Summary
2701 De Soto Blvd, Coral Gables, FL 33134, USA
Phone +1 305-460-5306
You may forget you’re in Florida while swimming in the crystal clear, blue-green waters of the Venetian Pool. The wrought iron balconies, stucco buildings, and terra cotta roofs surrounding this oasis will transport you to a faraway Mediterranean land even though you’re just 20 minutes outside of Miami proper. The Coral Gables’ Venetian Pool has become somewhat of a staple for visitors to the area. Not only is it a great place to relax, but it also boasts a rich history. The Venetian Pool is the only swimming pool on the National Register of Historic Places and has been serving the City of Coral Gables and many tourists since 1924.
History
Originally opened as the “Venetian Casino” back in 1924, the pool was created from an empty rock quarry that was used to harvest limestone for building up the brand new city of Coral Gables. Real estate developer George Merrick, who funded the entire project, envisioned a community pool in the Mediterranean Revival style—a popular aesthetic at the time, especially in Coral Gables. When it first opened, the pool was a popular destination for Hollywood celebrities and the affluent.
In its early days, the pool was emptied often for concerts, with the orchestra set up inside the empty pool for amazing acoustics. Today, the pool is still emptied regularly, predominantly for cleaning and maintenance purposes.
What to Do There
As you enter the Venetian Pool, you’ll find photographs illustrating its long and elaborate history, so take a moment to appreciate these as you head toward the pool.
Once inside, the Venetian Pool is a single expansive space. The water is refreshingly cool as it is pumped daily from artesian wells and an aquifer. This is why the pool requires very little chlorine, making the water gentle on the eyes.
Swimmers can enjoy one of the two grottos or swim beneath the waterfall. There’s also a short walking bridge that leads to a small island where visitors can relax in the sun or jump into the water. A separate kiddie pool and a sandy beach area are available for family-friendly fun.
Facilities
The pool offers essential amenities typical of public facilities; however, it is advisable to bring your own towels. The available chairs tend to fill up quickly. The bathrooms are maintained relatively well, but wearing shoes is recommended.
Lockers for rent are available, and a café stand onsite serves light snacks, lunches, hot dogs, hamburgers, and pizza. Outside food is allowed, though alcohol and coolers are not permitted. A small picnic area is also present for dining convenience.
Visiting Information
Check the hours of operation and days of the week the pool is open, as they vary seasonally. For example, in 2019, it was open from February through September 8. During the low season, the pool operates Tuesday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. In summertime, the pool also opens on Mondays. To avoid disappointment, verify the schedule before visiting, as capacity is limited and fills up quickly.
Please note the following rules that all guests must follow:
- Children under 3 are not allowed, and for children under 38”, proof of age is required. If traveling with toddlers, consider alternative options, as the low chlorine use means that any accident would necessitate draining and refilling the entire pool.
- Smoking, glass, alcohol, and coolers are strictly prohibited, along with outside food deliveries.
- Guests are permitted to come and go as needed; however, retain your receipt for re-entry.
Admission for Coral Gables residents is $6 for adults and $5 for children year-round. During peak season, from Memorial Day through Labor Day, non-resident pricing increases to $20 for adults and $15 for kids. The rest of the year, the prices are $15 for adults and $10 for kids. Seasonal and annual memberships are also available.
How to Get There
The pool is located at 2701 De Soto Boulevard, Coral Gables, Florida 33134. From Miami, take US-1 South until you reach SW 40th St/Bird Rd. After driving about a mile and a half, make a right onto Granada Blvd. At the traffic circle, take the second exit onto De Soto Blvd, and the pool will be just up the street on your right.
Nearby Attractions
While the Venetian Pool Café offers food options, consider exploring Downtown Coral Gables, known as the Miracle Mile. This vibrant outdoor shopping area is filled with an array of restaurants, boutiques, galleries, and shops.
Another excellent opportunity for an afternoon visit is the Coral Gables Museum, which highlights the colorful history of the city. Coral Gables is recognized as one of the first planned communities in the U.S., established during the Florida land boom of the 1920s.
Finally, the Coral Gables Art and Cinema is an ideal place for evening entertainment. The venue features a diverse selection of independent films, documentaries, and international cinema, boasting the status of the highest-grossing art house cinema in South Florida since its opening in 2010.
