
It’s a typical summer day in San Diego — 72 degrees, clear blue skies and plenty of sunshine. Sounds like a perfect day to spend outdoors soaking up the rays. The only question now is what’s there to do? If you’re into amazing views and hanging out with the cool crowd, there are a slew of hotel rooftop swimming pools worth checking out. • At the Hard Rock Hotel, get ready to party like a rock star. Comfortable chaise lounge chairs, VIP cabanas, daybeds and a spectacular view overlooking Fifth Avenue and the San Diego Convention Center are all part of the hotel’s Float pool lounge scene. On Sundays, this popular rooftop is transformed into Intervention or as the locals say — the ultimate summer getaway. “This is the best pool party in San Diego. It’s great people watching and the DJs are out of this world,” Anthony Rujillo said. Tommy Tranbu, a frequent Float guest agreed. “Where else would you want to be on a hot summer day?” he asked. Employees at Intervention are a big part of the experience. One guy manning the grill who goes by the name “Ninja” flashed a big smile when asked about the popular DJ Deadmau5 who rocked the house a few weeks back. “He has this huge mouse head with the eyes knocked out and he really keeps the music live. It’s non-stop,” he said “The heat, the pool and the beautiful ladies are excellent nutrients for the eyes. I’m feeling pretty healthy by the end of the party.” Intervention ticket prices vary between $20 and $100 and yes, that includes access to the pool. • Up the street is Se San Diego’s Siren Pool & Uberlounge — a stylish 7,000-square-foot pool deck and lounge featuring private cabanas with bottle service and an infinity edge pool. The ultra chic rooftop is a huge hit with locals. “I love it here because it’s intimate and a great place to unwind and meet friends after a long work day,” Lisa Davenport said. Se San Diego also has its share of glamorous pool parties. For those who refuse to let the weekend end, Escape Sunday is held from 2 p.m. to sunset. Its motto? Relax, Refresh and Revive. “It’s a fun event and high energy. There’s no cover charge and everyone is welcome, “said Craig Waterman, general manager of Se San Diego. • Solamar Terrace, located on the fourth floor of Hotel Solamar is another favorite. The hotel’s rooftop pool and LoungeSix is a winning combination with its unique rooftop garden and city skyline views. The swanky outdoor seating, private cabanas and inviting fire pits are a nice touch. But it’s the casual, relaxing atmosphere that has Tanya Billings coming back every week. “I like this rooftop pool because it’s laid back and the people are friendly,” she said. “I feel like I belong.” The pool is for hotel guests only, but don’t let that stop you from enjoying a sweet adult beverage. Here are some other rooftop pools worth checking out: • W Hotel: Known as downtown’s first rooftop pool, WET may be off limits to non-hotel guests but at the rooftop BEACH bar, everyone is welcome. Just make sure you take your shoes off. Three tons of heated sand covers the rooftop bar, keeping things nice and toasty. • Andaz, Ivy Rooftop: Impressive panoramic views, sleek outdoor seating and private cabanas surround this rooftop pool. Daytime and night time views are fabulous. • Manchester Grand Hyatt, KIN Lounge: This harbor side rooftop lounge and pool have an unbeatable view of the bay and Coronado. What a great way to spend a lazy Sunday afternoon — taking a dip in the pool and watching sailboats go by. Life is good.