When well-designed, artificial lakes become a sound investment, attracting guests by offering an unforgettable escape without compromising on efficiency for operators
Lagoon resorts are making waves in recent years, becoming a sensation in the tourism industry and redefining the meaning of luxury.
At the heart of these businesses are artificial lagoons. With their stunning turquoise waters and expansive beaches, these man-made lagoons offer an unparalleled experience for guests and provide a unique edge for resorts, setting them apart from competitors.
The lagoon resort blends natural aesthetics with advanced technology and has become a game-changer for enhancing visitors’ experiences and operators’ businesses. Here’s why.
The lagoon resort: definition and layout
Artificial lagoons are marvels of modern engineering, combining state-of-the-art technology with thoughtful design to create breathtaking aquatic spaces.
The centerpiece within a lagoon resort complex and its entertainment offer, artificial lagoons are usually surrounded by multiple services such as shops, bars and restaurants. Additionally, they also become a central hub for aquatic entertainment, including shows or aquatic sports rentals, among other options.
The result is a comprehensive lagoon resort that offers a multitude of entertainment possibilities, all within a unique landscape designed to immerse guests in a tranquil yet vibrant environment.
The lagoon’s aesthetic appeal often lies in its resemblance to a tropical environment, with sandy beaches, organic shapes and palm trees. To deliver their stunning appearance, these lagoons rely on thoughtful design that must also encompass a carefully planned system of interconnected areas, so that functionality is not compromised.
The following are some of the key elements that compose a fully-functional and well-designed lagoon resort:
Beaches and pool-like swimming areas
Artificial lagoons often feature expansive, sandy beaches that replicate a natural seaside environment. These areas are engineered to endure frequent use while also maintaining a soft, natural feel for guests.
On the other hand, some areas are designed with a pool-like finish. These feature solid walls and create a more structured and enclosed swimming environment that can be more attractive for certain bathers.
A diverse range of activities and services
The lagoon resort and its artificial lagoons can be designed to cater to a diverse range of guest preferences. As such, they offer various recreational zones, including:
- Swimming areas
- Water sports zones (kayaking, paddlesurf, etc)
- Sunbathing areas
- Scenic pedestrian areas that also include bars and restaurants
Additionally, thoughtful lighting, fountains and watershows allow artificial lagoons to extend their attractiveness into the night hours, so that the lagoon resort is stunning both day and night.
Water treatment and recirculation systems
At the heart of every artificial lagoon is its water treatment system. Responsible for ensuring water is crystal-clear and safe at all times, the filtration system can be designed with efficiency as a priority, including options such as sand filters , regenerative filters with perlite, or automated disinfection systems based on chlorine and UV disinfection that keep the water free from bacteria and algae, ensuring compliance with health regulations.
Another key addition to any lagoon resort is an efficient circulation system, which ensures constant water movement, preventing stagnation and promoting uniform cleanliness. In order to do so, the circulation system uses skimmers or main drains to collect water, and high-efficiency pumps in strategic locations that allow for reduced piping. When adequately designed, this water flow is capable of minimizing energy losses while also ensuring the lagoon’s water remains pristine.
The benefits of lagoon resorts for operators
For resort operators, integrating a lagoon is not only an aesthetic upgrade, but also a strategic investment that drives profitability while maintaining operational efficiency. In fact, here are three key reasons why lagoon resorts are beneficial for operators:
- Market differentiation and guest attraction: An artificial lagoon represents a unique luxury feature that attracts guests and investors looking for exclusive amenities and entertainment options. In a crowded hospitality market, lagoon resorts stand out and appeal to a broad audience seeking top-tier, one-of-a-kind holiday destinations, from honeymooners and families to corporate event planners.
- Increased revenue and ROI: Studies have shown that both surrounding services and properties near water features typically command higher revenues. Including a lagoon in a project increases the value of the property, but that’s not all. It also boosts the return of investment through additional services and activities and higher ratios of extended guest stays, as well as justifying higher prices, increasing average room rates.
- Space optimization and efficiency: Lagoons are adaptable to any kind of project, size and shape. They can also be built for maximizing available land through the use of smaller, decentralized technical rooms and optimized piping systems. An option that significantly reduces the space required for mechanical installations while also decreasing overall energy consumption levels. On top of that, integrating automated systems entails additional efficiencies while also offering operators peace of mind by choosing an open solution with no ownership fees.
Why guests prefer lagoon resorts
For visitors, artificial lagoons redefine their vacation experience by providing a unique, luxurious escape that traditional swimming pools or even oceanfront resorts can’t always replicate. Here are three main reasons why guests adore lagoon resorts:
- A beach-like experience anywhere: Lagoon resorts provide a tropical oasis even in landlocked locations. Their sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters invite guests to bask in a luxurious oceanfront vibe without having to travel to the coast.
- Safe and controlled environment: Unlike natural beaches, artificial lagoons offer a controlled environment free from some of the most important pitfalls of real lagoons (waves, strong currents, potentially dangerous animals…). This makes them perfect for families with kids or individuals looking for a worry-free experience.
- Endless activities: From water sports to beachside relaxation, a well-designed lagoon resort provides entertainment opportunities for everyone, ensuring that every guest finds something they love.
Lagoon resorts: why they are the future of hospitality
As travelers seek unique, immersive experiences, lagoon resorts are becoming synonymous with luxury, innovation and one-of-a-kind holiday experiences.
Their ability to replicate a tropical paradise in almost any location makes them an attractive option for operators and guests alike. But their attractiveness goes beyond aesthetics: when well designed, lagoon resorts can align with the growing demand for sustainable tourism and go beyond mere efficiency , contributing to a sustainable and socially responsible future.
Integrating a lagoon into your resort doesn’t just add a “wow factor” —it transforms the entire guest experience, enhances profitability, and ensures long-term sustainability.
In this context, artificial lagoons have become a rewarding investment for operators looking to stay ahead in the ever competitive hospitality market.
If you’re looking to elevate your resort’s leisure offer, consider hospitality lakes and lagoons as a unique opportunity where technology meets tranquility, building a slice of paradise that elevates guest experiences and transforms their stay into an unforgettable escape.