Best Hotels of Summer
Wondering where to go for the best pool? What about the best luau? Or the best cocktail? Not to worry, Oyster.com and Travel Channel have narrowed down the top 10 best hotels for your summer getaway.
Delano Hotel, Miami
Best Pool
The huge infinity pool at the Delano is a South Beach attraction unto itself. Live DJs, tasty food and drink, posh cabanas, and bungalows make for a sceney but still relaxing retreat. Music plays underwater, and an ornate silver table and chairs sit right in the pool.
Atlantis Paradise Island Resort
Best Slide
At this Bahamas resort, the Leap of Faith slide offers the daring and adventurous a 60 ft. almost-vertical drop from the top of the Mayan Temple, propelling riders through a clear tunnel submerged in a shark-filled lagoon. The Atlantis also has 18 total slides for kids (and adults) of all ages.
Gansevoort Park Avenue
Best Rooftop
With the Plunge lounge running across the top floor of the Gansevoort and out onto the pool deck along the rooftop sundeck-cum-event space, you’ll be staying here for a while. A free series of Sunday afternoon parties is hosted here this season, inviting the biggest house and trance DJs around.
Arenas Del Mar Beach and Nature Resort
Best Beach
Arenas del Mar has the best beach access in Manuel Antonio: It’s under a five-minute golf cart ride to the sand, and the beaches are far superior to those at neighboring hotels. The property’s lush rainforest and diverse wildlife allow guests to truly connect with nature.
Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa
Best Luau
The sound of the conch, the beating of the drums, and the echoes of the Hawaiian chant signal the start of Hawaii’s most exciting Luau. “Drums of the Pacific” takes you on a journey through the islands of Polynesia, complete with a traditional imu ceremony, all-you-can-eat buffet, a dessert bar and open bar.
Barcelo Bavaro Palace
Best Swim-up Bar
The large pool here is probably the most popular feature. Its swim-up bar and regular bar are the hub of the action here, with tons of lounge chairs and tables that were crowded with guests. Grab your swim suit and the drink menu, because you won’t leave the pool all day at the Barcelo Bavaro Palace.
Jimmy at the James New York
Best Cocktail
Tequila and summer go hand in hand (literally). But buyer beware: Jimmy at the Jones' Night of the Iguana is not weak. Tested by Oyster editors themselves, this this coconut, lime and tequila-based drink is taste-approved but warned for caution. Cheers!
Hard Rock Hotel and Casino
Best Pool Party
On Sunday, the Beach Club Pool at Hard Rock hosts Rehab — a pool party so raucous, they turned it into its own reality TV show. The best DJs come to spin their hottest beats for the biggest partiers in town.
Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas
Best Golf Course
Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas is the place to stay for golf lovers. Two well-regarded courses are adjacent to the Westin Princeville. One, the Prince, has breathtaking views along Princeville’s cliffs. The second, Makai, was renovated in 2009. The golf carts equipped with GPS systems.