This is The Summer You Were Made For.
Perched above Hotel Effie Sandestin, Ara Rooftop Pool & Lounge sets the scene for sun-soaked days, vibrant afternoons, and unforgettable nights under the stars. From Memorial Day through Labor Day, the rooftop comes alive with curated experiences, elevated energy, and sweeping views of the Emerald Coast.
In 2026, the season reaches new heights as we celebrate America’s 250th birthday - with a Fourth of July experience you won’t want to miss.
Holiday Weekends Worth Celebrating
Memorial Day Weekend
Summer’s opening act begins above it all. Guests can soak in the rooftop energy with live DJ sets on Saturday and Sunday from noon – 4pm paired with festive poolside bites and cocktail specials. It’s the perfect introduction to the season - vibrant, effortless, and unmistakably Ara.
Fourth of July Weekend – America 250 Celebration
This year, Independence Day takes on new meaning as we celebrate America’s 250th birthday in unforgettable style. Ara becomes a patriotic rooftop escape, where live DJs, celebratory cocktails, and elevated takes on classic favorites set the tone. It’s a milestone moment. And there’s no better place to experience it than above it all.
Labor Day Weekend
As summer reaches its final chapter, Ara closes the season with the same energy it began. Live DJs, fresh bites and hand-crafted cocktails. One last rooftop celebration - an effortless sendoff to a summer well-lived.
All Summer Long: Weekly Rooftop Rituals
Whether you're planning a weekend escape or seeking a summer-long rhythm of indulgence, Ara Rooftop Pool & Lounge is your destination for curated moments and elevated vibes. This is summer — sophisticated, spirited, and set to a rooftop beat.
Weekend Morning Mind & Body Movement
Saturday and Sunday I 8:00 - 9:00am
Ease into your weekend mornings with movement, breath, and a view unlike any other. This complimentary Pilates-barre fusion class blends mindful stretching and functional flow, all set against the serene rooftop backdrop.
Exclusively for hotel guests and SOA members.
Weekend Rooftop Live DJs
Saturdays and Sundays: 12:00pm–4:00pm
Each weekend, Ara’s energy builds as live DJs take over the rooftop - spinning a curated mix of modern hits and timeless summer sounds. Whether you’re lounging poolside, sipping something refreshing, or settling in for golden hour, the vibe is effortless, elevated, and always in motion.
Boomin’ Rooftop Fireworks Watch Party
Tuesdays | 6:00 – 10:00pm
Tuesdays bring the boom - literally. Take in front-row views of the Village of Baytowne Wharf fireworks from high above the coast.
Enjoy handcrafted cocktails above it all set against a backdrop of music, energy, and a sky lit with color.
Every Tuesday from May 27 through August 19 | Fireworks at approximately 9:15pm
Bingo Nights, Rooftop Heights
Thursdays | 5:00 – 7:00pm
It’s not your grandmother’s bingo - it’s bingo above it all.
Join us each Thursday for an evening of playful competition, craft cocktails, and rooftop views that elevate every round. With prizes up for grabs and the energy of Ara all around you, it’s the perfect way to gather, unwind, and let the night unfold.
The Summer You Were Made For
Whether you’re here for a weekend escape or settling into the rhythm of the season, Ara Rooftop Pool & Lounge is where summer finds its perfect expression.
Sunlit afternoons. Elevated evenings. Moments that linger.
This is the Summer You Were Made For - and it all happens above it all.
