The pool deck is the perfect place to recover and recharge after a late night out in Las Vegas. A key amenity at mega-resorts, Vegas pools run the gambit from run-of-the-mill, to spectacular.
Considering the pool is a priority for many, I thought it would be fun to put together a list of tips and tricks to make the most of your experience.
Las Vegas Pool Tips
Bring a Waterproof Phone Case: (flashback) I was mid-air, about to land in the pool at TI when I realized my cell phone was in my pocket. Learning the hard way and being phone-less for the remainder of my trip was a tough way to learn that a cheap, effective, waterproof phone case is invaluable.
Although phones are now mostly waterproof, a waterproof case (which are inexpensive on Amazon) can be used to hold cash, wallets, or other valuables that you prefer not to leave unguarded.
Or Use the FlexSafe: An alternative to renting a locker at the pool, a flexible safe like this one from AauqVault locks to your lounger (or any solid object for that matter) and allows you to securely lock your valuables while you wander and swim.
Upgrade Your Pool: Are you staying at a hotel with a boring pool? Nearly every resort on the Strip allows non-guests to access their pools if you rent a cabana/daybed or pay a cover charge.
I maintain a rundown of pools in Vegas anyone can use, and recommend you consider some of the best pools in Vegas like those at Circa, Golden Nugget, Caesars Palace, Flamingo, Mandalay Bay, or MGM Grand.
Visit Topgolf: On the topic of other pools, don’t sleep on Topgolf which is situated behind MGM Grand. While the driving range gets most of the love, Topgolf also has a 2 level pool that is free for anyone to use, complete with a swim-up bar.
You Won’t Be Able to Sneak in Drinks: Think you’ll save a few bucks by filling a few Dasani bottles up with clear booze? Save yourself the embarrassment. It won’t work. While most pools outlaw all outside food and drink, there are a few that will allow one factory-sealed bottle of water per person. Trust us, they’ll give that seal a good once over.
But If You Want to Try: Your best bet for sneaking booze into a Las Vegas pool is leveraging deceptive practices. Flasks disguised as sunscreen containers are readily available in various varieties on Amazon and will increase your likelihood of success.
Get There Early: If you’ll be visiting a popular pool with hopes of scoring a free lounge chair, we would suggest staking your claim early, before the crowds arrive. Otherwise, you risk being chairless or having one in an undesirable (shady) location.
Going With a Group? Splurge on the Cabana: Cabanas provide guaranteed seating and shade for a price of $200 – $500 depending on the resort. Oftentimes, the fee works as a food and beverage minimum – Ensure you read the fine print so you understand the terms.
Common amenities within pool cabanas include a safe, a fridge stocked with bottled water, and a TV you have control over.
Consider Renting a Daybed: Even if you’re not going with a group, save yourself the stress of finding a lounge chair and pre-order a daybed on the resort’s website. Not only will you be guaranteed immediate entry on a crowded day, but you’ll have a spot to relax.
Don’t Forget Your Room Key: Most hotel pools require you to show or swipe your room key to gain entry. Nothing worse than walking the half-mile from your room to the pool, only to be denied entry because you forgot your key is in your wife’s purse.
Sunscreen: That desert sun isn’t what you are used to in Omaha. Bring sunscreen and don’t be shy with it. Don’t get cute and snag the 4 SPF “tanning lotion” either thinking you’ll improve your tan. You won’t. You’ll just be in pain for the rest of the trip.
Rent a Poolside Room: If you want to be steps away from the party, rent one of the few poolside rooms offered in Las Vegas.
I recently stayed in one of LINQ’s Poolside Cabana Rooms, which has its own built-in outdoor cabana that offers outdoor seating, a TV, and direct access to the pool. While I found certain aspects of the room to be a tad underwhelming, the pool access was a pretty unique amenity.
Take Advantage of Refill Deals: Many poolside bars offer a discount on cocktail refills of around 20%-25% when you bring back your original cup. Don’t throw your cup away at the end of the day either, rather bring it back to the pool every day of your trip to maximize your savings.
Hopefully, you were able to take away some helpful tips for your trip to the Pool in Las Vegas! Have a great time, kick back, and relax!
I’m a former software salesman turned Vegas aficionado. While the craps table is my preferred habitat, I pull myself away to explore new attractions, shows, restaurants, and outdoor activities around Las Vegas with the intent of sharing my experiences.
Ultimately, I just want to help folks plan a better trip and save a few bucks in the process.