Palm Springs
Riviera Palm Springs
If it was good enough for Sinatra, it’s good enough for us. This classic resort boasts one of Palm Springs’ largest pools, perfect for an afternoon stretched out in the sun. Reserve a daybed, order cocktails, and revel in midcentury glamour that never goes out of style.
Thompson Palm Springs
Palm Springs’ newest pool has a sweeping mountain backdrop and a high-energy soundtrack. Book a cabana and toast the cotton candy sunset from the upper terrace with a Call Me Hugo, a refreshing St-Germain spritz with prosecco and lemon.
Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs
Seven floors above downtown, this rooftop perch delivers one of the best views in town. Order lunch from High Bar — wagyu burger, anyone? — and share a frozen Flamingo Bowl cocktail with friends (serves five) as the San Jacinto Mountains turn rose gold.
Arrive Palm Springs
Arrive leans into its come-as-you-are spirit with a lively, adults-only pool deck. Visit on weekends to catch the DJ spinning poolside while you sip specialty drinks alongside stylish sunbathers.
Avalon Hotel and Bungalows Palm Springs
This 1929 retreat features three pools among its citrus gardens and bungalows. A day pass lets you slip into the same private hideaway that once drew Joan Crawford, Clark Gable, and Marilyn Monroe.
Minimal mod at Drift Palm Springs.
Photo courtesy Visit Greater Palm Springs
Drift Palm Springs
Drift pairs minimalist style with a vibrant, adults-only pool scene near downtown Palm Springs. Order gourmet tacos and tequila concoctions from Maleza’s poolside menu and live the good life under those quintessential yellow umbrellas.
Ingleside Estate
The 1920s hideaway retains its Spanish-style charm with four quiet pools framed by the rocky San Jacinto foothills. A day pass unlocks an afternoon of swimming, sunning, and fruit-infused water in a setting designed for deep relaxation.
Casa Cody
Palm Springs’ oldest operating hotel blends adobe architecture with serene pools and lush courtyards. Book a day pass, order an Aperol spritz, and float your troubles away. For the full history, turn to page 44.
Korakia Pensione
Built in the 1920s by Scottish painter Gordon Coutts, this Mediterranean-Moroccan retreat has long lured artists and musicians. Day passes get you into the pool and Moroccan Bar.
Casa de Monte Vista
This historic five-suite estate opens its saltwater pool to day guests and offers private day rooms that accommodate four. It’s an intimate hotel for groups seeking exclusivity and a splash of Palm Springs lore.
The pool at Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs perches on the seventh-story rooftop deck.
Photo courtesy kimpton rowan palm springs
Desert Hot Springs
Two Bunch Palms
Mineral-fed pools are kept at varying temperatures for the ultimate soaking experience. Day Retreat packages include a spa treatment, lunch, and full use of the grounds. Pool service runs 8 a.m.–5 p.m. with shareables like frozen grapes and charcuterie delivered to your lounger.
Azure Palm Hot Springs
Wade in the largest mineral pool in Southern California, then rotate through the sauna and yoga space included with an Oasis Day Pass. The on-site café keeps you fueled with fresh-pressed juices and a menu of wholesome eats.
The Spring Resort & Spa
Three hot spring pools kept at varying temperatures include a refreshing cool plunge. A spa pass grants full access and is perfect for a restorative half-day of rejuvenation.
Cathedral City
The Paloma Resort
Hot-pink umbrellas frame this lively central pool, which doubles as the resort’s social hub. Stop by the weekend pool bar for cocktails and snacks, then linger for dinner at the Spanish-style restaurant, Sol y Sombra.
Rancho Mirage
Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa
Families flock to Splashtopia, the resort’s own waterpark, with a lazy river, waterslides, splash pad, and sandy beach zone. Adults can escape to the separate tranquility pool or book spa day packages.
Agua Caliente Resort Casino Spa Rancho Mirage
This 50,000-square-foot pool area is made for groups, with plenty of loungers, daybeds, and cabanas to go around. Book a spa day pass to access the quieter Sunstone Spa pool along with the steam, sauna, and grounding rooms.
The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage
High above the valley floor, this infinity-edge pool pairs major views with a sophisticated atmosphere. Pool access is for guests only, so plan a stay to experience it.
The Westin Rancho Mirage Golf Resort & Spa
With multiple pools, winding waterslides, and wide-open mountain vistas, the Westin is a dream for families. Day passes and cabanas are available. Strawberry daiquiri optional, but recommended.
“Water, water, water. … There is no shortage of water in the desert but exactly the right amount. The perfect ratio of water to rock, water to sand …”
Edward Abbey, Desert Solitaire (1968)
Palm Desert
JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa
Set on 450 acres, this resort’s pools are framed by waterways and golf course views. A day pass grants access to three pools and hot tubs, with food and drink available from Oasis Poolside Bar & Grille. DJs spin on select weekends.
Hotel Paseo
Care for a splash after your shopping spree? Get a day pass at this boutique hotel adjacent to El Paseo. Expect a laid-back scene with weekend entertainment. Lawn games, a putting green, and poolside food-and-drink service round out the amenities.
Indian Wells
Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa
Skip the drive to the coast — this sand-entry pool brings the beach to Indian Wells. While the kids work on their sandcastle skills, adults enjoy well-earned R&R. Waterfalls offer private nooks, and a central bar fuels the fun.
Grand Hyatt Indian Wells Resort & Villas
Everyone’s happy with a waterpark zone for families and a separate, secluded pool just for adults. Food is available from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. For a zero-proof sipper, try the Cucumber Ginger Smash with fresh cucumber, agave, and ginger beer.
Tommy Bahama Miramonte Resort & Spa
Three pools shaded by swaying palms bring the island brand’s breezy vibe to the desert. Choose from a day pass, cabana reservation, or spa pass that includes access to all resort amenities. Check their calendar for special programming like floating sound baths.
La Quinta
La Quinta Resort & Club
Opened in 1926, this retreat hides dozens of pools among its suites and villas. Pool access is for overnight guests, but booking a spa treatment grants day use of the facilities.
Cabazon
Morongo Casino Resort & Spa
The Oasis Pool delivers big-resort energy with a sandy beach, lazy river, and private cabanas. Day passes and wristbands are available, making this a fun choice for groups or families ready to make a splash.
