Roman Pool | Sam Simeon, California
Built from 1927-1934 for newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst, the Roman pool modeled after ancient Roman baths boasts eight marble statues mimicking the Greek and Roman originals. There’s also gold imbedded into each of the mosiac tiles that line the floor and ceiling, natch. The Hearst Corporation donated the estate to the state of California in 1957; it’s now a historical monument open for public tours. Although it’s technically against the rules, you can dive in during a tour … but the statues then come to life and attack you. At least, that’s what a docent told us.
Playboy Mansion | Los Angeles
The Mansion’s pool and grotto has become infamous for hosting some of the wildest parties on the planet. And as of early 2011, it’s also become known for getting lots of people sick (with something other than STDs). More than 200 partygoers fell ill with Legionnaires’ disease — a curable respiratory infection — that was traced back to the hot tub in the grotto. Still, after seeing the hidden alcoves, green-tinted water, and pneumatic Playmates bobbing like sexy buoys in the deep end, we’d go for it anyway.
