Best Pool Hotels in Austin

Located about 22 miles northwest of downtown Austin, the Lakeway Resort and Spa caters more to R&R seekers than it does to tourists. This beautiful complex rests on the banks of Lake Travis in Texas Hill Country, leading to spectacular views for those of you practicing your swing on one of four 18-hole championship golf courses (including Flintrock Falls, a Jack Nicklaus-designed course). Lakeway also boasts a full-service spa, which offers a long menu of massages and skin treatments. And if you're looking to take to the tides, head to the Lakeway Marina for opportunities to sail and fish, or simply lounge by the property's pool. Recent guests highly recommend ending your day with dinner at the on-site eatery, Lake Travis Restaurant. And though they describe the grounds as stunning, previous visitors say that the guest rooms feel dated, despite their flat-screen TVs and private balconies. Some also warn against hidden resort fees, which can spark a serious case of sticker shock upon checkout.

Sitting near two of Austin's favorite entertainment spots – Esther's Follies and Emo's – the Hilton Austin is popular among visitors looking to immerse themselves in the city's live music culture. It's also convenient for sightseers looking to visit the State Capitol or families hoping to witness the Austin Bats. Whatever the reason for your visit, you can pamper yourself in the Hilton Austin's spa and health club, or join the party at the poolside tiki bar. Though some warn of late night noise from the bars and clubs nearby, most guests enjoyed their time at this Hilton property. While they describe the guest rooms as average in terms of look and amenities, visitors find nothing wrong with the accommodations. Meanwhile, the fare at the Hilton's on-site restaurant earns a big thumbs-up. Members of the Hilton Honors loyalty club can rack up points for staying here.

Located along the Colorado River and less than 22 miles northwest of downtown Austin, the Lake Austin Spa Resort is one of the area's most luxurious resorts. And according to recent guests, this property is just as relaxing as it is opulent (and warrants the commute back and forth from the downtown area). The LakeHouse Spa offers a wide menu of treatments that are sure to help relax your body and mind, while resort activities like yoga, boating and hiking will entice you to get outside and get moving. And guest rooms offer the perfect amount of peace and quiet, boasting private porches, soaking tubs, fresh-cut flowers, complimentary Wi-Fi and Egyptian cotton linens. Lake Austin Spa Resort also receives high praise for its healthy (and yes, very tasty) cuisine. And while room rates are on the pricier side, this is an all-inclusive resort, so all meals, beverages and activities are included.

Located about 10 miles northwest of downtown Austin, the Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa isn't the most practical choice for sightseers. But golfers will be delighted by this premier Texas golf destination; it features four golf courses in the heart of Texas Hill Country. After you work up an appetite on the driving range, treat yourself to a meal at one of the resort's eateries. And if you have kids in tow, plan on a day at the pool, on the surrounding hiking trails or on the mini-golf course. Recent guests love this Omni resort's quiet location and large guest rooms, which include plasma TVs, plush beds and granite countertops. However, recent guests do warn that the service staff isn't up to par and that guests should be wary of hidden fees that can be added to your bill. 

If you're looking for a taste of Europe in Austin, Texas, the Hotel Granduca Austin may just be for you. Similar to Hotel Granduca Houston, this Austin outpost was constructed and designed to look like an Italian villa, and features fountains, a grand outdoor courtyard, hand-painted murals, intricately, patterned wood floors and antique carpets. The theme carries into the rooms, which start at 480 square feet and are appointed with king-sized beds, walk-in showers, exposed wooden beams and Italian art. Some suites also include Juliet balconies, soaking tubs and separate living rooms. Recent guests appreciated the size of the rooms, but were most impressed with the views: The hotel sits on a hillside about 8 miles northwest of Austin. You can also admire the views from the outdoor heated saltwater pool or the Veranda cafe and bar. Aside from the hotel's tranquil location, reviewers also raved about the on-site Italian restaurant, Visconti Ristorante & Bar. If you're looking for a more casual atmosphere, grab a bite at the poolside grill and bar. When it's time to relax, you can indulge in spa services or enlist the concierge to arrange a golf outing at a nearby course. This hotel is part of The Leading Hotels of the World, meaning Leaders Club members have access to perks here. 

Surrounded by some of Austin's favorite entertainment joints and within walking distance of major attractions like the Austin Bats and Zilker Park, The W Austin puts you at the epicenter of the action. Its ultra-chic design may seem somewhat out of place in this funky city, but recent guests said that the guest rooms and amenities live up to the W's reputation. The hotel did infuse a hint of the city's "weird" culture into the decor: Rooms feature throw pillows with brightly stitched designs, offsetting the serene blue hues that envelop the space. Like Austin itself, the W Austin earns high praise from recent guests for its friendly, fun atmosphere, claiming that they felt extremely welcome here. And they're not the only ones: The hotel's Pets Are Welcome (P.A.W.) program makes sure that even the four-legged members of your party are well cared for. Because W Hotels are part of the Marriott hotel family, Marriott Bonvoy members can earn and use points here.

Located in the heart of downtown, The Westin Austin Downtown sits just one block south of Sixth Street, where the numerous performance venues give the city its nickname – the "Live Music Capital of the World." Some guests noted that being in the center of it all resulted in a noisy atmosphere, but most agreed that it didn't intrude on their rest in the new accommodations (the hotel opened in July 2015). Guest rooms are appointed with signature Heavenly Beds, minibars, iPod docking stations, Wi-Fi access (for a fee) and coffee makers for brewing Starbucks coffee and Tazo tea. Before heading out on the town, travelers can work up a sweat in the fitness center or relax by the rooftop pool, then head to the Stella San Jac, the on-site restaurant. Recent travelers said the innovative Southern cuisine was a cut above other hotel restaurants in the area. Visitors were also impressed with the service, which they say is the perfect example of Texas hospitality. Plus, those who participate in the Marriott Bonvoy program can earn and redeem points here.

The JW Marriott Austin impresses travelers with its beauty, accommodating staff members and location. Set in the heart of downtown Austin, the hotel puts guests within walking distance of the ever-lively Sixth Street, the Austin Convention Center, the State Capitol building and the Mexic-Arte Museum. This massive JW Marriott has 1,012 rooms and suites, all of which come with work desks with ergonomic chairs, 48-inch LED smart TVs, coffeemakers and Wi-Fi access (for a fee). Marriott rewards program members can offset costs by using points to cover their stays. All guests have access to the property's ample facilities, which include a fitness center, a 24-hour business center and an outdoor rooftop pool surrounded by lounge chairs. When it comes to dining, the JW Marriott is home to an Italian eatery, a Texas-focused restaurant, a burger shop, a Starbucks and a couple bars. Keep in mind that Marriott Bonvoy members can earn and redeem points by choosing to stay here.

If you're looking to experience Austin's high life, The Westin Austin at the Domain will make a great home base. Sitting about 11 miles north of downtown Austin in the Domain neighborhood, this hotel is surrounded by some of the city's premier shopping, restaurants and entertainment venues. Recent visitors describe the guest rooms as bright and airy, though very typical of a Westin property in terms of amenities (which is a good thing, given the contemporary decor, signature Westin Heavenly Beds and 37-inch flat-screen TVs). The hotel also houses a pool and the in-house restaurant, Urban – An American Grill, which guests praise for its cuisine and service. Yet even though loyal Westin guests can earn points for staying here through the Marriott Bonvoy program, some previous visitors felt that the room rates were too high for a hotel that's so far from the city center.

Resting serenely on the shores of Lady Bird Lake (across the Congress Avenue Bridge from downtown Austin), the Hyatt Regency Austin is a great choice for families and outdoorsy travelers. Its location garners rave reviews since Sixth Street, Zilker Park and the Austin Bats are just a stone's throw away. Meanwhile, recent guests enjoyed activites on the lake thanks to the Hyatt's boat tours and dinner cruises. Back at the hotel, the location is also convenient for business travelers and small conferences. Though recent visitors say the rooms are comfortable and full of amenities like flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi, guests mention that the lodging is beginning to show signs of age. Some visitors also complain of noise traveling easily due to the Hyatt's atrium-centric layout. But recent guests do note that the customer service here is top-notch, and the Marker 10 restaurant hits the spot with its sushi bar and live music. Because this is a Hyatt hotel, Gold Passport loyalty club members can earn and redeem points here.

This boutique Austin hotel boasts a blend of industrial and rustic interiors. Think: wooden floors, mismatched furniture, steel accents and a color scheme of rich brown, dark charcoal, smooth cream and crisp white. Inside the rooms, you'll find hardwood floors, custom furniture, free Wi-Fi access, LED TVs and minibars. The decor was a plus for some travelers and a negative for others, who said they weren't fans of the darker interiors and insufficient lighting. (However, all guests agreed that the hotel staff went above and beyond.) Accommodations offer views of either the interior courtyard, the surrounding neighborhood, the pool or South Congress Avenue. If you upgrade to a suite, you'll enjoy a furnished balcony. You can also schedule an in-room spa treatment or head to tenoverten nail salon for a manicure and pedicure. South Congress Hotel is also home to a rooftop pool (with cushioned lounge chairs), a juice and coffee bar, a 24-hour gym and three eateries. Café No Sé serves breakfast, lunch, dinner and weekend brunch; Central Standard dishes out classic American fare like burgers, steak and seafood; and Otoko is the exclusive 12-seat sushi and kaiseki bar (spots to dine here must be reserved well in advance). 

Unlike its sister property, the Omni Austin Hotel at Southpark, this hotel is convenient for both business and leisure travelers. Sitting just two blocks north of rowdy Sixth Street, the beautiful Omni Austin Hotel Downtown provides a great home base for sightseeing, while amenities like a 24-hour business center and ample meeting space make it easy to work on the road. Guests appreciated indulging in other amenities like the heated rooftop pool. This hotel is also very accommodating of younger guests; If you're traveling with children, you'll find the Omni Kids Crew program makes sure that the little ones get everything they need. Although recent guests praise hotel staff members for their friendly demeanors, they aren't as complimentary of the food or prices at Ancho's restaurant. Members of the Omni Select Guest loyalty program can offset high food prices by paying for their rooms with rewards points.

Sitting about 5 miles south of downtown Austin (right off of I-35), the Omni Austin Hotel at Southpark offers a luxurious stay without all of the noise that accompanies downtown properties. This hotel caters more to business travelers than tourists, offering on-the-go workers a 24-hour business center, postal services and free Wi-Fi for Omni Select Guests members (non-members pay $9.95 per day). Recent guests do note that the location is only convenient for guests with cars. However, that doesn't mean leisure travelers should rule this Omni out: The hotel's Trinity Spa features a full menu of stress-relieving treatments, and the hotel concierge is happy to arrange tee times at nearby golf courses or direct you to surrounding shopping areas. Some recent guests do warn to check your credit card statement during your stay to watch out for extra charges. Meanwhile, recent visitors praise the Onion Creek Grille, saying that the make-your-own-pasta buffet is a treat for diners of all ages.

Stretching out along the Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge about 18 miles northwest of Austin in the heart of Texas Hill Country, Travaasa Austin offers dramatic views and activities catered to both R&R- and thrill-seekers. Property standouts include group cooking demonstrations, Texas two-step dance classes and horseback riding lessons. Though most visitors describe the unrivaled outdoor experiences available at Travaasa Austin as a compelling reason to plan a future stay, travelers also insist that it's the gracious hotel staff that truly seals the deal. If all that activity makes you hungry, refuel with some nutritious farm-to-table cuisine at the on-site restaurant. Sample menu items include huevos rancheros for breakfast and short rib espagnole for dinner. If you're looking to take the relaxation up a notch, unwind with a revitalizing treatment, such as a clay and aloe wrap or a detoxifying sea salt and olive stone exfoliation, at the spa. Meanwhile, active types can participate in on-site Pilates and yoga classes. When nighttime rolls around, you'll retire to your rustic-yet-stylish accommodations outfitted with wooden furnishings, spacious balconies, coffee makers and walk-in showers. 

The Four Seasons brand prides itself on luxury, and this property is no exception. Sitting on the northern shore of Lady Bird Lake (just a block or so from the Austin Convention Center), the Four Seasons Hotel Austin earns rave reviews from travelers thanks to its sumptuous atmosphere and extremely friendly service staff. The accommodations also garner praise: Rooms are decorated in neutral tones and feature cozy furniture, down bedding, flat-screen TVs, L'Occitane bath products and Internet access. Some previous visitors recommend splurging on a balcony room for excellent views of either the lake or downtown Austin. Or, you can save your money for an elegant Ciclo restaurant dinner or a massage at the spa. You'll find excellent vistas from the windows of the deck of Live Oak or the lounge chairs by the outdoor, heated saltwater pool, and you won't have to pay extra for them.

Resting on the southwest corner of the University of Texas campus – just a couple blocks from both the Blanton Museum of Art and the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum – this Austin hotel is all about business. Boasting massive conference rooms, the AT&T Executive Education and Conference Center is the ideal place for conventions, while the property itself features a full-service business center. But staying at this property is hardly work: An outdoor pool and a well-stocked fitness center await you after a long day on the job, and The Carillon's chefs would like nothing more than to end your evening with a premium steak. And when it's time to retire to your digs, you'll find spacious rooms with amenities that guests praise, including pillow-top mattresses, ergonomic furniture, flat-screen TVs and complimentary high-speed internet.

Residing in the heart of downtown Austin – just one block from rambunctious Sixth Street – the InterContinental Stephen F. Austin is ideal for anyone looking to be at the center of the action. (However, previous visitors warn that you will pay for the location in parking fees.) And though we doubt you'll spend much time in the hotel, the InterContinental Stephen F. Austin does boast a sauna, indoor lap pool, whirlpool and fitness center should you prefer pumping iron to partying. Whether you're planning on going out or staying in, start your night off with dinner and drinks at Stephen F.'s Bar & Terrace, which serves up an eclectic menu of entrees and shareable small plates. And when you're ready to catch up on some zzz's, previous guests say that the rooms –with their custom furniture and neutral tones – will have you snoozing in style. Plus, IHG Rewards Club members can indulge for free using rewards points at this InterContinental property.

Although this isn't the best home base for sightseers (the hotel sits 10 miles north of downtown Austin), the Renaissance Austin Hotel is the ideal place for nature enthusiasts. Perched on the northern edge of the Austin Arboretum, the hotel offers beautiful views of Texas Hill Country and prime access to the verdant gardens. But while many rave about the property's peaceful location and friendly, attentive staff, some recent guests say that the Renaissance Austin Hotel is adequate at best. Major complaints include spotty internet service (for an extra charge) and small rooms. Travelers also express mixed feelings about the guest room decor: Some love the leather lounge chairs and the red accents, while others are quick to call out stained carpets and dim lighting. But you don't have to spend that much time in your room. The Renaissance Austin Hotel features a gym, two pools and access to a jogging trail, as well as the cybercafe eatery, @ustinbytes, and the Texas-style restaurant, Knotty Deck & Bar. Because Renaissance hotels fall under the Marriott umbrella, Marriott Bonvoy members can use points to pay for their stay. 

Sitting several blocks west of the Blanton Museum of Art and the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum, Hotel Ella offers a quiet respite from the rowdier scene found downtown. This 47-room, boutique hotel is housed in the Goodall Wooten House –first built a little before 1900 – and beckons to R&R-seekers and history buffs. Hotel Ella features a pool, fitness center as well as Goodall's Kitchen and the connected parlor-style bar of the same name. The hotel's guest rooms feature LED TVs and complimentary wireless internet, as well as tufted furnishings and marble bathrooms. Travelers also say that Hotel Ella has fantastic customer service. What's more, guests have access to a house car service that travels within a three-mile radius of the hotel.