Diving in Miami's Venetian Pool

Published on April 17, 2024 at 8:00 am

The Coral Gables district is undoubtedly one of the most magnificent in the city. Its special feature, the municipal swimming pool, is well worth a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle of the city. Built in 1923, this is not an amusement park but a public spring-water swimming pool, famous for its Venetian decor. The pool's originality lies in its history, its tropical plants, its waterfall cascading from the top of a coral cliff, its graceful little bridge and its colourful mooring posts, just like those found in Venice. The pool is emptied and refilled with fresh water every day during the summer season. Thanks to unique technology, the water in the pool remains crystal-clear and turquoise. Aside from the pool, a visit to Coral Gables is complete with its beach, fountains, private homes and gardens, restaurants, museums and theatres on the Miracle Mile.

The magnificent Venetian Pool in Coral Gables

Summary

From stone quarry to heavenly pool
Practical info
What can you visit in Coral Gables, near the Venetian Pool?

From stone quarry to heavenly pool

It was hard to believe that an old, abandoned limestone quarry was going to be converted into a public swimming pool. In the early 1920s, property developer George Merrick imagined one of the most magnificent public swimming pools in the world. Under the supervision of architect Phineas Paist, the pool was designed by artist Denman Fink.

the Venetian Pool was designed by Phineas Paist with Denman Fink

Opened in 1924, the Venetian Pool (in honour of the Italian city) immortalised the architectural style of the Mediterranean revival in the city of Miami. With its loggias, porticoes, bridge and two watchtowers, the pool immediately began to attract visitors to Coral Gables. Venetian Pool is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Aerial view of the Coral Gables neighborhood.

This beautiful oasis with Venetian accents is fed by an underground aquifer. Children and adults alike can enjoy the waterfalls, rock-cut caves and natural pool containing over 3,100 cubic metres of fresh water.

Practical info

📍 Address

Venetian Pool, 2701 De Soto Boulevard Coral Gables, FL 33134
Located a 25-minute drive from Miami Beach Coral Gables and the Ventian Pool are easily accessible with the Hop on Hop off bus

⏰ Opening hours

Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 4.30pm
Closed on Mondays and during December and January

👛 Prices

From 6 September to 27 November: 16 dollars or 14.95 euros (11 dollars or 10.30 euros for children aged 3 to 12)
The rest of the year: 21 dollars or 19.60 euros (16 dollars or 14.95 euros for children aged 3 to 12)

👉 Contact

vpinfo@coralgables.com
305-460-5306

What can you visit in Coral Gables, near the Venetian Pool?

After a dip in the pool, it's time to explore Soto Boulevard, where you can admire beautiful villas and mansions hidden in tropical vegetation. Far from being glitzy, the Miracle Mile is surprisingly full of Mediterranean architecture and old houses set in cathedrals of greenery. After a quick stroll along this thoroughfare, you can admire the legendary Biltmore luxury hotel and its beautiful gardens. A drink in its poolside bar is a must.

The luxurious Biltmore Hotel in Miami, built in 1925

The hotel's charm lies in its immense salons, coffered ceilings, gleaming floors, murals, stucco work, mosaics, colonnades and fountain... the décor seems to be frozen in the 1930s. This oasis has played host to many great names, including the Duke and Duchess of Windsor, Lady Diana, Frank Sinatra, several presidents including Franklin D. Roosevelt, Bill Clinton and Barack Obama, and the controversial Al Capone.

Where to stay

Booking.com

Hyatt Regency Coral Gables Hotel

Charming 4-star hotel around ten kilometres from the city centre. It features an outdoor swimming pool and rooms with terrace or balcony.

9.4 Fabulous

From

£262 / night

Book

by Val HANCOCK | Editor

Val Hancock is an editor, writer and researcher. While she is currently based in Paris, she previously lived in London and Brussels. She holds a Masters degree in International Relations from King’s College London.

Need a hand? take a look at our guide

Miami