Hong Kong summers can be brutal. The blazing sun and insufferable humidity leave us drenched in sweat from the moment we step out of the house. But instead of hiding in your apartment or seeking refuge in a air-conditioned cafe, try soaking your worries away at one of the city’s amazing pools.
From a rooftop pool with jaw-dropping views to a slew of water slides for toddlers, these hk pools are sure to cool you down and make this summer the best yet.
Public swimming pools are a common feature of new developments in Hong Kong and are an asset for expat families as they provide the perfect opportunity to get some exercise while having fun and socialising. Many of the pools are also equipped with a range of other activities, such as water slides, diving boards, and other recreational facilities, making them popular with children and adults alike. In fact, swimming pools are an important consideration when choosing a neighbourhood for expats with kids in Hong Kong.
In the 1960s and 1970s, large public swimming complexes were built across the New Territories. Many of these are still in use today. For example, the Tai Wan Shan Swimming Pool in Sai Ying Pun is an impressive facility that houses two 50-metre pools and several smaller teaching pools, along with a changing room building and lobby located mostly underneath a covered grandstand. Many of these old complexes are also the home of swimming clubs that organise regular events for swimmers, including races and other competitions.
Another major advantage of public swimming pools is that they are relatively inexpensive compared to private indoor or outdoor pools. In addition, most pools offer concessionary rates for students and elderly people.
Most public pools are open from 7am until 10pm daily. However, some are closed on Mondays and during maintenance work. For more information on opening times and maintenance schedules, please check the website of the governing body for each pool.
Moreover, the governing body of each pool has its own rules about what is and isn’t allowed on the premises. For example, some pools require a white shirt to be worn for safety reasons while others don’t allow foam flotation devices.
As a result, swimming in public pools can be quite a different experience than swimming in your own backyard. To avoid any unpleasant surprises, it’s a good idea to visit a pool before you move in and familiarise yourself with the rules of each place.
In terms of access to public pools, Manhattan has the most, followed by Staten Island and then Queens. However, 18 council districts do not have any swimming pools at all, which is a shame as the weather in these areas can be just as hot and humid. You may want to consider joining a private swimming club if you live in one of these areas, or simply opt for a hotel with a pool when planning your next staycation.
