Saturday

07-19-2025 Vol 2026

Las Vegas Embraces New Pool Culture with Expansive Renovations

The Las Vegas Strip is witnessing a refreshing transformation in its pool and dayclub offerings, drawing inspiration from the vibrant culture of Palm Springs.

Jason Strauss, co-CEO of Tao Group Hospitality, describes the recently launched Palm Tree Beach Club at MGM Grand as a fusion of ‘Palm Springs meets country club.’ This is a part of a broader initiative to rejuvenate the dayclub scene, culminating in a reimagined experience for party-goers and leisure seekers alike.

The Go Pool at the Flamingo has also undergone a significant transformation, reopening just last week following a $20 million renovation. Dan Walsh, the general manager of Flamingo, refers to the new design as ‘midcentury retro deco,’ blending the nostalgic aesthetics of Palm Springs with modern-day Las Vegas vibrancy.

Summer 2024 sees several hotel pools revamping their atmosphere with new DJs, themed parties, and even culinary options like Wahlburgers for those looking to enjoy hearty meals while relaxing in swimwear.

The Palm Tree Beach Club represents a significant shift from Wet Republic, the previous space known for shaping the daylife and dayclub culture since 2008. Strauss acknowledged Wet Republic’s monumental success but mentioned that both Tao Group and MGM sought ways to elevate the club experience to cater to an evolving clientele.

After collaborating with Norwegian DJ Kygo and his management team during a music festival in Aspen, it became clear that the energy and vibe could cross over from the snowy mountains to the desert environment. This partnership birthed the Palm Tree Beach Club, aimed at appealing to today’s youthful and dynamic audience.

While retaining the original pool’s layout, Strauss assures that the ambiance has been substantially enhanced with modern technology and aesthetics. The DJ booth now includes three impressive 4K LED screens alongside a state-of-the-art L’Acoustic sound system, all designed to create a fully immersive party experience.

Kygo recently headlined the opening weekend of Palm Tree Beach Club on May 3 and is expected to return for the following holiday festivities, marking his inaugural Las Vegas dayclub residency. The summer lineup is infused with other notable talents such as Alesso, Steve Aoki, Claptone, Martin Garrix, Chris Lake, Tiësto, and Zedd.

Food offerings have also seen a gourmet upgrade under the guidance of Ralph Scamardella, Chief Culinary Officer of Tao Group Hospitality. Patrons can expect tantalizing items such as spicy yellowtail wonton tacos, mini lobster rolls, carnitas pizzas, and sushi hand rolls.

Regardless of these updates, Strauss emphasizes that the heart of the dayclub excitement remains intact. Guests flock to Las Vegas seeking high-energy experiences, filled with dazzling pyrotechnics, massive water cannons, and cutting-edge technology for a ‘Wow’ factor, distinguishing the Vegas scene from quieter, more laid-back pool settings found in other cities.

At the Flamingo, the Go Pool has been reconstructed entirely, opening new opportunities for an exclusive vibe. Walsh elaborated on the conceptualization that led to replacing older structures with a visionary layout, allowing for three private pools surrounded by cabanas. The goal was to offer a unique, elevated VIP experience amid an expansive aquatic space.

This reconstruction has allowed the Flamingo to repurpose areas previously considered storage and revive long-disused hot tubs. While the water capacity remains largely unchanged, the overall space has expanded by 30 to 40 percent, incorporating five distinct pools and a lavish 30-seat swim-up bar.

The new DJ booth is an eye-catching feature, perched above a stunning 50-foot-wide waterfall adjoining the grotto pool. Although general admission remains free, exclusive access to elevated pools is available for guests renting cabanas and premium seating on the new wet deck.

Not all elements of the Go Pool are entirely new; 90 of the original 200 trees have been kept and replanted, preserving the natural ambiance that has characterized the location for years.

Across the strip, other hotels have joined the trend of innovating their pool experiences. Mark Wahlberg has recently expanded his restaurant chain by including a Wahlburgers at the Ayu Dayclub located in Resorts World. While some of the traditional menu items are absent, the new offerings cater to the poolside atmosphere featuring burgers, sliders, fries, and tater tots.

The Palms Pool has also piqued local interest by offering complimentary cabanas on Mondays through Thursdays for adults aged 21 and older, building on a successful limited-time program from the previous year. Several exciting weekly events are scheduled, including Swimdustry Mondays featuring free Heineken for the first 100 locals, Tiki Tuesdays with affordable tropical cocktail pitchers, Wet Wednesdays focused on margaritas, and Ladies First Fridays offering an unlimited beverage deal for female visitors.

La Côte, a French-Mediterranean eatery at the Fontainebleau, has expanded its accessibility. Initially reserved for hotel guests, it now welcomes visitors to enjoy à la carte meals or a three-course lunch menu by the poolside.

Not to be outdone, Planet Hollywood is enhancing its guests’ stay with newly designed Ultra Hip Patio and Ultra Hip Cabana rooms, providing direct access to the pool deck alongside a small lounge area and umbrellas for shade.

Encore Beach Club is adding more star power to its events roster this season, featuring artists like Deadmau5, It’s Murph, Odd Mob, Odesza, Sofi Tukker, Subtronics, and Dustin Lynch for its day parties. The lineup for Encore Beach Club at Night also welcomes new performers such as G-Eazy and Jungle.

Lastly, Silverton’s Swimmin’ Hole is open for locals aged 21 and older this season. They offer full-day passes from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekdays for an affordable rate of $25, and half-day passes after 4 p.m. for just $15.

In conclusion, the Las Vegas Strip is thoroughly embracing this new era of dynamic pool experiences and dayclubs, bringing a refreshing take on summer fun perfect for both visitors and locals.

image source from:https://neon.reviewjournal.com/arts-culture/attractions/new-dayclubs-new-djs-new-deals-your-guide-to-pool-season-in-vegas-3314636/

Benjamin Clarke