Swim Class

In search of the best pools in Vegas

Las Vegas is famous for its vibrant casinos, extravagant entertainment and fine dining. But it is also becoming known for something else: swimming pools.

BELLAGIO If the fabulous fountains on the lake in front of this elegant hotel don’t take your breath away, the five azure pools fed by classical Italian stone fountains set amid lush landscaping and citrus trees will. For old world Mediterranean elegance, you simply cannot beat luxuriating poolside at the Bellagio. If you ask us, it’s practically what summer was invented for.

COSMOPOLITAN This new luxury resort in the heart of the Strip is so fond of swimming pools that they created the Pool District, which includes a pool for every mood. For a relaxing experience, we prefer the secluded Bamboo Pool.

CAESARS PALACE Step out onto your balcony at Caesars Palace and prepare to have your jaw drop at the spectacular marble-floored pools below. Waterfalls and statues worked for the Romans, so why not modern-day Vegas? There are eight pools, but it’s the recently renovated Gardens of the Gods Pool Oasis, which is surrounded by majestic columns, lavish fountains and classically inspired landscaping, that will make you feel like an emperor — at least for a day.

MIRAGE Waterfalls, a grotto and even a dolphin habitat are all nestled within this tropical wonderland of breathtaking saltwater pools, all connected by lagoons and surrounded by private cabanas and an outdoor café.

MANDALAY BAY Ocean waves without the threat of sharks? Sign us up. The Mandalay Bay pool is the one that everyone wants to sneak into, and who could blame them? Three pristine pools make up a giant tropical playground with an actual sandy beach and real waves up to 6 feet high. Better yet, there’s a lazy river running through it all.

MANDARIN ORIENTAL A swimming pool doesn’t need to have marble columns or waterfalls to be beautiful. The lavish eighth-floor pool at the Mandarin Oriental, set amid glittering skyscrapers, is dramatic and serene, with spectacular views of City Center.

THE VENETIAN Reminiscent of an idyllic Venetian garden, the gorgeous 5-acre facility is located on the fourth floor of the Venetian and features three pools, one hot tub and the priceless sensation of being in Venezia. Bellisima!

1 The pool at Mandalay Bay comes complete with a gigantic sandy beach.

2 Spectacular statues stand sentinel at the Caesars Palace pool.

3 The Bamboo Pool at the Cosmopolitan is sleek and modern, offering a spectacular view of the Strip.