Making A Splash At Rosewood Sanya. Credit: Rosewood Sanya
Sometimes we take vacations to explore, other times to relax and unwind. If you’re planning a trip with tranquility in mind, these striking hotel pools will provide a photogenic place to put your feet up. Many astute world travelers know about the iconic pool sitting atop Singapore’s iconic Marina Bay Sands, but what about the watery wonderlands in other parts of the region?
From jungle views in Bali to skyline sunsets in Hong Kong, here are a few other stunning spots to take a dip in Asia.
Rosewood Sanya
Opened in 2017 along Haitang Bay in Sanya — China’s answer to Hawaii — this elegant hideaway made a splash when it debuted its massive infinity pool. Located on the 13th floor, the open-air Hai terrace provides everything you need for a relaxing day out: excellent cocktails, delicious food and a 360-foot infinity pool dotted with private cabanas and over-water lounge chairs. It’s spacious enough to swim a few laps or simply soak up the ocean views from the water’s edge.
In addition to the aforementioned “sky pool,” the hotel also offers a massive ground-floor garden pool that stretches nearly all the way to the beach. Split into several smaller terraced sections, the attraction provides a kids area and some quiet corners — all surrounded by lush greenery and scenic walkways.
Galaxy Macau. Credit: Raf Sanchez and Galaxy Macau
Galaxy Macau
Macau is famous for its over-the-top accommodations and its equally stunning pools. At the Galaxy Macau resort complex — which is home to several high-end hotels, including Forbes Travel Guide Five-Stars Banyan Tree Macau and The Ritz-Carlton, Macau as well as Four-Star JW Marriott Hotel Macau — you’ll find the world’s largest rooftop wave pool.
Part of the enormous Grand Resort Deck, the palatial 86,000-square-foot pool includes a 492-foot-long sand beach with up to 5-foot-tall waves — perfect for boogie boarding or surfing. If you don’t feel up to hanging 10, the spectacular space also boasts a legion of lounge chairs for you to unwind in and several alfresco bars serving up tropical tipples.
Kids (and the young at heart) will appreciate a turn on the world’s longest lazy river, which features geysers, waterfalls and a dedicated aquatic play zone for your younger travelers.
And for couples? If you check into the all-suite-and-villa Banyan Tree, you’ll enjoy a private relaxation pool inside every room.
Hanging Gardens of Bali
Hugged by dense jungle on all sides in the heart of Ubud, this secluded resort transports you to a remote natural wonderland. At the heart of it all is an incredibly photogenic infinity pool, which stretches across multiple levels as if to mirror the region’s famous rice paddy terraces. As a result, the striking organic shape makes you feel as though you’re treading water above the treetops.
Elsewhere around the property, several of the luxury villas promise private infinity pools and cabanas, should you prefer a more secluded dip.
Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong. Credit: Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong
Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong
There’s no better way to soak up Hong Kong’s famous skyline than from the pool terrace of this Five-Star beauty. Not only does the infinity pool here overlook spectacular Victoria Harbour — and comes complete with underwater classical music — but there’s also a spacious whirlpool that begs for an evening swim.
The staff is also on hand to deliver treats and chilled water, but should you work up a bigger appetite while you’re floating about, order one of the healthy selections from the pool’s all-day dining menu, ranging from fresh salads to hearty seafood dishes.
Parkroyal on Pickering’s Poolside Pods. Credit: Patrick Bingham Hall
Parkroyal on Pickering
Celebrated for its eco-friendly architecture and undulating façade, this sumptuous Singapore stay is a sight to behold. The best part, however, just might be the infinity pool on the fifth floor, where several colorful cabanas seem to float on the water.
You can relax in one of the birdcage-inspired pods, grab a lounger by the water, sip cocktails at the poolside bar or soak for a spell in the Jacuzzi. Affording unparalleled views of the city, the pool stretches more than 80 feet across the open-air terrace setting.
After a few laps, find your way to the Garden Walk, a verdant green trail that encircles the exterior of the building.
