By Gretta Monahan
Summer may be almost over, but there’s still time to snag some serious pool time. That said, most cities (Miami and L.A. excepted, of course) don’t boast a whole lot of pools to jump into when the weather gets just too darn sticky. Short of pitching yourself into one of the local parks’ fountains (which could, in many cases, land you a free night in a local jail cell), there are few options for finding a relatively calm place to cool off.
Fortunately, what many cities lack in quantity they make up for with quality. For a nominal fee at each, the private and chic pools at local hotels rival scenes straight out of a cabana-lined Miami resort. In Boston at The Colonnade Hotel, guests at the swanky rooftop spot can lounge carefree thanks to a meticulous concierge towel service, delicious drinks and a full menu from the bar-restaurant, and gorgeous views of Back Bay’s high-rises and tree-lined streets. (There’s even yoga offered on Wednesday mornings.)
James Hotels’s rooftop pool sets its standards even higher than the pool itself sits. With a view of the NYC skyline, luxe chaises, yoga classes, fitness sessions, and an incomparably tasty food and drink menu, this watery spot’s a must-visit if you’re in the market for an upscale, in-city getaway.
High energy and relaxation are intertwined in perfect harmony at The Standard in Downtown L.A.’s heated rooftop pool. Flanked by an outdoor fireplace, waterbed pods, and an incredible view, the place by night transforms into a good-time hotspot with it’s surrounding Astroturf deck, dance floor, DJ’s, poolside bar, and Biergarten restaurant. What better place to don your new maillot?
Speaking of what to wear, well, I’m glad you asked. The one-piece bathing suit trend is making a huge comeback this summer, so why not take advantage of it at all three of the above pools—a la stunning numbers like one of Target’s strappy monokinis ($29.99-$39.99)? Over that, I highly recommend a maxi dress that makes going from pool to party a cinch. H&M’s palm print dress is a surefire winner—breezy enough to be comfortable as a cover-up and dressy enough to take you right to dinner—or through cocktail hour at the pool, should you opt to stay put through sunset.
And on that last note, here’s a final tip: Bring along one big, bold accessory—an eye-catching shell necklace or another chunky piece of jewelry—to elevate your look when you switch to nighttime. Just drop it in your pool tote on the way out of the house, and slip it on when the sun starts to fade.
Need more inspiration? Check out these fresh runway looks from Funkshion Fashion Week Swim in Miami.