Hotel Day Passes & Reserved Section Revenue: How to Monetize Empty Pool Chairs
By the HospitalityStack editors · written from hotel & resort F&B experience
The opportunity
On weekdays and in shoulder season, many resort pools sit half empty. Day passes, daybeds and reserved premium sections sold to locals bring in revenue at the door. More importantly, those guests spend on food and beverage, and that's often where the real margin is.
Protect the in-house guest
Cap daily passes so occupancy stays comfortable. Keep a set of pool chairs reserved for hotel guests. Give day guests clear wristbands so staff can tell who's who. Raise prices on peak days instead of overselling.
Pricing tips
Price private sections with an F&B minimum rather than a flat fee. Bundle a welcome drink or lunch credit into day passes. Pricing that changes by day of week and weather works for private sections just like it does for rooms (see Revenue Management).
Distribution
Marketplaces like ResortPass reach locals who are already looking for a pool day. Your own site plus a booking tool keeps more margin. Many properties use both. See Reservations & Day Passes.
Operations checklist
Set a check-in point with ID and wristband. Write a towel policy and decide whether to charge a deposit. Brief the F&B team on expected volume. Use a QR ordering zone for day guests (ordering guide). Do a post-day review of revenue per pool chair.