When the weather heats up, swimming is a great way to cool off in Hong Kong. While the city has plenty of public and government-run pools, they can be crowded and often lack top-notch facilities and breathtaking views. Fortunately, many of Hong Kong’s hotels offer their own spectacular swimming pools. This means that you can enjoy your (semi) private time, top-notch facilities and amazing views while dipping your toes in the water with a tipple in hand.
The pool at the Ritz Carlton is one of the most unique in the world. Located on the 118th floor of the International Commerce Center, it boasts floor-to-ceiling windows that give swimmers a stunning view of Hong Kong Island and Victoria Harbor. The pool also features LCD screens on the walls and ceiling that display images of tropical fish, bubbles and clouds. The pool is open to guests staying at the hotel, as well as members of its club.
Designed by Farrells, the pool was commissioned to replace an older pool in Kennedy Town that was being demolished to make room for the West Island Line’s Exhibition Centre station extension project. The new pool complex includes an indoor and outdoor pool, jacuzzis, changing rooms, and management and plant facilities. The design was based on the notion of a ‘waterfall in reverse’ that reflects the shape of the surrounding buildings. The pools themselves were constructed from zinc to minimize glare, and the roof was covered with a translucent insulated tensile membrane from Birdair.
While it’s not always the most fun, swimming is a great way to stay healthy and active in the summer. It reduces stress, boosts energy levels and can even help improve depression and other mental health conditions. Plus, it’s a great way to soak up the sun!
In Hong Kong, there are several public swimming pools that provide excellent swimming facilities and experiences. The Wan Chai Swimming Pool, for example, is a popular destination among locals and tourists alike, offering a range of amenities including an observation deck, a diving platform, a water slide and a sauna.
The Kowloon Park Swimming Pool is another popular venue for swimming in the city. It was built as part of a larger redevelopment and expansion of the park, and opened on 12 September 1989 under the sponsorship of the Royal Hong Kong Jockey Club. Originally, the pool was managed by the Urban Council. But in 2000, the council was disbanded and the pool was transferred to the Leisure and Cultural Services Department.
A monthly pass to a HK Pool costs HK$150 and can be purchased at the respective venues, or at the Public Swimming Pool Monthly Ticket Office in Wan Chai. You’ll need to present your name, ID card number and date of issue when purchasing a pass. If you’re planning on visiting more than one pool, it’s a good idea to purchase a combined pass to save money. A month’s pass is a great way to enjoy the best Hong Kong pools and stay fit while traveling!