It’s summer in Miami, which means things are heating up. But just as temperatures are rising, so too are scenes around South Florida hotel pools. Add tropical sips to these refreshing dips, and you’ve got the antidote to a scorcher of a day.
When it comes to picking the city’s best pools for summer, we’ve done the hard part for you. All you’ve got to do is suit up and pick a spot.
If you’re looking for some Zen, come to this Four-Star eco-friendly gem and hang out by the Cabana Pool.
Perched on the third floor, this secluded spot is surrounded by South Florida flora and a reclaimed wood deck — it’s a world away from South Beach glitz. Panoramic views of the ocean don’t hurt, either.
Tip: Non-hotel guests can relax by the pool by renting a cabana. The serenity is worth the splurge, as is a full-service waitstaff who delivers food, drinks and amenities to you throughout the day.
Just steps from the Atlantic Ocean, this Forbes Travel Guide Recommended Collins Avenue icon offers eight pool options.
Highlights include the central 614-foot bowtie pool (an homage to storied Miami architect Morris Lapidus), a shallow family pool with a waterslide and the adults-only pool and hot tubs at Arkadia Day Club.
While there are nearly 1,000 lounge chairs to laze on, we suggest upgrading your experience by reserving a private cabana. Cool off with rosé sangria or a pitcher of blood orange margaritas delivered by your dedicated attendant.
Tip: Even if you’re not staying at the storied hotel, you can enjoy all of its elevated extras with A Day at Fontainebleau spa pass. The package includes a 50-minute treatment at Four-Star Lapis The Spa at Fontainebleau, lunch at La Côte Mediterranean restaurant and access to all eight pools.
This Five-Star hotel tailors its tranquil infinity pools to all preferences: swim in the 75-degree lap pool, soak in the 85-degree center option or stay toasty in the 90-degree family pool.
Hedges separate the three areas so that each feels like its own distinct experience. Though, no matter which one you choose, you’ll receive towels as well as water and magazine service. Be sure to order one of the coconut cocktails for a tropical poolside tipple.
Tip: Come here to catch the sunrise and sunset. The east-to-west pools were specially laid out to capture the best vistas for both.
SoBe nightlife meets Hollywood glam by the pool at Hyde Beach, the chic, 8,000-square-foot oceanfront lounge at this trendy Collins Avenue stay.
Nibble on sushi and ceviche from Katsuya, imbibe refreshing cucumber-watermelon margaritas or order bottle service, all to the tune of DJ-spun beats — it’s essentially a Miami Beach pool party haven.
Tip: Hyde Beach is open to the public Monday through Friday with the purchase of cocktails or lunch.
Another popular seaside party destination is Delano Beach Club, a sun-drenched space that takes your pool day to a whole new level.
The whimsical, Philippe Starck-designed aquatic playground is steps from the ocean and features designated areas for floating and meditating, underwater tunes and poolside cabanas that come with a personal butler. At night, it transforms to a swanky South Beach escape.
Tip: This chic club is an Instagram haven with photo-worthy positions around every corner. Snap shots while traipsing down the quirky Alice in Wonderland-inspired garden path that leads to the iconic infinity-edged pool.
The Biltmore
No
roundup of Miami-area pools would be complete without mentioning the 600,000-gallon
lagoon at this Four-Star Coral Gables hideaway.
One of the largest pools in the continental U.S. (at one time, the world’s biggest), the expansive swimming hole never feels crowded. Lined with Greek-style statues, columns and terracotta-crowned buildings, the sunny space feels like a Mediterranean paradise.
The storied pool is worth a visit for the history alone. During the 1930s, it served as a stage for aquatic galas (featuring synchronized swimmers and alligator wrestlers) attended by the likes of Judy Garland, Bing Crosby and Franklin D. Roosevelt. Tarzan actor Johnny Weissmuller even worked as a lifeguard here before making his Hollywood debut.
Tip: Reserve a cabana to bask in a private sunbathing area that’s tucked away among palm trees and hibiscus, and equipped with rain showers and dedicated butlers.
