Swimming is a great way to cool off and stay hydrated in Hong Kong’s hot weather. It’s also a fun, low-impact form of exercise that can burn calories and improve your cardiovascular health. Swimming just three times a week can reduce stress, and it’s also been shown to boost energy levels.

There are 22 public pools run by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department, but they tend to get crowded during the summer months. Thankfully, many hotels have their own swimming pools that offer an exclusive poolside experience with top-notch facilities and stunning views. Guests can enjoy (semi) private time, a drink or two, and the opportunity to meet other swimmers.

The Pao Yue-Kong Swimming Complex in Wong Chuk Hang is a massive complex with swimming pools of all shapes and sizes, ranging from 50-metre main pools to diving pools, and even a toddlers’ splash pool with whimsical water installations like mushrooms and trees. Guests can swim laps, practise dives, or simply relax by the poolside.

In addition to their main pool and spectator stands, this state-of-the-art pool has a separate training and teaching pool. The pool also offers a range of water slides, including the tallest waterslide in Hong Kong at 9 metres. The venue also features an open pool terrace, so that visitors can lounge in the sun and soak up the views of Victoria Harbour.

For those looking to try something a little different, the Hotel Indigo offers a glass-bottom pool. This unique pool protrudes from the building and allows swimmers to do laps while still being able to look down at the traffic below.

Guests can enjoy the hotel’s WET deck, which hosts stylish poolside parties in the summer. Drinks and food can be ordered from the bar, which overlooks the stunning pool.

Another iconic Hong Kong pool is the rooftop infinity pool at the Rosewood. The pool, called the Asaya Pool, is a must-visit for anyone who wants to take in the beautiful scenery while swimming a few laps.

If you’re planning on moving to Hong Kong, it’s worth considering swimming pool facilities when choosing your new home. Larger developments with several towers usually have a pool for residents, while smaller single-tower developments may only have a small outdoor pool – not ideal for swimming laps but perfect for children to play and burn off some energy. Public pools have varying opening hours, but most are only open from July to September. They also charge an entrance fee of HK$17 on weekdays and HK$19 on weekends, but those with disabilities, full-time students, or people aged 60 and above can pay a concession rate of HK$8 on weekdays and HK$9 on weekends. More details can be found on the government website.