From a glass-bottom cliffside pool to an oasis amid the rainforest, these Bali pools are worth getting your hair wet for.
With its realm of serene swim-up bars and gravity-defying infinity pools, Bali is the perfect destination to don your sparkly new swimmers, slide off your sandals and enjoy the tropical climate from within a breathtaking body of water.
From cliffside swimming deep in Ubud's lush forest to glass-bottom sky pools with panoramic views of the glistening Indian Ocean, read on to dive deep into Bali’s most jaw-dropping aquatic wonders.
Hanging Gardens of Bali
Considered one of the most iconic on the Island of the Gods, the pool of Ubud’s Hanging Gardens of Bali is an awe-inspiring, multi-tier marvel that seemingly floats above mist-kissed foliage. Step into the sparkling shallows and feel instantly immersed in the lush jungle surrounds, soaking up breathtaking views that stretch to the Ayung River and the Dalem Segara Temple. There's nothing as serene as floating among orchids and outstretched branches of bamboo against Ubud’s iconic lush forest backdrop. Swim up to the outer edge to watch the trees sway in the breeze as native birds provide the soundtrack to the serenity.
Mulia Villas
Exclusively open for guests of The Mulia and Mulia Villas, the iconic Oasis Pool is the pinnacle of Balinese aquatic luxury, and easily the most grand and breathtaking of the resort’s six pools. Steps from the oceanfront, this world-famous pool is framed by rows of striking statues that have become the resort’s signature. But the splashy fun doesn’t stop here: enjoy a refreshing cocktail at the Ocean Pool’s glorious swim-up bar, lounge around in a private cabana at the Ladies Courtyard Pool set in the middle of the resort or discover the infinity view of the ocean at the edge of the Aqua Pool.
The Edge
This aptly named resort towers on the precipice along Uluwatu’s majestic cliff face, unfolding a breathtaking panorama from almost any angle. Arguably the most thrilling infinity pool in all of Bali, The Edge’s diamond feature is its jaw-dropping glass-bottom sky pool that extends six metres over the cliff’s rugged rim. Adjacent lies a cluster of rock-framed ponds and a rounded lagoon pool, offering ample opportunity for an in-pool cocktail-and-chill as the sun sets over the iconic turquoise waters.
Jumeirah Bali
Inspired by the serenity of traditional Hindu water palaces, naturally, Jumeirah Bali revolves around the gentle trickling of water. Set along the Indian Ocean’s vibrant coast, this relatively new resort is the first Jumeirah property in Indonesia, in line with brand’s glamorous signature offerings – extending all the way to the pools. Each incredibly opulent villa contains a private plunge pool, while closer to the shore lies the resort’s prized jewel; a collection of three infinity-edged beachfront pools named after famous Majapahit reservoirs. From this vantage point, it’s easy to forget where the beach starts and the resort ends.
Alila Villas Uluwatu
At the intersection between Uluwatu’s rugged cliff faces and the boundless oceanic horizon, Alila Villas Uluwatu perches seemingly on the edge of the world. Paddle about as the sky streams apricot hues above the best seat in the house; the world-famous, 50-metre cliff-edge infinity pool that seamlessly blends into the distant waves of the sparkling ocean. In addition, each of the resort’s refined villas features a private, open-air pool just steps from the stunning interiors. You'll be spoilt for choice for a sunrise swim, afternoon splash or cocktail-fuelled sunset float.
AYANA Villas Bali
The sheer number of pools at the cliffside AYANA Villas Bali – encompassing 14 shared and a multitude in-villa – encourages languid days in the water. Beyond the private plunge pools of the villas, guests can frequent the immense signature ocean beach pool, tranquil two-tier river pool and Luna pool, while little ones love the kids' pool with water slides. Take a dip in the aquatonic hydrotherapy pool, where heated saltwater promotes immense physical relaxation, look out beyond the ocean in the infinity-styled main pool, or order some cocktails and snacks at the lower pool.
Feature image: Hanging Gardens of Bali.
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