The Best Pools New York Locals Recommend in 2026 Guide

Want to find the best pools New Yorkers actually use in 2026? Here's the answer: This guide shows you where to swim, from top public pools to private spots you can book by the hour. Whether you're after budget-friendly city pools or a private backyard oasis for your crew, you’ll discover the best places for your perfect pool day right here.

Skip the packed public pools and crowded beaches. This list sorts out 10 top-rated swimming spots in New York. You’ll see when to go public, when to go private, and what makes each pool stand out.

1. Private Pool with 30-Foot Waterslide (Swimply)

This Huntington, NY pool really sets the bar for private swimming. It's huge at 36 ft by 48 ft, has a wild 30-foot saltwater waterslide, and stays top-rated with 398 five-star reviews. At $90/hour, you can bring up to 20 friends, use the BBQ, charge your phones at six stations, and spread out on 2,000 sq. ft. of patio. The spot is super private, away from neighbors, and the owner stays on-site to help. Optional add-ons include pool heat, grilling, toys, and the waterslide.

Perfect for families or friend groups looking to avoid the crowds
Great for pool parties and celebrations
Anyone hunting for the best waterslide in town

2. Astoria Pool

Astoria Pool in Queens is New York's largest public swimming spot and an icon. The pool stretches 330 feet and holds a million gallons. It just reopened after an $18.9 million overhaul. It's free, runs June 27 through the end of summer, and opens daily from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Go early for lap swimming or join the Learn to Swim classes for adults and kids.

Top pick for affordable swims
Best for Queens locals
Matches classic New York summer vibes
Welcomes both casual and serious swimmers

3. Luxury Tropical Resort Pool (Swimply)

This Medford, NY pool feels like a tropical mini-resort only 45 minutes from Queens. The 85-degree pool is heated, and there's a shaded gazebo, a TV, six cushy lounge chairs, and umbrellas. Play backyard games like corn hole or Kan Jam, and ask about grill packages that handle food for 25 or 35 people with burgers, chicken, sausages, and salad included. Add a staffer to set up and clean up for real ease.

Ideal for casual group hangs or birthdays
Perfect for families who want real resort-like comfort
Groups who like their food handled
Private access by the hour keeps things simple

4. McCarren Park Pool

McCarren Park Pool in Williamsburg stands out for its lively neighborhood energy. It's Olympic-sized, set inside a giant 35-acre park with basketball courts and a weekend Greenmarket. The pool is free, opens June 27, and runs standard daily hours. Weekends get busy, but if you’re in Brooklyn and want a swim with no cost and lots of local character, this spot wins.

Perfect for Brooklynites and Williamsburg visitors
Great for solo swimmers or group dips
Park fans who want more than just a swim
Budget stays intact

5. Courtside Oasis Pool (Swimply)

This Port Jefferson Station pick does more than swimming. Book add-on access to a tennis court, volleyball, basketball, or pickleball. Speaker, grill, and lots of pool toys can come with your rental. It’s made for family meets, friends' hangouts, parties, or even work events. Sports lovers will never get bored here.

Best for kids who want activities beyond swimming
Top pick for groups wanting sports, not just water
Relaxed weekends with different ways to play
More flexibility and space than public pools offer

6. Hamilton Fish Pool

Hamilton Fish Pool has kept Manhattan’s swimmers happy since 1936. The Olympic-sized pool suits adults and older kids, and a second pool is just for little ones. There’s a playground, spray showers, and courts for basketball or handball. The pool always feels well-kept and lifeguards pay attention.

Locals in Manhattan seeking an easy swim
Families needing big and small kid options
Anyone wanting a classic city pool vibe
Budget-conscious swimmers

7. Indoor Pool & Spa (Swimply)

This Lawrence, NY spot is an indoor, always-private pool and spa. Unlike expensive hotel day passes, you pay $75/hour for up to 10 people. The pool runs at 83-85 degrees, and the hot tub stays hot at 100-102. Add a lifeguard for bigger groups. There's a playground, arcade basketball, lounge chairs, and the host sets up tables for parties over 10. Rain or shine, this pool is always ready, making it a go-to for birthdays, relaxation, or rainy days.

Self-care or chill escapes
Couples or small groups wanting privacy
Celebrations when the weather isn't cooperating
Indoor pool experiences at fair prices

8. The Floating Pool Lady

The Floating Pool Lady is a true NYC original: a public pool floating on a barge in the Bronx. It’s America’s only floating pool, free to use, and gives you seven swimming lanes and 40,000 square feet of manmade beach. Kids get free swimming lessons on weekdays. Always check online before you go to see if it’s open that day.

Great for Bronx locals and adventurous swimmers
Families wanting a memorable, different pool day
Anyone after an NYC swim story
Public pool fans who want something unique

9. Luxury Zen Garden Oasis (Swimply)

This West Hempstead pool gives you a heated saltwater swim in a lush Zen Garden. Host up to 30 people, park up to 20 cars, and enjoy the water slide, hot tub, fire pit, and grill. Project movies with a 4K screen for $30/hour or add a cooler. ADA friendly and quick host response make it perfect for parties, family events, or summer cookouts without fighting for cabanas or finding a hotel ballroom.

Best for birthdays and celebrations
Friend groups wanting a full outdoor setup
Families with lots of ages in the mix
Casual cookouts with plenty of space

10. The Ronkonkoma Oasis (Swimply)

The Ronkonkoma Oasis is run by a verified Pro Host, Eric, with 120 stellar reviews. The pool comes loaded with floats, noodles, and yard games like corn hole and a ring swing. Towels and a goodie basket with tanning gear and first aid kit are provided. Optional fire pit or grill make it even easier. Book when you just want to swim in peace, no fuss, no big event required.

Quick dips or solo relax sessions
Small family afternoons
Private access for anytime, not just parties
Reliable host and easy setup

Public or Private Pool: What Should You Choose?

Public pools make sense for low-cost, spontaneous swims and capturing that real New York summer feeling. They're clean, city-run, and everywhere. But you’ll deal with set hours, cleaning breaks, no food, no electronic rules, and sometimes big crowds during heat waves.

Swimply pools give you a different scene. Book by the hour, pick your crew, and the space is yours, so no strangers, no strict rules, no lines. Most listings include a bathroom, verified hosts, and real reviews you can rely on. Filter results by price, location, or any feature you want, like hot tubs or pet permissions.

Pick a public pool if:

You're after the cheapest swim
You don't mind crowds or some strict rules
Set hours and a cleaning break won’t bother you
You want a solo or duo swim with a city vibe

Pick a Swimply pool if:

You want to decide how many people join you
Parties, birthdays, or family days are on your mind
Extra perks like a slide, hot tub, or grill sound good
You need flexible hours and private setup
You’re bringing your dog and need a pet-friendly pool

Your NYC Pool Day Starts Here

The public pools on this list are free, fun, and full of real New York summer atmosphere. If you want privacy and your own vibe with no rules or lines, try a private Swimply booking. You can find showstopper waterslides, indoor spas, and peaceful backyard pools.

The best swimming spots aren’t just in city parks this year. Some of the top ones are in backyards ready for your group. Browse private pools near NYC on Swimply and make your pool day perfect.