It's almost summer time. For many of us, that means it's time to plan for a well-deserved vacation. What could be better than lounging time at the destination of your choice after a long year of hard work?
But what's most important to you when choosing a place to stay? Remarkable suites, Michelin-star quality fine dining, and a wonderful concierge service are probably at the top of your list. But what about the hotel pool? What qualities do you look for, even when you have no intention of jumping into the water? Here are some unique pools at luxury hotels around the world that may just make you rethink your priorities.
Villa d’Este - Lake Como, Italy
Villa d’Este is one of Lake Como’s defining grand hotels. The main building was a 16th-century noble residence that has become a symbol of classic Italian luxury. Set among formal gardens in Cernobbio, the hotel offers a sense of elegance, where lake views, old-world service, and centuries of design history shape the experience. It is a property strongly connected to the region's aristocratic past and one of Europe’s most refined grand hotels.
Its floating pool is legendary for good reason. Positioned on Lake Como and connected to shore by a wooden walkway, the pool sits on a teak-decked platform in the middle of a lacquered wood balustrade. Built in 1966, the famous pool holds up to 45,000 liters of water. Guests swim in a crafted basin that appears to hover between the villa and open water. It's a concept so alluring that other hotels in the area have built replicas of it (though they'll probably phrase it differently).
Bürgenstock Hotel & Alpine Spa - Lake Lucerne, Switzerland
Bürgenstock Hotel & Alpine Spa is a destination above Lake Lucerne with views across central Switzerland. The property combines Swiss hospitality with a strong wellness offering, making the spa a key part of the stay. Its Alpine Spa spans 10,000 square meters and includes multiple pools, saunas, and relaxation areas. However, many will argue that its claim to fame lies in the sublime views around it.
The infinity pool is the resort’s defining image. Heated to 35°C and set high above Lake Lucerne, it has views toward Mount Pilatus, Rigi, and the water below. What makes it special is the contrast between immersion and altitude - warm water, crisp mountain air, and a horizon that seems to dissolve into the lake and peaks. Not into infinity pools? The property's Hollywood pool may be a better choice.
Wymara Resort and Villas - Turks and Caicos Islands
Wymara Resort and Villas sits on the white sand beach in Grace Bay, Providenciales. It pairs Caribbean design with direct access to one of Turks and Caicos’ most celebrated stretches of sand. The resort has studios and suites close to the beach, restaurants, bars, and pool, while the villas add a more private residential-style experience at Sunset Cove. Together, they create a two-part resort: one social and beachfront, the other more secluded.
The pool experience is central to Wymara’s appeal. The 'Ocean Pool' is a major visual anchor, set between the open-air spaces and the turquoise sweep of the bay. Villa guests gain access to Sunset Cove Beach Club, where the amenities include a 25-meter lap pool, while select villas feature private infinity or plunge pools.
Halekulani Okinawa - Okinawa, Japan
Halekulani Okinawa brings the hospitality spirit of the Halekulani name to Japan’s subtropical coastline. Here you have a resort that emphasizes sea views and wellness. The property faces a long stretch of coastline, and the rooms are designed around views of the emerald sea and white sand beach.
The pools are a defining feature, with five options across the resort. The most iconic is the Orchid Pool, decorated with a mosaic of around 1.5 million tiles. Its white orchid pattern appears to float against a field of blue, visually extending toward the ocean. The resort also offers spaces such as the Quiet Pool, Kids Pool, Ocean Terrace Pool, and Indoor Pool. All together, these give the experience a sense of variety rather than a single focal point.
The Setai Miami Beach - Miami Beach, Florida
The Setai Miami Beach blends South Beach’s Art Deco theme with Asian-inspired refinement. The hotel’s appeal lies in its balance: serene, polished interiors and discreet service on one side, direct access to the energy of Miami Beach on the other. It feels removed from the rush without being removed from what makes South Beach so special.
Its pool deck is thoughtful, with three pools arranged east to west to capture sunrise and sunset. Each pool is temperature-controlled for a different mood: a 75°F lap pool, an 85°F central lounge pool, and a 90°F family pool. That distinction makes the pool experience feel curated rather than generic. These make it easy for guests to choose between exercise and relaxation. With cabanas and landscaping built for privacy, The Setai turns the classic Miami pool day into something more exciting.
