When it comes to swimming, Hong Kong is the place to be. The city’s opulent hotels and luxurious apartments offer stunning pools to luxuriate in. Whether you’re doing morning laps for fitness or just looking for an escape from the bustle of the city, there are plenty of pools to choose from.

The city’s newest pool takes a cue from the surrounding sea and bay. Its unique “seashell” design uses translucent materials to let natural sunlight filter in. The interior is also lined with 144 high-resolution LED walls, which mimic coral reefs and bright blue skies. It’s an incredible sight to see, especially when it’s surrounded by the city’s tallest buildings.

This spaceship-like swimming pool, designed by Terry Farrell and Partners, opened to the public in February along Victoria Harbour. Despite taking eight years to come to fruition, the complex is already one of the city’s most popular destinations for locals and tourists alike. The soaring building is home to a 50-metre pool, training and teaching pools, and a toddler’s pool with whimsical water installations like mushroom and tree-shaped fountains.

Another highlight of the complex is its three escalators, which lead to a viewing platform overlooking the sea and the city skyline. And if you’re not feeling adventurous enough to jump into the pool, you can also visit the on-site restaurant and bar for some light refreshment.

As Hong Kong’s coronavirus restrictions ease, pools and beaches are reopening. But many recreational swimmers are still grappling with the restrictions, which have kept them out of the water for over six months. Many competitive swimmers have found themselves unable to maintain their regular training routine, and some have even struggled to find a place to swim during the lockdown.

Even so, the cool sniff of autumn is in the air, and swimming pools are once again becoming an inviting environment to exercise and relax. Whether you’re a serious swimmer or just looking to take a dip, here are the best hongkong pools to enjoy this summer.