In Hong Kong, the summers can be brutal. Blazing sun, insufferable humidity and torrential rain are a regular occurrence during these months. To escape the sweltering heat, locals often head to one of the city’s many swimming pools.
With their sleek designs and beautiful views, the city’s hotel pools are a pool-goer’s dream come true. They’re usually exclusive to hotel guests but are open to outsiders for special events during the summer, such as pool parties and pool days. The hotels also offer luxurious facilities, such as whirlpools, that make the experience even more special.
Located at the top of the International Commerce Center, The Ritz Carlton’s indoor pool is the perfect place to enjoy the city’s awe-inspiring skyline. This ultra-luxury pool boasts floor to ceiling windows, mirrored ceilings and LED walls that showcase an illusion of coral reefs. The best part? The opulent pool is surrounded by lush gardens, making it feel like you’re swimming in the clouds.
Another incredible hotel pool can be found at the swanky Mandarin Oriental, which is set in the heart of downtown. This stunning pool is a sight to behold with its glass-walled rooftop, comfortable lounge chairs, whirlpool and bar. The hotel’s signature scent fills the air as you swim, while a cocktail by the pool is the perfect end to your day in this luxurious oasis.
While the swanky hotel pools are definitely something to see, there are plenty of great public ones too. Hong Kong’s government-run pools are spacious and have a range of different facilities to suit all swimmers. You can swim laps in the main pool, practise your diving skills in the diving pool or let the little ones go crazy in the toddler pools.
In addition, a lot of the government-run pools have waterslides and other fun features that are sure to please. Some of these are based on traditional Chinese water games, while others are more modern and designed to keep kids entertained.
With the creation of the Regional Council (RegCo) in 1986, the management of the public swimming pools moved to this body. Today, the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) oversees all of the city’s swimming pools. The prestigious new Victoria Park Aquatics Center was built with Myrtha Technology, which is renowned for its high quality and state-of-the-art design. Myrtha’s patented technology allows the construction of swimming pools that meet FINA’s standards. The new aquatics center is a welcome addition to the city’s impressive swimming facility and is a must-see for any visitor to Hong Kong.