Cocktail anyone? Nothing says holidays more than plunging into the cool blue waters of a pool and floating up to rest your weary bones at a swim-up bar. It’s an absolute indulgence and also a great way to meet people. Some of my best memories were conversations seated at a swim-up bar discussing destinations and travel tips with fellow holiday makers.
Here are eight of what we thought were some of the best and most exotic swim-up pool bars on the planet. Have you a favourite? Share the best swim-up bar encounter with us at the bottom of this story.
Lotus Pool at Intercontinental Resort, Tahiti
1. Lotus bar, Intercontinental Resort, Tahiti
Adjacent to the stunning lagoon, the Lotus Bar has an amazing view of Tahiti’s sister island Moorea. It doesn’t get much better than watching a Tahitian sunset sipping a delicious pear vodka or mai-tai.
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Serenity Pool at the Four Seasons Maui
2. Serenity Pool at Four Seasons Maui
Ah feel that serenity… Hawaii may just be the birthplace of the tropical cocktail, laden with fruit garnishes and those tiny little umbrellas. The gorgeous Four Seasons in Maui continues the tradition quite beautifully with their own signature cocktails. The hotel’s Serenity Pool is situated in the most secluded part of the resort with views to West Maui’s dramatic mountains. Sip your drink then groove as you dip into the waters with the pool’s underwater music system.
Pool bar at Indigo Resort, Mozambique
3. Indigo Bay Island Resort and Spa, Mozambique
Quintessentially exotic the Indigo Bay Island Resort on Bazaruto Island off the Mozambique coast, has an historic allure in addition to its spectacular location surrounded by the Indian Ocean. With a panoramic outlook over the bay, the pool bar is decorated with images depicting early Portuguese trade and is the perfect spot after a day of diving in the Bazaruto Marine National Park. A chilled long island iced tea or margarita are both very suited to a moment like this.
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Pool bar at Anantara Rasananda Phangan, Thailand
4. Anantara Rasananda Koh Phangan, Thailand
Amidst secluded gardens and towering coconut palms, the beachfront infinity pool is your tropical dream come to life. Neon lights make it difficult to leave when the sun goes down, as you float and sip and gaze at the clear starry sky. The only reason to hop out is to sample the beautiful Thai food or check out the very unique seaview wine cellar.
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Pool at Hotel Riu Palace, Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
5. Hotel Riu Palace, Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Now this is living. Cradled in the expansive natural beauty of Cabos San Lucas on the southern tip of Baja Peninsula in Mexico, you are served with crystal clear waters and a choice of the jacuzzi or pool bar to accompany your pinacolada. Meals and entertainment are included in your stay and the nightlife is spectacular. Arrriba!
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Pool bar at Grand Cayman Beach Resort, Cayman Islands
6. Grand Cayman Beach Suites, Cayman Islands
Breathtakingly overlooking the Caribbean Sea, the Grand Cayman pool bar applies a completely soothing balm to your senses. Details are everything and chlorine is minimal and the pool is thoughtfully wheelchair accessible too.
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Cave bar at Crystal Cove, Barbados
7. Crystal Cove, Barbados
You can’t get much more romantic than a waterfall encapsulated pool bar nestled in a cave. Fragrant frangipanis and pretty bougainvillea frame the rustic, natural surrounds – this is definitely a place to bring someone you love.
Pool bar at Krabi La Playa Resort, Krabi
8. Krabi La Playa Resort, Thailand
The pool at Krabi La Playa Resort is unique. Apart from the lush magical gardens, you barely need to leave the pool. Cocktails, poolside massages and evening barbeques mean you may as well only pack your swimmers and a sarong. You’re unlikely to need anything else.
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What’s the best pool bar you’ve ever come across in your travels?
