Vegas pool scene heats up and strips down

By E.C. Gladstone

In Las Vegas, we doeverything to excess. Which is why we not only have some of the world’s most impressive pools, and the world’s hottest nightclubs, but also a combination of the two, Club Pools (or "Ultra Pools"). These private, adults-only destinations at Las Vegas hotels emphasize luxury and decadence to a pumping DJ beat, with specialty cocktails, stunning bikini-clad servers, and an infectious party atmosphere. If a top comes off here or there (some allow "European" sunbathing), it’s all in the name of fun.

There are several to choose from at hotels on the Strip — and the off-Strip Hard Rock Hotel‘s Rehab Sundays remains the one to beat. Still, I lean toward a few favorites (all "European" optional) at other Las Vegas hotels. More compact, the Mirage Bare Pool is very mod, very private, and very chill. … The Sunset Pool at Wynn Las Vegas is surrounded by roses and topiary, with in-pool day beds ("lily pads") and some of the most luxurious cabanas I’ve ever seen. … Moorea Beach Club at Mandalay Bay takes a different approach, emphasizing an exotic, sophisticated atmosphere — though their Villa Rotui sky cabana may be the coolest party space (rotating bed, stripper pole, panoramic views) in the whole town.

Other club pools to check out during your Las Vegas vacation include TAO Beach at The Venetian Hotel, Venus at Caesars, and Ditch Fridays at  The Palms, all of which offer different flavors of Vegas daylife. Ask your concierge about admission policies.

But the just-opened Wet Republic at the MGM Grand Hotel sets a new standard. With two salt-water pools (the only in LV), six spa baths, deluxe cabanas, a chic lounge and long bar area, it has the potential to dwarf all others in style, size, and fun!

Insider tip: For a different kind of secluded pool experience, visit the verdant, shady and elegant Venezia tower pool. Open to all Venetian property guests, it features European café service from Bouchon.

Related Orbitz resources:

• Las Vegas hotel
• Las Vegas vacation

E.C. Gladstone is a former editor for AOLVegas, and interviews top
Strip entertainers, restauranteurs, moguls and behind-the-scenes
players for VEGAS Magazine. Like many Las Vegans, he sleeps only when
absolutely necessary.

Tagged: Las Vegas