Are Swim-Up Suites Actually Worth the Splurge?

For the right couple? Absolutely. But honestly... most of the time I'd tell you to skip it and spend that money somewhere else.

A swim-up suite is one of the most requested room upgrades I get, and I completely understand why. The photos look incredible. Waking up, opening your patio door, and stepping right into the pool sounds like the ultimate vacation. Sometimes it is.

Sometimes it's an expensive upgrade you'll barely use. Before I recommend a swim-up suite, here are the questions I always ask.

How much time will you actually spend in the pool?

This is the biggest one. Some people practically live in the pool. They'll spend hours floating with a drink in hand, reading a book, ordering lunch poolside, and soaking up the sun.

Others (hi, it's me 🙋🏼‍♀️) can't sit still for more than an hour before they're wandering to the beach, checking out another pool, grabbing a snack, or exploring the resort.

If you're the second type of traveler, a swim-up suite probably isn't giving you the value you think it is.

Are you planning to actually enjoy the resort?

Some vacations are all about slowing down. You sleep in, grab breakfast, find your favorite pool chair, and spend the day doing... well, not much at all. If that's your vacation style, a swim-up suite can be amazing.

But if you're planning excursions, exploring the destination, spending time at the beach, or trying every restaurant on the property, you'll likely spend far less time in your room than you expected.

Pool person or beach person?

This question surprises a lot of people. If your dream vacation involves listening to the waves, walking the beach every morning, and spending your afternoons in the ocean, I'd rather help you choose an incredible beachfront room than pay extra for a swim-up suite.

Know where you'll naturally spend your time.

Do you actually want privacy?

Here's something many travelers don't realize... Most swim-up suites do not have private pools.

Instead, they're connected to a larger pool shared with several neighboring rooms. That might not bother you at all. In fact, some couples love the social atmosphere.

But if you're picturing complete privacy, you may be disappointed. If having your own quiet space is important, I'd rather recommend a room with a private plunge pool or private pool instead.

What time of year are you traveling?

This one gets overlooked. A swim-up room in July feels very different than one in January. Depending on the destination and time of year, those pools can be cooler than you expect, especially during the winter months.

It's one more reason I always match the room to the trip instead of assuming the most expensive upgrade is automatically the best one.

Where is the swim-up located?

Not all swim-up suites are created equal. Some are close to the swim-up bar and have a lively atmosphere. Others are tucked away in a quiet corner of the resort. Some stay shaded for most of the day, while others get sunshine all afternoon.

Before booking, I always look at the resort layout because the location of the room can completely change the experience.

Is there a better way to spend the extra money?

This is probably the question I think about the most.

Sometimes I'd rather use that budget to:

• Upgrade you to a nicer resort.

• Book an oceanfront room.

• Add private airport transfers.

• Reserve a romantic dinner.

• Book an unforgettable excursion.

• Upgrade to a room with a private plunge pool.

  
  

The goal isn't to spend more. The goal is to spend your vacation budget where you'll enjoy it the most.

Megan's Take

I love swim-up suites. For the right vacation, they're absolutely worth every penny. But I don't recommend them just because they're popular. I recommend them when they actually fit the way you want to travel. That's the difference between booking the room everyone talks about... and booking the room you'll still be talking about long after you get home.

Still unsure if a swim-up suite is right for you? Let me help you plan the perfect getaway tailored to your travel style. Contact me today to start crafting your dream vacation!