While the concept of dayclub goes back several decades, New Times has to begrudgingly accept that Las Vegas is the king of dayclub experience and perfected the model we know today. The party that really started it all was Rehab at Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, which held its first event in 2004. The concept was simple: People who weren't staying in the hotel would be charged a fee to experience the pool and amenities. The idea was a runaway success and imitators quickly followed.
Since then, the Magic City has embraced the dayclub experience, with hotel pools often acting as daytime event spaces, allowing patrons to jump in the water as a DJ blasts the latest EDM hits. Below, New Times highlights seven of the best dayclubs where you can party hard at high noon.
In addition to a specular pool, Baia Beach Club at the Mondrian also has breathtaking views of Biscayne Bay and the city skyline.
Mondrian South Beach photo
Baia Beach Club Miami
1100 West Ave., Miami Beach305-514-1949
baiabeachclubmiami.comA good dayclub should make you feel like you've been transported away to some foreign coastline. When the sky turns a cotton candy pink as you step foot on Baia at the Mondrian South Beach, you feel like you're stepping out at a Mediterranean destination. Adding to the spectacular view is the backdrop of the downtown skyline. There are also plenty of day beds and a pool that practically begs you to dive in. Naturally, there are Mediterranean bites, so you can stay melting in the sun for as long as possible.
It's totally worth the trip north of the county line to Daer Dayclub.
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino photo
Daer Dayclub
1 Lucky St., Hollywood954-779-4750
hardrocknightlife.comSince Daer Dayclub's opening at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood five years ago, it has become a hot spot for EDM talents like Tiësto, DJ Diesel, and Steve Aoaki, as well as tech-house acts like Chelina Manuhutu. The outdoor spot has the DJ deck facing the luxury pools, palm trees, and crowd. There are numerous options for VIPs, including cabanas and plush lounge chairs. Combined with dancers and a sizable production, you may want to check in for a night and do it all over again.
Hyde Beach at the SLS South Beach is more than your average poolside experience.
SLS South Beach photo
Hyde Beach
1701 Collins Ave., Miami Beach305-455-2990
slshotels.comYou can always expect something happening at Hyde Beach. The spot at the SLS South Beach has been going strong since 2013. The attendees can expect plush day beds, a vibrant garden, warm, cozy inside space, and cabanas. Of course, there is a grand, azure pool to enjoy. During high season, Hyde Beach makes sure to book big names like Fatboy Slim, Kaskade, and Damian Lazarus.
Joia Beach
1111 Parrot Jungle Trl., Miami305-400-7280
joiabeachmiami.comLocated adjacent to Parrot Jungle, Joia Beach is an eatery, bar, and dayclub that keeps you secluded away from the chaotic city. You park your feet on the sand, be within a stone's throw of skyscrapers and water, and soak in the sun and tunes. Joia's events include Vines & Vinyl Thursdays, Pure Joia Saturdays for the usual DJ sets, and even some unplugged events for easy listening. You can always grab a meal and a drink as you wait for the perfect sunset.
Nikki Beach
1 Ocean Dr., Miami Beach305-538-1111
nikkibeach.comOpening in 1998, Nikki Beach is Miami Beach's OG dayclub. Over the last 30 years, Nikki Beach has been the place to party beachside while enjoying the comforts of a VIP experience. Overall, it encompasses 20,000 square feet of opulence, complete with white sands and plush cabanas. When the DJs are behind the decks, you can expect an all-day music affair under the Miami sun.
Regatta Grove
3415 Pan American Dr., Coconut Grove305-707-4667
regattagrove.comSparkling water views, patio chairs, food, drinks, and the unique Coconut Grove vibe — Regatta Grove might be giving Miami Beach's best dayclubs a run for the money by doing the complete opposite. It offers a more relaxed atmosphere where you can park yourself near a television and watch the game or simply relax all day.
Strawberry Moon invites you to party in the pastel paradise.
Photo by Alice Gao for the Goodtime Hotel
Strawberry Moon
601 Washington Ave., Miami Beach305-506-2112
thegoodtimehotel.comThere are many reasons why Strawberry Moon is an obvious choice for a daytime outing. First, hospitality impresario David Grutman and music producer Pharrell Williams are behind the spot. And, of course, there is the music. Strawberry Moon has a Wes Anderson aesthetic full of warm, pastel colors, a Casablanca-style bar, and plenty of food to enjoy poolside. The party usually gets going here from Friday through Sunday, so pull up if you want to party hard on the weekends while the sun is still out.
