Cool pools tour: Palm Springs

The greater Palms Springs area is a great destination for pool-centric vacations. It’s Part 3 in our series on hotels that are opening up pools with special events for non-hotel guests.

The Swim Club at the Ace Hotel features an outdoor pool area complete with poolside bar and hammocks. It hosts poolside parties on Saturdays beginning at noon with live music, DJs and other special guests. Daily pool passes for non-hotel guests are $20, or you can purchase a year-round Swim Club membership for $240, both of which will grant you access to poolside events. 701 E. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs; (760) 325-9900, www.acehotel.com/palmsprings

For the evening pool party scene, the Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa hosts its Caliente Pool Party every Friday night from 8. This party features DJ sets, drink specials, poolside blackjack and a weekly bikini contest. Bottle service and cabana rentals also are available. $10 cover after 9:30 p.m. 32-250 Bob Hope Drive, Rancho Mirage; (888) 999-1995, www.hotwatercasino.com

Those starting the weekend early can check out the Sangria Sunsets Pool Party series at the Westin Mission Hills Resort. This Thursday night party, with live DJ sets, runs from 6 to 10 p.m. at the resort’s Las Brisas Pool. The series’ official sponsor is Finlandia vodka, which means $5 Finlandia vodka cocktails in addition to $10 Sangria carafes. 71333 Dinah Shore Drive, Rancho Mirage; (760) 328-5955, www.westinmissionhills.com

Monday: Scottsdale