The 10 Best Public Swimming Pools in Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Phnom Penh is awash with hotels catering to tourists, and many come equipped with pools that are perfect to spend the afternoon cooling down in, or lounging around. Thankfully, the majority are open to outside guests for a small fee, or to those who splash out on food and drinks. Here are the 10 best swimming pools in Phnom Penh.
Patio Hotel
Perched atop the seventh floor of Patio Hotel is an infinity pool divine enough to waste away far too many hours. Offering stunning views out across the capital, the cozy contemporary setting boasts several sun loungers set into the pool, alcoves to chill in and a restaurant serving up a great menu of fusion food.
Villa Langka
Resort
Located next to Wat Langka, Villa Langka’s pool is surrounded by ample sunbeds and loungers, all situated in the dappled shade of the hotel’s lush tropical garden. This calm oasis in the centre of the city also serves food and drinks.
Aquarius Hotel and Urban Resort
Another impressive Phnom Penh pool comes in the form of Aquarius’ glass-walled infinity rooftop pool. Shaped like an L and acting as a kind of human fish tank, the pool comes complete with a tropical garden and sky bar.
Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra
Hotel
Rambutan Resorts
Boutique Hotel
This gay-friendly resort oozes urban chic. Situated on a quiet centrally-located street, Rambutan’s pool welcomes outside guests, and can quickly fill up with expats at weekends. Sun loungers and comfy alcoves surround the pool, as well as tropical foliage. Food and drink is also served.
Plantation
Boutique Hotel
While the large swimming pool to the back of the Plantation is reserved for guests, the smaller Red Pool Lounge area at the front is open to outside visitors. The stylish space features a plunge pool, sundeck and bar area, and serves snacks, meals and drinks. It’s the perfect place to spend a lazy afternoon.
Blue Lime
Also tucked off a quiet backstreet, Blue Limeis a tranquil haven with a peaceful pool. Sun loungers and giant beds skirt the pool, which is a pretty decent size. Food and drinks are served. However, sun worshippers may be disappointed because the pool area is mainly in the shade throughout the day.
Raffles Le Royal
Hotel
For the ultimate splurge, spend the day at the capital’s iconic Raffles Le Royal. The stunning colonial building boasts a large swimming pool set in the middle of the grounds. Manicured tropical gardens offer a sense of peace, with each sun lounger coming with a butler bell so you don’t even have to move to order a refill.
angos Guesthouse
For a more laidback vibe, 3Mangos is the place to be. Chilled, cheap and cheerful, the pool is open to outside guests and, though small, has a huge dose of character. Pool parties are often held, so it’s worth checking out their Facebook page for any updates.
Tusk Bar & Guesthouse
Bar, Restaurant, Asian, European
Another popular spot with the backpacker crowd is Tusk. Having recently undergone a renovation, the venue is in top shape, and the pool is open to all. This is another spot that often hosts pool and other parties, and it becomes lively in the evenings, especially at weekends.