Make a Splash in These Superb Hotel Swimming Pools
Now that we’re over a week into June, it’s almost time to kiss the spring season goodbye. Summer is knocking hard on our doorstep as temperatures the world over – let alone those in such sought-after summer hot spots as Las Vegas, Miami and Orlando – continue to inch upward. There’s no denying a hotel pool is more than just a place to swim laps and shed calories. A pool can be one of a property’s most handsome architectural gems, not to mention a place to unwind, cool off, or work on a tan following a busy day spent sightseeing or in business meetings. And with lush gardens, luxury cabanas, sun loungers, swim-up bars, and other nice poolside features to boot, it’s no surprise many travelers wouldn’t mind spending an entire day in or near the pool. While a vast number of hotels have impressive pools to boast of, we especially recommend the three highlighted below, all of which are sure to unleash the adventure seeker in you.
1. Golden Nugget Las Vegas – Winner of the prestigious Four-Diamond Award each year since 1977, Golden Nugget L as Vegas features The Tank – a $30 million complex complete with a 3-story waterslide, 200,000-gallon shark tank, and thirteen private cabanas that can be rented for as low as $175 per day. Get up close with sharp-toothed creatures of the deep or climb 30 feet in the air, lean back and let the Golden Nugget’s enclosed water slide propel you through the shark tank itself. You’ll also be well occupied at The Hideout, accessible via the third floor of The Tank, where you can take a dip in a two-story infinity pool or lounge about in one of eight poolside cabanas. Once you’ve had enough shark-gazing for one day, grab a drink at H20 Bar before hitting the town for world-renowned dining and entertainment.
2. The National Hotel South Beach – Ask any swim lover what his or her idea of the perfect afternoon in Miami would be like and most likely it’ll involve a carefree swim in the glistening waters of the Atlantic. Guests at The National Hotel South Beach, however, might have other ideas in mind. Nestled in the heart of the Art Deco district – the hotel was fully restored in 1997 to its 1940s Art Deco splendor – its infinity pool stretches a whopping 205 feet, eventually meeting a smaller heated pool. You can indulge in a stress-relieving poolside massage after a busy afternoon spent shopping at Lincoln Road Mall or dining with friends on Ocean Drive. Aquabar, the poolside bar and grill, couples delicious food, exotic drinks and relaxing music for a casual-chic dining experience. In case you’d still like to squeeze in some time for a leisurely walk on the sand, the hotel offers direct oceanfront access to the beach.
3. CoCo Key Hotel and Water Park Resort Orlando – If you’re big on family-friendly, waterpark fun, you will enjoy 62,000 square feet of it at CoCo Key Hotel and Water Park Resort in Orlando. From slides that twist and turn all the way down to Parrot’s Perch, an interactive jungle gym adventure featuring a zero depth entry, this canopy-covered waterpark offers something for kids of all ages. The only caveat: The waterpark imposes a height requirement of 48 inches or taller. In all, the property has four outdoor swimming pools, ensuring there’s ample room for the little ones to frolic in the water. Should the kids not meet the height requirement or opt for something a little dryer, they can check out loads of popular video games at the resort’s 6,400-square-foot arcade or stay entertained in the on-site children’s club.
When making plans for summer travel this year, don’t assume that a trip to a nearby waterpark or beach is a prerequisite for wet fun in the sun. Instead, your hotel’s on-site swimming pool area might make the perfect place for a fun-filled afternoon with friends and family. Relax, refresh and enjoy!