The sweltering summer heat in Hong Kong can make you want to hide indoors, or even take a cold shower. But there’s nothing better than a cool, refreshing swim – especially when you’re surrounded by some of the city’s most stunning scenery. Check out the best hongkong pools to freshen up while soaking up some of the best views in town.

The Asaya pool at Rosewood Hong Kong is one of the city’s most sought-after swimming spots because of its spectacular, unobstructed views over Victoria Harbour. This outdoor pool is long enough to do laps for exercise, or you can just lounge around the calming waters with a cocktail and bar chow while you watch the sun sink into the horizon. The pool is open to non-hotel guests and offers some of the best poolside lounging in town.

At the Four Seasons Hong Kong, you can luxuriate all year-round in the stunning Ocean-Edge pool. This iconic pool is the perfect spot to do some morning laps, or to just hang out and drink cocktails in the afternoon. The pool is heated for year-round use, and the pool deck is lined with cabanas, making it a luxurious retreat from the busy streets below. The pool also features underwater speakers that play music to keep swimmers entertained while they swim.

Hammer Hill Public Pool is one of the most popular destinations for families in Hong Kong. This destination public pool has a slew of waterslides, water shooters, and fountains to enjoy, and also has an outdoor kid lagoon for the younger ones to splash around in.

Visiting this pool is an excellent way to take a break from the hectic city life, and it is also a great place for kids to burn off some energy in a safe, family-friendly environment. The pool is very affordable to enter, and there are three session per day: 6:30am-12:00, 1:00-6:00, and 7:00-10:00pm. Lockers are available, and you can either insert a HK$5 coin (refundable) or use your own padlock to secure your belongings.

If you’re moving to Hong Kong with kids, consider checking out the swimming pool facilities in your new neighbourhood before you move in. Many new developments with multiple towers have a 50m pool, while smaller single-tower buildings often only feature a small outdoor pool – too short for laps but still a fun place to meet other children and burn off some energy.

Nearly half of Hong Kong’s public pools may close lanes or facilities reserved for swimming instruction this summer, according to the city’s union. The Recreation and Sports Professionals General Union said 20 out of the city’s 45 public pools have contacted swimming training institutions to say they would not be able to operate all their facilities due to a staff shortage. This will affect both swimmers and the city’s sporting development, they warned.