Top 16 'Infinity-Pool-View' Luxury Resorts to experience in Southeast Asia without the Five-Star Price Tag
Picture this: You’re floating effortlessly, the cool water lapping at the edge of a pool that seems to melt into the horizon. Below you, a lush jungle canopy unfolds, or perhaps it's the turquoise expanse of the Andaman Sea. A cold drink rests within arm's reach. This is the infinity pool dream—a symbol of ultimate luxury, relaxation, and that perfect, envy-inducing Instagram shot.
For too long, this vision has been synonymous with eye-watering price tags and exclusive five-star resorts. It’s the kind of experience many of us file under "someday" or "if I win the lottery." But what if I told you that "someday" could be your next holiday? Southeast Asia, a region celebrated for its vibrant cultures, incredible food, and breathtaking landscapes, is also a treasure trove of affordable luxury. The dream of that jaw-dropping infinity pool view is more attainable than you think.
Here, we're going to dive into the world of accessible opulence. We’ve scoured the region to find 16 incredible resorts that deliver that million-dollar view and luxurious feel, without demanding a millionaire's budget. From the misty mountains of Sapa to the dramatic cliffs of Bali, get ready to add some new destinations to your travel wish list.
1. The Kayon Jungle Resort (Ubud, Bali, Indonesia)
If you’ve ever scrolled through Bali travel photos, you've likely seen the iconic, three-tiered infinity pool at The Kayon Jungle Resort. Inspired by the Tegalalang Rice Terraces, this architectural marvel is the resort's centerpiece, offering panoramic views of the dense Ubud jungle. Each level provides a different perspective, ensuring you can always find a semi-private spot to soak it all in.
The resort itself is a sanctuary of wellness and romance, with a focus on Balinese healing traditions. Beyond the main pool, you'll find luxurious villas (some with their own private pools), a stunning spa, and a yoga pavilion that seems to float above the valley. It’s an immersive experience that feels a world away from the bustle of central Ubud.
Pro Tip: The best photos are taken in the morning when the jungle is often shrouded in a mystical mist. Ask the staff about their floating breakfast for the ultimate in-pool dining experience.
2. Topas Ecolodge (Sapa, Vietnam)
For a completely different kind of infinity pool experience, head to the mountains of Northern Vietnam. Topas Ecolodge boasts two heated infinity pools that offer what might be the most dramatic views on this list. Perched on a spectacular hilltop, the pools overlook the cloud-kissed peaks and sprawling, terraced rice fields of the Hoang Lien National Park.
The lodge is built on a foundation of sustainable tourism, with rustic-chic bungalows constructed from local materials. This isn't your typical beach resort; it's an escape into nature. Waking up above the clouds, taking a dip in the pool as the sun burns through the morning fog, and then heading out for a trek to visit local hill-tribe villages is an unforgettable journey.
Pro Tip: Visit between September and November for clear skies and the stunning golden hues of the harvest season. The pool is heated, making it a magical experience even on cooler mountain days.
3. The Shore at Katathani (Phuket, Thailand)
Tucked away on the secluded Kata Noi beach, The Shore at Katathani is an adults-only, all-villa resort that screams romance and exclusivity. While it sits at the higher end of "affordable luxury," the value here is incredible because every single villa has its own private infinity pool overlooking the sea. You don’t have to fight for a lounge chair; your private oasis is just steps from your bed.
The resort's design is elegant and contemporary, with a neutral palette that lets the vibrant blues of the Andaman Sea take center stage. Enjoy the main oceanfront pool, fine dining at The Harbor, or simply order room service to your villa and never leave your private paradise. It’s a perfect splurge for a honeymoon or anniversary.
Pro Tip: Book a "Pool Villa Romance" which comes with extra romantic perks. Also, take advantage of the free shuttle to the busier Kata Beach if you're looking for more action.
4. Puncak-Ceningan Resort (Nusa Ceningan, Bali, Indonesia)
For those who want a million-dollar view on a savvy traveler's budget, Puncak-Ceningan is a hidden gem. Located on the tiny island of Nusa Ceningan, just a short hop from Bali, this resort's infinity pool offers a breathtaking vista of the famous Ceningan Channel and the iconic Yellow Bridge. The water is so impossibly blue it looks like a filter has been applied in real life.
The accommodation is simple but comfortable, consisting of charming wooden bungalows. The main draw is undoubtedly the pool and its adjacent bar and restaurant. It's the perfect place to spend an entire afternoon, watching the seaweed farmers at work below and the boats zipping between the islands.
Pro Tip: Rent a scooter to explore the Nusa Islands (Ceningan is connected to Lembongan by the Yellow Bridge). The stunning Blue Lagoon is just a five-minute drive from the resort.
5. Amorita Resort (Panglao, Bohol, Philippines)
Perched atop a limestone cliff at the quiet end of Alona Beach, Amorita Resort offers a tranquil escape with two of the best infinity pools in the Philippines. The main pool provides a sweeping, 180-degree view of the Bohol Sea, while a second, more intimate pool offers a serene space for relaxation. The lush, manicured gardens surrounding the pools create a sense of being in a private paradise.
The resort seamlessly blends contemporary design with natural materials. The service is famously warm and attentive, embodying Filipino hospitality at its finest. From here, you can easily organize trips to see the Chocolate Hills, meet the tiny tarsiers, or go diving in some of the world's most vibrant coral reefs.
Pro Tip: Splurge on a Sea View Suite for stunning sunset views directly from your balcony. Don't miss the resort's Saffron Restaurant for an elevated take on classic Boholano cuisine.
6. Silavadee Pool Spa Resort (Koh Samui, Thailand)
The name "Silavadee" means "beautiful rock" in Thai, and this resort lives up to its name. Built into a dramatic, rocky headland on a secluded part of Koh Samui's coastline, Silavadee offers unparalleled privacy and jaw-dropping views. The main infinity pool seems to cascade directly into the ocean, with giant granite boulders framing the scene.
Many of the villas also feature their own private infinity pools, each uniquely positioned to maximize the stunning sea views. The resort has its own small, private beach, making it feel like a true escape from the world. It’s a place where you can truly disconnect and recharge.
Pro Tip: The resort has a "secret" beach that is more secluded than the main one. Ask the staff for directions. Book a spa treatment in one of their open-air salas for an unforgettable experience.
7. Fusion Resort Phu Quoc (Phu Quoc, Vietnam)
Fusion Resort Phu Quoc redefines the concept of value. This is an all-spa-inclusive, all-villa resort. That’s right—your room rate includes a minimum of two spa treatments per person, per day. If that wasn't enough, every single spacious villa, from the one-bedrooms to the family-sized residences, has its own private pool.
The main infinity pool is a stunner, stretching along the pristine beachfront and offering glorious sunset views. The vibe is chic, minimalist, and wellness-focused. One thing I've learned, much like Goh Ling Yong often discusses in his business insights, is that true luxury is about the value of the experience, and Fusion delivers that in spades.
Pro Tip: Book your spa treatments as soon as you arrive, as popular time slots fill up quickly. Try their "Breakfast, Anywhere, Anytime" concept and have your morning meal delivered to your private villa or even on the beach.
8. Munduk Moding Plantation Nature Resort & Spa (Bali, Indonesia)
Escape the beach crowds and head for the hills. High in the cool, coffee-growing region of North Bali, Munduk Moding Plantation features one of the world's most famous infinity pools. This 18-meter pool is perfectly positioned to create the illusion of merging with the clouds, offering spectacular views of the rolling hills and the distant Java Sea.
This eco-luxury resort is set within a working coffee plantation, offering a unique "back-to-nature" experience. You can learn about coffee production, trek to hidden waterfalls, and simply breathe in the fresh mountain air. The villas are spacious and luxurious, with traditional Balinese design elements.
Pro Tip: The resort can be chilly in the evenings, so pack a light jacket. Wake up early to watch the sunrise from the pool—the view as the mist clears from the valleys below is pure magic.
9. The Danna Langkawi (Langkawi, Malaysia)
If you're looking for grandeur and elegance, The Danna Langkawi delivers. This 5-star resort, often available at 4-star prices during the off-season, boasts the largest three-tiered infinity pool on the island. Overlooking a private beach and the calm waters of a marina, the pool area is vast, luxurious, and impeccably serviced.
The hotel's architecture is a beautiful blend of British colonial and Malaysian design, with high ceilings, grand archways, and a stunning atrium. The rooms are spacious and opulent, with every modern comfort. The service here is a highlight—warm, personalized, and always a step ahead of your needs.
Pro Tip: Book a merchant-class room for sea views and a large balcony. Enjoy the complimentary shoulder massage upon arrival—it's the perfect start to a relaxing stay.
10. La Veranda Resort Phu Quoc - MGallery (Phu Quoc, Vietnam)
Step back in time at La Veranda, a boutique resort that feels like a sprawling colonial-era mansion. Set in lush tropical gardens fronting a beautiful stretch of Duong Dong beach, the resort's saltwater infinity pool is a serene oasis. Lined with mosaic tiles and surrounded by swaying palms, it offers a tranquil view of the Gulf of Thailand.
The charm of La Veranda is in its details—the vintage-style furnishings, the dark wood floors, the attentive staff in their crisp white uniforms. It’s a sophisticated and romantic escape that feels much more intimate than the larger resorts on the island.
Pro Tip: Enjoy a sunset cocktail at Le Bar, which offers prime views of the pool and the ocean. The resort's cooking class is a fantastic way to learn the secrets of authentic Vietnamese cuisine.
11. Paresa Resort Phuket (Phuket, Thailand)
Perched on a cliffside along Phuket's "Millionaire's Mile," Paresa offers five-star views and experiences that often come with a surprisingly accessible price tag, especially when booking in advance. The name "Paresa" means "heaven of all heavens," and its fibre-optic-lit infinity pool, which glitters like a starry sky at night, certainly lives up to the name.
Every suite and villa is oriented towards the sea for maximum viewage, and most come with their own private infinity plunge pools. The resort feels incredibly private and secluded, making it a favorite for couples and those seeking a quiet retreat. Here at the Goh Ling Yong blog, we champion finding exceptional value, and Paresa is a prime example.
Pro Tip: Book a "Dining by Design" experience, where the resort sets up a private, romantic dinner in a stunning location, such as on a platform over the main pool.
12. The Funny Lion (Coron, Palawan, Philippines)
While technically a boutique hotel rather than a sprawling resort, The Funny Lion makes this list for its exceptional rooftop. Here you'll find an infinity pool and two jacuzzis with one of the best sunset views in all of Coron. The pool overlooks a serene bay dotted with mangroves and limestone karsts, offering a peaceful alternative to the hustle of Coron town.
The hotel itself is contemporary, eco-conscious, and known for its outstanding service. The rooms are compact but smartly designed. It serves as the perfect, stylish base for exploring the world-class islands and lagoons of Coron, knowing you have a spectacular pool to return to at the end of the day.
Pro Tip: The hotel's Pride Rock Deck, next to the pool, is the absolute best spot for sunset. Get there a little early to snag a prime seat, order a craft cocktail, and enjoy the show.
13. Lexis Hibiscus Port Dickson (Port Dickson, Malaysia)
For sheer novelty and scale, Lexis Hibiscus is hard to beat. This massive resort is famous for its overwater villas arranged in the shape of a hibiscus flower. The incredible part? Every single one of its 600+ villas comes with its own private plunge pool and steam room.
While the central resort pools are also impressive, the true luxury lies in having your own private infinity-edge dip pool overlooking the Straits of Malacca. You can watch the sunrise from the comfort of your pool without ever leaving your room. It’s a fantastic option for families or groups who value privacy and convenience.
Pro Tip: Request a villa further out on the "petals" or "leaves" for more unobstructed sea views. The resort is huge, so make use of the 24-hour buggy service to get around.
14. SALA Phuket Mai Khao Beach Resort (Phuket, Thailand)
Located on the quiet, undeveloped Mai Khao Beach, SALA Phuket is a chic and stylish sanctuary. A majority of the resort's 79 rooms, suites, and villas have their own stunning private pools. The design is minimalist and modern, with crisp white walls, dark wood accents, and a focus on open-air living.
The resort features two large beachfront swimming pools, but the real magic is in the privacy of your own villa. Imagine stepping from your outdoor bathroom directly into your pool for a morning swim. It's an intimate and luxurious experience that feels incredibly indulgent.
Pro Tip: Mai Khao Beach is a protected sea turtle nesting site. If you visit between November and February, you may have a chance to witness the hatchlings being released into the sea.
15. Japamala Resort (Tioman Island, Malaysia)
If your idea of luxury is more "Robinson Crusoe chic" than "gleaming marble," Japamala is your place. Tucked between the jungle and the sea on the beautiful Tioman Island, this rustic-luxe resort is built directly into the natural landscape. The infinity pool is small but perfectly formed, set at the end of a pier that juts out over the turquoise water.
The "sarangs" (nests) and villas are connected by a series of jungle walkways, and many come with their own private plunge pools or direct sea access. It's a place for nature lovers who appreciate understated luxury and a feeling of being completely immersed in the environment.
Pro Tip: Book a "Seacliff Chalet" for dramatic views from your private outdoor bathtub. Don't miss the chance to snorkel or dive right off the resort's pier—the marine life is fantastic.
16. Hanging Gardens of Bali (Ubud, Bali, Indonesia)
No list of infinity pools would be complete without the one that started it all. The legendary, split-level infinity pool at Hanging Gardens of Bali is consistently voted one of the best in the world. Cascading down the hillside, it mimics the surrounding rice terraces and seems to float above the lush Ayung River valley.
While this is the most aspirational resort on our list, it's possible to find deals during the shoulder seasons that bring it into the realm of an "affordable splurge." Staying here is a true bucket-list experience, and every private villa also has its own granite-lined infinity pool. For a special occasion, it is simply unforgettable.
Pro Tip: Even if you're not staying at the resort, you can book a "Gourmet Picnic" or "Spa Collection" package that includes access to the main pool for a few hours. It’s a great way to experience the magic without the overnight price tag.
Your Dream View Awaits
That postcard-perfect moment of serenity—floating on the edge of the world, with nothing but a breathtaking view in front of you—doesn't have to be a far-off fantasy. As these 16 resorts prove, Southeast Asia is brimming with opportunities to experience world-class luxury and those coveted infinity pool views at a fraction of the price you might expect.
The key is to look beyond the big-name brands and discover the boutique gems, the wellness retreats, and the clifftop sanctuaries that prioritize experience over expense. So, which of these incredible pools are you mentally diving into right now?
Leave a comment below and let us know which resort is calling your name, or share your own favorite affordable luxury find in Southeast Asia!
About the Author
Goh Ling Yong is a content creator and digital strategist sharing insights across various topics. Connect and follow for more content:
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