6+ Spots to Lounge Poolside this Summer

Photo via Getty Images / nazarethman

Rhode Island may be the Ocean State, but sometimes, the beach can be overwhelming. The pool can be a lot more relaxing, as you don’t have to worry about the tides, the seaweed, the traffic or the price of parking. If you’re looking to relax poolside, here are some of the best pools for both families and adults.

Note: Many of the following pools require admission fees or memberships to access, but if you’re looking for more accessible and public swimming pools, scroll to the bottom of this list. 

Fairlawn Veterans Memorial Park Pool

Why it’s cool: The City of Pawtucket first opened the Fairlawn Pool with assistance from the Public Safety employees in 2021. Free lunch is served Monday through Friday from 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. and must be consumed on the property to those individuals who are 18 years of age or younger.

The details: The pool is open Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 10:30 a.m.–6:30 p.m., and Thursdays from 11:30 a.m.– 5:30 p.m. Admission is open to both Pawtucket-residents and non-Pawtucket residents for $1 per entry. Pool closures are announced on the Pawtucket Parks and Recreation Facebook page. 100 Legion Dr., Pawtucket,  pawtucketri.com

More: You can also take advantage of the splash pad at Pawtucket’s Payne Park, which is open daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

The Last Resort

Why it’s cool: The Last Resort offers activities that are more geared towards adults. While kids are allowed to visit the pool during set hours of the week, this pool makes sure that older people can enjoy their time as well in more ways than just an “adult swim.” With live music poolside cabanas, bars, volleyball courts, events and catering, the Last Resort allows adults to have a space by the pool where they can enjoy more mature activities and have fun!

The details: The pool is open from 11 a.m.–sundown Mon.–Thurs., 11 a.m.–6 p.m., and Fri.–Sun. from 11 a.m.–7 p.m.  Anyone under 21 is allowed to swim Mon. through Fri. until 4 p.m. with guardian supervision, while Saturday and Sunday (and holiday Mondays) are 21+. Admission to the pools is $20 for adults and $15 for kids. 325 Farnum Pike, Smithfield, 401-349-3500, thelastresortri.com

AQUA, Marriott Providence Downtown

 Why it’s cool: AQUA is home to the only connecting indoor and outdoor pool in Providence and is an upscale space for city-goers to find a cool escape. Lounge by the pool with a cocktail in hand or sprawl out on a cabana (for an additional fee) during the day; sit fireside with friends at night. Dip then sip – or sip then dip, whichever you prefer. NOTE: This poolside dining experience is private to hotel guests only.

The details: Casual dress code. Open daily, call for hours. Cabanas can be rented for $250. 1 Orms St., Providence, 401-272-2400, marriottprovidence.com

Kendbrin Swim and Tennis Club

Why it’s cool: Kendbrin offers families recreational activities that go beyond just swimming. The club sits on a large plot of land in Riverside that has a ten-lane pool with a diving board, kiddie pool, large field, playground, tennis courts, basketball courts, pavilion and a snack bar. Kendbrin offers movie nights, camping, grill nights, parents’ night out, as well as competitive swimming, diving and tennis.

The details: Kendbrin requires guests to be members to use the facilities, attend events and participate on competitive teams. See website for more details. 25 Hospital Rd., Riverside, 401-433-3515, kendbrin.com

Newport Harbor Island Resort

Why it’s cool: Newport Harbor Island Resort is home to Newport’s only outdoor hotel pool. The saltwater pool sites seaside, with views of the Pell Bridge and the Newport Coast. Also, the pool features a private sun deck, plush lounge chairs and cabanas to rent.

The details: The pools currently only open to hotel guests. The outdoor pool is open from 8 a.m.–8 p.m. daily. The indoor pool is open 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. 1 Goat Island, Newport, 401-849-2600, newportharborisland.com

Infinity Pool at Harbor Lights Marina

Why it’s cool: This infinity pool fades into gorgeous views of the Narragansett bay in Warwick. Lounge poolside and enjoy views of the marina as well as the Drift Bar, which serves cocktails daily. The pool also features the Drift Food Truck, which serves casual fare food options, so no need to pack a lunch!

The details: The pool requires a specific membership which is currently sold out for the 2026 season, but you can join the waitlist here. The Drift Bar and Truck remain open to the public. The pool is now open from 9 a.m.–5 p.m., while the Tiki Bar is open 12 p.m.– 9 p.m. Sun.–Thurs. and 12 p.m.–10 p.m. Fri. and Sat. 200 Gray St., Warwick, 737-6353, harborlightsri.com

Town/City Pools

McDermott Pool: Open daily, hours vary by open swim and adult swim. Must be a Warwick resident and purchase a pass here. See rules before visiting. 955 Sandy Ln., Warwick, 401-921-9626, warwickri.gov/parks-and-recreation/pages/mcdermott-pool

North Providence Pool and Fitness Center: Open Mon.–Thurs. from 6 a.m.–4 p.m. and 7–9 p.m.; Fri. from 6 a.m.–4 p.m.; and Sat. from 8 a.m.–6 p.m. Must be a North Providence resident and apply for a pass in advance here. See pool rules here. 2000 Smith St., North Providence, 401-232-0900, northprovidenceri.gov/recreation-department/pool-fitness-center

Public Pools in Providence 

The following pools are open open Monday through Saturday from 12–5 p.m., with extended hours during extreme heat events. Learn more at providenceri.gov/providence-recreation/pools-water-parks.

McGrane Pool at West End Recreation Center at 404 Dexter St.

Almagno Pool at Igliozzi Recreation Center at 675 Plainfield St.

Madelin Selim-Rogers Recreation Center Pool at 60 Camden Ave.

A. Vincent Igliozzi Recreation Center Pool at 18 Gesler St.

Waterparks in Providence 

The following waterparks are open open Monday through Saturday from 12–5 p.m., with extended hours during extreme heat events. Learn more at epl.providenceri.gov/waterparks.