Take a Dip, Make a Splash or Catch Some Rays at These Oases
Here in Orange County, we live in a poolside paradise with countless destinations to sip and dip and enjoy the sunshine. From The Ranch in Laguna Beach to Newport’s stunning Resort at Pelican Hill, there’s plenty of places to make a splash in our coastal county. We love everything from a cabana to a poolside cocktail, and if there’s a waterslide, we’re bringing the whole fam. And we did the deep dive on these digs for you! Break out your resort wear: here’s our list of the best pools in Orange County!
ClubSport
For the fitness enthusiast who also likes some fun in the sun.
Renaissance ClubSport is a haven for exercise and aquatic enthusiasts of all ages. Situated within the vibrant community of Aliso Viejo, this mega gym has all the bells and whistles (here’s 10 reasons why we love it) and boasts a trifecta of pools that cater to any kind of float fan. Whether you’re looking to swim laps in the resort-style pool, join one of their water fitness classes in the dedicated exercise pool, or watch your little ones get their sillies out on the splash pad—there’s something for everyone at this Orange County pool. Craving a little quiet time? Adults can enjoy the exclusive adults-only spa and whirlpool, and if your kids get jealous, there’s a spa experience for them, too! After working up an appetite, indulge in one of the offerings from the Splash Pool Bar or grab something to go from Citrus Fresh Grill. Aliso Viejo’s ClubSport is the perfect blend of fun, relaxation and indulgence—all under the SoCal sun.
Location: Aliso Viejo
Paséa Hotel & Spa
For those who like to sun with a spritz in hand and the surf in sight.
The pool at Paséa Hotel & Spa in Huntington Beach epitomizes coastal elegance and relaxation. Perched on the edge of the Pacific Ocean, this stunning infinity pool offers uninterrupted views of the sun-kissed shoreline, creating a serene ambiance that invites guests to unwind in pure beachside bliss. Surrounded by lush landscaping and chic cabanas, the pool area exudes a sense of laid-back luxury, perfect for soaking up the California sunshine in style. Whether you’re taking a refreshing dip or simply lounging with a cocktail in hand, the pool at Paséa promises a blissful barefoot experience.
Location: Huntington Beach
The Resort at Pelican Hill
For the cabana connoisseurs.
Reputation precedes itself at The Resort at Pelican Hill’s Coliseum Pool. This giant circular pool has been the source of many Insta-shots—with the golf course in the forefront and the California coast right behind. With cabanas lining both the upper and lower decks, complete with full-service catering, this is prime spot for a gals getaway or a romantic rendezvous. You can enjoy eats from the Coliseum Grill which overlooks this iconic Orange County pool, if you want a nice post-swim, sit-down situation. Bring a 5-spot for the valet, and be sure to reserve cabanas ahead of time.
Location: Newport Beach
Hotel Joaquin
For those who are in need of a serene swim.
Hotel Joaquin is one of Laguna Beach’s best-kept boutique secrets with a pool scene reserved for ultimate seaside serenity. This midcentury-meets-maritime hotel has 22 rooms and lots of coastal-cool accents. It’s an amazing spot for a staycation—bring a book to the pool and maybe pair it with one of their tequila flights. This is where you’ll want to rest, relax and recharge. And if you work up an appetite, simply head upstairs to Saline for a bite and a bev.
Location: Laguna Beach
Montage Laguna Beach
For the bougie sunbather.
Everyone has seen that photo—you know, the one from the balcony of the Montage lobby showing off the intricate tile design that adorns the bottom of their mosaic pool. It’s the centerpiece of the hotel and for good reason. This wade-able work of art is loved by locals, visitors and even a few celebrities. You can smell the salt air from your lounger and, if you need a change of scenery from the vibey pool deck, the sand is a quick saunter away. This is a place you can spend all day, but be sure to pop across the street for a bite at La Sirena Grill before you head home.
Location: Laguna Beach
Lido House
For the boutique-loving boys and girls.
The Lido House pool is situated right in the heart of the hotel so you can really seclude yourself in the cool-coastal setting. Even if you are not a guest, you can purchase a day pass from Resort Pass to enjoy the pool ($30) or spring for the cabana rental ($300) if you want to boujee it up a bit. Walk around nearby Lido Marina Village and grab some goodies from fan favorites like Rye Goods, Sugar Paper and Le Labo. Need a lay of the land? We’ve got you covered. After you cool off at the pool, mosey over to Lido House’s on-site coffee shop, Crew Coffee & Cremerie, for an afternoon pick-me-up. You can valet or take advantage of the street parking in the area.
Location: Newport Beach
Inn at the Mission San Juan Capistrano
For a quaint country-style swim.
Another Autograph Collection option is Inn at the Mission San Juan Capistrano. This quaint Spanish-style hotel embodies everything we love about SJC: low-maintenance luxury at its finest. You can reserve a lounger by their pool through their website ($200), which includes a food and beverage credit. It’s like they already know you’re in for spicy margs after a dip in the pool. They also have an outdoor shower set-up for when you pull yourself away from the pool and head back into reality. Need more reasons to love San Juan Capistrano? Check out our list here.
Location: San Juan Capistrano
Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach
For the one with a closet full of resort wear.
What was once the St. Regis and then the Monarch Hotel is now a Waldorf Astoria hotel—and with the acquisition comes some seriously swanky updates. This Dana Point destination is a sprawling resort complete with a golf course and beach club. The pool scene is second to none with top-notch service, multiple bars and even a designated kiddie pool with a splash pad. The daybeds by the main pool are first come, first served and some of the best spots to get your serving of vitamin D for the day. If you decide to bring the whole family, there’s a large grass area with lawn games that will keep your kids entertained. That way, you can finish your piña colada in peace!
Location: Dana Point
VEA Newport Beach
For the party people.
Vea is the newest beat in town with a pool scene that is more Vegas than vegging out. With Catalina off in the distance and drinks flowing from the bar, you’ll be feeling tres cheeky in no time. The stunning 85-foot-long pool (which is designed to resemble the pier) is surrounded by lounge seating and cabanas, LED screens for swim-up movies, and iconic Orange County ocean views. This is a destination for those who want to see and be seen while listening to live music and sipping on signature cocktails. We recommend the Ready Player Rum or The Pink Panther, a frozen rosé specialty. A day pass to the pool is $50 through Resort Pass, and it’s well worth the price of admission.
Location: Newport Beach
Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel
For the quiet luxury ladies and gents.
The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel has made a name for itself with its stunning location perched atop the bluffs overlooking Salt Creek Beach. The 180-degree views are worth the trek alone, and the pool on the other side of the hotel is worth a visit, too. With its island of palm trees and plentiful seating areas, this cerulean swim setting is a quiet place to score some sun or read that book you’ve been meaning to finish. Be sure to also check out Taikun, the hotel’s new omakase experience!
Location: Laguna Niguel
Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa
For the people who love a pool and a theme park.
With a plethora of pools amid the theme park, this would be the kind of place Pluto would get his paws wet. There are three pools, two hot tubs and one shallow kiddie pool, with plenty of seating areas and options for parties of all sizes. The waterslide is a fun feature that kids and parents alike can enjoy. If you are craving a staycation or have friends coming to town, the Grand Californian is an excellent on-site option with easy access to the parks—not to mention all those water features.
Location: Anaheim
Pixar Place Hotel
For the Pixar lovers.
Of course this Orange County pool is Pixar themed—it is the Pixar Place Hotel, after all. Their newly designed pool and splash pad is the perfect place to chill on a day off from the parks. Filled with images from your favorite animated films, this will be pure aquatic entertainment for the young ones. They have loungers, daybeds and cabanas where adults can maximize relaxation while the little whirling dervishes have fun on the waterslides and in the whirlpools.
Location: Anaheim
The Waterfront Beach Resort
For the teacher on summer break with kids in tow.
Located mere steps from the Huntington Beach sand, The Waterfront Beach Resort is a relaxing seaside haven complete with a pair of sparkling swimming pools. There’s the Huntington Tower Pool, which is more about relaxation, and the Driftwood Beach Club, a lagoon-style pool with two waterslides for the adrenaline junkies. Pick your poison: you can get cocktails at both! This is another option on Resort Pass for the daycationers.
Location: Huntington Beach
Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach
For a family-friendly foray.
Welcome to Orange County’s beachfront resort oasis: the Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort & Spa. Featuring lush tropical grounds and ocean views, the resort boasts multiple water amenities, beach access, two full-service restaurants, poolside dining, a grab ‘n go market and pizzeria and activities for the whole family. Lounge by the lagoon-style pool while enjoying a delicious lunch with endless beverage options—think smoothies, tropical cocktails or local craft beer. Craving a little more adrenaline? Slink on down to Slyder’s playground with the whole crew where your kids can get their thrills on three different waterslides. This pool is also on Resort Pass, should you just want to take a family day trip!
Location: Huntington Beach
The Ranch at Laguna Beach
For the romantic rendezvous.
The Ranch at Laguna Beach is a true hidden gem, tucked away in the valley and across Pacific Coast Highway from Aliso Creek. It’s a sprawling estate that houses Ben Brown’s Golf Course (ask your husband) and has all the perks of feeling like you’ve been whisked away to a place like Montana or Jackson Hole, only with California weather. This is the spot for the romantic getaway you’ve been dreaming about. The pool is a perfect place to reconnect over a midday cocktail surrounded by nature before heading to Harvest for some live music and amazing eats. Be sure to pack a jacket if you plan on staying into the evening as temps tend to dip here.
Location: Laguna Beach
Great Wolf Lodge
For the kids and kids at heart.
We know the idea of a waterpark-themed hotel may not have you out the door—but hear us out. Great Wolf Lodge offers built-in entertainment for your kids. Read that again: built-in entertainment! Have you ever seen your kid at the end of a marathon pool day? It’s full-on lights out. You’ll not only get a break from being Super Mom but you might even get a thrill or two tubing down Crooked Creek. With over 15 aquatic attractions, this place is endless fun at extremely affordable pricing. Great Wolf Lodge is almost always offering a deal, and currently you can get 30% off if you book before July 25. There’s also other indoor attractions that don’t require swimsuits, like an arcade, bowling alley and other themed activities.
Location: Garden Grove
