Best Pool Hotels in Texas

Like the Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa, this JW Marriott property is a hit with families. The expansive property has fairways and spa treatments for the adults, and a lazy river and waterslides for the kids. Meanwhile, the resort offers a variety of rooms to suit groups of various sizes. Whichever accommodations you choose, you'll be surrounded by colorful decor, cozy furniture and views of the Texas Hill Country. According to guests, the staff always seems to be smiling and ready to assist, and with multiple restaurants to choose from, you certainly won't go hungry. The property is just a 21-mile drive north of downtown San Antonio, so spending a day touring the city's historical attractions is a cinch. The JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa is a member of the Marriott family, meaning that loyal guests can earn and redeem Marriott Bonvoy points here.

Recent guests have great things to say about the beautiful Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa and its employees. Located about 17 miles from downtown San Antonio, this Hyatt's more than 300 acres are home to a water park, a spa and a 27-hole golf course. There's even a nature trail for guests hoping to get some fresh air and exercise. With so much to do and the resort's proximity to SeaWorld, the Hyatt Regency Hill Country attracts a lot of families. The hotel accommodates this with a variety of room types, from classic guest rooms to more spacious suites. No matter which type of lodging you choose, you'll have access to an iPod docking station, a flat-screen TV and a minifridge. Guests appreciate the property's variety of eateries given its distance from the San Antonio dining scene, but some visitors do warn that this resort might be a better fit for those looking to spend most of their time relaxing rather than sightseeing. If you're loyal to the brand, you can use your Hyatt Gold Passport rewards points to pay for your stay.

Situated in Montgomery, Texas along Lake Conroe, La Torretta Lake Resort & Spa is a huge hit with families for one reason: It has a water park. Kids can easily spend hours riding the slides and splashing around in the Aqua Park, and when they tire of that, they can practice their short game at the putt-putt course or build sandcastles on the beach. Guests who are a little older can swim laps in the heated infinity pool, relax at the spa or take to the more challenging fairways of the 18-hole golf course instead. Later on, regroup and enjoy a family dinner at one of six restaurants before retiring to your spacious suite or villa. Though they rave about La Torretta's on-site amenities, some guests feel that the resort's standards are starting to slip, citing disorganized customer service staff and less-than-spotless rooms as issues. Visitors also gripe about the location: This resort sits just about 55 miles north of Houston, and many say there's not a whole lot to do in this part of Texas.

Sitting about 23 miles southeast of downtown Austin, the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa grants you just enough distance from the city without making you feel isolated. And though you may want to head to the Live Music Capital for a daytrip, you'll find plenty of ways to stay busy right here. This Texas Hill Country property is home to the scenic 18-hole Wolfdancer Golf Club. And for non-linksmen, the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines offers a wide array of activities, including horseback riding, hiking and wildlife watching. For a more relaxing experience, book a treatment at the spa or simply spend some time by the pool. As far as accommodations go, guests describe this Hyatt's rooms as spacious and comfortable, praising them for their signature beds, complimentary Wi-Fi and an abundance of natural light. The multiple wide-ranging eateries also earn a thumbs-up for their assorted cuisine and casual ambiance. But what guests like most about the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines is the friendliness of the staff. Because this resort is part of the Hyatt hotel family, members of the brand's loyalty program can use or earn points here.

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.

Situated in Texas Hill Country, approximately 17 miles north of San Antonio, the rustic yet luxurious La Cantera Resort & Spa is beloved by guests for the sheer amount of space it occupies. Spread out across 550 acres, the resort boasts two 18-hole golf courses, several restaurants, five pools, a fitness center, tennis courts and a spa that spans 25,000 square feet. That list doesn't even include the kids amenities, which range from a supervised Kids Club Camp to an on-site arcade. Aside from its bevy of amenities, La Cantera also wins praise for its accommodations, which range from 395 to 1,698 square feet. Rooms are outfitted with Keurig coffee makers, minifridges, bottled water, complimentary Wi-Fi access, and in select accommodations, balconies (a perk worth the inflated room rate, according to reviewers). Keep in mind: The hotel charges a daily $32 resort fee that covers resort activities, self-parking, bottled water and shuttle service within a 3-mile radius of the property, among other amenities.

Located off of North Stemmons Freeway several miles northwest of downtown Dallas, the Hilton Anatole is far enough from the city to be a peaceful retreat, yet close enough to be convienent for sightseeing. But for most visitors, what sets this hotel apart from its competitors is its size. This massive Hilton property contains more than 1,600 guest rooms, each with enough room for one king-sized or two double Serenity beds, as well as a private bath with double vanities, a flat-screen TV and video game access. What's more, the Hilton Anatole still has space left over for the V Spa, a fitness club and several on-site eateries. The new JadeWaters Resort Pool Complex boasts numerous pools, a lazy river, swim-up bar, two waterslides and more. Recent guests marvel at the hotel's grand stature, and Hilton Honors rewards club members can save a pretty penny by using points to cover the room rate.

Overlooking Grapevine Lake (roughly 23 miles northwest of Dallas), the Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center is a destination unto itself. Inside, visitors will find a 25,000-square-foot spa, a fitness center, retail outlets and several restaurants. The highlight of the resort, however, is the pool complex: Recent guests say that their kids loved splashing in the lazy river and riding the waterslide. Guest rooms here aren't huge, but they're equipped with internet access and cable TV; most guests say that's all they need. On top of the nightly room rate, you should also be prepared to pay an additional resort fee for access to Gaylord's facilities. And because Gaylord Hotels is part of the Marriott family, loyal guests can earn and redeem Marriott Bonvoy points here.

Located 13 miles northwest of Dallas, the Four Seasons Resort and Club Dallas at Las Colinas is quite a mouthful. But it's also quite a hotel. Surrounded by 400 acres of rolling Texas hills, this expansive Four Seasons property is home to a spa, an 18-hole golf course and several restaurants and lounges. And that's on top of the 431 guest rooms, which visitors describe as spacious and comfortable with plush bedding and marble bathrooms that include soaking tubs. Travelers also say that there's no shortage of things to do at this resort, from practicing your tennis swing to lounging by one of the four pools. However, if you plan on doing any sightseeing in Dallas or Fort Worth, you might want to pick a hotel closer in – it can take quite a bit of time in heavy traffic to travel between Irving and Dallas.

Sitting about 7 miles west of downtown, this hotel calls itself "a wooded oasis in the heart of Houston." And with its multiple pools, tennis courts and jogging paths (all set in 18 acres of forest), it's no wonder a lot of recent guests couldn't find a reason to leave the property. Some visitors even say that this is the "perfect place" to stay, praising the spacious guest rooms not only for their space, but also for their amenities. Inside your digs you'll find L'Occitane bath products, Keurig coffee makers and occupancy sensors to let housekeeping know when you're in the room so as not to disturb you. If you're looking to burn some energy, you'll find a rock climbing wall and a gymnasium – where more than 100 fitness classes are held each week – at your service. Meanwhile, The Houstonian houses four distinct eateries. Visitors claim that you need several days just to explore the entire property, but do warn that if business or pleasure takes you into downtown Houston you'll need a car. 

Horseshoe Bay Resort sits perched along the picturesque Lake Lyndon B. Johnson in Texas Hill Country. Of its many luxurious amenities, the resort offers a full-service spa, four golf courses (three of which are championship courses designed by Robert Trent Jones, Sr.), four pools and several dining options. Guest rooms earn high praise for their bright colors, plush furniture and complimentary high-speed internet access; if you're traveling as a family, Horseshoe Bay offers multi-room suites and apartment rentals that easily accommodate groups. Though you'll find plenty of things to do here, some travelers recommend driving to nearby Marble Falls for some more affordable eats or taking a daytrip to Austin (Texas' quirkiest city is just about a 55-mile drive southeast).

That saying, "Everything is bigger in Texas," certainly rings true at the Marriott Marquis Houston. Among this hotel's superlatives are a 5,000-square-foot spa and fitness center, a Texas-shaped lazy river, 52 meeting rooms and 1,000 guest rooms and suites. Open since December 2016, this Marriott wows travelers not only with its stellar customer service, but also with its location in Houston: The hotel overlooks Discovery Green Park and is connected to the George R. Brown Convention Center. What's more, it sits less than a mile south of Minute Maid Park, home of the Houston Astros. Back at the hotel, guests will have access to six dining venues and an infinity pool, not to mention well-appointed accommodations. Rooms are outfitted with minifridges, 55-inch TVs, floor-to-ceiling windows, coffee makers and access to 24-hour room service. Though reviewers were pleased with their lodgings, they did lament the $12.95 daily Wi-Fi access fee (which is waived for Marriott Bonvoy members). For the best views of the park and the hotel's lazy river, heed recent guests’ advice and request a room on a higher floor.

Moody Gardens Hotel, Spa and Convention Center is an excellent choice if you're looking to turn a boring business trip into a quick family getaway. The first thing you'll notice about this complex in Galveston (roughly 51 miles southeast of Houston) is its Egyptian-inspired architecture. Yes, several of its buildings look like the Great Pyramids of Giza, but rather than crawling with mummies, they contain a rainforest, a 3D movie theater and an aquarium. The property also features its own convention center, and the 24-hour business center makes it easy to get work done, no matter the hour. Meanwhile, the kiddos will be kept busy at the water park (located next door) or with activities scheduled through the Kid's Crew. Recent guests say that great customer service isn't lost in the large property; most found hotel staff to be helpful and friendly. And at the end of the day, you can all sit down to a family dinner at Shearn's Seafood and Prime Steaks or Café in the Park, but be warned that they're all pricey. Recent guests say that the spacious accommodations are perfect for larger groups; those who stayed in one of the suites appreciated the Jacuzzi tub and the views from the private balcony.

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 just outside the city center, the boutique Hotel ZaZa Dallas lures style-minded guests with its Poolside at ZaZa (a hot spot often frequented by Hollywood A-listers when they're in town) and its Concept Suites that feature themed decor. Even if you opt for a regular room, you'll find yourself staying in the presence of one-of-a-kind artwork and Mediterranean-inspired decorative accents (as well as 42-inch flat-screen TVs and minibars). Most guests love the furnishings, the service and the restaurant, though Hotel ZaZa Dallas' quirky style isn't for everyone. When you're not snoozing or lounging by the pool, you can pamper yourself with a massage or work up a sweat at the ZaSpa Dallas, or treat your taste buds to a variety of innovative flavors at Dragonfly.

The Éilan Hotel & Spa, Autograph Collection earns high marks from recent visitors for its contemporary amenities and clean, comfortable accommodations. All guest rooms are appointed with a warm beige, white and blue or gold color scheme, as well as 42-inch flat screen TVs, work desks, Keurig coffee makers and tiled showers. Other perks like in-room bottled water and internet access are covered by the daily $22 destination amenity fee. Previous guests also enjoyed the imaginative Southwestern-inspired cuisine served at Sustenio Restaurant & Bar. If you'd rather grab a quick bite, the Mercato Café offers pre-made sandwiches and Starbucks beverages. Families can enjoy quality time at the children's pool area, while adults can take advantage of the offerings at the Spa at Éilan. While recent lodgers enjoyed the amenities, they warn that management is not up to par with other Marriott properities. Still, those who participate in the Marriott Bonvoy program can collect or redeem points here. You'll find the Éilan Hotel & Spa located just 17 miles northwest of the Alamo in downtown San Antonio, Texas.

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.

Sitting less than 2 miles from The Galleria, these luxurious digs beckon to shoppers with high-end taste. Guest rooms at this Omni property look like they belong in on a magazine cover, with stylish gold and black decor and fantastic views. In fact, black is the Omni Houston Hotel's signature color: The hue permeates the hotel, from the property's pet black swans (yes, swans) to the swanky Black Swan bar and Birdies Cafe & Bar. But not everything about this hotel comes in such dark attire; the Mokara Spa & Salon, for example, appears bright and refreshing, while the outdoor pool and deck see plenty of sunshine. Most visitors love the feel of the property (in addition to its good looks) and appreciate its convenient Houston location. Guest rooms feature marble bathrooms, flat-screen TVs and coffee makers. Recent visitors do warn that all the superfluity comes at a price. Like its sister hotel, the Omni Houston Hotel Westside, the Omni Houston Hotel accepts and doles out Omni Select Guest rewards.

Although it's just 24 miles north of Dallas, The Westin Stonebriar Hotel & Golf Club could easily be worlds away. It's probably not the best lodging choice if you're in town to sightsee, but if you're looking to kick back, relax and practice your golf swing, previous visitors say that this is the place. Surrounding the resort are 18 Tom Fazio-designed fairways; though general greens fees are fairly steep, the resort offers unlimited golf after 2 p.m. for roughly half the price. If you're not a golfer, recent guests recommend spending some time by the pool or indulging in an in-room spa treatment. As far as the rooms go, recent visitors describe the decor as beautiful and compliment the Heavenly Beds. If you don't mind a slightly higher nightly rate, visitors recommend reserving a room with a full walk-out balcony. However, many guests cite issues with indifferent housekeeping staff, noting that the digs felt a little dingy. And though they praise the classic American fare served at The Legacy Grill and the light fare offered at the other on-site cafes and bars, some travelers wish that there were more dining options given the resort's somewhat remote location. And because this hotel is part of the Marriott hotel family, Marriott Bonvoy members can earn and use points here.

While the Omni La Mansión del Rio caters to a more sophisticated clientele, the Omni San Antonio Hotel at the Colonnade draws more families. With its two expansive pools and Kids Crew program, this hotel provides plenty of ways to keep kiddos happy. Meanwhile, parents can take advantage of hotel perks like private massages and the on-site fitness facility with features like a hydrotherapy pool and a sauna. The Omni San Antonio also offers a variety of different room types catering to groups of all sizes, and pets are welcome to stay as long as they weigh less than 25 pounds. Recent guests say this Omni fit their needs but didn't provide the 'wow' factor of hotels closer to the River Walk (it's about 10 miles away), although room rates are slightly lower. Most family visitors value the sacrifice of location for a better price. To save even more, become a member of the Omni Select Guest program, which rewards frequent guests with points that can be put toward free stays and upgrades.

Both business and leisure guests can't stop raving about this Hyatt Regency's location (two blocks from The Alamo and right on the River Walk). Some visitors say that the rooms could use a facelift, while others found the signature beds to be cozy and the Wi-Fi access and iPod docking stations to be useful. Other highlights include the heated rooftop pool and the full-service DASA Spa on the River Walk, which provides facials and massages. After a day spent sightseeing (or rejuvenating), enjoy some saucy Barbecue at the swanky Q Kitchen or mingle over cocktails at Q Bar. Just one word of advice about staying here: Leave your car at home if you can. Parking here costs a pretty penny. Members of the Hyatt Gold Passport loyalty program can save a bit of dough by using points for free nights.

Vying for attention with nearby Moody Gardens, The San Luis Resort, Spa & Conference Center in Galveston boasts twice as much meeting space as its primary competitor, as well as a variety of on-site amenities. Sure, it may not neighbor a water park, but The San Luis does cater to the kiddos with a waterslide and a plunge pool (and to adults with a swim-up bar). The property also houses a full-service spa, just in case lounging poolside doesn't quite get you to your R&R quota. Younger travelers will also love Blake's Bistro, but if older visitors prefer a more elegant atmosphere, there are serveral other on-site restaurants to choose from. Yet despite all of its offerings, recent guests expressed mixed feelings about The San Luis: Some praise the guest rooms for their comfortable beds and contemporary decor, while others complain about disorganized customer service staff.

Alongside Lake Carolyn in Irving, Texas – about 30 miles from Fort Worth and nearly 12 miles from Dallas – the Omni Mandalay Hotel at Las Colinas is probably not the best home base for sightseers. But according to recent guests, staying at this member of the Omni hotel clan is more of an escape than just a place to hang your hat. If your goal is to get away from it all, you'll find just about everything you need here. For starters, the Mokara Salon & Spa offers a long list of massages and skin treatments to ensure that you're relaxed and looking your best, and previous visitors say that the heated lakeside pool is the perfect place to catch some rays. And the on-site playground will keep younger travelers occupied. Though they say that the decor could use a facelift (describing it as dark and dated), visitors appreciate the large size of the guest rooms and the excellent views provided by the massive windows. And when you're feeling peckish, make a dinner date and enjoy a variety of flavors at Trevi's Restaurant. If you haven't already, former guests highly recommend joining the Omni Select Guest rewards program in which you can earn points toward free stays.

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. 

Right off the bat, the Marriott Plaza San Antonio wins visitors over with the exotic birds that patrol its courtyard. Meanwhile, the hotel's exterior and lobby greet guests with an elegant Mexican-inspired design. While recent guests enjoyed the hotel grounds, many reported having an average experience. Some travelers have described the rooms here as run-of-the-mill Marriott –though that does mean you can expect to find a certain level of cleanliness, as well as high-end pillow-top beds and flat-screen LCD TVs. The property also offers a pool and the acclaimed Anaqua Restaurant & Grille, which serves up hearty portions of contemporary Texan fare. However, the main reason guests choose to stay here is the hotel's location, just a short walk from San Antonio attractions like the River Walk and The Alamo. And because this is a Marriott hotel, members of the Marriott Bonvoy program can use points to offset the cost of rooms.