Usually a swimming pool is an added bonus when booking a hotel stay, but in cities all over the world there is a wave of breathtaking pools that have become the main attraction for many hotel guests. With stunning views, innovative designs and great lounges, these watery wonderlands made our list of the top 10 rooftop pools around the world.
Sands SkyPark Infinity Pool at Marina Bay Sands Hotel, Singapore
Located 57 flights up and overlooking Singapore’s bustling financial district, the infinity pool at Sands SkyPark is nothing short of astounding. The Sands SkyPark, where the pool is located, resembles a cruise ship perched above the three towers of the hotel. The pool runs so close to the edge of the building, it looks like you might just swim over. When you’re not kicking it poolside, check out one of the SkyBar restaurants or head to the Chocolate Bar.
Rooftop Lounge at Thompson Hotel Toronto, Toronto, Canada
With 360-degree, panoramic views of Toronto’s cityscape and Lake Ontario, the infinity pool at the Thompson Toronto is one of the finest. Its modern and hip atmosphere makes it the perfect place to take a dip during the day and enjoy a cocktail in the evening. And you won’t have to worry about it being overcrowded as the Lounge is only open to guests and members of this chic boutique hotel.
The Rooftop at The Standard Downtown LA, Los Angeles, California, United States
The Rooftop at The Standard sets the bar high in a city that is known for rooftop pools and parties. Like any great hotel pool, The Standard has exceptional views of Los Angeles and a trendy cocktail lounge situated next to the pool. But visiting the rooftop isn’t just about going for a relaxing swim; in addition to outdoor fireplaces and vibrating waterbed pods, the rooftop hosts a variety of DJs and even movie nights.
Joule Pool at The Joule Hotel, Dallas, United States
The Joule Pool puts you front and center for an unparalleled view of the Dallas skyline. Ten stories up, the pool hangs over the side of the hotel building, allowing guests to swim over the streets below. For swimmers right up against the edge, the only thing separating them from the bustling downtown is glass. If heights are not your thing, lounging by the cocktail bar is always an option.
Skye at Hotel Unique, Sao Paulo, Brazil
Sao Paulo is the largest city in Brazil, so it’s nearly impossible to see everything there — unless you’re staying at the Hotel Unique, one of the city’s trendiest boutique hotels. From Skye Bar & Restaurant located on the rooftop, you’ll catch views of Ibirapuera Park and Sao Paulo’s entire skyline. And the rooftop’s highlight is the pool, which is as unique as the hotel with its crimson colored waters and underwater sound system.
Luna Bar at Pacific Regency Hotel Suites, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
In a city known for its innovative architecture and hot temperatures, a rooftop pool is an absolute necessity. The all-suites, five-star Pacific Regency Hotel is just the place to cool off poolside, 34 floors above the hustle and bustle of Kuala Lumpur. Enjoy live DJs while relaxing in an enclosed lounger hanging over the edge of the building, overlooking the iconic KL and Petronas Towers.
Two Story Sky Villa at the Palms, Las Vegas, United States
With nightly rates starting at $40,000, a select few in the world will have the pleasure of enjoying the rooftop pool at the Two Story Sky Villa in Las Vegas, but that doesn’t mean it’s not one of the best. Housed in a suite that features a glass elevator, private terraces and fitness rooms, this outdoor pool stretches past the vertical edge of the hotel over the city, and separates you from The Strip with nothing but glass. With a full wet bar at your disposal, and 24-hour butler service, there’s little left to be desired at this indulgent rooftop pool.
Rooftop Bar & Pool at Aguas de Ibiza, Ibiza, Spain
Nothing says Ibiza like music, sun and relaxation — all of which can be found poolside at Aguas de Ibiza. The rooftop pool at this five-star hotel overlooks all of Saint Eulalia and the pristine waters of Puerto de Ibiza. The bar at the pool is a perfect place to watch the sunset while sultry tunes play in the background. And if the beaches below look too tempting to resist, they are only a short walk away from the hotel.
Rooftop Pool at The Westin New Orleans Canal Place, New Orleans, United States
Like any great rooftop pool, the views from the Westin New Orleans are simply breathtaking. Overlooking the charming French Quarter, the iconic Mississippi River and an up-and-coming downtown area, this rooftop delight is a must-visit in The Big Easy. And with the hot, beating sun during the day, and the lights of the New Orleans skyline at night, there’s no bad time to venture up to the 29th floor.
The Rooftop at the Shoreditch House, London, England
Recently renovated and revamped, The Rooftop at the Shoreditch House is the perfect pool in East London. The Shoreditch House is located in a more industrial area of London, and its sixth floor rooftop sits in the midst of it all with views of the entire London horizon. Flanked with gardens, this pool comes off as quiet and peaceful during the day, while the neon lights and cocktail bar bring out the trendy nightlife in the evenings.
(Main image: ltdan)