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The kidney bean shaped pool at the Austin Motel, with white tables and chairs around it, each with a red and white striped umbrella.
Austin Motel
Austin Motel

Where to Dip in Pools and Sip Cocktails in Austin

Swimming with drinks

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Austin Motel
| Austin Motel

Let’s face it. It’s hot in Austin. Summer lasts practically six months of the year, and the only way to survive is by plunging into a body of water. Thankfully there are a plethora of swimming holes in Central Texas to cool off in. But, if you’d prefer to forgo slimy algae and enjoy your swim time with an adult beverage, there are lots of options around Austin with sparkling pools and robust menus.

For those looking for more of a party vibe, head to The Wet Deck at the W Austin. Seeking an adults-only pool? The Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa has you covered. If you’re looking for a freebie option to just dip your toes in, head to Palm Springs-esque Kitty Cohen’s. No matter your pool style, grab a lounge chair, pop a tiny umbrella in your drink, and celebrate the summer season.

For more drinking ideas, check out Eater’s day-drinking guide, along with our cocktail heatmap and essential list, frozen drinks, margaritas, frosé, and beer. Then there’s also our guide to the best restaurants and bars near Austin’s public pools.

The original map was written by Erin Russell.

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Lake Austin Spa Resort

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Nestled on the tranquil shores of Lake Austin, Lake House Spa is the ultimate decadent daycation escape. Day passes and day spa cabanas are available Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., and complimentary self-parking and poolside service are available for purchase. 

Day passes $150; Day spa cabanas $400 (for 2 people)

Book online

Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa

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Indulge in a luxurious pool experience at Barton Creek Resort. Day passes provide access to various aquatic features, including the adults-only infinity pool, hot tub, and family-friendly heated pools. Poolside service is available from Nopales, the resort’s Tex-Mex restaurant. While the pools are open 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days a week, poolside food service is from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m., with drink service till 7 p.m. 

 

Day pass for Monday-Thursday $25, Friday and Saturday $99, Sunday $50; Cabanas $199 (for up to 6 people)

Book online

Hotel Ella

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Enjoy a modern poolside experience at this historic hotel, conveniently located adjacent to the University of Texas at Austin campus. Day passes are available Sundays through Thursdays 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. with free valet parking and poolside service from Goodall’s Kitchen or Parlor Bar. 

Day pass $25

Book online

A long pool with lawn chairs and a green grass backdrop.
Hotel Ella’s pool.
Jake Holt

Otopia Rooftop Lounge

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Also near the UT Austin campus, the Otis Hotel’s rooftop lounge and pool, Otopia, features great views of the city, along with a la carte eats and drinks and complimentary self-parking. The pool is available to non-guests Sunday through Friday 12 to 5 p.m. and is 21+ only. 

Day pass Sunday-Thursday $30; Friday $45; Cabanas $300 (up to 6 people)

Book online

Omni Austin Hotel Downtown

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Unwind at a poolside oasis with a view at Omni Downtown. Cloud Pool Bar offers a selection of poolside cocktails and food to elevate your pool day. Day passes are available from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Note: Cloud Bar is closed Monday through Thursday, but food is still available through a QR code. Daybeds and cabanas are also for rent. 

Day passes $15 for children, $35 for adults; Daybed $50 (2 people); Cabanas $250 (up to 4 people)

Book online

Thompson Austin

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Taking over for the recently departed Wax Myrtle’s on the fourth floor of the Thompson Hotel is Arriba Abajo, which also services poolside guests. Enjoy the golden hour by the pool with the Thompson’s special sunset pass, valid from 5 to 9 p.m., or indulge in a (shaded!) daybed for two or a private cabana, available 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Sunset pass $10 for children, $30 for adults; Daybed $200 Monday to Thursday, $275 Friday to Sunday (2 people); Cabana $250 Monday to Thursday, $350 Friday to Sunday (up to 6 people)

Book online

Azul Rooftop

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Head to the refreshing retreat at Azul Rooftop Bar + Lounge, perched atop the Westin Austin Downtown. This local favorite boasts panoramic city views and a la carte food and drinks. Day passes are available for weekday relaxation (Monday through Thursday, 1 to 5 p.m.). Craving a luxurious upgrade? Reserve a cabana (offered daily, 2 to 6 p.m.) with a required minimum food and beverage spend ($250 Sunday-Thursday, $350 Friday-Saturday).

Day passes $40 Sunday to Thursday, $60 Friday and Saturday; Cabanas $300 Sunday to Thursday, $500 Friday and Saturday (up to 6 people)

Book online

Wet Deck at the W

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The trendy, sleek Wet Deck at the downtown W Hotel definitely attracts a crowd during the summer. There are several swim pass options – non-hotel guests may access the pool Sunday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. with a day pass, cabana, or veranda reservation. Bonus: Cabanas are also available on Saturdays. Veranda and cabana rentals include a food and beverage minimum of $250-400, depending on size. Live DJs play on Sundays as a part of the W’s Sun Chaser Social event.

Day passes $35 Monday to Thursday, $45 Fridays and Sundays

Book online

East Austin Hotel

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Soak up the retro vibes at this Wes Anderson-pink hotel while enjoying sips and snacks from Second Bar + Kitchen. Passes are available Monday through Thursday, 2 to 8 p.m., and Friday through Sunday, 12 to 8 p.m. Parking is included. 

Monday to Thursday $30; Friday to Sunday $40

Book online

JW Marriott Austin

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Dive into a Texas-themed oasis at the JW Marriott’s heated rooftop pool. Soak up views of Lady Bird Lake and the Texas Capitol while sipping on cooling cocktails and enjoying light bites from the pool bar. Day passes and daybeds are available Monday through Thursday (noon to 9 p.m.). Craving ultimate relaxation? Reserve a cabana for a half-day session (noon to 5 p.m. or 6 to 9 pm), or splurge and book both. Self-parking is included.

Day passes $50 Monday to Thursday, $100 Friday to Sunday; Daybeds $100 Monday to Thursday, $150 Friday to Sunday (2 people); Cabanas $150 Monday to Thursday, $200 Friday to Sunday (up to 10 people)

Book online

Austin Marriott Downtown

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This hidden gem, nestled seven stories up amidst lush greenery, offers a sanctuary from the urban jungle. Immerse yourself in city views while indulging in modern tiki cocktails and island-inspired bites from Zanzibar. Passes and cabanas are available Sunday through Thursday from 12 to 8 p.m.

Day passes $40 Monday to Thursday, $55 Friday to Sunday; Cabanas $250-$1000 (size varies)

Book online

The Line Austin

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In addition to its proximity to the Congress Avenue bridge bats, the best part about the Line Hotel’s pool is that poolside food and drink service is available from one of the city’s best taco spots, Veracruz All Natural, which operates a walk-up window right at the pool. In addition to half-day passes that grant access from 2 to 10 p.m. on Sundays, there are also full-day passes from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday, with valet parking included. 

Half-day passes $30; Day passes $25/children, $40/adults

Book online

Carpenter Hotel

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Enjoy pool service from Carpenters Hall while splashing around in this shady pool. Towels and showers are provided. Day passes are available Monday through Thursday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday 1 to 6 p.m. 

Monday-Thursday $45; Sunday $35

Book online

Fairmont Austin

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Access the Vegas-style pool at the downtown hotel (complete with rooftop palm trees) through day passes or daybed or cabana reservations – with plenty of options. The on-site pool bar, Rules & Regs, offers a la carte food and drinks. The pool is open from 11 a.m. until sunset, Sunday through Thursday, with complimentary self-parking. 

Day passes $40 Monday to Thursday, $60 Friday to Sunday; Daybed $100-250 (2 people); Cabana $200-1000 (size varies)

Book online

A hotel swimming pool.
Fairmont’s pool.
Courtney Pierce/Eater Austin

Kitty Cohen's

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Skip the bougie hotel pools and embrace the ‘70s vibes at this East Side bar. This spot, featuring a shallow wading pool (perfect for dipping your toes!), offers a refreshing respite. Soak up the sun on the expansive patio while sipping classic cocktails – think frozen Dreamsicles and other nostalgic favorites. Bonus: The bar also offers towels.  

Free!

Hotel Van Zandt

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You’ll totally forget you’re in the heart of the raucous Rainey Street at this relaxing rooftop pool. The boutique oasis boasts a refined saltwater design, plush lounge chairs, and premium cabanas – the perfect ingredients for a summertime sojourn. Unwind poolside with your favorite cocktail or draft beer from Geraldine’s. The pool is available from 11 a.m. until sundown with various options ranging from a basic day pass to the Ultimate Cabana, which includes passes for up to 30 people. 

Day passes $15 for children and $25 for adults Monday to Thursday, $30 for children and $48 for adults Friday to Sunday; Daybeds $100 to $200 (up to 5 people); Cabanas $125-1200 (size varies)

Book online

Hotel Magdalena

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Channel your inner rockstar at the heart of the Music Lane District. This groovy spot boasts ’70s vibes and a Barton Springs-shaped pool. Choose your perfect poolside escape. Day Passes offer pool access daily from noon to 5 p.m. for a laid-back afternoon, while the Nomad Pass upgrades your experience with a complimentary appetizer and welcome cocktail. Or, go all out with complimentary valet parking, reserved loungers, a bottle of bubbly, and a shared appetizer for you and a friend with the Two Travelers Package. 

Day passes $20 for children and $30 for adults Monday to Thursday, $60 for adults Friday to Sunday; Nomad Pass $50 to $75; Two Travelers Package $160 to $180 (2 people)

Book online

Austin Motel

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Lounge in the vintage kidney-shaped pool in the heart of the hustle and bustle of South Congress. Dive into summer fun daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Cool off with refreshing beverages from the Pool Bar, open Thursdays through Sundays. Make a bigger splash with a Swim Club membership offering perks and discounts until September. 

Day passes Monday to Thursday $25; Friday to Sunday $50

Book online

South Congress Hotel

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De-stress at the rooftop oasis at South Congress Hotel. Lush greenery offers sun or shade, and poolside bites from Café No Sé are available all day. Upgrade with a cabana (complimentary champagne or seltzers included). Day passes and cabanas are available from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, while Sundays bring poolside fun with discounted passes, drink specials, and DJs (1-7 p.m.). The hotel validates parking for a hassle-free day.

Day Passes $40 Monday to Thursday, $75 Friday and Saturday; Cabanas (up to 4 people) $250 Monday to Thursday, $350 Friday and Saturday; Summer Sundays $20

Book online

Lake Austin Spa Resort

Nestled on the tranquil shores of Lake Austin, Lake House Spa is the ultimate decadent daycation escape. Day passes and day spa cabanas are available Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., and complimentary self-parking and poolside service are available for purchase. 

Day passes $150; Day spa cabanas $400 (for 2 people)

Book online

Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa

Indulge in a luxurious pool experience at Barton Creek Resort. Day passes provide access to various aquatic features, including the adults-only infinity pool, hot tub, and family-friendly heated pools. Poolside service is available from Nopales, the resort’s Tex-Mex restaurant. While the pools are open 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days a week, poolside food service is from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m., with drink service till 7 p.m. 

 

Day pass for Monday-Thursday $25, Friday and Saturday $99, Sunday $50; Cabanas $199 (for up to 6 people)

Book online

Hotel Ella

Enjoy a modern poolside experience at this historic hotel, conveniently located adjacent to the University of Texas at Austin campus. Day passes are available Sundays through Thursdays 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. with free valet parking and poolside service from Goodall’s Kitchen or Parlor Bar. 

Day pass $25

Book online

A long pool with lawn chairs and a green grass backdrop.
Hotel Ella’s pool.
Jake Holt

Otopia Rooftop Lounge

Also near the UT Austin campus, the Otis Hotel’s rooftop lounge and pool, Otopia, features great views of the city, along with a la carte eats and drinks and complimentary self-parking. The pool is available to non-guests Sunday through Friday 12 to 5 p.m. and is 21+ only. 

Day pass Sunday-Thursday $30; Friday $45; Cabanas $300 (up to 6 people)

Book online

Omni Austin Hotel Downtown

Unwind at a poolside oasis with a view at Omni Downtown. Cloud Pool Bar offers a selection of poolside cocktails and food to elevate your pool day. Day passes are available from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Note: Cloud Bar is closed Monday through Thursday, but food is still available through a QR code. Daybeds and cabanas are also for rent. 

Day passes $15 for children, $35 for adults; Daybed $50 (2 people); Cabanas $250 (up to 4 people)

Book online

Thompson Austin

Taking over for the recently departed Wax Myrtle’s on the fourth floor of the Thompson Hotel is Arriba Abajo, which also services poolside guests. Enjoy the golden hour by the pool with the Thompson’s special sunset pass, valid from 5 to 9 p.m., or indulge in a (shaded!) daybed for two or a private cabana, available 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Sunset pass $10 for children, $30 for adults; Daybed $200 Monday to Thursday, $275 Friday to Sunday (2 people); Cabana $250 Monday to Thursday, $350 Friday to Sunday (up to 6 people)

Book online

Azul Rooftop

Head to the refreshing retreat at Azul Rooftop Bar + Lounge, perched atop the Westin Austin Downtown. This local favorite boasts panoramic city views and a la carte food and drinks. Day passes are available for weekday relaxation (Monday through Thursday, 1 to 5 p.m.). Craving a luxurious upgrade? Reserve a cabana (offered daily, 2 to 6 p.m.) with a required minimum food and beverage spend ($250 Sunday-Thursday, $350 Friday-Saturday).

Day passes $40 Sunday to Thursday, $60 Friday and Saturday; Cabanas $300 Sunday to Thursday, $500 Friday and Saturday (up to 6 people)

Book online

Wet Deck at the W

The trendy, sleek Wet Deck at the downtown W Hotel definitely attracts a crowd during the summer. There are several swim pass options – non-hotel guests may access the pool Sunday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. with a day pass, cabana, or veranda reservation. Bonus: Cabanas are also available on Saturdays. Veranda and cabana rentals include a food and beverage minimum of $250-400, depending on size. Live DJs play on Sundays as a part of the W’s Sun Chaser Social event.

Day passes $35 Monday to Thursday, $45 Fridays and Sundays

Book online

East Austin Hotel

Soak up the retro vibes at this Wes Anderson-pink hotel while enjoying sips and snacks from Second Bar + Kitchen. Passes are available Monday through Thursday, 2 to 8 p.m., and Friday through Sunday, 12 to 8 p.m. Parking is included. 

Monday to Thursday $30; Friday to Sunday $40

Book online

JW Marriott Austin

Dive into a Texas-themed oasis at the JW Marriott’s heated rooftop pool. Soak up views of Lady Bird Lake and the Texas Capitol while sipping on cooling cocktails and enjoying light bites from the pool bar. Day passes and daybeds are available Monday through Thursday (noon to 9 p.m.). Craving ultimate relaxation? Reserve a cabana for a half-day session (noon to 5 p.m. or 6 to 9 pm), or splurge and book both. Self-parking is included.

Day passes $50 Monday to Thursday, $100 Friday to Sunday; Daybeds $100 Monday to Thursday, $150 Friday to Sunday (2 people); Cabanas $150 Monday to Thursday, $200 Friday to Sunday (up to 10 people)

Book online

Austin Marriott Downtown

This hidden gem, nestled seven stories up amidst lush greenery, offers a sanctuary from the urban jungle. Immerse yourself in city views while indulging in modern tiki cocktails and island-inspired bites from Zanzibar. Passes and cabanas are available Sunday through Thursday from 12 to 8 p.m.

Day passes $40 Monday to Thursday, $55 Friday to Sunday; Cabanas $250-$1000 (size varies)

Book online

The Line Austin

In addition to its proximity to the Congress Avenue bridge bats, the best part about the Line Hotel’s pool is that poolside food and drink service is available from one of the city’s best taco spots, Veracruz All Natural, which operates a walk-up window right at the pool. In addition to half-day passes that grant access from 2 to 10 p.m. on Sundays, there are also full-day passes from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday, with valet parking included. 

Half-day passes $30; Day passes $25/children, $40/adults

Book online

Carpenter Hotel

Enjoy pool service from Carpenters Hall while splashing around in this shady pool. Towels and showers are provided. Day passes are available Monday through Thursday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday 1 to 6 p.m. 

Monday-Thursday $45; Sunday $35

Book online

Fairmont Austin

Access the Vegas-style pool at the downtown hotel (complete with rooftop palm trees) through day passes or daybed or cabana reservations – with plenty of options. The on-site pool bar, Rules & Regs, offers a la carte food and drinks. The pool is open from 11 a.m. until sunset, Sunday through Thursday, with complimentary self-parking. 

Day passes $40 Monday to Thursday, $60 Friday to Sunday; Daybed $100-250 (2 people); Cabana $200-1000 (size varies)

Book online

A hotel swimming pool.
Fairmont’s pool.
Courtney Pierce/Eater Austin

Kitty Cohen's

Skip the bougie hotel pools and embrace the ‘70s vibes at this East Side bar. This spot, featuring a shallow wading pool (perfect for dipping your toes!), offers a refreshing respite. Soak up the sun on the expansive patio while sipping classic cocktails – think frozen Dreamsicles and other nostalgic favorites. Bonus: The bar also offers towels.  

Free!

Related Maps

Hotel Van Zandt

You’ll totally forget you’re in the heart of the raucous Rainey Street at this relaxing rooftop pool. The boutique oasis boasts a refined saltwater design, plush lounge chairs, and premium cabanas – the perfect ingredients for a summertime sojourn. Unwind poolside with your favorite cocktail or draft beer from Geraldine’s. The pool is available from 11 a.m. until sundown with various options ranging from a basic day pass to the Ultimate Cabana, which includes passes for up to 30 people. 

Day passes $15 for children and $25 for adults Monday to Thursday, $30 for children and $48 for adults Friday to Sunday; Daybeds $100 to $200 (up to 5 people); Cabanas $125-1200 (size varies)

Book online

Hotel Magdalena

Channel your inner rockstar at the heart of the Music Lane District. This groovy spot boasts ’70s vibes and a Barton Springs-shaped pool. Choose your perfect poolside escape. Day Passes offer pool access daily from noon to 5 p.m. for a laid-back afternoon, while the Nomad Pass upgrades your experience with a complimentary appetizer and welcome cocktail. Or, go all out with complimentary valet parking, reserved loungers, a bottle of bubbly, and a shared appetizer for you and a friend with the Two Travelers Package. 

Day passes $20 for children and $30 for adults Monday to Thursday, $60 for adults Friday to Sunday; Nomad Pass $50 to $75; Two Travelers Package $160 to $180 (2 people)

Book online

Austin Motel

Lounge in the vintage kidney-shaped pool in the heart of the hustle and bustle of South Congress. Dive into summer fun daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Cool off with refreshing beverages from the Pool Bar, open Thursdays through Sundays. Make a bigger splash with a Swim Club membership offering perks and discounts until September. 

Day passes Monday to Thursday $25; Friday to Sunday $50

Book online

South Congress Hotel

De-stress at the rooftop oasis at South Congress Hotel. Lush greenery offers sun or shade, and poolside bites from Café No Sé are available all day. Upgrade with a cabana (complimentary champagne or seltzers included). Day passes and cabanas are available from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, while Sundays bring poolside fun with discounted passes, drink specials, and DJs (1-7 p.m.). The hotel validates parking for a hassle-free day.

Day Passes $40 Monday to Thursday, $75 Friday and Saturday; Cabanas (up to 4 people) $250 Monday to Thursday, $350 Friday and Saturday; Summer Sundays $20

Book online

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