped pool is flanked by patches of green grass and leaning palm trees. The border of the resort is set alive with yellow lights. This, along with the view of the waters below is quite a sight.

21. Turtle on the Beach, Kerala…art and water

Turtle on the Beach is an arty boutique hotel overseeing the splendid Eve’s Beach in Kovalam. Experience art and nature under one roof. Indulge in the fine combination of cluster of trees, myriad statues along with the expansive infinity pool that looks like it merges with the sky above.

The ideal place to be here is the ethereal longue that gives the view of the sea from a height. Do not be surprised if you see the eagles gliding majestically from your balcony. For those who are here on business, you can have the meeting at the Arabian Sea View Hall which as the name suggests, gives a breath-taking vision of the shining waters through verdant palm trees.

22. Ozran Heights Beach Resort…laze about

For an undisturbed and uncluttered view of the Small Vagator Beach, head to Ozran Heights Beach Resort. Concealed amongst hills and hillocks, it is here that you get a slightly elevated view of the turquoise waters. Infusing the air with tranquillity and adding to the whole charm are the slight slopes and bowing palm trees that open out to the sea.

With the perfectly mowed lawns, the night to offers a great view. Also, to experience of the senses of taste, sight and touch of the cool breeze together head out to the gazebo restaurant, Jaffran.

23. Punnamada Resort, Alleppey…canopy of beauty

Punnamada Resort, Alleppey undoubtedly provides great views of nature and water. The highlight though, would be the house boats that are offered by the resort. A canopy of beauty, these houses reflect the traditional architecture of Kerala and floats across the pristine backwaters. It is from them you get to see beautiful visions, endless paddy fields and remote islands.

24. Holiday Resort, Puri…simply peaceful

The pure beach of Puri is sought after for the calm and the peace that it offers. Giving a great view of this very beach is the Holiday Resort, Puri. Especially splendid is the view of the rains, as drops streak the grey skyline and fall into the water below. The upper floors offers the best sights. Observe the vast expanse of the sea through a garden of colourful plants.

25. Marari Beach Resort…embrace yourself

Reeling in the Kerala vibe is the Marari Beach Resorts. Embrace yourself with villas of thatched roofs spread across beautiful gardens, towering palm trees that seem to touch the sky, green backwaters that contrast with the bright blue of the swimming pools. The best scenery though is during the rains when the sky turns into a greyish tinge and the raindrops seem to make a merry dance on the waters.

 26. Oberoi hotel, Mumbai

The Oberoi in Mumbai is a swanky five star hotel towering on Marine Lines. From the comfort of your room here, you get an unhindered view of Arabian Sea stretching out to eternity along with the blue skies decked with cotton clouds.

That topped with the famous Marine Drive aesthetically lined with trees, curving across the water makes for quite a sight. Do not miss the vision in the night where the line of street lights are lit, making it appear like a queen’s necklace.

27. Taj Exotica, Goa… for peace and serenity

Spread along a sprawling property of fifty-six acres on the southwest coast of Goa, Taj Exotica, as the name suggests, gives you the taste of the exotic. An interesting melange of green and blue, you have fifty yards of the goal course post which the tranquil water of the private beach commences.

The beauty of the sight lies in not only the vision that it provides but also the serene peaceful feeling that permeates through you as you look across the green riches and the one of the cleanest beaches in Goa.

28. Ri Kynjai Resort, Shillong…celestial experience

Perched on a high altitude, the Ri Kynjai Resort in Shillong gives you a celestial like experience. You can spend hours on the rustic balcony that opens up to a fascinating view of expansive clear blue skies and mystical waters fenced by tapering lush landscapes on both the sides. Catch this sight especially in mornings when fog spreads over Umiam Lake and green land, giving it an ethereal feeling.

29. The Oberoi Vanyavilas, Ranthambhore…lap of wilderness

Right in the lap of wilderness lies The Oberoi Vanyavilas in Ranthambhore. The sights to be mesmerised by here are plenty; from jungles, towering mountain ranges to the enchanting waters. The turquoise waterscapes here mirror the fringing bright green trees and ferns. The sight in the night too is splendid. The place comes alive as the glow of the tent is reflected on the small lagoons.

30. Vinita by Taj, Bekal…fascinating melange

Inspired by the house boats of Kettuvallam are the quaint villas of Vinita by Taj, Bekal. It is here that you get the fascinating melange of lagoons, backwaters and the sea. The canopies tethering on the backwaters streaming across the property give a great view and feel of the nature. Adding to the appeal are the startling blue plunge pool, gardens embellished by trees and stretches of lawns that converge to the Kappil beach.

31. Taj Mahal Hotel, Mumbai….a gateway to the sea

Mumbai’s first ever harbour landmark, the Taj Mahal Hotel holds a monumental status itself. But history apart, this five star hotel is also famous for its location and the view that it offers. From some of the best rooms, you can see the famous Gateway of India, bordering on the shores of Mumbai.

Catch the pulse of the city as you see people bustling by. Also seen, are boats of various types from luxury to basic sometimes riding on the waters and sometimes docked on the side.

32. The Lalit Hotel, Bekal…waterscape paradise

A haven for waterscape lovers is the Lalit Hotel in Bekal making its presence felt over twenty-six acres of verdant lands. The beauty of the place lies not only in the spectacular view of the Arabian Sea, but also that of the serene backwaters and cosy lagoons. Laze around in the gardens as you get the embracing view of palm trees swaying towards the streams of water and little sprinkles of fountains that dance upon these waters.

33. Cherai Beach Resorts….bask in the beach and backwaters

Immersed in an oasis of beauty, the Cherai Beach Resort holds on its own. For it offers the best of both worlds with a beach in the front and the backwaters behind. Along with a whole lot of palm trees offering shade from the sun, what is fascinating about this place is the patches of land and water connected by little bridges by the backwaters. It is here you can sit and laze about. Some of the houses too appear on top of the water. With all the greenery around the water too looks green.

34. Coconut Lagoon, Kumarakom…rustic feel

A quaint cottage by the river, Coconut Lagoon at Kumarakom is a place that seems to have come right out of a novel. Right on the Vembanad Lake, it is here that you get to experience the exceedingly famous backwaters of Kerala. Not only that, the arching trees, verdant grass, streams of fresh water, chirping birds along with the occasional boats passing by make it a sight to behold and add to the whole rustic feel.

35. Vivanta by Taj, Kovalam…mystic aura

Image Credit: bjorn

The Taj hotels worldwide are known for their interiors, hospitality and luxury. But Vivanta by Taj, Kovalam especially is famous being immersed in tropical beauty and providing views that are exuberating. The poolside view is spectacular…bordered by a sea of palm trees, when you swim by you get the beautiful sight of swaying palm grooves extending out to the azure sky and the shores below.

You can relax on the lawns and endlessly watch the sight of waves proceeding and ebbing. The mini golf courses, lagoons and archery area, all add to the mystic aura of the place.

36. Radisson Blu Resort Goa Cavelossim Beach…greenery everywhere

Spread across one of the cleaner beaches in Goa is the Radisson Blu Resort at Cavelossim Beach. It offers an oasis of retreat with bright blue lagoons and lush greenery everywhere. The hotel restaurant provides a spectacular view of enchanting waterscapes, huge trees that branch out along the backdrop of mountains.

37. Marine Plaza Hotel…of sea and skyline

Located on the hotspot of Marine Drive, the Marine Plaza hotel gives a fascinating view of just that. Especially during high tides, you can see the violent waves hit the sea breakers and gush on the edge of the promenade. Other times you find anybody from fitness freaks, couples, college students to families enjoying the view by the sea.

The night holds its own allure with the lighting up of street lights cross the entire drive. A famous restaurant in this hotel which has city people thronging to especially after a hard night of partying is the Bayview restaurant. Open throughout the night, you can stare ahead at the Marine Drive and the sea and observe how the skyline turns a bit different with each passing hour.

38. Le Pondy, Pondicherry…warmth and cosiness

Bask in the spirit of Pondicherry at Le Pondy that nestles in between the Chunnambar River and Bay of Bengal. Through quaint edifices that spell warmth and cosiness you get the all-embracing view of mother earth.

Wide stretched green gardens are speckled with swaying shrubs and trees. These lawns further seem to melt into the azure waters. The infinity pool fringed by towering palm trees make quite a sight too.

39. The Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur….a sun kissed view

Situated on the banks of Lake Pichola, The Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur, is a hotel that offers a sun kissed view of the mountains and the lake during the daytime. Lake front rooms provides a vision that is truly majestic. Through the heavily embellished and royal architecture of arches and domes, you get a sight of the regal swimming pool, bordered by pretty gardens with shrubs and trees that then open to the tranquil lake waters.

At the other end of the lake lies the sight of bountiful mountains stretching across far and wide. So you have a swimming pool, garden, lake and mountains, all in one landscape.

40. Sinclairs Bayview Port Blair…get entranced

Get entranced by the welcoming waters of Andaman and Bay of Bengal at the Sinclairs Bayview Port Blair. It is here that over a vast expanse of azure sea you can see one of the rainforest islands that Andaman is famous for. Also seen are the unique flora and trees of this region. A must watch is the mesmerising sunset by the Bay of Bengal. While each place in the hotel offers a different view, the alfresco restaurants give the best ones. As you dine by the edge of the restaurant you have the uninterrupted vision of the clear blue skies above and the ocean below.

 41. The Ramada Caravela Beach Resort….sunset by the beach

Nestled in Varca, one of the quitter beaches of Goa, The Ramada Caravela Beach Resort gives you the experience of the sun, sand and the distant view of the beach. While most of the rooms will give you garden and swimming pools views, the best views is by the Beach Shack, Sunset Bar and the Oriental Bar.

Sink into your chair and sip on your cocktails as you see the fiery sun disappear into the water, painting the landscape an orange and pink. Sunset Point in the hotel is another perfect place to relax. Here, you get the wonderful vision of the beach without having to worry about getting tanned. Adding to the charm of the whole sight, is the meticulously manicured gardens and poolside views.

42. Four Seasons, Mumbai….view from above

One of the tallest buildings in Mumbai, the Four Seasons Hotel gives you a bird’s eye view of the city and the Arabian Sea. A favourite haunt of the hotel guests and elite Mumbaikars alike is the alfresco lounge and bar, Aer.

The sight from here is the best in the night. As you have pleasant wind breezing through your hair, you get to see the skyline of the city from big skyscrapers, medium and small sized buildings sparkling along the winding stretch of the sea.

43. Vivanta by Taj Dal View Srinagar…sight that dreams are made of

Despite the border disputes that plague Kashmir today, there is no denying the unparalleled beauty of this celestial like place. For a long time, it was a favourite place for heroes in movies to break into a soliloquy. And for a good reason too…The Dal Lake is one such piece of magnificence that makes you want to start singing.

Giving a wonderful view of this very Dal Lake and the picture perfect mountains that stretch beyond is Vivanta by Taj Dal View Srinagar. It stands tall on the Kralsangri hill and transgresses you to a place far, far away.

44. Red Earth, Kabini…home away from home

Nestled on the backwaters of the Kabini dam is the Red Earth retreat in Mysore, Karnataka. Surrounded by water on two sides, this home away from home is one among the nature. A landscape painted with earthy colours, you get one of the best views by the pool. From above it appears that the turquoise waters of the pool is merging with the light blue waters of the dam.

45. Seagot Camp, Banasura

The Seagot Camp, Banasura provides a one of a kind experience. For not only do you get the breezy feel of the outdoors but while resting in the tents that are speckled on the slope, you also get an amazing view. That being of peaceful blue waters bordered by curving landscapes, lush patches of land and expansive mountain ranges that form the backdrop.

46. Wayanad Silver Woods…on the hilltop

Among the best resorts in Kerala is the Wayanad Silver Woods. Hidden among a sea of trees and located on the lush hilltop and the banks of Banasura Sagar, this rejuvenating place offers a spectacular view of untouched nature. The best part? The wide Jacuzzis right on the balcony.

As you lazily sink into the tub, you get the expansive sight of the lake fringed by emerald green landscapes and majestic mountains ranges. Also, wake up to the bright sunlight rays streaming in through your window.

47. The Leela Palace, Chennai….one of a kind

Located in a place where the Bay of Bengal meets the Adyar River, The Leela Palace, Chennai stands tall and elegant. For, it is the first seafront hotel of the city. Needless to say, this opulent hotel provides a one of a kind view of Chennai. With well-manicured gardens, and an interesting patch that resembles a chess board, the whole scenery overlooking the water is remarkable indeed.

48. Pangarh Lake Resort, Rajasthan…floating leaves

Sink into nature’s embrace at Pangarh Lake Resort in Chittorgarh, Rajasthan which is bordered by brown mountains on one side and on quiet waters on another. During the daytime, the white tents along the trees and mountains cast a dazzling reflection on the lake. What sets the sight apart from the rest however, is the sea of leaves floating across the water.

49. Bison River Resort, Kabini…glow of mother earth

Bask in the glow of mother earth at Bison River Resort, Kabini. The beauty of this place lies in the fact that not much has been done to tamper with the nature. Through the thatched huts, what you get is mostly an unadulterated sight from vast carpets of bright green grass, quiet waters and thickly clustered olive hued trees at the other end.

50. Orange County, Kabini…orange spell

 Experience the warmth and glow of nature in Orange County, Kabini. Flanked by the serene Kabini River on both sides, this retreat is heralded as one among the twenty five best ecolodges by National Geographic Traveller. And for a good reason too, as you laze about in your rustic hutments, you get the pure sight of velvety grass and little shrubs that rolls on to the limpid waters of the lake, further bordered by distant land. A must experience is dining by the lake during sunset when the rays cast an orange spell on the landscape.

SOURCE : THRILLOPHILIA