9 of the Best Pools in New York City

Your guide to making a splash in the Big Apple.

Although it certainly pulls a crowd as a winter wonderland, New York City can clock some challenging temperatures at the other end of the thermometer, too. When there’s no time for the Hamptons, respite can be found at one of the numerous chic hotel pools throughout the city. Sure, many of them are for the exclusive use of hotel guests, but would booking a room at one of these hot spots be so bad?

1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge

Views, glorious views. This sustainability-minded hotel enjoys prime position next to the famous and picturesque Brooklyn Bridge, and the rooftop pool puts the incredible views in the spotlight.

As well as the bridge, the plunge pool offers sweeping views of the Downtown skyline, with the Statue of Liberty kicking off the glorious panorama. The pool is for guests only, but Harriet’s Rooftop Bar, just next door and with the same vista, is open to the public. Reservations are recommended.

Address: 60 Furman Street, Brooklyn

The Dominick

SoHo is one of New York City’s most sought-after destinations, and there are worse ways to soak up that Downtown atmosphere than with a poolside cocktail at The Dominick.

The outdoor pool, which puts guests in the thick of the Manhattan skyline, is adjacent to Terrace on 7, the latest addition to The Dominick’s food and beverage offering, at least for now (watch this space). The indoor-outdoor restaurant and lounge is a stylish space serving fresh Japanese fare and fantastic cocktails.

Address: 246 Spring St, New York

Enjoy a poolside cocktail at The Dominick

The William Vale

Located in hipster-friendly Williamsburg, The William Vale boasts the longest outdoor pool in greater New York City. Better yet, the 465-square-metre poolside terrace, complete with plush cabanas, has slick resort written all over it and the menu, featuring light fare and summer-friendly cocktails, is brought to you by award-winning chef Andrew Carmellini. Day passes and memberships are available, but the best way to guarantee a day bed is to check into one of the hotel’s 183 rooms.

Address: 111 N 12th St, Brooklyn

The William Vale boasts the longest outdoor pool in greater New York City

SoHo House

Sex and the City fans will know the name, and not even PR maven Samantha Jones could score a lounge or four at this exclusive rooftop pool. In reality, membership is just as prized.

To join, you need the endorsement of two current members and a willingness to part with a hefty annual fee, but there is a way around these hurdles for travellers. Check yourself in to one of the 44 fully equipped rooms and you will soon find the SoHo House pool isn’t the only feature worth diving into.

Address: 29-35 9th Ave, New York

SoHo house is a destination all by itself

Baccarat Hotel

Off the roof and two levels below ground, the pool at the exquisite Baccarat Hotel provides a calm and restorative oasis in the beating heart of Midtown. Paris-based firm Gilles & Boissier is responsible for the opulent hotel design and the pool has been given the same luxurious treatment, with black-and-white marble floors and cabanas inspired by the French Riviera.

Address: 28 W 53rd St, New York

Find Baccarat Hotel pool in the heart of midtown

Gansevoort Meatpacking NYC

Open year-round, the 15th-storey heated pool at Gansevoort Meatpacking is the perfect spot to take in one of New York City’s most glamorous neighbourhoods. Art Deco-style tiles and sleek outdoor furniture help create a sophisticated retreat, available only to guests of the 186-room hotel. Adjacent Gansevoort Rooftop, a stylish bar with indoor and outdoor spaces and views to boot, is open to the public.

Address: 18 9th Ave, New York

Take in the NYC skyline poolside at The Gansevoort

The Williamsburg Hotel

More breathtaking views of Manhattan’s famous silhouette can be enjoyed from the rooftop at The Williamsburg Hotel. Sitting pretty on Williamsburg’s thriving Wythe Avenue, the hotel epitomises style and the 12-metre pool is no exception. It is located at the foot of the hotel’s famous Water Tower Bar, an Instagram hit, and also features a bar of its own and plenty of seating. Pool access is for guests only until midday, when the public is invited join in for a $25 entry fee, subject to availability.

Address: 96 Wythe Ave, Brooklyn

Perched above the city streets, the Williamsburg’s rooftop oasis boasts breathtaking views, an outdoor pool, bar & café.

The Peninsula New York

A landmark hotel on iconic Fifth Avenue, The Peninsula New York is a five-star stay with a pool to match. Floor-to-ceiling teak columns surround the serene 13.7-metre pool, located on the top (23^rd) floor of the grand Midtown hotel. The pool is part of the hotel’s three-storey spa, giving you the perfect excuse to add a treatment to your day.

Address: 700 5th Ave, New York

A landmark hotel (and pool) on Fifth avenue

Dream Downtown

Love to feel the sand between your toes? The Beach at Dream Downtown has you covered. Spanning 465 square metres, The Beach features a spectacular glass-bottomed pool with views to the hotel lobby, as well as a full-service bar, pool deck, private cabanas and chaise lounges.

A ‘beach’ has been created with sand imported from The Hamptons for that truly perfect underfoot feel. Day passes are available to the public, but weekends are the exclusive domain of hotel guests.

Address: 355 W 16th St, New York