ResortPass: Is It Worth It?

ResortPass is an online platform that allows you to book time for using a resort’s amenities, such as a pool or fitness center, without needing to stay overnight. Prices and amenities vary by location, but in general, this service is a cost-effective way to enjoy the upscale perks of staying at a resort.

How ResortPass works

You can use ResortPass to access resort amenities like pools, beaches, spas, fitness centers and sometimes even workspaces, for a day fee. Although you can book day passes directly with some hotels and resorts, this platform makes it easy to filter results and easily compare features and prices.

You can also reserve specific benefits, in some cases. For example, you can use your ResortPass to book a day pass at the Fairmont Grand Del Mar in San Diego, which grants you access to the resort’s pool. Or, you can opt to reserve a daybed, a cabana, a movie under the stars, a trail ride with the equestrian center or a spa pass.

Prices vary at ResortPass, and depend on factors like location, day of the week (demand) and what services or amenities are included. You might find day passes starting around $25, typically for basic pool access at a non-luxury hotel.

ResortPass has a fairly flexible cancellation policy. Unless explicitly stated otherwise, bookings for day passes can be canceled up until 11:59 p.m. the night before your reservation, while cabanas, daybeds, and day rooms can be canceled until 10 a.m. the day before your reservation. You can opt for either a refund to your credit card or a ResortPass credit.

» Learn more: How to save money on hotels

Which resorts participate in ResortPass?

ResortPass has over 1,000 participating properties in 30 countries and territories, with locations in the U.S. and much of the Caribbean.

To search for a day pass on the platform, enter a destination and the day you’d like to visit the hotel. You'll see a list of options in the area, which can be filtered by the hotel’s number of stars and list of amenities.

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How much does it cost?

You pay per person when it comes to booking a day pass with ResortPass, though that will change if you’re booking a cabana or a day room.

For example, the Wyndham Grand Orlando Bonnet Creek in Orlando, Florida, will charge $45 per adult and $20 per child for a ResortPass day pass on a weekend in mid-August. This is limited and only grants you access to the main pool and hot tub, not the lazy rivers, splash pad, pirate ship or other pools around the property.

For two adults and two children, this brings your total up to $130. However, you can also choose to book a day room, which accommodates up to four guests, for just $135.

The hours during which you can use it are limited to 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., but you do have access to all of the property’s pools, lazy rivers and outdoor amenities, plus you get a room to lounge in and somewhere to shower.

But how does this compare to booking an overnight stay? Interestingly, the Wyndham Grand Orlando Bonnet Creek won’t allow you to book just a one-night stay, at least not on a weekend in August. Instead, it automatically updates your search to force a two-night stay.

After tax, this makes a two-night booking for two adults and two children just over $500. That’s significantly more than booking day access with ResortPass.

So feasibly, you and your family could book a stay at a much cheaper hotel nearby, then book a day pass (or day room) to the Wyndham Grand Orlando Bonnet Creek and enjoy all its amenities before heading back to your room at the end of the day.

ResortPass can be appealing for those who are looking for a staycation. Since you won’t be on the hook for paying for accommodation, you’ll be free to find the nicest property you’d like on ResortPass and enjoy your day at the resort.

Pricing on ResortPass changes according to demand. During a search, the price for a day pass to the family pool at the Omni La Costa Resort & Spa in San Diego ranged from $98 to $120, depending on the day of the week.

» Learn more: How to avoid hotel resort fees (and which brands are the worst)

ResortPass can be a good deal

ResortPass is a simple way to book daytime access to a resort. With a wide variety of amenities on offer, it can make sense for travelers to use ResortPass’ system to find spas, pools and movie nights to enjoy. It can also be cheaper than booking an overnight stay, especially when it comes to more expensive properties.

Some travelers have even used ResortPass during a long layover or to kill time after hotel checkout and before an evening flight. It can elevate your staycation or give you a taste of resort life without forking out the big bucks.

However, prospective guests will want to be aware that some day passes may have limitations on access. ResortPass also tacks on its own fees, which aren't always transparent.

Before booking, make sure that you’re getting a good value for your money and not just taking advantage of convenience.