If you’re planning a summer getaway to Hong Kong, you’ll want to check out the city’s top pools. From water zones for toddlers to infinity pools with incredible views of Victoria Harbour, there’s a pool for everyone. But with the telltale signs of a hot Hong Kong summer in full swing—overcrowded beaches and dripping air-con units—you might need to find someplace a little more chill. That’s where the hotel pools come in. With plenty of perks like sweeping cityscapes, cocktail bars, and lounge chairs—not to mention Asia Miles—they’re the perfect place to cool off as temperatures soar.
If there’s a downside to this year’s hotter than usual weather, it’s the shortage of lifeguards. Around 20 public swimming pools may only partially open this summer and the number of lifeguards is capped at 50 per cent of each pool’s capacity, the Hong Kong Recreation and Sports Professionals General Union warned on Tuesday. The union is also calling for modest salary increases to attract more lifeguards, and a revamp of the pay structure to allow them to advance in the civil service career.
The swanky Kerry Hotel in Kowloon’s bustling waterfront district offers a rooftop pool with a view of the city skyline and Victoria Harbour. The tagline “Work out, wind down” is really appropriate here; you can get your sweat on in the gym before relaxing with a smoothie or cocktail in the lounge chairs by the pool. And if you need some time to unwind, the infinity pool is a great option, offering stunning cityscapes and sunsets.
Another pool with a view is the Hammer Hill swimming pool, a destination public pool in Wong Tai Sin that’s popular with families. It features a slew of waterslides, water shooters, and fountains, as well as a pirate ship for the kids. The pool is only open on Mondays, but if you’re up for a splashing good time, it’s worth the trip.
The iconic Victoria Harbour is a sight to behold in itself, but you can see even more of the city from the unique rooftop pool at the Harbour Grand Kowloon. The glass-walled pool is surrounded by comfortable lounge beds and a Jacuzzi, and it’s open to guests staying at the hotel as well as HP Club members.
If you’re not staying at the hotel, you can still enjoy the rooftop pool at the Island Shangri-la Hong Kong. The pool is surrounded by lush greenery and has a retractable roof so you can swim outside, even in the rain. There are also a few lounge chairs and tables by the water, so you can relax in style. Moreover, there’s a bar and a whirlpool, so you can get some drinks as well. The pool is open from early morning to late night, so you can enjoy a day of sun and sea in complete comfort.