Cool Off at One of Hong Kong’s 44 Public Pools
No matter who you are – be it an inflatable toy-happy family with their inflatable pool toys or an avid swimmer looking for new gear – Hong Kong pools provide an ideal place for relaxation and recreation. Managed by Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD), with 44 public pools from mega waterparks for kids to freestanding ones in central Hong Kong; there’s something here for everyone.
With temperatures rising rapidly in Hong Kong, cooling off in one of its public pools should definitely be on our to-do list. From Ocean Park’s pirate ship pool to Morrison Hill’s toddler pool and Tseung Kwan O’s mega water play area – we have everything from Ocean Park pirate ship pool and Morrison Hill toddler pool all the way through to Tseung Kwan O mega water play area and beyond! Plus you can top off your swim session with an ice cream cone!
Hk pools are convenient and relatively cost-effective. Adult admission costs HK$17 on weekdays and 19 on weekends and public holidays; concession rates apply if you are over 60 or a student aged three to thirteen – these rates start from HK$8 weekdays and 9 weekends respectively! Plus children under three get in for free!
Some Hong Kong pools provide lockers to store your belongings; you need to deposit a coin into a slot, but it will be returned when you leave your locker. Some also charge fees to rent towels; make sure you bring your own towel along. Some pools even feature showers; just be aware that their water can be very cold!
Since 2004, the LCSD has reduced lifeguard numbers in Hong Kong and Kowloon by up to 40%, prompting many lifeguards to go on strike during peak season. This issue was raised before the House of Representatives in 2005, leading to the proposed legislation of improving training and management for lifeguards – but unfortunately was never passed into law.
Hong Kong pools remain safe to swim in despite some isolated incidents of contamination by vomit and faeces, yet many public pools were only partially open this summer due to staff shortages.
The LCSD has made efforts to construct more fun pools with free-form designs and aquatic attractions such as slides, fountains and games for young families and tourists. Swimming should become less of a solitary sport and more of a social activity; nevertheless most locals still opt for lounging around by the pool while sipping cool glasses of champagne during their summer holidays.
Are You Planning a Staycation This Summer and Want a Cool Dip? Register with Asaya Now to Receive 12 Day Passes Free (Active Members may purchase up to 12 additional day passes for only HK$1,080 each). Additionally, Asaya membership gives access to pool, fitness centre and wellness classes from Monday – Thursday; providing your family with healthy fun this summer!