When you think of Hong Kong, shopping and dim sum are the first things that come to mind – not swimming pools. But it turns out that this city of superlatives is also loaded with picturesque water parks and rooftop pools, ranging from the world’s highest pool to a natural infinity pond on a mountainside.
Swimming is a great way to keep fit and reduce stress, and it’s a hugely popular activity in Hong Kong. The city has dozens of public and private pools, but there are some that stand out from the rest. With gorgeous views, stylish interiors and a range of services, these are the best hk pools to enjoy a summer dip.
The 76th-floor WET pool at W Hong Kong is one of the world’s highest rooftop pools and has a leg-shaking view to match. It’s a big hit with guests, who can chill out in the infinity pool or jacuzzi surrounded by a breathtaking cityscape. Deckchairs for sunbathing, cocktails on order and a menu of light bites complete the picture.
Located in the heart of Hong Kong’s business centre, this hotel has one of the most famous pools in town. It’s normally exclusive to hotel guests, but you can swim here for free on weekends when they hold their famous summer events. This glamorous pool is designed with an earth-toned mosaic wall and a large outdoor jacuzzi, and it’s the perfect place to relax and unwind.
This public pool is a favourite with families. It has three outdoor leisure pools, complete with waterfalls, rocks and a footbridge, as well as four indoor pools when the weather isn’t great. There’s also a diving pool and a teaching pool so you can practice your skills.
The Olympic-sized main pool here has lanes so you can practice your strokes, as well as a leisure and kids’ pool where the little ones can have fun splashing about. This is a fantastic pool for serious swimmers, but it can get very busy during the peak hours.
A shortage of lifeguards has affected around 20 public pools, which may only partially open this month, according to the Hong Kong Recreation and Sports Professionals General Union (HKRSPGU). Around 500 licensed private pools are expected to be closed due to a lack of staff, so you might find that it’s harder to access some of your favourite local spots this summer.
The government has said that it will work to hire more seasonal lifeguards before the end of this year. In the meantime, the HKRSPGU is calling on the Leisure and Cultural Services Department to increase staff numbers for all public pools in Hong Kong, including those for children’s lessons. They say that if this doesn’t happen, it could mean that some swimming schools have to cancel classes and other swimmers will have to wait longer than usual to get into the water. The HKRSPGU is also asking the department to allow some private pools to open in part this summer so they can start hiring more lifeguards as soon as possible.