The Las Vegas Strip is famous for its dazzling casinos and vibrant nightlife, but for many visitors, the legendary resort pools are the main event. Whether you’re looking to lounge in a tranquil oasis, float down a lazy river, or dance at a high-energy pool party, the best Las Vegas pools are world-renowned for their luxury, innovation, and diversity.
Here is your guide to the 10 must-see pool complexes in Las Vegas, categorized by the experience they offer.
Table of Contents
The Party & Scene Pools
These are the resorts built for high energy, live DJs, and a vibrant social atmosphere.
1. Mandalay Bay Beach: The Tropical Escape
Mandalay Bay boasts one of the most unique pool areas on the entire Strip: an expansive 11-acre pool complex featuring a real sand beach, a massive wave pool, and a lazy river. It truly delivers a tropical, beach-inspired experience right in the desert.
- Why It’s a Must: The giant wave pool and the lazy river make this complex unparalleled in variety. Mandalay Bay’s complex remains one of the best Las Vegas pools for tropical ambiance and sheer scale.
- Vibe: Beach club, high energy, and family-friendly (outside of the adults-only section).
- Must-Know: The separate Moorea Beach Club offers a refined, adults-only (21+) pool with a topless-optional environment, providing a quieter, more upscale vibe for luxury seekers.
2. The Cosmopolitan: Boulevard Pool
Perched on the resort’s rooftop, the Boulevard Pool offers spectacular views overlooking the heart of the Strip. It’s known for its stadium-style seating, vibrant atmosphere, and frequent poolside events, often turning into an outdoor concert venue.
- Vibe: Chic, high-energy party scene; often features live music and movie screenings on the huge video wall.
- Must-Know: For a complete change of pace, check out the quieter, garden-surrounded Chelsea Pool on the opposite side of the resort.
3. Caesars Palace: Venus Pool Club
The renowned Garden of the Gods Pool Oasis at Caesars Palace features seven distinct pools. While many are relaxing, the Venus Pool Club is a European-style, topless-optional pool known for its luxurious atmosphere and attentive service, catering exclusively to adults. The Garden of the Gods Pool Oasis is consistently ranked among the best Las Vegas pools for its sheer luxury and variety of settings.
- Vibe: Sophisticated, lively, and exclusive for adults (21+).
- Must-Know: If you want Roman elegance without the party, the central Temple Pool offers a more relaxed setting surrounded by iconic Roman architecture.
The Relaxing & Luxury Pools
These spaces prioritize tranquility, elegant design, and personalized service.
4. Wynn and Encore Pools
Synonymous with luxury, the pool areas at Wynn and Encore are designed as peaceful, elegantly manicured retreats. The landscaping is lush, and the service is impeccable. The unparalleled service and serene, exclusive design cement the Wynn and Encore as the standard for best Las Vegas pools when seeking five-star tranquility.
- Vibe: Quiet, upscale, sophisticated, and exclusive.
- Must-Know: While generally relaxed, Encore is also home to the famous Encore Beach Club (EBC)—a massive dayclub separate from the main resort pools.
- Internal Link: For other high-end options, check out our guide to The Best Luxury Resorts on the Las Vegas Strip.
5. Aria Pools
Aria’s pool complex is sleek, modern, and stylish, featuring a contemporary design and a refined atmosphere. It’s an ideal spot for guests seeking peace and quiet without sacrificing sophistication.
- Vibe: Modern, tranquil, and upscale.
- Must-Know: Look for the two main pools—one is geared toward relaxation, and the other is slightly more social. Cabana service is top-tier.
6. The Venetian and The Palazzo Pools
These adjacent sister resorts offer a sophisticated and elegant escape with Italian-inspired architecture and serene gardens. The multi-pool complexes are a true oasis in the desert.
- Vibe: Serene, elegant, and peaceful.
- Must-Know: Guests of The Palazzo luxury tower often have access to a more intimate, exclusive pool area not open to all Venetian guests.
7. Bellagio Pools
As expected from the resort famous for its Fountains, the Bellagio pool area is refined and classical. Set within beautifully landscaped gardens, the five outdoor pools offer a peaceful atmosphere designed purely for lounging in luxury.
- Vibe: Classic elegance, peaceful, and tranquil.
- Must-Know: This is one of the best choices for luxury travelers who want guaranteed relaxation without any aggressive party noise.
The Family & Activity Pools
These spots are perfect for travelers with kids or those who love to stay active with lazy rivers and huge spaces.
8. MGM Grand Pools: The Lazy River King
The MGM Grand Pools, with their massive scale and famous lazy river, are consistently voted among the best Las Vegas pools for families and large groups. The complex features four pools and a 1,000-foot-long lazy river—a must-do feature.
- Vibe: Fun, lively, varied, and family-friendly.
- Must-Know: The sheer size of the complex means there is plenty of room for everyone, from those relaxing in daybeds to those lounging by the swim-up bars.
9. Planet Hollywood Pool
While not always listed among the best Las Vegas pools or most luxurious, Planet Hollywood’s pool deck is perfect for the energetic crowd. It features two large pool areas and a wave pool that often hosts live DJ sets, creating a vibrant, fun atmosphere that is great for all ages.
- Vibe: Energetic, youthful, and lively.
- Must-Know: The pool area has a slightly different feel from the other resorts, providing a great party atmosphere that is accessible and less exclusive than a dedicated dayclub.
10. Flamingo Las Vegas: The GO Pool
The Flamingo is home to two distinct pool areas. The Beach Club Pool is family-friendly with slides and waterfalls. The adjacent GO Pool is strictly 21+, known for its wild party scene, live entertainment, and booming music—perfect for adults who want a mix of energy and tropical flair.
- Vibe: Tropical, classic Vegas kitsch. Two distinct zones: family fun and adult party.
- Must-Know: Ensure you head to the correct pool area based on your preferred atmosphere.
Navigating Las Vegas Pool Policies
To make the most of your visit to the best Las Vegas pools, familiarizing yourself with key resort policies is essential.
- Resort Access: Most pools are reserved for hotel guests. Non-guests can often gain access by booking a daybed or cabana or purchasing a day pass (check resort websites for details).
- Cabanas & Daybeds: These offer shade, privacy, and better service. They are highly recommended during peak summer months and holidays, but they book up quickly and can be expensive.
- For the most up-to-date information on non-guest access fees, pool closing dates, and frequently asked questions, consult this comprehensive Las Vegas Pool Season access and FAQ guide.
Final Thoughts: Choose Your Vegas Pool Vibe
The best Las Vegas pools are defined not just by their size but by the unique experience they offer. Whether you’re seeking the relaxation of the Bellagio, the sand and waves of Mandalay Bay, or the lazy river at MGM Grand, choosing the right pool is the first step to enjoying the ultimate day in the desert sun.
Frequently Asked Questions About Las Vegas Pools
Q: Do I have to be a guest at a Las Vegas hotel to use their pool?
A: Generally, yes, for the most luxurious and popular resort pools. However, many hotels offer paid pool access or “resort day passes” for non-guests, especially on weekdays. The Strat, Circa, and some Station Casinos properties are reliable choices that often sell non-guest access. Check the specific resort’s website for the current policy and pricing.
Q: When is Las Vegas pool season, and when do pools close for the year?
A: Las Vegas pool season is generally considered to run from March to October. While many pools remain open year-round (often heated), the full resort pool experience (multiple pools, full bar/food service, DJs) typically starts in March and winds down by late October or early November.
Q: What is the difference between a “Pool” and a “Dayclub”?
A: A resort Pool is an amenity focused on relaxation, swimming, and family-friendly fun, with standard bar and food service. A Dayclub (like Encore Beach Club or Wet Republic) is a high-energy, adult-only outdoor nightclub experience, featuring internationally famous DJs, bottle service, and a party atmosphere.
Q: Can I bring outside food or drinks to the pool?
A: Almost all Las Vegas resort pools do not allow outside food, beverages, or large coolers. However, most pools permit factory-sealed water bottles (non-alcoholic) to help guests stay hydrated in the desert heat. Bags are typically searched upon entry.
Q: Are there any free pools on the Las Vegas Strip?
A: Access to resort pools is almost always included with a hotel stay (covered by the resort fee). For non-guests, pools are rarely free. Your best bet for low-cost access is to look for pools slightly off-Strip or check local hotels that run “locals-only” promotions during the slower seasons.