Places | Asia

Our top infinity pools in Asia

A well-designed swimming pool can often make up the difference between standard and stunning – especially if that pool is a work of architectural ingenuity. Some of our favourite destinations in Asia boast incredible infinity pools; from island to in-land, the careful design and placement of these pools adds another touch of magic (and a refreshing respite).

Whether feeling like you’re flying over the Indian Ocean from a cliff-top edge in Sri Lanka, or gazing over the serenity of the Laotian jungle, take a look at our pick of the best, feel inspired and get in touch with our Asia experts to start planning your trip.

Tri, Sri Lanka

Staking a claim for the title of the finest luxury, sustainable-design hotel in Sri Lanka, this contemporary eco-friendly retreat sits on the tranquil shores of Lake Koggala, Sri Lanka’s largest natural lake. The luscious tropical surrounds and peaceful inland location create a welcome retreat, perfect for rejuvenating body, mind and spirit.

Why we like it

The infinity pool stretches out towards the lake, the cantilevered structure seeming to blend into the shore, creating a perfect vantage point to enjoy an undisturbed view of the tranquil wilderness. In-keeping with the resort’s focus on wellness, the pool uses ionising filters instead of chlorine treatments, further bolstering the health credentials of this stylish inland hideaway.

Amanoi, Vietnam

This sublime, secluded luxury hotel on the coast of Vietnam’s Nu Chua National Park is Aman Resort’s first opening in the country – and has announced its arrival with aplomb. The experience begins well before you arrive at the hotel with a scenic 90-minute drive along the coastal road from the airport through the National Park. On arrival, the dazzling design – sophisticated modern style meets local flavour – and undisturbed surroundings raise the bar even higher.

Why we like it

Overlooking Vinh Hy Bay, one of Vietnam’s most beautiful white-sand beaches, the 130-foot saltwater infinity pool at this secluded hillside retreat allows for breath-taking views of the East Sea. Taking in the sunrise from this idyllic coastal location is well worth the early alarm; listening to the unspoilt forest come to life as the sun creeps over the horizon is the perfect start to another day in paradise.

Song Saa, Cambodia

Just a 40-minute speedboat journey from Cambodia’s mainland, this ultra-luxurious, eco-conscious private resort is the perfect romantic retreat. Consisting of two interconnected private islands, set in a verdant rainforest landscape amongst a brilliant blue ocean – the surrounding crystal-clear waters are a protected marine reserve – Song Saa is the ideal hideout for the offshore adventurer.

Why we like it

Many of the infinity pools on our list create the illusion of being out to sea – those at Song Saa really are. Each of the resort’s 27 eco-friendly villas has its own plunge pool with a view of the pristine turquoise waters off the Cambodian coast. The main pool has been cleverly designed to straddle the east and west side of the island, so you don’t have to choose between the sunrise or the sunset.

Six Senses Yao Noi, Thailand

This luxurious island paradise, tucked away above the pristine waters of Phang Nga Bay, is a welcome retreat from the hustle and bustle of nearby Phuket. The resort is tastefully designed, incorporating natural materials, local influences, and contemporary style, in-keeping with the Six Senses commitment to sustainability. The wonderful spa, resembling a traditional Thai longhouse, is a must-visit.

Why we like it

Each of the 54 villas at has its own private sun-deck and infinity pool from which to enjoy stunning views of the calm waters of Phang Nga Bay below, with the magnificent limestone peaks rising from the sea in the distance. Secluded amongst the lush tropical surrounds, splendid in its isolation, a private infinity pool with this unspoilt view takes some beating.

Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru, Maldives

Situated on 44 acres of unspoilt tropical island, within the gorgeous Baa Atoll (a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve), this barefoot luxury resort is the quintessential five-star beach-side experience. A breathtaking 40-minute seaplane journey from Male, the pristine protected waters around the hotel offer some of the finest scuba diving in the world.

Why we like it

Many of the luxurious over-water villas at this infamous resort boast their own private freshwater infinity pool, but the main resort pool is the jewel in the crown; the only Olympic-size pool in the Maldives, the sheer size of it creates an illusion like no other, melting seamlessly into the brilliant blue of the Indian Ocean.

Cape Weligama, Sri Lanka

This beautiful resort sits on a headland 40 metres above the sea on Sri Lanka’s Southern Province. Spread out over 12 acres, the sumptuous villas are laid out in clusters so as to create the illusion of a traditional Sri Lankan village (though boasting significantly more luxurious interiors). The meticulously landscaped gardens, outstanding cuisine and wonderful staff (all villas have private butler and dining services) make this clifftop set-up one of the most celebrated luxury resorts on the island.

Why we like it

There are few, if any, better places to take in the sunset over the Indian Ocean than from one of Sri Lanka’s southernmost points, and the stunning infinity pool is the best of the best. The 60-metre, crescent-shaped pool folds seamlessly into the glistening waves, offering a 270-degree panoramic view, stretching unspoilt to the horizon.

Belmond La Residence Phou Vao, Laos

Nestled in the lush jungle forest of Laos, this intimate spa retreat is a paradise of peacefulness. Designed in an exquisite colonial style using traditional materials, the 34 rooms and suites all offer tremendous views of the surroundings from their beautiful balconies. Boasting the first luxury spa in Laos – the ultimate in indulgence – and a perfect location, the Belmond La Résidence Phou Vao offers a charming and authentic experience.

Why we like it

The 13-metre freshwater pool at this tranquil tropical hideaway extends into the lush forest, providing a stunning vantage point to take in uninterrupted views of Mount Phousy, shimmering above the treetops, as well as the Old City of Luang Prabang (a World Heritage site). On a misty morning the forested, mountainous landscape appears almost otherworldly.

Alila Uluwatu, Bali

Another marvellous Balinese hilltop resort, this stylish hotel perches above limestone cliffs on an elevated plateau along Bali’s southern coastline, offering sweeping views of the Indian Ocean far below, stretching as far as the eye can see. The resort boasts 65 individually designed villas, each with its own pool, carefully built to a sustainable and eco-friendly model while combining traditional Balinese influence and minimalist, contemporary styles.

Why we like it

The brilliant open-plan architecture creates a seamless harmony between indoors and out; the gentle sea breeze flows into the villas, and the huge windows offer spectacular views of the water from anywhere indoors. For a truly dramatic and unspoilt view of the ocean, the 50-metre infinity pool is the ideal spot from which to enjoy the picture-perfect panorama.

Soneva Kiri, Thailand

Hidden away on the island of Koh Kood, only accessible via private plane, Soneva Kiri is simply of the most luxurious, postcard-perfect resorts in Asia. A model in eco-friendly and sustainable architecture, offering world-class cuisine (prepared to Michelin Star standard), exemplary service in the traditional Thai fashion, and a seemingly endless array of activities and experiences, a visit to this fabulous getaway is the trip of a lifetime.

Why we like it

The fact that the magnificent main infinity pool at the resort is often unused and unattended should come as a shock – until you realise that each of the enormous villas (some of the largest in the world) feature their own infinity pool so comfortably huge that using the main one feels an unnecessary extravagance (even in such a paradise as this).