With summer in full swing and the tell-tale signs of a hot city on our doorstep, it’s time to beat the heat with a cooling dip. Swimming offers many health and social benefits, plus it’s a fun way to spend time with friends or solo. It’s also a good workout with low impact. Whether you want to take your workout outdoors or relax with a cold drink, these stunning hongkong pools will give you the perfect escape from the city buzz.
The most famous hotel pool in Hong Kong is the Peninsula’s show-stopping Roman-inspired pool, complete with statuesque columns and a luxurious palatial setting. Its glass-fronted design means it’s one of the most iconic swimming spots in the city and the sweeping views from the top are an Instagram-worthy backdrop for your summer selfies.
The rooftop pool at the W is another popular spot to cool down, offering stunning views from its 76th floor location. It is usually exclusive to hotel guests but outsiders can also head here for special events and weekends during the summer months. There are deckchairs to soak up the sun, cocktails on offer and even a jacuzzi pool for those who prefer a more chilled-out swim.
It’s worth noting that while the city’s pools have been reopening this week, there are still restrictions in place — including only half of each facility’s capacity can be filled and the number of swimmers is capped at 50 per cent. The Leisure and Cultural Services Department said this was to protect swimmers from a potential infection risk due to the high number of Mainland swimmers visiting Hong Kong’s public pools.
It’s also worth noting that the union that represents lifeguards has warned that around 20 public and 500 licensed private pools may only be partially open this month. This is owing to a shortage of lifeguards, the Hong Kong Recreation and Sports Professionals General Union said. The government says it has made “significant progress” in resolving the issue, but some swimmers may have to wait longer than usual to dive in.