Need a Pool Day? Use This Site to Gain Access to Luxe Hotel Pools

Sticky summer days may come and go, but if you don't have access to a sweet swimming spot, you might find yourself stuck observing them from the (hopefully) air-conditioned comfort of your home. For city-dwellers the situation might feel even more hopeless, your swim dreams limited to wishful thinking about glorious rooftop hotel pools. Wishful, because those dreams are often overshadowed by the fact that in order to gain access to said pools, you need to be a hotel guest—and in your own city, you almost never are, right?

But what if we told you not to give up just yet, that there's a better way to reserve a poolside cabana or lounge chair at one of the luxury hotels in your city without booking a room? Enter ResortPass.

Like a figurative keycard to any number of hotel and resort pools around the country, ResortPass allows you to book a "daycation" at partner properties wherever you are, and hang poolside as if you were an actual guest. Even better news? It'll cost you as little as $20 per person to do it.

Trust us—it's easy enough to make it all happen. Just head over to the ResortPass site to search the availability of pool day passes, spa passes, cabanas, or even daytime-only room reservations at hotels or resorts in your area that are part of the RP network. If you find the hotel pool of your dreams and the price feels right, you can book it right away. When the time comes, you can use your booking ID number to check in at the hotel, gaining access to whatever amenities—pool access, a tricked-out cabana, an Insta-worthy daybed, the option to ride a massive water slide—were promised in the ResortPass listing.

As of this writing, ResortPass has over 600 partners in 200 cities and 30 states, many of which are quite literally five-star accommodations with amenities to match. Of course, prices and availability are going to be different depending on where you are and when (and the level of luxe a property is), but bottom line: You're getting access to a pool you would otherwise be paying a lot more to enjoy.

Curious what sort of properties are in the network? We've rounded up some highlights across the country.

New York, New York
Day passes starting at $80

NYC-based pool lovers will adore the glass-bottom pool at Dream Downtown. The outdoor pool is heated, and your day pass gets you a reserved lounge chair, poolside food and drink service from the hotel's bar and grill, and towel service. Internet is included, too. Just be aware that this pool is for ages 21 and up, so it's not a place to bring younger members of the family.

What guests say: "My friend and I had a DREAM day at Dream recently! It was the perfect escape from the insane NYC heat. Gorgeous facilities, reasonably priced food and drink, and BONUS, they kept replenishing our carafe of ice water without us ever having to ask. What more do you want?! It's also by far the best deal $$ wise. You won't regret a single penny spent! Can't wait to go back next week."

Austin, Texas
Day passes starting at $40

The Line's heated saltwater infinity pool is absolutely gorgeous and one of the best pools in Austin, with comfy lounge chairs and internet access. Grab some Mexican food from the poolside restaurant walk-up window, settle into a lounger, and rest easy knowing that valet parking is included with your day pass.

What guests say: "Swanky little hotel with a nice outdoor area. Pool area was very nice, staff were friendly and helpful, plenty of fresh towels available, and the seating was very comfortable! The saltwater pool was what initially grabbed my attention and it lived up to the expectation!"

Miami, Florida
Day passes starting at $150

You have multiple options when booking a day by the South Beach Ritz-Carlton's glamorous oceanfront pool. The cheapest option is an ordinary day pass, which gets you a reserved lounger, access to the heated pool, poolside food and drink service—plus complimentary sunscreen, flavored water, and Wi-Fi. But if you're willing to spend more for a higher-end or group experience, you can book a private den, platform bed, or complete platform, which come with multiple day passes plus access to private, comfortable lounge areas and features like a mini fridge. Whatever you choose, there's no wrong way to lounge by the pool in Miami!

What guests say: "The Ritz Carlton has a way of making you feel like a VIP celebrity from the moment the Uber pulls up to the front door! The staff genuinely made us feel so welcome with their warm hospitality. The entire hotel is designed so elegantly, and the food and cocktails were [divine]. Treat yourselves to the Ritz Carlton experience!"

Los Angeles, California
Day passes starting at $100

Nothing says Hollywood glamour like the Roosevelt, which has housed stars like Marilyn Monroe and Clark Gable. Your day pass to the hotel's outdoor heated pool (designed by David Hockney) comes with a reserved lounge chair, towel, and Wi-Fi, plus discounted parking and access to poolside food and drink service. Just note that the hotel requires you to spend at least $20 on food and drink per person during weekdays, and that it only welcomes adults 21 and older to enjoy the pool. If you want to reserve loungers for two people, you can book two-person reserved seating for a $20 discount.

What guests say: "I really love this place! The pool area is beautiful! The lounge chairs are comfortable. The pool water is warm. There is cool jazzy music playing at just the right volume. The place had enough people but not crowded on a weekday. You order food and drink on your phone from your lounge chair. There is also a cool bar that you can walk up to. I love the white and yellow striped towels and the cool outdoor cafe patio with striped yellow umbrellas... Overall, for that Old Hollywood glamorous but breezy and cool vibe, I would recommend."

Brooklyn, New York
Day passes starting at $150

If you like to swim laps, you'll be excited to learn that the pool at the William Vale isn't just the longest outdoor hotel pool in Brooklyn, but the longest in greater New York City. The 60-foot heated pool can be reserved for the morning (8:00am to 1:30pm) or afternoon (2:00pm to 8:00pm) with the cheapest pass options, which also come with a reserved lounge chair near (but not directly next to) the pool, plus Wi-Fi and food and drink service. If you want to spend the entire day at the pool, you'll need to opt for one of the pricier passes: the two-person pergola, three-person lounge bed, three-person reclining daybed, or six-person cabana.

What guests say: "I booked a cabana for my birthday on a Sunday. The staff at the front desk were friendly and escorted us to the elevator. All reserved spots were full but it did not feel crowded. There was plenty of room in the pool and the cabana itself was spacious. My guests had an easy time checking in. The food and drinks are a little expensive, but on par with a hotel. The waitstaff checked in consistently for food and drinks. Had a great time and got a great tan. Looking at the pictures friends thought I was in Vegas for the weekend. Highly recommended!"

Atlanta, Georgia
Day passes starting at $45

The W Atlanta's rooftop pool might not be the biggest of the bunch (it's a downtown Atlanta pool, after all!), but it has absolutely killer views of the city. Grab a day pass and enjoy lounging by the pool with the food and drinks that are available for poolside purchase, plus free internet. There's a DJ spinning live on Friday and Saturday during the afternoon and evening, and valet parking is complimentary any day of the week. If the day pass isn't for you, you can book a poolside massage, which includes a 30-minute chair massage, plus 4 hours of pool access and a glass of champagne. Or go all out for the spa pass, which includes a pool day pass, a 50-minute massage or facial (your choice!), and a glass of champagne.

What guests say: "The pool itself is on the smaller side, but I like that is mostly covered so you’re not fully exposed to the sun/having to fight over an umbrella. The DJ was great, as well as the bar. Getting there early is definitely recommended, as there’s not a lot of seating. I’d visit again."

San Diego, California
Day passes starting at $20

One of the cheapest day passes around will still get you a lot of bang for your buck—this one comes with access to three (!) outdoor pools, a hot tub, and the epic four-story Twister water slide. Your day pass also comes with the option to buy food and drinks at the pool, plus free parking and Wi-Fi. However, if you want more than just a day pass, you can book a poolside daybed for two to three people (which comes with bottled water), or really splurge on a cabana for lots of comfy shaded seating and a fruit plate (plus bottled water).

What guests say: "We went with two adults and two kids age 4 and 7. The oldest was tall enough for the slide and LOVED it. Fun for adults too! The food was tasty and the cabana was comfortable and guaranteed having shade which was a must for us. Bathrooms very clean."

Honolulu, Hawaii
Day passes starting at $45

If you need a break from the beach, the historic Prince Waikiki has two pools that you can enjoy if you purchase a day pass. The day pass comes with towel service, pool and hot tub access, showers, Wi-Fi, food and drink service, and parking. The Waikiki also has a number of cabana options to choose from, which provide shaded seating, bottled water, and sunscreen for your choice of up to two or four people. No matter which options you choose, you'll still have a great view of the ocean—and you can take in a gorgeous sunset right from the comfort of your pool lounger.

What guests say: "This pass is a steal! The Prince Hawaii is close to the Waikiki action without the Waikiki crowds, drama, lack of parking, so it's our fave place for staycations. Everyone from the valet, concierge, bartender to the pool attendant are professional and attentive. The 100 Sails buffet in the hotel is also delicious. Treat yourself to great service and facilities and get this pass to the Prince Waikiki. We will definitely be back!"

St. Louis, Missouri
Day passes starting at $30

The outdoor heated pool at this St. Louis hotel is yours to enjoy with the day pass, which has towel service, lounge chairs, and both to-go or poolside food and drink service, depending on the day of your visit. Internet is included, but if what you really need is a dedicated workspace that's not by the pool, you can opt instead to reserve a work pass, which gets you a guest room and fitness center access for the day.

What guests say: "Le Meridien did not disappoint on a hot summer day. Staff was very friendly and helpful and the pool was amazing. We also enjoyed the food and drinks. This will be my go to place when I need to cool off."

Phoenix, Arizona
Day passes starting at $70

If you're looking for pool time in Phoenix, there's no better place than the Mediterranean-style Royal Palms. With a day pass, you can hang out by the large pool and jacuzzi, order food and drinks, and utilize the hotel Wi-Fi. Pay a bit more to reserve a daybed or cabana for up to two people, or really up the ante for your self care staycation with a spa pass. If you go for the spa pass, you'll still have access to the pool and jacuzzi, but your pass will also allow you to utilize the lockers and showers, take a steam in the eucalyptus steam room, use the fitness center or relaxation lounge, and book spa services for 15% off. You can also book a hotel room for the day, if that's your preference—multiple guests noted they chose this option and loved the convenience of having the room (along with the shower and privacy) as part of their pool day.

What guests say: "First time at the Royal Palms Resort & Spa, but it will not be my last! This was exactly what I was looking for ... a day of sun, swimming, and relaxation. The service from the pool staff was incredible; our couple drinks and snacks were delicious. The property is impeccably maintained. 5 stars and I would HIGHLY recommend this experience."

Orlando, Florida
Day passes starting at $40

This massive resort is located right next to Disney World, but it's a destination in its own right. If you reserve the base level day pass, you can enjoy the massive half-acre pool, complete with its swim-through rock grotto, 12 waterfalls, waterslide tower, and water jet splash zone—plus food and drink service, two whirlpools, multiple golf/mini golf courses, a lake with a beach and water sports, and even complimentary boat and bike rentals. If you want a poolside home base for the day, rent a tricked-out cabana that comes with day passes for up to four adults and two children—this comes with shade, seating, a flat screen TV, ceiling fans, and a mini fridge stocked with water. Other options that will really help you make the most of your time include the day room rental, which comes with four day passes so you can really stay at the hotel for the day and enjoy all it has to offer, or the work pass, which gives you a guest room for the day along with one pool/resort day pass as well as access to the fitness center and spa.

What guests say: "We drive 45 minutes to go to this resort because we love it so much. Anytime family or friends come to visit, we take them here. The views of the waterfalls, the beach, the food, customer service, it's all amazing!"

Take a minute to scope out all the luxury hotel pool options in your area, then gather your nearest and dearest and start planning your next much-deserved poolside daycation.