Luckily for the residents of Los Angeles the sun is shining year-round.
That’s why it is a must to have a go-to pool for celebrating a special occasion, a holiday or just to soak up the rays. From luxury cabana service to a resident DJ mixing the newest jams, here is the list of the hottest pool hangouts.
Best for girl talk…
Skybar at Mondrian
This is one of the oldest hotspots that boasts an incredible view of the city. There are two sections of the deck which include the main pool area with its plush pool beds, and the upstairs bar with “table” seating. The food menu is ever-changing, but the drinks tend to stay the same…stiff. You can go straight for a pitcher of Rosé Sangria or Bacardi Mojito starting at $65 a pop. Whether you’d like to pre-book tickets for a famous summer party or spend your days catching up with friends in the warm winter months, Skybar is the perfect place to do that. The official entrance is outside the hotel, but it’s easier to go through the lobby during the day. Don’t forget to RSVP on their website and get in contact by phone for specific events and ticket prices.
Best for poolside food…
Altitude Pool at SLS
The best way to access this swanky rooftop hotel pool is by renting a cabana, but it will cost you. Cabanas come with a reservation fee on top of a food and beverage minimum. If you’re not into bottle service try their Copper Passion drink which is served in a copper pineapple mug made with Elyx vodka, passion fruit, and rosé float. You can even take this souvenir cup home for a whopping $150. They also offer many fabulous food bites by the Chef himself, José Andrés, like the Beverly Hills ‘Bikini’ which is a grilled cheese sandwich with mozzarella, sharp cheddar, truffle, and honey aioli. During the Spring and Summer months you can check out different DJs spinning their playlists on the weekend from 2pm-6pm. Reservations are required!
Best for hiding out…
Petit Ermitage Pool
An exclusive rooftop pool in the middle of West Hollywood? Yes, please! Petit Ermitage is a small boutique hotel, which has a private pool for members-only, unless of course you are hotel guest. Exclusivity has its charms, but not as much charm as the pool being European (topless) and 18+. Rent a day bed or grab a seat at their picturesque restaurant to enjoy fancy menu items like fresh oysters and the ‘La Boheme’ falafel sandwich. The pool is not the largest, but it’s saltwater, and at times infused with pure damask roses by the hotel staff. This is a place to soak in the “LA” crowd, especially on the weekends. To reserve a spot book a room or tag along with a member.
Best to be seen…
Tropicana Pool at Hollywood Roosevelt
Another classic Hollywood hotel pool destination is located at the Tropicana Bar and constantly appears on every Instagram feed. You can see numerous girls and boys posing on inflatable floaties or sipping champagne whilst enjoying the “scene”. The pool is open for non-guests, but don’t expect to freely stroll in for there’s usually a bouncer at the entrance. Once in and comfortable by the pool, try their $18 Oyster Shucker, a chilled Don Julio Blanco, Bloody Mary mix, and a fresh oyster all in one shot. Hungry? There’s always the Double Burger with sirloin on a Hawaiian Roll or the all-day Brunch. The beds can be reserved by calling in advance and make sure to check for private parties or events.
Best for cocktails…
The Roof on Wilshire
The Roof is a wonderful pool located at the Kimpton Wilshire hotel in Los Angeles. This is another rooftop gem which features a 3-foot dipping pool, a fire pit, and modern breezy cabanas. Chef Eric Greenspan, famous for TV shows like Hell’s Kitchen and The Next Iron Chef, serves creative dishes such as the Wilshire Burger with ingredients like cheddar skirt, sweet dill, onion jam, and steak sauce aioli on challah toast. If you’d like to enjoy a cocktail poolside, then get the $14 Dark and Stormy, a Goslings dark rum drink made with lemon juice, ginger syrup, and house-made ginger beer. Music usually plays on the weekends, depending on the season.
Any Questions or Tips to add?