Poolside cocktails and maybe some cabana service are typically the deciding factor between a good and great hotel pool [1] for travellers. But when pool time is turned from lounging to a full-on experience, you know you've got something special. Like how about waterproof kindles for your Summer reading pleasure? Or an infinity pool with an underwater window to channel your inner mermaid? From Aruba to Anguilla, ahead are seven hotels around the world that offer so much more than towels and shade.
A Pirate's Life
The pool at the five-star Iberostar Grand Bávaro [2] in the mythical Bávaro de Punta Cana Beach features a full-scale replica of a schooner "docked" in the pool. Come nighttime, the ship transforms into a bar where you can select from 15 Caribbean rums and 12-year-old scotch.
Swim With the Fishes
Grand Hyatt Baha Mar [3] in the Bahamas boasts a swim-up aquarium filled with adopted nurse sharks, stingrays, tropical fish and marine life. It also features an underwater marine cavern inspired by one of the world’s deepest salt water sinkhole, Dean’s Blue Hole.
Gadgets and Gizmos A-Plenty
The newly renovated Hilton Aruba [4] offers guests a collection of six completely waterproof Kindles preloaded with classic favourites to check out and read in the water.
Dive With Dolphins
Set along the volcanic coastline of the Big Island, Hilton Waikoloa Village [5] boasts a unique ocean-fed lagoon and dolphin sanctuary with reef fish, sea turtles, and other marine life. The protected oasis is favoured by travellers for snorkelling, kayaking, and paddle boarding all without stepping a foot off the resort’s lush grounds.
Do It For the 'Gram
Zemi Beach House [6], a luxury boutique resort in Anguilla, features an oceanfront infinity pool with an underwater window facing one of the world’s best beaches, Shoal Bay East. Swimmers can channel their inner mermaid and take in-water photos from the other side sans waterproof camera.
Stay In or Swim Out
At Alsol Tiara Cap Cana [7] in the Dominican Republic's Punta Cana, guests don't have to stray far from their suite for a dip in the pool. Thanks to the resort's unique design with first-floor rooms, you can step out from your suite and directly into water.
Sunset Shots
The Westin Cape Coral Resort [8] at Marina Village’s lagoon-style pool and dockside bar are Southwest Florida's best-kept secrets. When the sun begins to set, those lounging poolside enjoy a complimentary shot courtesy of The Nauti Mermaid Dockside Bar & Grill as a celebratory toast to note the end of another day in paradise.