When checking into any hotel, the thing we’re always the most excited about is the swimming pool.
That is, after all, where we’ll spend most of our time: sun-bathing, sipping cocktails, napping and getting lost in a book. Right by the poolside is where all the magic – and relaxation – happens: we soak in the property’s unique vantage point, either overlooking an ocean, local scenery or gorgeous city skylines; we get our daily exercise out of the way by doing one or not-so-many laps; we get a good dose of vitamin D and up our tanning game and we’re naturally positioned close to the pool bar to really get the holiday spirit going. Swimming pools are really important to any getaway and one could argue, play a central part to the entire vacay experience.
We here at Lifestyle Asia have been privy to some of the most visually stunning swimming pools of the world and naturally, we want to share them with you. This week, we take a deep dive head first into the most stunning swimming pools of Thailand, from iconic infinity pools overlooking cityscapes and the Andaman ocean to riverside and private plunge pools with a inimitable ambience. All in all, whether you’re doing laps, riding inflatable unicorns or merely floating, you’ll be sure to feel like you’re swimming in pools built for the deities. See how many of these you can check off your list, if you haven’t already.
[Hero Image: Six Senses Yao Noi, Phuket]
The Aquila, Phuket
This is as stunning as infinity pools come. Home to the private and tropical ocean-front villa located in Phuket’s iconic millionaire’s mile, when you perch your elbows upon the pool’s infinity edge, time stands still as all you can see is the azure sea and sky, which make for a postcard-perfect moment. Look down and you can see the villa’s gardens, flowers and the cliff’s path that leads down to the sea. But the pool’s so good you almost can’t be bothered to venture anywhere else. True story!
Pimalai Resort & Spa, Koh Lanta
In front of the hotel’s renowned Seven Seas restaurant, from end to end – even though looks may deceive as the pool features gorgeous designs such as a fountain and archway to swim through – you’re looking at an almost 50-metre-lap. Top that off with an infinity-edge offering a gorgeous 180-degree view of the Andaman Sea. The best time to have a swim is first thing at sunrise, when the pool is still and quiet. During the day, people gather to take selfies and pictures as the pool and its view is just that incredible, so pick your
Anantara Golden Triangle, Chiang Rai
It’s almost as if you are in another world when you’re taking in the majesty of nature that surrounds the infinity pool at the Anantara’s golden triangle property. Gaze out to to the luscious green hills of the golden triangle that meets between Thailand, Myanmar and Laos and take in the gorgeous vistas of the Mekong Valley. Also, sip cocktails, soak in the jacuzzi and let your back be gently massaged by the bubble jets why don’t you?
Waldorf Astoria, Bangkok
Offering stunning vistas of the greenery that marks the Royal Bangkok Sports Club golf course during the day time and Bangkok’s gorgeous skyline at night, the hotel’s visually striking pool is temperature controlled and big enough to get a sizeable swim-filled workout going. Perfect for a beautiful morning swim or an afternoon dip by the pool bar, the Walford Astoria’s unforgettable pool is high enough to be above it all, literally everything. Next to the pool you’ll find the spa, with contemporary and Thai-inspired wellness treatments that will round off your leisurely swim quite nicely.
Four Seasons, Koh Samui
We’ll never forget the times we had in our luxury villa at Four Seasons, Koh Samui. Nothing beats having the pool to yourself, that’s for sure. Located on the lush tropical hillside, all of the Four Seasons’ stand-alone sea-facing pool villas come with extra privacy and serenity. Enjoy stunning views of the Gulf of Siam and nearby islands as you lounge on the outdoor deck or take a dip in your very own private infinity pool.
The Siam, Bangkok
The Siam’s swimming pool overlooks Bangkok’s Chao Phraya river. There’s something so relaxing and calming about this riverfront and saltwater pool, surrounded in luscious greenery and the quiet hums of river life. Tune into the sounds of Bangkok’s river or equally focus your attention on the art deco inspirations of the hotel’s grounds, which will make you feel as if you’re in a completely insulated paradise.
Hyatt Regency, Hua Hin
You don’t need a bird’s eye view to appreciate the dexterity of this free-form interconnecting pool, which is so many different things, besides visually striking. The pool actually encompasses three distinctive pool areas: the river pool which features a waterfall and jacuzzi; a lagoon pool, perfect for swimming or getting your suntan on, and a 22-metre-long free form pool, ideal for some calorie burning before breakfast, or some splashing around in, what with the seven-metre-high water slide. Also connected is a beach pool, perfect for the kids.
The Okura Prestige, Bangkok
Even during the rainy season, The Okura Prestige’s 25-metre cantilevered infinity pool has got to provide one of the most gorgeous views of Bangkok, as far as the city’s hotels go. Located on the 25th floor of the hotel, you’re high enough above the bustling and noisy city to really appreciate its sheer beauty. Just when you were getting tired of Bangkok, this view hit you.
Como Point Yamu, Phuket
Okay, we lied when we said it doesn’t get much better than the pool at the Aquila Phuket. The private villa’s biggest contender is Como Point Yamu’s pool, perched on the cliffs overlooking the turquoise Andaman Sea facing the oh-so dramatic limestones of Phang Nga Bay. Although it isn’t an infinity pool, we’re sort of okay with that as someone could fall right into the ocean with a view like that. Especially spectacular at sunset with a strawberry daiquiri in hand.
This article first appeared on Lifestyle Asia Bangkok on 22 September 2018.
Good Life Getaways
As your guide to the good life, we’re always on the lookout for the best getaways in or from Bangkok. In this series, we’re exploring retreats that are good to nature, good for the soul, and good to know. Be it a mountain retreat or a digital beachside detox, a romantic rainforest rendezvous or an urban hidden gem, here’s where you can get away from it all, and indulge in that Good Life ethos in style.
Catherine is Bangkok born and bred and knows the angles of the city and its people very personally. You'll often catch her writing about the upsides of Thainess, the richness and diversity of Bangkok's third cultures and the true meaning of wellness.
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