07/02/08

All Wet
The Hot List: Pools

It can't stay foggy forever. One of these days, it will be sunny. And you'll be ready—with a read onthe city's best pools. Dive in.

A POOL WITH A VIEW

UCSF Mission Bay Rooftop Pool

With six lap lanes and brisk 78-degree water, this is definitely a swimmer's pool. But with a pool deck (offering lounge chairs and gorgeous city views) and a climbing wall, you've got options. (We'll take the former, thanks.)

411:: 411: Bakar Fitness & Recreation Center, $15 (covers pool and fitness access), 1675 Owens St (at 16th), 415-476-5646

FROM HERE TO INFINITY

Nob Hill Spa's Infinity Pool

Sure, the pool is inside, but the real draw here is the outdoor sundeck that catches rays like a magnet. And when the sun goes down, there's a hot tub and fireplace inside, which should warm you up, uh, swimmingly.

411:: 411: Nob Hill Spa, $35 Monday-Thursday (also includes workout room, steam and sauna), 1075 California St (at Taylor), 415-345-2888

MISSION: SWIMPOSSIBLE

The Mission Pool

Sheltered from the wind and offering downright balmy 82-degree water, this spot is a good option during the fog days of summer. Plus, it's the city's only outdoor community pool, so you can be all "man of the people" and still get a tan.

411:: 411: Mission Pool, $4, open now through Aug 31, 1 Linda St (between 18th and 19th), 415-641-2841

HAVE SUN? WILL TRAVEL

Cabanas at The Four Seasons Silicon Valley

The South Bay is a guaranteed 20 degrees warmer than the city, making this pool feel like a mini-getaway. Slather on the SPF, order up a cocktail and—when you need a bit more privacy—retire to a poolside cabana, complete with flat screen and wifi.

411:: 411: Four Seasons Silicon Valley, pool $25, cabana $50, Palo Alto, 650-566-1200

WINE COUNTRY SOAK

Bathhouse at Sonoma Mission Inn

With four all-mineral pools, including one with underwater speakers, this spa and its Bathing Ritual will get you feeling as mellow as if you just polished off a bottle of pinot. Which you'll get to in good time.