By Yvonne Newman
Sun worshippers can bask in the glow of
Las Vegas' pool scene. Most of the city's
resorts boast sleek, sparkling pools, complete with water slides, Jacuzzis and plush daybeds. During the summer months, many of these pools have an atmosphere reminiscent of nightclubs. Not only can you take a dip and work on your tan, but you can also enjoy exotic cocktails, get a massage and listen to DJ-spun music.
Palms Pool & Bungalows
The resort's two-acre pool area feels like paradise. There are three separate pools, 27 ultra cool cabanas and three two-story bungalows. The bars are also incredible. The Glass Bar is tucked under an elevated, glass-bottomed deck pool, and the Waterfall Bar is hidden behind a 12-foot cascading waterfall. Concerts and pool parties, like the weekly "Ditch Fridays," are held regularly.
Palms
4321 West Flamingo Road
Las Vegas, Nevada 89103
(702) 938-9999
www.palms.com/pool_spa_1.php
South Point Pool
This sparkling pool area is a 40,000-square-foot wonder. It was designed to make a splash with its sleek curvature and sense of style. There's a stunning Jacuzzi that has a rock island and a towering palm at its center. You'll also find a large gazebo, an air-conditioned indoor/outdoor bar, a deli and sand volleyball courts.
South Point
9777 Las Vegas Boulevard South
Las Vegas, Nevada 89183
(702) 796-7111
www.southpointcasino.com/hotel/pool.php
The Venetian's Tao Beach
This is the sexiest pool area in Las Vegas. Located atop Tao nightclub, it's a hot hangout for trendsetters. The Asian-influenced decor includes a giant Buddha sculpture and colorful wooden deck furnishings. European-style sunbathing is allowed here. A delicious grill menu will satisfy hungry sunbathers. "Sunset Sessions," the weekly Sunday night pool party, is always packed.
The Venetian
3355 Las Vegas Boulevard South
Las Vegas, Nevada 89109
(702) 987-2222
www.venetian.com/Pages.aspx?id=370
Hard Rock Hotel Pool
The resort's pool area is a five-acre rock 'n' roll oasis. You can even hear music played underneath the water. Sandy beaches, shady palms and thatched-roof cabanas line the pool. You can also swim up to blackjack tables and play a few hands in your bathing suit. The Hard Rock Hotel is famed for its "Rehab" pool parties, which are held every Sunday afternoon.
Hard Rock Hotel
4455 Paradise Road
Las Vegas, Nevada 89169
(702) 693-5000
www.hardrockhotel.com/las-vegas/pool/
Mandalay Bay Beach
This famous 11-acre pool area boasts a beach with more than 2,700 tons of sand. The glorious setting also includes a wave pool, lazy river and exotic landscaping with palms and tropical flowers. The three-story Beachside Casino is located nearby. It features casino games, a restaurant and VIP villas with a private pool. The resort's Beach Concert Series is popular during the summer months.
Mandalay Bay
3950 Las Vegas Boulevard South
Las Vegas, Nevada 89119
(702) 632-7777
www.mandalaybay.com/thingstodo/Beach.aspx
About the Author:
Based in Las Vegas, Yvonne Newman spent 16 years writing for one of the city's popular visitors' guides. She has covered a variety of topics, including travel, shopping, sports and the arts. Newman is currently working on a book about tea houses. She earned a bachelor's degree in English from the University of Nevada and a master's degree in Anglo-Irish literature from Trinity College.
