The Most Stunning Hotel Pools in Southern California, From Montecito to Palm Springs
From exclusive cabanas to coastal views and cocktails on call, these are the most elevated poolside experiences in SoCal.
Read More
Summer is right around the corner, which means poolside lounging on a sunny day in SoCal is just a stone’s throw away. Though a well-designed room and first-class service are always a priority, during the summer, access to a five-star swimming pool can seal the deal for travelers. While the California coastline is home to beautiful beaches with wide stretches of sand, many travelers prefer the stress-free experience of a pool dip versus an ocean swim. From Santa Barbara to San Diego, several high-end Southern California hotels provide the ultimate poolside experience with chic bars, comfy cabanas and gorgeous views.
Many resorts also have multiple pools on property, ensuring adults can opt for a more peaceful and splash-free zone. Of course, indulgent bites and refreshing cocktails make all of the difference during a day under the sun, and the best hotel pools provide a tranquil atmosphere alongside sensational service and top-notch culinary programs. Whether you want to watch the waves roll in from the safety of a covered cabana or admire majestic mountains while lounging on a floatie, get ready to kick back and relax at the most stunning hotel pools in Southern California.
The Best Pools in Southern California
- San Ysidro Ranch
- The Beverly Hills Hotel
- Silver Lake Pool and Inn
- Rosewood Miramar Beach
- Montage Laguna Beach
- Terranea Resort
- Surf and Sand Resort Laguna Beach
- The Resort at Pelican Hill
- Shore House at The Del
- Thompson Palm Springs, by Hyatt
- Paséa Hotel and Spa
- Murrieta Hot Springs
- Kimpton Canary Hotel
- Alila Marea Beach Resort Encinitas
- Santa Monica Proper Hotel
San Ysidro Ranch
- 900 San Ysidro Ln, Montecito, CA 93108
San Ysidro Ranch is a boutique hotel located in the foothills of Montecito’s Santa Ynez Mountains. With only 38 bungalow-style cottages, staying here offers one of the most exclusive experiences in all of California. Though the hotel’s Stonehouse restaurant and charming speakeasy are open to the public, guests enjoy sole access to the property’s pristine pool deck. Elevated on a gorgeous hillside, the heated pool sits surrounded by cushioned lounge chairs with bright orange umbrellas, allowing you to unwind with a good book while snacking on the beloved Korean beef tacos and young coconut ceviche. Down the stone steps from the pool bar area, you’ll find a six-hole putt-putt course where you can embark on a friendly competition—margarita in hand.
The Beverly Hills Hotel
- 9641 Sunset Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA 90210
The Beverly Hills Hotel is one of the most iconic destinations in the 90210. Tanning by the pool at the Pink Palace is a truly glamorous experience that Hollywood’s most elite players have enjoyed since 1938. The bright blue water is surrounded by towering palm trees and pink parasols, creating a scene straight out of Barbie, while furnished cabanas with flat-screen televisions, mini-fridges and plush robes provide a nice reprieve from the sun. When hunger strikes, order the iconic McCarthy, one of the best salads in Los Angeles, and pair it with a glass of rosé or the on-theme Pink Cadillac cocktail.
Silver Lake Pool and Inn
- 4141 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90029
Backed by boutique mogul Palisociety, the Silver Lake Pool and Inn boasts an elevated pool deck with a chic, desert-esque vibe and epic views. While lounging or swimming, guests can admire the iconic Griffith Observatory in the distance. The pool area is also surrounded by a variety of potted cacti, while stucco walls, striped umbrellas and retro tiles curate a stylish scene that is simply picture-perfect. The outdoor pool is definitely tiny, but there are plenty of loungers to relax in, along with a charming outdoor bar where you can sip an Aperol spritz or glass of rosé in between dips.
Rosewood Miramar Beach
- 1759 S Jameson Ln, Montecito, CA 93108
Rosewood Miramar Beach is an oceanfront haven located in Montecito, the crown jewel of Santa Barbara. Though the beach is just a few steps away from signature restaurant Caruso’s, guests can avoid the sand by catching some sun at one of the on-site pools. The adults-only Cabana Pool features a unique curved, serpentine edge inspired by the work of renowned architect Paul Williams. Here, 19 chic private cabanas provide a lavish reprieve from the heat where guests can order food, sip Champagne or watch their favorite sports game. The Manor Bar is a more lively place to swim and splash, surrounded by lush vegetation like towering palm trees, citrus trees, olive trees and yellow roses. It is also conveniently located next to the adorable Scoop Shop, where kids and adults alike can cool off with a classic ice cream cone.
Montage Laguna Beach
- 30801 Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
The Mosaic Pool is the centerpiece of Montage Laguna Beach. This intricate work of art is made from shimmering tiles in shades of yellow and blue, creating quite the scene below your feet as you swim toward the ocean that lies straight ahead. Whether you’re celebrating something special or simply want to relax in luxury, the airy cabanas come with a dedicated server, a bottle of Champagne, a fresh fruit bowl and a selection of ice-cold Evian and Pellegrino waters.
Terranea Resort
- 100 Terranea Way, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
Located along the bluffs of the Palos Verdes Peninsula, Terranea Resort offers a quick escape that feels light-years away from Los Angeles. The massive hotel houses four different pools on the property: the main Resort Pool, the adults-only Cielo Point Pool, the Vista Pool and the Spa Pool. Each one has its own ambiance and vibe; however, they all boast sweeping Pacific Ocean views. Whether you’re catching some sun post-massage or dining in a cabana for lunch, Terranea Resort has mastered the art of poolside relaxation.
Surf and Sand Resort Laguna Beach
- 1555 S Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Surf and Sand Resort Laguna Beach, which has recently undergone a top-to-bottom renovation, is one of Orange County’s most beloved beachfront hotels. Cool, coastal tones curate a simple yet timeless backdrop that is enhanced by the sweeping sea views, but the pool is the ultimate place to take in the hotel’s natural surroundings. The turquoise blue swimming pool sits in the center of a spacious deck with plush day beds and couches. Clear glass panels surround the deck, offering uninterrupted views of the Pacific Ocean while still providing a bit of protection from the wind.
The Resort at Pelican Hill
- 22701 S Pelican Hill Rd, Newport Coast, CA 92657
Inspired by Italian architecture, the Coliseum Pool at The Resort at Pelican Hill is a striking work of art that looks right out onto the nearby Pacific Ocean. This Newport Beach getaway boasts elegance around every corner, but the pool is perhaps the most iconic feature of the property. The upper-level cabanas offer the best view in the house and come with flat-screen televisions, dining tables and privacy drapes. Order one of the Coliseum coconuts for a summertime buzz while snacking on the fresh lobster salad and crispy French fries before cooling off with a dip in the round, panoramic pool.
Shore House at The Del
- 1500 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA 92118
Hotel del Coronado is one of the most historic hotels in San Diego. Though the main pool is beautiful, Shore House at The Del offers a more private and exclusive poolside experience. The Shore House at The Del pool allows guests to enjoy a sea breeze while swimming laps or heat up in the oceanfront jacuzzi at sunset. This is the ideal set-up for travelers who want a more intimate and peaceful experience at the iconic destination.
Thompson Palm Springs, by Hyatt
- 414 N Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262
Located on the second floor of one the desert's newest mid-century modern properties, the pool at Thompson Palm Springs boasts sweeping views of the magical San Jacinto Mountains and signature towering palm trees. The posh pool deck is outfitted with black and white striped umbrellas and a covered bar area where guests can order tajin-rimmed margaritas and a tuna tostada to beat the desert heat. At sunset, watch the mountains turn purple as the sky descends into an orange glow from the comfort of the hot tub before retreating to your suite for room service or sitting down for dinner at Mediterranean Lola Rose.
Paséa Hotel and Spa
- 21080 CA-1, Huntington Beach, CA 92648
Paséa Hotel and Spa is Huntington Beach’s premier resort, home to various dining concepts like Lōrea, which serves coastal California cuisine, the award-winning, Bali-inspired Aarna Spa and the ocean-front Ninth Island Pool. Gaze at the rolling waves while swimming a few morning laps or catch a tan in one of the beach-facing loungers as you sip a frozen strawberry daiquiri. Other pool amenities include a cozy hot tub and full-service cabanas with stocked mini-fridges.
Murrieta Hot Springs
- 39405 Murrieta Hot Springs Rd, Murrieta, CA 92563
Ready to rejuvenate in the geothermal waters of Murrieta Hot Springs? This unique wellness resort is home to 50 mineral-rich pools proven to nourish skin and hair while restoring a sense of balance to the mind, body and spirit. Spend the day hopping from pool to pool at this hacienda-style property known for its white, arched stucco structure and terracotta roofs. Whether you’re looking to swim laps in the lengthy resort pool or soak in one of the many round hot tubs, Murrieta Hot Springs is the perfect place for a spa-centric weekend away.
Kimpton Canary Hotel
- 31 W Carrillo St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Located in the heart of Downtown Santa Barbara, the Kimpton Canary Hotel is a charming, walkable accommodation with a panoramic rooftop pool. Admire both the ocean and mountains from the Spanish-esque pool deck that also houses a cozy fireplace, a small jacuzzi and plenty of lounge seating. Though you can easily spend the entire day sipping cocktails and catching a tan, the rooftop also serves as one of the best sunset spots in the city, allowing you to take in a range of American Riviera views at golden hour.
Alila Marea Beach Resort Encinitas
- 2100 N Coast Hwy 101, Encinitas, CA 92024
San Diego’s Alila Marea hovers just above six miles of clean, sandy beaches in Encinitas. The small yet sleep pool deck features modern loungers that face the ocean, along with a small pool and wide hot tub with a unique, slender design. In the evening, string lights create a glow above the deck, while contemporary fire pits surrounded by huge couches offer a warm reprieve as you watch the sun set behind the Pacific. The top-notch, spacious cabanas are another highlight, boasting some of the comfiest cushioned day beds and curtains for privacy.
Santa Monica Proper Hotel
- 700 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 9040
Enjoy bohemian vibes, Mediterranean charm and distant ocean views at the Santa Monica Proper Hotel rooftop pool. Located next door to Calabra, where you can enjoy a fresh mezze spread and craft cocktails, the pool is surrounded by simple landscaped greenery and neutral, cushioned loungers covered by cream-colored umbrellas. Cool off with a beautiful fruit platter or hydrating wellness shot before taking a dip in the heated pool as you swim around Santa Monica’s coolest rooftop.
