Tucked into vineyards or dominating city rooftops, Australia’s best hotel pools all have one thing in common; they are architectural masterpieces.

But it’s not just the shape, size or location that gets them on our list. Each of these incredible hotel pools come with private cabanas and impeccable service to match.

If a pool is a must-have for your holiday stay, these 10 hotels should be top of your list.

1. Orpheus Island Lodge, Great Barrier Reef QLD

Off the coast of Queensland, Orpheus Island sits secluded and inviting. The Orpheus Island Lodge is at the island’s centre and home to one of Australia’s best hotel pools.

The 25-metre infinity pool connects the island’s white sand to its lush lawn. Palm trees shade you from the warm Queensland sun while you swim. Strung between their branches, white-net hammocks give you the ultimate island experience.

Orpheus Island Lodge proudly invests in the preservation of the Great Barrier Reef, so you can find comfort knowing you’re in eco-friendly hands throughout your stay.

2. Emirates One&Only, Wolgan Valley NSW

Emirates has a reputation for building hotels in the world’s most treasured locations. Their Wolgan Valley resort is no exception.

One&Only Wolgan Valley was opened in 2009 as Australia’s first conservation resort. The resort is home to not one, but 40 of Australia’s best hotel pools as each villa has its own.

A delight in all seasons, the pools’ surrounding windows open up to welcome in the summer breeze or close up to shield against the winter snow.

With conservation at the forefront, the hotel uses solar panels and heat pumps to minimise its carbon footprint.

3. Crystalbrook Riley, Cairns

Crystalbrook Riley is the pinnacle of five-star luxury in Cairns.

The focal point of the hotel is Riley’s 1000 square metre free form lagoon with beautiful views of the Coral Sea. Guests can choose to tan on the accompanying white-sand beach or on the surrounding spacious deck.

Crystalbrook Riley is home to Rocco, the tallest rooftop bar in Cairns. For a post-swim feast and a view like no other Rocco is the place for delectable Mediterranean cuisine and an array of wine, beer and spirits.

4. Longitude 131, Red Centre at Uluru-Kata Tjuta, NT

Run by husband and wife Ben and Louise, Longitude 131 is a Northern Territory outback treasure. The resort underwent a three-stage multimillion-dollar transformation in 2013 which has landed it high on our must-see list.

Inspired by the quintessential Australian billabong, the outdoor swimming pool offers a swim experience like no other.

The pool’s glassy water contrasts against the surrounding red earth which spans across to the magnificent Uluru.

After your swim in the Red Centre, immerse yourself in rich Australian indigenous culture through the bespoke experiences on offer such as Dot painting workshops.
 

5. W Hotel Brisbane, Brisbane

WET Deck Pool is the jewel of W Brisbane’s level four rooftop sanctuary.

The black and white geometric ceiling transports guests to another world while they swim.

Indulge in bespoke cocktails and gourmet bites while the poolside DJ sorts out your playlist. To match the hotel’s contemporary design, W Brisbane’s WET deck even uses updated technology so guests can listen to music underwater.

With stellar views of the Brisbane River and the pool’s unique interior, Brisbane’s W Deck has easily earned its place as one of Australia’s best hotel pools.

6. W Melbourne, Melbourne

W Melbourne is the latest addition to the opulent W hotel chain.

Melbourne’s WET Deck is high up on the 14th floor amongst the city’s staggering highrises. One of Australia’s best hotel pools, the interior design is inspired by Melbourne’s Yarra River.

As you swim, the curved, gold plated ceiling reflects the city lights above you. Bear witness to panoramic city skyline views through the floor-to-ceiling glass windows around the pool. White tiles lead up to the pools edge and complement the oak timber deck.

In true Melbourne style, the W Deck has a poolside bar and DJ booth which transforms the space into an endless party scene.

7. The Emporium Hotel South Bank, Brisbane

Step into Brisbane’s Emporium Hotel and find yourself embraced by its daring interior.

Opened in 2018, the five-star hotel is home to a 23-metre infinity pool. On the hotel’s 21st floor, guests will find themselves transported to a warm summer oasis in the heart of the city.

Swim to the pool’s edge for prime views of the Brisbane River and a dazzling city skyline backdrop. Luscious greenery and gold lined interior decorate the rooftop to complement the hotel’s chic tone.

Attentive hotel staff serve an exclusive list of cocktails and drinks at the adjacent rooftop bar.

8. The Ritz-Carlton, Perth

The Ritz-Carlton is Western Australia’s first appearance on our list of Australia’s best hotel pools.

This outdoor heated infinity pool offers views of both the Swan River and the city’s boisterous skyline to marvel at while you swim.

From 10am guests can surrender to poolside pampering treatments in the comfort of their sun lounge. At night, neon LED lights illuminate the pool and set the mood for twilight swims.

Songbird is the hotel’s signature cocktail bar where guests can choose from fresh seafood, seasonal produce, cocktails and craft beer to enjoy poolside.

9. InterContinental, Hayman Island QLD

Tropical Cyclone Debbie forced Hayman Island to close its doors on guests for two years. Re-opened and re-branded in 2019, Hayman Island by InterContinenal is now home to one of the largest swimming pools in the southern hemisphere.

The resort is in prime position on the Whitsunday’s north tip and one of the closest Whitsunday resorts to the Great Barrier Reef.

Tropical forest hugs the resort and branches out to line the pool. The resort’s colossal pool is seven times the size of an Olympic pool to allow ample space for the hotel’s privileged guests.

Sip on your Mojito served from the swim-up bar before swimming to the pool’s edge to soak in the uninterrupted views of the Coral Sea.

For direct access to the water and postcard views, guests can opt to stay in the one bedroom pool suite on the hotel’s lower level.

10. JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa, Gold Coast

JW Marriott Gold Coast isn’t merely home to one of Australia’s best hotel pools, it’s home to one of Australia’s best swimming experiences.

The pool area consists of a large outdoor pool, beach, whirlpool, and both freshwater and saltwater pools to cater for everyone.

The freshwater lagoon is home to some of Queensland’s underwater wildlife. Hire snorkels from the hotel reception to help you get a close-up look at the hotel’s fishy friends.

Man-made caves and waterslides make JW Marriott GC a perfect family getaway while the resort’s Ruby Spa offers a peaceful escape for adult-only travellers.

  

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