The Best Pools Santa Monica Locals Recommend in 2026

Santa Monica's best pools offer something for every kind of swimmer or party planner. Whether you're looking for a family day, a relaxing solo swim, or a rooftop pool party, the perfect spot is waiting.

This guide lists 10 top pools, mixing private pools you can book by the hour on Swimply and the public pools locals love. You'll find options for lap swims, tropical escapes, infinity views, and even rooftop lounges.

Ready to dive in? Here are the best pools in Santa Monica for every mood and occasion.

1. Tropical Resort Pool: Swimply's Top-Rated Santa Monica Escape

This Swimply listing is one of the most-reviewed private pools in Santa Monica, and it's worth every star. It's a heated saltwater pool with a hot tub and a waterfall you can jump off into 9 feet of water.

Baja deck is great for kids, with pool toys everywhere.
Backyard feels like a tropical resort, complete with tiki torches for night swims and a 4-burner gas BBQ.
Up to 20 guests and 10 cars can fit comfortably.
Host Terri responds fast, within an hour since July 2020.
$100/hour, 2-hour minimum.

It's a favorite for pool parties and family days. Past guests call it a "fabulous micro vacation" and even compare it to Disney World.

2. Santa Monica Swim Center (Public)

The Santa Monica Swim Center is the top public pool in the city. It's located on the Santa Monica College campus at 2225 16th St.

Two heated pools: a 50-meter Olympic pool with diving boards and a shallower splash pool kept at 84-86°F for kids.
Locker rooms are freshly renovated.
Sun deck overlooks both pools.
Entry is $4.50 for residents and $9 for non-residents.
Offers swim lessons, fitness classes, and community events.

It's affordable, well-run, and perfect if you want a straightforward swim without any fuss.

3. Villa Sophia SM: Swimply's Mediterranean Cocktail Pool

Villa Sophia SM sits in a quiet neighborhood and features a 10' x 26' luxury saltwater cocktail pool, 6 feet deep.

The backyard fits up to 50 people and offers a big faux grass area and a private upper veranda with a fireplace.
Dedicated restroom by the pool and pool fits 10 people at a time.
Host Sanam keeps everything clean and inviting.
Guests say the water temperature stays just right for kids and adults.

This calm, well-maintained pool is great for family swims or a cozy gathering with friends.

4. Annenberg Community Beach House Pool (Public)

The Annenberg Community Beach House at 415 Pacific Coast Highway is a standout. It was part of the Marion Davies Estate in the 1920s, so the marble deck and tile details feel historic.

The pool is big (110' x 22'), heated to 84-86°F, and located right on the beach.
Splash pad puts smiles on little kids' faces.
Grounds include volleyball courts, playground, and Back on the Beach Café.
ADA accessible and open to all with no membership needed.

The pool runs seasonally from Memorial Day to Labor Day each year. Check dates if you're planning a summer 2026 visit.

5. Paradise Pool with 360 Views: Swimply's Rooftop Retreat

This Swimply rooftop pool is one of a kind. The 20' x 40' chlorine pool faces floor-to-ceiling glass doors for direct views of the ocean.

Rooftop has a bar, fireplace table, swing seats, and wraparound views of LA, Malibu, and the Hollywood Sign.
8-person hot tub, mini golf, a movie projector, and a fire pit add more fun.
Fits up to 200 guests and is pet-friendly.
$95/hour with over 120 positive reviews and a 4.7-star rating.

Perfect choice for a night swim or sunset party with a big group of friends.

6. Lincoln Pool (Public)

Lincoln Pool at 1501 California Ave is the only indoor public pool in Santa Monica. It's always heated to 80°F, so it's right for any season.

Lap swim only, so no toys or floaties.
Hours: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday mornings (5:30-7:00 AM) and weekend evenings (6:00-8:00 PM).
Entry is $3.50 for residents, $7 for non-residents.
Locker rooms are available so you can swim and go.

This is the most budget-friendly pool if you want a regular, no-fuss swim routine. Because it's lap swim only, it's not great for families.

7. Heated Backyard Oasis: Swimply's Spacious Family Retreat

This Swimply family swim listing shines for big groups. With a 5.0-star rating across 152 reviews, it's clearly a guest favorite.

Capacity for up to 70 guests, making it great for celebrations and school break hangouts.
$86/hour is a great value considering all the space you get.
Backyard is roomy and set up for fun, from casual games to parties.
Reliable host keeps everything smooth from booking to check-out.

Check the listing directly for current amenities and any special rules for big groups.

8. John Adams Middle School Pool (Public)

The John Adams Middle School Pool at 2425 16th St operates through the SMMUSD facility use program. Community members use the pool when school's not in session.

Low-cost option for residents looking for a basic swim.
Hours and availability depend on the school and city schedule.
No fancy features, but it's dependable for a casual swim.
Contact the district to check current hours before visiting.

This pool won't wow you with extras, but it offers reliable access if you're looking for a budget swim.

9. Large Infinity Pool with Ocean Views: Swimply's Coastal Gem

This oversized saltwater infinity pool sits on a 10-acre property and offers 180-degree views of the Pacific. It's a luxury pick that stands out for special occasions.

Room for up to 15 guests and perfect ratings from over 80 visitors.
$230/hour, so it's best for celebrations like milestone birthdays or photo shoots.
Unmatched views make every visit feel epic.
If you want something more affordable, there are lots of Swimply options, too.

This pool makes memories for big moments near the coastline.

10. The Palisades Three: Swimply's Modern Minimalist Pool

The Palisades Three has been welcoming guests since December 2020. It's a contemporary, minimalist pool that's calm, uncluttered, and great for quiet days or a self-care swim.

No extra noise or party features. Just a clean, well-managed pool.
Host replies in about three hours and keeps everything tidy and organized.
Good for small groups too.
Check the listing for the latest rates and rules, since they change with the seasons.

This pool is ideal if you want an easy, peaceful swim with no distractions.

Where to Swim Next

From a $3.50 lap swim at Lincoln Pool to a $230/hour infinity pool with epic coastal views, Santa Monica has options for every swimmer and every budget. It's easy to pick the right vibe for your day.

Want total privacy with unique amenities? Swimply is the way to book a backyard pool or rooftop escape for your next event, casual swim, or staycation.

Browse private pools near you.
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Planning to swim a lot this summer? The 2026 Swimply Summer Pass saves you money all summer long!