As any Hongkonger can tell you, summer in this high-rise city can be sweltering. A dip in a refreshing pool can be the perfect remedy. With some of the best pools in town offering stunning views, a swim here is a great opportunity to soak up the atmosphere and relax.
Swimming pools are a key amenity in many new developments. Most larger multi-tower complexes have a 50-metre outdoor pool and some even have a smaller indoor pool. In addition, many smaller single-tower developments have small outdoor pools – perhaps too short for laps, but great for kids to splash around in and burn off some energy.
Many older pools were built in the 1950s and 1960s and are being replaced by more modern facilities. The largest of these is the Victoria Park swimming pool, which opened in 2011. The HK$800 million facility hosts a main pool with spectator stands that can seat 2,500 people, plus a leisure pool and a special toddler’s pool.
In recent years, a number of smaller pools have also been built to serve local communities. For example, the Tsing Yi Swimming Pool is a great choice for families and features a main pool with water slides and a range of other attractions. The pool is open all year round, although it is closed from November to March of the following year for maintenance.
Aside from being a great way to stay fit, swimming is a social activity that is enjoyed by all ages. Moreover, it is an excellent form of exercise that doesn’t put much strain on the joints. As a result, it is one of the most popular activities for Hong Kong residents and tourists alike.
In fact, the Hong Kong swimming pool industry is booming with many new venues being built. The government has set aside HK$1.5 billion to build more than 70 new public swimming pools by 2020. Moreover, the government is also looking at building more public pools and changing rooms in schools, and providing free swimming lessons for students at some of its universities.
The city’s pools are among the most impressive in Asia, and many feature spectacular views of Victoria Harbour. One of the most iconic is W Hong Kong’s WET pool, which can be found on the 76th floor of the hotel. With its leg-shaking 211-metre drop, this is the world’s highest rooftop pool. The pool is also home to some of the best pool parties in town.
While most pools are currently closed due to the coronavirus pandemic, several will reopen later this year or early next. However, the reopening will likely be limited and some facilities such as toddler pools may have to shut. The situation will be monitored closely by LCSD. In the meantime, swimmers are advised to follow strict safety measures. Those interested in visiting a swimming pool should check the LCSD’s website for more information. They can also visit the LCSD’s Facebook page for updates.