As any Hong Konger will tell you, summers in this high-rise city can be brutal. With the blazing sun and insufferable humidity, it is easy to be left feeling sweaty and sticky. While many choose to hide indoors with the AC on full blast, there are still plenty of ways to cool down and enjoy the summer. From swimming pools that boast stunning city views to a poolside massage, we’ve got you covered.
Public swimming pools in Hong Kong are managed by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD). Currently there are 44 pools, with 13 in Hong Kong Island, 13 in Kowloon and 22 in the New Territories. The majority of the pools are outdoor, but there is also one indoor pool in Tuen Mun.
A number of the pools were built in the 1960s and 1970s, with funding either from the Hong Kong Jockey Club or the Urban Council. The earliest was Victoria Park Swimming Complex, which was opened in 1957 and was the first public swimming pool in Hong Kong. It was constructed using the standardised design of the era, with two 50-metre pools and changing rooms located mostly under a covered grandstand.
The outdoor pool at the Morrison Hill Public Swimming Pool is popular among swimmers, especially with families thanks to its large water slide and play area for toddlers. Its location in the middle of the city makes it an ideal spot to relax while enjoying the amazing cityscape. Unlike many other outdoor pools in the city, this one is heated, so it can be enjoyed year-round.
Indoor swimming pools are also a favourite with many locals, as they provide an escape from the hot weather and allow for year-round swimming. The Pao Yue Kong Swimming Pool in the Southern District, for instance, is an impressive building that was opened in 1977 and named after its sponsor, the Pao family of Yue-Kong. It is the only public pool in the Southern District, and it features a main pool, a teaching pool, and one designed for toddlers.
Many of these pools are also popular for their facilities for other activities, such as exercise classes and health-related activities. In addition, some of them feature cafes or restaurants on site.
There are also several luxury hotels in the city with their own swimming pools. These hotels offer a more upscale experience with their swimming pools, including floor-to-ceiling windows that allow you to swim in a beautiful setting with views of the iconic cityscape.
While the coronavirus restrictions have been relaxed a bit in Hong Kong, it is important to follow safety tips when visiting any swimming pool, whether public or private. In addition, it is a good idea to check the weather forecast hong kong before heading out, as rainy and windy conditions can make swimming dangerous.