When people think of Hong Kong, they might think of shopping or dim sum, but the city is also home to some pretty impressive swimming pools. From the world’s highest pool to a natural infinity pond on a mountain, these are some of the best places in the city for a refreshing dip.
While Hong Kong’s public swimming pools tend to get pretty crowded, there are a few that stand out from the rest. For those looking for a more private, luxurious experience, many of the city’s hotels feature their own swimming facilities. These swanky hotel pools offer top-notch facilities, amazing views, and even a few places to grab a bite to eat.
The Ritz Carlton’s swimming pool is the perfect place to take in a spectacular view of the skyline. Situated on the 118th floor of the International Commerce Center – aka, the top of Hong Kong’s tallest skyscraper – the pool is perched among the clouds and offers a truly breathtaking view. The sleek indoor pool is outfitted with floor to ceiling windows and mirrored ceilings, plus LED walls that showcase an illusion of coral reefs. Guests can enjoy the water from lounge chairs or one of the many cabanas that line the pool.
Another show-stopping pool is the one at the Mandarin Oriental. This beautiful resort’s pool is a true oasis in the heart of the busy Hong Kong business district. The stunning pool is a beautiful blend of modern and traditional, with a sleek design that’s complemented by lush greenery and beautiful artwork.
Unlike many public pools, which can be quite crowded during the summer, the Mandarin Oriental’s pool is much more intimate. It’s located on the higher floors of the hotel, and is separated from the main building by a glass wall. This makes it easy to avoid the crowds, and relax in the tranquil water.
The Mandarin Oriental’s pool is also equipped with a number of luxury amenities, including a sauna and steam room. In addition, the pool is surrounded by cabanas, which are perfect for relaxing in the sun and taking in the stunning Hong Kong skyline.
In an effort to improve the safety of swimmers, the LCSD has introduced various measures to combat the staff shortage. These include raising the salaries of seasonal lifeguards and recruiting new lifeguards on two-year contracts. However, despite these measures, the LCSD still has not fully addressed the staffing crisis.
The HKFP has been informed that the LCSD will continue to monitor the situation closely, and will review it once again in mid-June when they release their latest report on the status of public swimming pools. In the meantime, the HKFP urges residents and visitors to exercise discretion when visiting public swimming pools, especially those that are particularly crowded. In particular, visitors should refrain from bringing their own inflatables and other personal items into the swimming area, and only use designated changing rooms. They should also avoid standing around or lying down on the pool deck, and leave valuables out of sight.