Diving in Miami's Venetian 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.

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.

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.

📍 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

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 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