TL;DR
The Pool Landscape
Phnom Penh isn't short on pools - it's short on *accessible* pools. Most are attached to hotels, condos, or private clubs. The good news: many welcome day visitors, either through direct day passes or food/drink minimums.
Here's how to get your swim on without booking a hotel room.
Luxury Hotel Pools
These are the premier swimming experiences in Phnom Penh. Expect pristine facilities, poolside service, and prices to match.
Rosewood Phnom Penh
The most exclusive pool in the city.
What you get:
- Stunning infinity-edge on high floor
- Best views in Phnom Penh
- Access typically through spa bookings or F&B minimums
Best for: Special occasions, impressing visitors, Instagram moments.
Raffles Hotel Le Royal
Colonial elegance meets poolside luxury.
What you get:
- Two pools set in manicured gardens
- Slice of colonial-era luxury
- Access bundled with spa treatments
Pricing:
Best for: History buffs, those seeking old-world charm.
Sofitel Phokeethra
Best value luxury pool access.
What you get:
- Largest hotel pool in Phnom Penh
- Full gym access included
- Tennis courts
- Resort grounds
Pricing:
Best for: All-day pool + gym sessions, families, lap swimmers who want comfort.
Pro tip: Genuine value - you're getting a full day of resort facilities, not just a quick dip.
Hyatt Regency
Central location, reliable quality.
What you get:
- Rooftop pool with city views
- Day access via spa or F&B spending
Pricing:
Best for: CBD visitors, business travelers extending their day.
Boutique Hotel Pools
These smaller properties often offer pool access with lower minimums - sometimes just the cost of lunch and drinks.
Plantation Urban Resort & Spa
Hidden garden oasis.
What you get:
- Peaceful escape from the city
- Colonial-style property with restaurant and bar
- Popular with expats for weekend poolside lunches
Pricing:
Best for: Relaxed afternoons, couples, intimate settings.
Blue Lime
Budget-friendly boutique.
What you get:
- Most accessible boutique pool
- A drink or two usually grants access
- Clean and convenient
Pricing:
Best for: Budget travelers, quick refreshing dips.
Aquarius Hotel & Urban Resort
Modern pool, reasonable access.
What you get:
- More modern aesthetic than colonial boutiques
- Well-maintained pool area
- Food and drink service
Pricing:
Best for: Modern vibes, BKK1 visitors.
Lap Swimming
For serious swimmers, pool length matters. Here are your options for actual training.
Olympic Stadium Pool
The only 50-meter pool in Phnom Penh.
What you get:
- Olympic-size pool allows proper lap swimming
- Only option for serious training
- Outdoor, no air conditioning
- Basic changing facilities
- Local atmosphere
Pricing:
Best for: Competitive swimmers, triathletes, anyone needing 50m lanes.
Water quality varies. Can get crowded at peak times.
Best Times for Olympic Stadium
- • Early morning (5:30-7 AM): Serious swimmers, cooler temperatures
- • Mid-morning (9-11 AM): Quieter period
- • Avoid: Afternoons (hot), weekends (crowded)
Sofitel Sports Club
Best comfortable lap swimming.
What you get:
- Large enough for decent lap swimming
- Air-conditioned comfort
- Full resort amenities
Pricing:
Best for: Lap swimmers who can't handle the heat at Olympic Stadium.
The Place Gym
Lap swimming with full gym membership.
What you get:
- Pools at all three locations
- Adequate for fitness swimming as part of workout routine
Pricing:
Best for: Those who want pool + gym combo.
Hotel Day Pass Comparison
| Venue | Day Pass | Pool Size | AC Area | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sofitel Sports Club | $18-25 | Largest | Yes | Best value |
| Rosewood | Inquire | Medium | Yes | Luxury experience |
| Raffles | ~$30-50 | Medium | Yes | Colonial charm |
| Hyatt | $20-30 | Medium | Yes | CBD location |
| Plantation | $10-15 min | Small | Partial | Garden escape |
| Blue Lime | $5-10 | Small | No | Budget option |
| Olympic Stadium | $5 | 50m Olympic | No | Lap swimming |
Practical Tips
Best Times to Visit
- • Weekdays: Less crowded at all venues
- • Morning (before 10 AM): Cooler, especially for Olympic Stadium
- • Avoid: Saturday/Sunday afternoons at boutique hotels (busiest)
What to Bring
- • Swimsuit (obvious, but some travelers forget)
- • Sunscreen (reef-safe appreciated)
- • Flip-flops for poolside
- • Cash for smaller venues
- • Towel (not always provided at budget options)