Summer time means pool time in sunny Southern California. But not everyone has access to a backyard pool, and public pools can be a little too crowded in the summer and limited when it comes to amenities like getting drinks, food or even a cabana.
But those looking to take a dip in style can still do so by buying a day pass at various local hotel pools where they can cool off, feel like they’re on vacation and there’s no need to book an overnight stay either.
“People are looking for these opportunities for rest and recharge but they’re looking for that to fit with their schedules and their lives,” said Liam Larkin, head of sales and account management for ResortPass, an online booking site that seems to have the market cornered when it comes to selling day passes to luxury hotel pools all over Southern California.
Larkin, whose site has a list of about 165 local hotels where people can buy day passes, said that since the pandemic people have been looking to get away from home without having to travel too far and hotel pools have become a hot destination. The pricing for day passes varies depending on hotels and added luxuries like private lounge chairs and cabanas but on his site day passes can be as low as $25 for a day by the pool, Larkin said.
And they get a lot more then they would at a public pool or even in their own back yards.
“You know you’re going to get to get a hotel service level, sit by the pool, get food and beverage and all those things you expect on a luxury vacation,” he said.
Here’s a list of some hotels where people can get day passes to use their pools. All these pools can be booked at ResortPass.com.
Cambria Hotel Anaheim Resort
Where: 101 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim
Information: cambriasuitesanaheim.com
Details: This place is pretty much a mini water park with two pools that feature waterslides and splash pads. There’s also a putting green, an outdoor movie wall, a basketball court and a hot tub for maximum relaxation.
Hotel Maya
Where: 700 Queensway Drive, Long Beach,
Information: hotelmayalongbeach.com
Details: Get ready for beach vibes mixed with urban views plus a nearby historic ship when you buy a day pass at Hotel Maya’s pool. Located on the bay it overlooks the magnificent downtown Long Beach skyline and the massive Queen Mary ship. There’s a hot tub, games like giant chess and ping pong and people can also walk down to the beach and sit on the sand by a firepit.
Hyatt Regency Newport Beach
Where: 1107 Jamboree Road, Newport Beach
Information: hyatt.com/hyatt-regency
Details: This is for families since it’s decked out with a waterslide, plus a kid’s splash zone and nearby games like ping pong, cornhole and beach volleyball. And depending on how much you’re willing to spend, guests can also get a round of golf or rent beach cruiser bikes during their stay.
Kimpton Everly Hotel
Where: 1800 Argyle Ave., Hollywood
Information: blacklagoonpopup.com/collections
Details: This pool will be the place to party this summer for those who like a little darkness with their sunscreen. While it’s available for regular day use, the pool will also host themed parties open to the public organized by Black Lagoon Pop-Up and dubbed The Bad Witch Pool Party. On Sunday, Aug. 3, the theme is Goth Girl Summer, so expect coffin pool floats, dark wave and post punk music. On Aug. 17, it’s time to go back in time with the Y2K Splash Zone during a party honoring the 2000s, and try your best to smile on Sept. 7 when the Sad Girl Swim Club take over for an emo/pop punk pool party.
Mission Inn Hotel
Where: 3649 Mission Inn Ave., Riverside
Information: missioninn.com
Details: Visitors can swim in a Spanish Mission-style landmark at this downtown Riverside hotel that’s lined with lounge chairs. There’s also a spa on the premises, a hot tub, steam room and it’s a 21-and-over pool.
The Shay
Where: 8801 Washington Blvd, Culver City
Information: hyatt.com
Details: With decor that takes people back to tropical Miami and colorful Palm Springs, this is a lively Culver City rooftop pool where a DJ performs at sunset and is located in the bustling downtown area. So you can go for a swim and hit a few bars and restaurants after a dip in the pool.
Terranea Resort
Where: 100 Terranea Way, Rancho Palos Verdes
Information: terranea.com
Details: Located on a perch overlooking the ocean, the Terranea Resort’s Cielo Pool will make people feel as if they’re on a vacation in a European country. A DJ plays tunes on the weekends and there are daybeds, cabanas, lounge chairs of course and no kids, since this is an adults-only pool.