Hong Kong Pools
Public pools are one thing, but when they’re located at gorgeous hotels and boast stunning views of the city skyline or Victoria Harbour, the experience is elevated tenfold. This is especially true when the pool itself is a show-stopper, like this one at Island Shangri-La, which takes resort-like ambiance to another level with its avenue of palm trees, umbrella-lined lounge chairs and – of course – massive outdoor pool. Thankfully, the hotel’s current staycation offers give guests full access to the facilities so that you can indulge in this dreamy scene for yourself.
Swimming is a popular sport in Hong Kong, with some 10 million people participating, and the majority of them for recreational purposes. The city’s 7.5 million residents are so used to soaking their bodies in fresh waters that the lack of public pools during the coronavirus pandemic has caused some angst. However, many of the city’s top hotels have their own impressive pools that are as relaxing as they are eye-catching.
While some hotels have poolside bars for sipping cocktails, others have dedicated indoor and outdoor swimming pools where you can get your zen on. And the best part is, you don’t even need to leave the hotel to do it.
If you’re a hotel junkie and have been dying to soak up the sights and sounds of HK from the comfort of your own swimwear, check out our list below to find your perfect pool paradise.
All of the pools featured below are operated by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD). A monthly ticket allows you to visit any of the 22 LCSD-operated public swimming pools for just HK$300 (half price for students, those aged 60 and over, and children between 3 and 13 years). You can also purchase single entry tickets for a flat rate of HK$17 on weekdays and HK$19 on weekends. The ticket includes a locker, and you can use your own padlock or insert a refundable coin to get a locker key. To avoid waiting in line, you should arrive early or make a reservation. You can also book your ticket online on the LCSD website. The pools are open during regular hours but may close for maintenance and sterilisation between sessions.