Chilling out on cool rooftops and pooldecks

On these sizzling summer days, I just want to get away and lounge (drink in hand) by a pool or atop a breezy rooftop deck-preferably someplace a lot cooler and more glamorous than my own four walls (booooring).

But the budget (that control-freak) says I can’t afford a weekend stay. So my solution? Drinkies at a glam local hotspot with a pool and rooftop deck.

Closest to me is the swanky Hotel Valencia Santana Row. At Ceilo, a relaxed rooftop wine bar, I can sit beside an outdoor firepit on the rooftop and savor a full-bodied Santa Cruz Mountain Cab while watching the glow of sunset on the Santa Cruz Mountain Range. Or just stretch out beside the gorgeous rooftop swimming pool (wind-sheltered, it’s open year-round). Details: 408/551 0010 or www.hotelvalencia.com


Now, for those whose budget will stretch a little bit further, an overnight excursion to one of these sexy SoCal pooldecks and rooftop terraces can be real urban escape.

Getting Altitude in Beverley Hills

Altitude, situated on the sixth floor of the SLS Hotel at Beverly Hills, is an oasis above the busy downtown L.A. scene. Exclusive to guests of the SLS Hotel at Beverly Hills (and customers that use the hotel’s Ciel Spa), Altitude allows guests to people watch, nibble on Jose Andres cuisine and enjoy the stunning, panoramic views of Los Angeles surrounded by the eye-catching poolside décor designed by Philippe Starck. The all-encompassing pool deck is surrounded by unique and antique inspired, open frames and mirrored frames giving the space a glamorous but whimsical feel. One pool is a reflecting pool with chaise lounges resting in the shallow end. A second pool is a quaint plunge pool, great for dipping and cooling off. Poolside manicure & pedicure service is available as well as beverage and food service.
Details: www.slshotels.com


Andaz West Hollywood

Andaz West Hollywood, located on Los Angeles’ vibrant Sunset Strip and the site of the legendary Hyatt West Hollywood, is home to one of LA’s premier rooftops. The rooftop boasts panoramic views of the Hollywood Hills on one side and the Sunset Strip and downtown Los Angeles on the other, offers sun-seeking hotel guests a beautiful heated pool and daybed seating. Andaz West Hollywood’s rooftop is the perfect place for guests to unwind and enjoy drinks while taking in the sun.
Details: westhollywood.hyatt.com/


Hard Rock Hotel San Diego

The Hard Rock Hotel San Diego, in the heart of the hoppin' Gaslamp District, is home to the hottest pool in the city, with a beautiful crowd lounging during the week and dancing their Sundays away with the weekly Detox party. The oversized rooftop pool features a large bar, fire-pits, private cabanas and bali beds. Details: www.hardrockhotelsd.com