Top 5: NYC's Best Private Pools (and How to Get In)

As temperatures rise, so does our desire to paddle around in a lovely swimming pool, preferably with a cool cocktail in hand and a gorgeous view all around. Unbeknownst to many a city dweller, several of New York City's finest private pools are actually accessible to the public … for a price. We've rundown our five favorites below. Save us a lounge chair!

18 Ninth Avenue at 13th Street and 420 Park Avenue South at 29th Street, Manhattan

Whether you prefer your poolside views of the Downtown or Midtown, Gansevoort has got you covered with their Meatpacking and Park Avenue locations. On Mondays through Thursdays, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., you can live the poolside life at either location for $200 per person. Their "Play Hooky" package includes access to the rooftop pool, one drink voucher, a bottle of Fiji water and a copy of the New York Post. Ahhh, playing hooky never sounded better!

30 River Road, Roosevelt Island

Earning top marks in the off-the-beaten path category, the swimming pool at Roosevelt Island's Manhattan Park apartment complex also doubles as a colorful art installation. Last year, the pool deck featured rainbow stripes by artist Andrew Faris, and this year, artist Gregg Emery covered the area in sky blue with dramatic swirls reminiscent of waves. The Manhattan Park pool is open through Labor Day weekend, and even non-residents can take a dip for $35 during the week or $50 on the weekends.

160 North 12th Street, Williamsburg

As one of the most popular private pools in the city, competition is fierce to get in McCarren Hotel's pool and even hotel guests aren't guaranteed seating! Your best bet, if you want to be sure to have room to spread out, is to reserve a single day bed. They run $150 Monday through Thursday and $175 on weekends. If that's too rich for your blood, day passes run $55 Monday through Thursday, and $65 Friday to Sunday. Day passes are available 48 hours in advance of your desired swim date, while daybeds can be reserved up to two weeks ahead of time.

355 West 16th Street, Manhattan

Experience a Hamptons-in-the-city vibe at the Dream Hotel's massive 4,800-square-foot "beach club," complete with glass-bottom pool, pool deck, sand beach, two private cabanas, over 50 chaise lounges, full-service bar and indoor/outdoor café. For $65 you can access this sandy oasis Monday through Friday, but this day pass won't secure you a seat. Lounge chairs are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

111 North 12th Street, Greenpoint

Measuring 60-feet long, the pool at the stunning William Vale hotel bills itself as the longest in the greater New York City area, and it's also surrounded by a 5,000-square-foot terrace and spectacular skyline views. Unfortunately, the William Vale does not allow non-guests in the pool area, even if you're a friend of a registered guest. The only way in to this exclusive spot is by springing for a room. Luckily, the William Vale offers a local rate to New York, New Jersey and Connecticut residents that runs about $319 during the week. If you're next staycation requires a swimming pool, we've found your spot.