14 hotel pools in the U.S. worth planning a trip around

Perched above the Pacific in beautiful Big Sur, Alila Ventana Big Sur is home to two outdoor pools flanked by redwoods and rugged stretches of coastline. The aptly named Meadow Pool, which appears to blend seamlessly into the surrounding landscape, is the main draw, with an infinity-edge hot tub overlooking the ocean and forest canopy below. For a quieter escape, the more secluded (and also aptly named) Mountain Pool sits tucked among the trees, while nearby Japanese-style hot baths offer an even more relaxing way to unwind.

The pool at the Beverly Hills Hotel is by far one of the country’s—if not the world’s—most iconic hotel pools. Framed by swaying palm trees and the property’s signature pink-and-green palette, the scene feels like it’s been pulled straight from your Instagram feed, blending old Hollywood glamour with classic California luxury. The famed cabanas, once frequented by stars like Marilyn Monroe and Elizabeth Taylor, add to the exclusivity, while the no-photos policy keeps the atmosphere surprisingly discreet despite its social-media fame.

Spread across 40 oceanfront acres, the gorgeous Grand Wailea Maui Resort is home to one of the country’s most impressive pool complexes. The multi-level setup winds through nine interconnected pools with waterfalls, waterslides, caves, a lazy river, a swim-up bar and even the world’s first water elevator. For a calming reprieve from the bustle, head to the adults-only Hibiscus Pool, where more than 630,000 mosaic tiles form a giant hibiscus flower beneath the water—turning the pool itself into a work of art.

On car-free Mackinac Island, just off mainland Michigan, Grand Hotel feels like a step back in time with its historic charm, sweeping front porch and old-world atmosphere. One of the property’s standout features is the historic Esther Williams Swimming Pool, named after the actress and competitive swimmer who filmed This Time for Keeps at the hotel in 1947. The reimagined pool complex now includes a zero-entry pool, waterslide, interactive water features and a heated whirlpool. Additionally, the adults-only infinity pool overlooks the Straits of Mackinac for a quieter, more scenic escape.

Just across the river in Brooklyn, the William Vale’s 60-foot-long outdoor rooftop Vale Pool offers some of the best skyline views in New York City, proving the best vistas aren’t necessarily found in Manhattan proper. Flanked by plush daybeds and private cabanas, the pool—one of NYC’s longest—is open to guests and non-guests alike (though you’ll need to purchase day passes; that said, hotel guests also need to reserve a complimentary two-hour pass for chaise lounge seating in peak season). Come hungry? No problem: There is also an exclusive poolside menu from award-winning chef Andrew Carmellini and NoHo Hospitality Group.

The Colony Hotel is best known for its signature pink facade, but the posh pool scene here is just as iconic. Tucked behind the Palm Beach hotel amid swaying palms and striped umbrellas, the atmosphere draws a stylish mix of locals and travelers from late morning through golden hour. Add in poolside lunches from the trendy restaurant, Swifty’s, plus chilled rosé and polished service, and suddenly what was supposed to be a quick dip and drink turns into an all-day affair.

Reminiscent of the glamorous floating hotel pools splashed all over your Instagram feed in Europe, Horseshoe Bay Resort is home to the only floating hotel pool in North America. Set directly on Lake LBJ in the heart of Texas Hill Country, the massive pool delivers water views as far as the eye can see, and a distinctly Lake Como-meets-Texas atmosphere. Plush cabanas and poolside cocktails complete the resort-style experience.

Known for its striking red-and-white-striped loungers and umbrellas, the Faena Miami Beach pool scene is designed as much for seeing and being seen as for swimming. Framed by swaying palms and the hotel’s signature over-the-top glamour, the atmosphere feels equal parts polished, playful and theatrical—so very on brand for Miami. Just beyond the pool, guests will also find Damien Hirst’s towering gilded woolly mammoth sculpture, Gone But Not Forgotten, adding a bold edge to the beachfront setting.

You know what they say: go big or go home—and in a city known for its over-the-top glitz and glamour, Fontainebleau Las Vegas delivers with the six-acre Oasis Pool Deck. The French Riviera–inspired pool complex features seven distinct pool experiences to suit any and every vibe. For example, guests can spend the day at LIV Beach, the resort’s high-energy dayclub, lounge beside the massive Grand Pool or even try their luck at the poolside gaming area complete with blackjack tables.

At Conrad Orlando at Evermore, Evermore Bay makes you forget you’re in Central Florida and instantly transports you to the tropics. The only resort in Orlando with tropical beaches and eight acres of blue water, the crystalline lagoon offers dedicated swim zones, private overwater cabanas, kayaking, paddleboarding, aqua bikes and family-friendly splash areas. Guests can also choose from a range of boat rentals, including Duffy boats and floating “Spacruzzi” hot tubs.

Surrounded by dramatic sandstone mesas and desert canyons in southern Utah, Amangiri is widely considered one of the most luxurious hotels in the country. As such, it comes as no surprise that the pool is just as spectacular as the resort itself. Carved directly into the natural rock landscape, the minimalist pool curves around a massive sandstone formation at its center, creating one of the most recognizable hotel pool designs in the world.

Set along the coast in Southwest Harbor, Maine, the Claremont Hotel is home to one of the region’s most scenic hotel pools. The heated outdoor infinity pool overlooks Somes Sound, offering panoramic views toward Acadia National Park and setting the scene for a serene escape. Framed by pink-and-white fringed umbrellas and emerald-green chaise lounges, the pool and its landscaped grounds also serve as the beating heart of the property during the summer months.

Marriott Marquis Houston stands out for its eye-popping Texas-shaped lazy river. Perched six stories above the city, the expansive rooftop deck feels like a resort escape in the middle of downtown, complete with an infinity pool and private cabanas. Guests can spend the day floating through the lazy river before heading out to nearby sports venues, Discovery Green and some of Houston’s best dining—all within walking distance.

In between vineyard tours and tastings in Oregon wine country, guests at the Allison Inn & Spa can retreat to the property’s infinity-edge pool, which spills out onto the resort’s landscaped gardens. Come summertime, the pool bar becomes a popular spot to soak up Oregon’s long, sunny afternoons—bonus points if you’ve got a glass of local wine in hand. Plus, thanks to the pool’s indoor-outdoor design, it remains a draw even on cooler valley mornings and rainy Oregon afternoons.