One Night Stand: Sunday Therapy @ The Raleigh

This pool party gives new meaning to the idea of "inflatable devices."

The Raleigh provides the perfect prescription for Sunday afternoon with Pool Therapy. Photo: Tomas Loewy.

By Elizabeth Stewart

Picture a pool party circa 1990 - the thick aroma of Dad's BBQ, diving for pennies and the over-exuberant screams from a riveting game of Marco Polo. Now that floaties and cannon balls are unacceptable (at least in public), your best option to relive the dream is Sunday Therapy at The Raleigh offering a "grown up" version of the classic Florida tradition.

The event kicks off around noon, but this Sunday soiree peaks from 3-8 p.m. And although no RSVPs are required, it wouldn't be SoBe if access weren't a little exclusive. Regulars will most likely not have trouble at the door - located on the side street entrance - but first timers not on the list should either be sporting his or her sexiest swimwear (and we don't mean cut-offs and a great pair of jellies, think couture and gold stilettos) or have a $20 bill in their pocket to enter.

Once past the velvet ropes, what you'll see is a pool party on steroids. While some things strike a familiar chord, like the oversized innertubes floating in the pool and lifeguard on duty, others have certainly changed. Now instead of Disney-themed beach towels and plastic patio furniture, think plush sun beds and VIP cabanas. The topless girl by the pool is no longer four years old and in Rainbow Brite trunks - she's 25 and has double Ds.

If you feel like diving in head first, walk past the pool and enter the party's VIP beach area, where you'll find a blend of 20-something locals and tourists ending their vay-cay with a splash, literally. But, unlike your local YMCA, this area is accessible only to those willing to drop $275 minimum on bottle service. In keeping with the therapy theme, waitresses are cleverly dressed in nurse costumes. In addition to entertainment provided by Nurse Betty, this shindig is known for its high-end bikini fashion shows, 20-foot waterslide, renowned guest nightclub DJs - regulars include Stephan Luke, Chico and Titto - and, of course, plenty of eye candy.

Sunday Therapy at The Raleigh has transformed one of Florida's most popular pastimes into a not-to-be-missed scene, while still managing to stay true to its roots. But this time, when you hear someone yell "Marco," think twice before yelling back "Polo." Chances are you'll be putting the moves on someone's Argentinean lover.

The Raleigh, 1775 Collins Ave, Miami Beach; 305-534-6300

Published: 10/08

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