If you’ve been to Las Vegas in the last decade, you know the name. Wet Republic Ultra Pool wasn't just a place to swim; it was the blueprint for the modern dayclub. It was the spot where Prince Harry reportedly partied, where Calvin Harris made EDM history, and where the concept of the "Bungalow" became the ultimate status symbol on the Strip.
But here is the thing: if you show up at the MGM Grand today looking for that specific logo, you're going to be a little confused.
In a move that caught a lot of people off guard, the legendary venue officially hung up its hat. As of May 2025, the 60,000-square-foot oasis was transformed into Palm Tree Beach Club. This isn't just a fresh coat of paint. It is a total vibe shift led by Kygo’s Palm Tree Crew in partnership with Tao Group Hospitality. Basically, the era of the high-octane "Ultra Pool" has evolved into something a bit more "Beverly-Hills-meets-Palm-Springs."
The End of an Era at MGM Grand
Honestly, it is hard to overstate how much Wet Republic defined the Vegas "daylife" scene. For nearly 17 years, it was the heavyweight champion of pool parties.
When it first opened, most hotel pools were just places to get a tan and maybe a lukewarm piña colada. Wet Republic changed that. They brought in massive LED screens, a sound system that could rattle your ribs, and a DJ booth that rivaled the biggest clubs in Ibiza.
Why the rebrand?
Vegas moves fast. By the early 2020s, the "ultra-intense" EDM vibe started to feel a bit... well, exhausted. Newer spots like Tao Beach and Ayu Dayclub were leaning into "boho-chic" and curated "lifestyle" experiences.
MGM and Tao Group saw the writing on the wall. They wanted something that felt more like a country club for the younger generation—less neon, more tropical wood and saltwater.
📖 Related: Seeing Universal Studios Orlando from Above: What the Maps Don't Tell You
- The Size: It still occupies that massive 60,000-square-foot footprint.
- The Capacity: You're still looking at a crowd of about 3,000 people on a busy Saturday.
- The Pools: They kept the saltwater pools, which is a huge plus because traditional chlorine at that scale is brutal on the eyes.
What it’s like inside the "New" Wet Republic (Palm Tree Beach Club)
If you’re heading there in 2026, don't expect the same gritty, high-energy warehouse vibe. The new aesthetic is much softer. Think lush greenery, light linens, and a lot of natural textures.
The layout remains familiar, though. You still have the tiered seating that funnels everyone toward the main stage.
The Bungalows are still the king
The 12 VIP bungalows remain the most coveted real estate in the venue. These aren't just tents. They are climate-controlled suites with private restrooms, showers, and—the real kicker—their own private dipping pools that overlook the main party.
If you have a group of 15 to 20 people and a few thousand dollars to burn, this is where you stay. You get to be part of the party without actually having to touch the "common" water.
Pricing and Reality Checks
Let’s talk money. Vegas isn't getting cheaper.
If you’re just doing General Admission, you’re looking at anywhere from $30 to $100 depending on the DJ. But remember: GA means you are standing. There is almost zero public seating. If you aren't in the water or at a table, you are on your feet.
👉 See also: How Long Ago Did the Titanic Sink? The Real Timeline of History's Most Famous Shipwreck
Bottle service is the only way to get a "home base."
- Daybeds: Usually start around $1,000–$1,500.
- Cabanas: Expect to shell out $4,000 to $6,000.
- Bungalows: On a holiday weekend or a big headliner day? You’re looking at $10,000 minimum spend.
And don't forget the "Vegas Tax." That $1,000 minimum spend will actually cost you closer to $1,400 after the 8% tax, the 20% auto-gratuity, and the "live entertainment tax" (LET) are tacked on.
Survival Tips for the 2026 Season
You've got to play the game if you want to have a good time.
First, the guest list is still a thing, but it’s stricter than it used to be. Most days, ladies can get in free before 1:00 PM or 2:00 PM. Guys can often get in free or at a discount if they have an "even ratio" of women in their group.
Pro Tip: Use the Discotech app or find a reputable promoter on Instagram. Don't pay the guys standing on the street corner in neon vests; they're usually just selling "coupons" that don't guarantee anything.
The Dress Code (Don't mess this up)
They will turn you away for the smallest things.
✨ Don't miss: Why the Newport Back Bay Science Center is the Best Kept Secret in Orange County
- No cargo shorts. I know, you have a lot of stuff to carry. Too bad.
- No jeans or "athletic" gear. If it looks like you’re going to the gym, you aren't getting in.
- Wear the suit. You must be in swimwear. You can wear a cover-up or a sundress over it, but the bikini or trunks need to be there.
Dealing with the Heat
It's 105 degrees in July. People forget this.
Drink a liter of water before you even arrive. A single bottle of Fiji inside will cost you $12 to $15. If you're drinking vodka all day in the desert sun without hydrating, you won't make it to your dinner reservation.
Is it still worth the hype?
Honestly? Yes, but only if you know what you're getting into.
If you're looking for a quiet afternoon by the pool to read a book, stay away. This is a high-volume, high-energy event. Even with the "lifestyle" rebrand, the music is loud, the drinks are expensive, and the crowd is dense.
But if you want that "only in Vegas" feeling—where the bass is thumping, the sun is blazing, and you’re surrounded by thousands of people losing their minds to a Tiësto or Martin Garrix set—this is still the place. The transition from Wet Republic to Palm Tree Beach Club has polished the experience, making it feel a bit more "adult" without losing the party's soul.
Your Next Steps:
- Check the Calendar: Go to the official MGM Grand or Palm Tree Beach Club website to see the 2026 residency lineup.
- Book Early: If you want a daybed, book it at least 3-4 weeks in advance. Prices jump significantly as the date approaches.
- Verify the Guest List: If you're going the free route, confirm your spot with a promoter 24 hours before and arrive by 10:30 AM to beat the rush.