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.
Editor’s note: This blog has been updated from a previous version in 2018.
Courtesy of the Pawtucket parks and Recreation Facebook page.
The place: Fairlawn Veterans Memorial Park Pool, 100 Legion Dr., Pawtucket, pawtucketri.com
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 11 a.m.–6 p.m., and Monday and Thursdays from noon– 5 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.
Photo from the Last Resort RI Facebook Page.
The place: The Last Resort, 325 Farnum Pike, Smithfield, 349-3500, thelastresortri.com.
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. Fri. and Sat. and 11 a.m.–7 p.m. on Sun. 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.
Photo from AQUA at the Providence Marriott Facebook Page.
The place: AQUA, Marriott Providence Downtown, 1 Orms St., Providence, 272-2400, marriottprovidence.com.
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. An oasis in the middle of the city, this poolside dining experience is private to hotel guests only.
The details: Casual dress code. Open Tuesday through Thursday from 11 a.m.–7 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m.–9 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m.– 5 p.m.
Photo from Kendbrin Swim and Tennis Club.
The place: Kendbrin Swim and Tennis Club, 25 Hospital Rd, Riverside, 401-433-3515, kendbrin.com
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 move 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.
Newport Harbor Island Resort’s outdoor pool.
The place: Newport Harbor Island Resort, 1 Goat Island, Newport, 849-2600, newportharborisland.com.
Why it’s cool: Newport Harbor Island Resortis 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 pool is currently only open to hotel guests, and it is open from 8 a.m.–8 p.m. daily. The indoor pool is open 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Photo from Harbor Lights Facebook Page.
The place: Infinity Pool at Harbor Lights Marina, 200 Gray St., Warwick, 737-6353, harborlightsri.com.
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 Tiki Bar, which serves cocktails daily. The pool also features the Tiki Truck, which serves casual fare food options, so no need to pack a lunch!
The details: The pool is now open to members only, but the Tiki 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.
Don’t miss these cityside pools:
Davey Lopes Recreation Center Pool at 227 Dudley St. in Providence
McGrane Pool at West End Recreation Center at 404 Dexter St. in Providence
Almagno Pool at Igliozzi Recreation Center at 675 Plainfield St. in Providence
Selim Madelin Rogers Recreation Center Pool at 60 Camden Ave. in Providence
A. Vincent Igliozzi Recreation Center Pool at 18 Gesler St., in Providence
All pools are open open Monday through Saturday from 12–5 p.m. Learn more at providenceri.gov/providence-recreation/pools-water-parks.
Reporting assistance by Nicole Boucher and Anna Downes.
