The summer heat in Hong Kong means a swim is always a good idea – and luckily, public swimming pools are plentiful across the city. Located within municipal parks, many have water slides and play areas for kids, so they’re great for families and groups. Adult admission is HK$17 during the week and HK$19 on weekends and public holidays, with kids under three free. It’s also a good idea to bring an Octupus card on your trip, as you can use it for the MTR and at most public pools that require payment to enter.
One of the most impressive new swimming pools in town is Kennedy Town’s state-of-the-art complex, a stunning new building with indoor and outdoor pools, plus family changing rooms. Locals with young kids make a beeline for this pool, as it offers plenty of splashy fun for the little ones. Architecture buffs will appreciate the sleek, futuristic design of the building, which features a portion of its roof that allows swimmers to view Victoria Harbour’s calming waters.
Another popular choice is Sai Kung’s beautiful public pool, a huge, open facility with an indoor and outdoor training pool and a leisure pool area. The latter has a fountain and water slides suitable for various ages, so it’s sure to keep the kids happy while mum and dad do some laps. There’s also a snack bar and lounge chairs to relax in.
If you’re looking for a more tranquil experience, head to the 11th floor of serviced apartment-hotel K11 Artus Hong Kong. Their beautiful pool is made from turquoise Balinese stone and overlooks the city’s spectacular skyline. The pool is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy some me-time, or to spend some quality time with loved ones as you soak up the breathtaking views of Hong Kong.
As with all public swimming pools, swimmers are expected to follow pool rules and regulations. This includes wearing appropriate swimwear, not smoking or drinking alcohol on the pool deck or in the changing room, and keeping the area clean and tidy. In addition, it’s a good idea to wear sunscreen while at the pool and to reapply it regularly. You may also want to consider getting a waterproof sunhat for extra protection. To ensure your safety, make sure to follow the advice of the lifeguards at each pool, and don’t swim alone. In addition, it’s a really good idea to learn how to swim in case of an emergency.