When temperatures in the Valley hit three digits, the best thing to do is enjoy a cold cocktail and lounge by the pool – preferably at the same time. Whether you’re taking a staycation, enjoying a day pass at a local resort or pretending you’re at the beach, there are plenty of ways to indulge in a poolside cocktail this summer. To make the most of the scalding heat, we’ve rounded up our top drinks to try this season.
Piña Llameante Margarita at the OH Pool at Hotel Valley Ho
Hotel Valley Ho is known for having some of the liveliest pool parties in Scottsdale, and this refreshing yet spicy margarita is the perfect option for a long day of fun. It’s made with tequila, Ancho Reyes Chile Liqueur, seared pineapple reduction, and fresh lime. Plus, it’s made with Tequila Corrido, an additive-free tequila, so you can enjoy your margarita (or a few) knowing you’re having a healthier option.
6850 E. Main St., Scottsdale, hotelvalleyho.com
Rocket Fuel at Revel Surf
The highly anticipated surf park is now open with full-service dining options – including this tropical cocktail. It features coconut cream and pineapple juice with an amaretto floater. It’s a great option for relaxing after a surf session or if you’re there to watch the surfing from the sidelines.
4503 S. Power Rd., Mesa, revelsurf.com
Dole Whipped at Lylo Swim Club
This adults-only version of the classic Dole Whip fits right in at the whimsical Lylo Swim Club at Rise Uptown Hotel. The pineapple flavored soft serve is paired with two types of rum – El Dorado 5 Year and dark Hamilton Demerara – and served in a tall glass garnished with fruit.
400 W. Camelback Rd., Phoenix, lylophx.com
Sunrise in the Desert at the Arizona Biltmore Saguaro Pool
The Saguaro Pool is an adults-only oasis at the Arizona Biltmore perfect for a relaxing afternoon. To amplify your experience, we recommend the Sunrise in the Desert, a citrus-forward frozen cocktail made with Ketel One Botanical Peach & Orange Blossom, mango and orange.
2400 E. Missouri Ave., Phoenix, arizonabiltmore.com
Frozen Piña Colada at the Fairmont Scottsdale Sunset Beach
If you can’t be at the real beach, the Fairmont’s Sunset Beach might be the next best thing with its sprawling white sand and palm trees – plus, it has a bar! For a fun (and photo-worthy) experience, order the frozen piña colada made with spiced rum, white rum, pineapple and coconut served in a branded coconut.
7575 E. Princess Dr., Scottsdale, scottsdaleprincess.com
Parisian Spritz at Pink Dolphin
The Global Ambassador is known for its great restaurants and its poolside destination, Pink Dolphin, deserves just as much praise. There’s plenty of cocktails to choose from, but our pick is the Parisian Spritz – a poolside-appropriate twist on the beloved Aperol Spritz. It’s made with vodka, Aperol, watermelon, fresh lime and sparkling wine.
4360 E. Camelback Rd., Phoenix, globalambassadorhotel.com
