If topless swimming pools are on the way out in Las Vegas, Moorea Beach Club never got the memo. The adults-only enclave is celebrating its 20th anniversary at Mandalay Bay, refusing to shy away from its “toptional” tagline even as other resorts eliminate free-the-nipple policies or quietly allow them on an unadvertised if you know, you know basis.
Based on a recent visit, Moorea appears to be busier than ever with food, bottle service and music that’s familiar, upbeat and not overbearingly loud. Just follow a few rules: You must be at least 21 to enter; tops are required at the bar or when making a trip to the bathroom; and though phones are permitted, photos are a big no-no. Security might even demand to view and delete images if you’re caught. Need to send a text? No big deal. Pointing phones downward seems to be a universal sign to say “gimme a sec”—and overall, it’s refreshing to be in a social setting these days where people are so noticeably disconnecting from technology.
Be polite. No gawking. Watch the flirting. Play it cool. Being an adult isn’t just a requirement; it’s how you carry yourself.
For being two decades in, Moorea still feels new. The pavilions are the most posh option; fully decked-out cabana-bungalow hybrids with a private pool and attentive service.
“It’s the cream of the crop at Moorea,” says Chris Dexheimer, senior pool operations manager. “You’re in the party but isolated as well.”
Guests can also book standard tent-like cabanas, opium beds and villas—similar to pavilions, but on the third level with views of Mandalay Beach.
Daybed reservations are based on location, with the most valuable real estate by the main pool or an elevated jetted pool near the bar. They’re great for couples. Booking one for three-to-four people depends on how cozy you want to be. Moorea allows general admission, with reservations required for lounge chairs.
Renovations are coming next season, although Moorea has avoided any sense of stagnation with regular updates over the years, including the replacement of a sand dune with artificial turf. The pool even experimented with dropping the “toptional” policy a few times in favor of a dayclub vibe with headlining DJs, but Dexheimer says that’s not what the public wanted.
“It’s a sophisticated guest,” Dexheimer says about the average visitor. “They’re not looking for a crazy, techno-heavy, pool party atmosphere. They’re looking for a chill, relaxing atmosphere, but with some liveliness.”
Moorea’s ongoing success coincides with a shifting landscape for topless pools in Las Vegas. Bare Lounge recently dropped its tops-optional policy as the Mirage prepares to become a Hard Rock property. Venus Pool at Caesars Palace is no longer topless either, shifting focus to after-dark night swim events this season.
Meanwhile, European Pools at Wynn and Encore continue to quietly permit topless sunbathing, while the Strat allows it on a limited basis at Wet24 Pool & Bar.
The pool at the Lexi carries over a topless tradition from when the 21-and-over resort was known as the Artisan, but that’s an intimate space that doesn’t match the scope and amenities for adult sunbathing at Mandalay Bay. There really is only one Moorea Beach Club—especially now.
MOOREA BEACH CLUB Mandalay Bay, 702-632-9095, mooreabeachlv.com. Thursday-Monday, 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
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