Everything you need to know about visiting Venetian Pool in Coral Gables (2701 de Soto Blvd, Coral Gables).
Possibly the most beautiful swimming pool in the world, even if it is jammed on hot days. It combines an impossibly idyllic setting (tropical foliage, waterfalls, Italian architectural touches) with freshwater, replenished nightly in summer months from a subterranean aquifer. It's got a cafe that sells pizza by the slice, french fries, hot dogs and ice cream, plus other quick bites.
The history of Venetian Pool
Once a coral rock quarry, it was built in the 1920s as an exotic locale for swimming and entertainment; back in the day, there were gondolas and orchestras; movie stars such as Esther Williams and Johnny Weissmuller of Tarzan fame serenaded poolside dancers. These days you might catch the filming of aqua aerobics classes for television.
When to go
Everyone wants a piece of the pool. Luckily for Joe Public, it's open to the masses seven days a week, but it is perhaps best enjoyed when not overrun with toddlers and boom-box blasts (avoid weekends). Once the pool is at capacity, admissions will cease to sell tickets. Rates are one-third cheaper for residents of Coral Gables than they are for the general public. Currently, admission for adults who reside in Coral Gables is $5.75 whereas nonresidents are required to shell out $20 to get in. Annual members are available for families and singles as well.
Great for kids
One of Coral Gables most famous landmarks features everything from towers and waterfalls to cave-like grottos and its signature bridge. Plus, germaphobes can rest easy: the 820,000-gallon pool is fed with spring water from an underground aquifer…and drained and refilled daily. And parents, you'll always spot more than one lifeguard on duty watching your kiddos (though kids under the age of three are not permitted in the facility).
Our Miami editorial team is constantly updating and reviewing the best attractions, activities and venues across the city, so that you're always in the know, with the best of Miami at your fingertips. Venetian Pool was most recently updated with new tips on June 30, 2017.