Take the Plunge: 9 Best Hotel Pools in Asia

Some hotel pools are simply better than others. They can turn ordinary holidays into extraordinary ones. Whether you’re looking to soak in some rays, sip a few cocktails or just relax in the serenity, Asia offers more than its fair share of excellent hotel pools.

From dizzying rooftops to beach-hugging villas, here’s where we think you should take your next plunge.

1. Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong

Ever wanted to know what it’s like to swim laps in the highest pool in the world? Book a room at the Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong and find out. At a cool 490 metres off the ground, this pool isn’t for the vertigo-minded. Featuring 144 LED screens on the ceiling and giant glass windows showcasing views of Victoria Harbour, a dip in this pool is both surreal and breathtaking.

2. Hanging Gardens Ubud, Bali

Next time you’re in Bali, consider staying at the Hanging Gardens Ubud, home to one of the world’s most photogenic pools. The split-level infinity pool is perched high over the surrounding rainforest, seamlessly blending with the natural foliage.  Relaxing in this unique setting will make you feel like you’re floating above the treetops.

3. The Library, Ko Samui, Thailand

Possibly the strangest entry into this list is the red pool at Ko Samui’s beachside resort, The Library. You’d be forgiven for thinking that this pool’s unsettling effect is due to dyeing of the water. However, the colour comes from its mosaic tiles of yellow, orange and deep red.  It’s a bizarre yet mesmerising place to take a swim. Best of all, the beautiful Chaweng Noi Beach beckons on its doorstep.

4. Sheraton Nha Trang, Vietnam

The 21m infinity pool at the Sheraton Nha Trang is simple, elegant and offers jaw-dropping views of Nha Trang Bay. Swim towards the edge and you’ll be headed straight for the horizon. Day or night, this pool is perfect for sunbathing, wading and swimming laps. Don’t forget to grab a drink and snack at the poolside bar.

5. Alila Villas Uluwatu, Bali

Feel like living on the edge? Spend a night at Alila Villas Uluwatu in Bali and you won’t be disappointed. Nestled into limestone cliffs overlooking the ocean, the infinity pool at this resort is pure luxury. At 50m, its elevated setting gives the impression it’s floating in space.

6. Fullerton Bay Hotel, Singapore

Sink into the serenity of the Fullerton Bay Hotel’s stunning rooftop pool. Nestled into a manicured tropical landscape, you’ll feel like you’ve truly escaped the constant bustle of the city below. The pool offers sweeping views of the expansive cityscape, perfect for watching the sun go down and easing into the night.

7. St. Regis, Lhasa, Tibet

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With a constant water temperature of between 28 and 32 degrees Celsius, the Golden Energy Pool at St. Regis Lhasa Resort in Tibet offers consistent comfort every day. Measuring just 10m across, what the pool lacks in size it doubly makes up for in extravagance. Inspired by the city’s iconic Potala Palace, its tiles are coated with 24-karat gold leaf. You’ll feel like royalty as you settle into a foot massage with poolside refreshments.

8. Hotel Udai Kothi, Udaipur, India

It’s the blend of lavish architecture and modern facilities that makes the rooftop pool at Hotel Udai Kothi in Udaipur a worthy entry into this list. Accompanying the pool is a great terrace restaurant offering a fine range of cocktails, wine and a full dinner menu. You’ll feel worlds away as you settle into the soft lounge chairs lining the water.

9. Traders Hotel, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

 Day or night, the best spot to take in the towering beauty of Malaysia’s Petronas Towers is from the 33^rd-floor lap pool at the Traders Hotel Kuala Lumpur. It’s a view and setting you won’t get anywhere else in the city. Stay a little longer at sundown because the pool area transforms into one of the city’s hottest lounges, the SkyBar.