Hong Kong has recently experienced a sudden change in weather as an active trough of low pressure brings heavy showers, but people were eager to enjoy swimming at one of Hong Kong’s 22 public pools managed by Leisure and Cultural Services Department despite their day-time admission prices of HK$17 for adults on weekdays and HK$19 on weekends – with concession rates available to persons with disabilities, children aged three-13, full-time students as well as those in receipt of disability pension.
W Hong Kong offers an idyllic pool experience on its 76th-floor pool. Offering unparalleled views of Victoria Harbour and Hong Kong’s skyline, its pool has long been popular with Instagrammers looking for a summer selfie backdrop. Furthermore, a wellness membership allows full access to both pool and changing room as well as consultations, spa credits, and more!
Kennedy Town is another top spot for swimming, boasting both indoor and outdoor pools, plus one of Hong Kong’s highest water slides. These pools can get packed on weekdays and weekends during summer; to avoid crowds altogether, visit in winter when many public pools close due to colder air temperature.
Hong Kong pools have long been popular among swimmers from mainland China. One Shenzhen newspaper noted the swimming facilities offered are more affordable and offer better facilities than those found there, though some fear this influx of mainland swimmers might diminish Hong Kong’s swimming culture and reputation.
Swimming pools in Beijing and other Asian cities are filled with Chinese tourists during peak season, displeasing local swimmers who complain that quality of the water has suffered as a result. Due to this influx, some of Hong Kong’s premier swimmers have left their clubs for Shenzhen facilities that provide more coaching and training opportunities – forcing others to abandon them entirely. Due to this surge in arrivals, some Hong Kong pools have had to close due to contamination with vomit and faeces from migrants. However, a union has requested that the government permit schools and swimming training centers to rent out pools even during operating hours so long as a lifeguard is present. This would prevent overcrowding by mainland swimmers while protecting local swimmers – though as yet no response from government has been forthcoming on this request.