The warm summer days are here, which means it’s time to go for a swim! Swimming is not only a fun activity to do with your loved ones or for a relaxing day out on the town, but it also has numerous physical and mental health benefits. In addition, it is a low-impact exercise that is perfect for all age groups. So why not beat the heat and enjoy a dip in Hong Kong’s top-notch pools this season?

But not all public and government-run swimming pools are created equal, and they can get crowded with tourists and locals alike. If you’re looking for a pool that is both private and luxurious, look no further than one of the city’s hotels! These establishments offer world-class facilities, stunning views and top-notch dining options all while you can soak up the sun and relax in your own private oasis.

There are plenty of hotel pools in Hong Kong to choose from, so you can find the one that best suits your needs and budget. For example, the luxurious Regent Hong Kong offers an expansive pool terrace overlooking the waterfront that is the perfect spot for a leisurely swim or to unwind and enjoy the view. They even have a cosy daybed where you can sit and sip on a drink or two to truly soak up the atmosphere.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more intimate experience, many hotels also offer smaller indoor or outdoor pools that are great for swimming laps or spending time with your children. These pools can be found in newer developments with several towers that typically have a 50-metre outdoor pool and a smaller indoor pool for toddlers, while smaller single-tower developments may only have a small outdoor pool.

In addition to hotel pools, some public and private clubs also have their own swimming facilities. However, it’s worth noting that they can be quite crowded and that it may be difficult to practice your swimming skills. Another important thing to note is that most of these pools are staffed only by lifeguards. This can be problematic if there is an unexpected increase in visitors, since the pools are not always properly supervised.

In addition, some public and private swimming pools have already closed due to staff shortages. According to the union, nearly half of the city’s 45 public pools have told swimming clubs they will only open partially this summer. This could lead to the cancellation of swimming classes and is worrying for swimmers. The LCSD has urged the public to check online or contact the swimming pool staff before heading to any venues. It has also warned that the water quality at some swimming pools might be affected by contaminated water, especially from mainland China. Therefore, it is recommended to use bottled water at the pools for safety reasons. In such cases, the LCSD has advised swimmers to wear masks and snorkels for protection.