The tell-tale signs of a Hong Kong summer are already here: crowded beaches, dripping air-con units and a heatwave so hot it makes you want to take a dip in the pool, but not too close to the water. Fortunately, the city’s hotels have you covered with plenty of pools to choose from. From swanky infinity pools overlooking Victoria Harbour to best waterslides for kids, here’s our round-up of the city’s top swims.
This pool complex was built as part of the Kowloon Park redevelopment and opened in 1989. The main pool is surrounded by spectator stands that can hold 1,200 viewers and has a four-lane lap area for serious swimmers. There are also smaller training and teaching pools, as well as a toddler pool full of whimsical water installations like mushroom and tree-shaped fountains. The biggest draw is, of course, the two 9-metre-high waterslides which are said to be among the fastest in Hong Kong.
There’s also a large restaurant on site that serves lunch and dinner, as well as coffee and snacks. Aside from its swimming facilities, the complex has a number of recreational areas, including tennis courts and a squash court. There is also a children’s playground, and the pool is accessible for wheelchair users.
Guests of the hotel will have full access to the pool, as well as its gym, sauna and steam room. In addition, they can enjoy the hotel’s terrace bar, Red Sugar, which offers a range of cocktails, wines and craft beers to keep you refreshed. There are also plenty of sun loungers to kick back on and get that tan.
The hotel is just a short walk from both Diamond Hill and Choi Hung MTR stations, while it’s a quick bus ride from Causeway Bay (take the 116 or 123). Alternatively, it’s about a 10-minute drive from the city centre.
Swimming clubs and groups can book a time slot to use the pools, but it’s important to note that there is no guarantee that a class will be held. Lee said he would notify clubs of their slots about four months in advance, but that there was no refund if the club had to cancel its booking.
The public swimming pool system is operated by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department, which charges HK$17 on weekdays and HK$19 on weekends for adults to enter. Seniors and people with disabilities receive concession prices, and children under the age of three are free. The number of people allowed to enter each pool is capped at 50 per cent of its capacity. Swimmers are encouraged to bring their own towels and change of clothes for safety reasons, but if you forget, there are several shops nearby that sell swimwear. You can also rent towels for a small fee. Aside from public pools, many schools have their own facilities for students to practice swimming and diving. This is a great way for young swimmers to build their skills before taking the plunge in the city’s many beaches.