The largest swimming pool in the world is the San Alfonso del Mar Seawater Pool in Algarrobo, Chile. This massive pool is filled with seawater and stretches across a vast coastal lagoon, offering a unique aquatic experience in an extraordinary setting.
Located beside the Pacific Ocean, this record-holding pool combines engineering innovation with resort style luxury. It draws visitors interested in size, water quality, and the surrounding landscape of sand and sea.
Record Size and Dimensions
Scale and Capacity
The pool holds approximately 250 million liters of water and covers an area of about 8 hectares. Its length extends over 1,013 meters, making it longer many city blocks.
| Metric | Value | Comparison Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Surface area | 8 hectares | Roughly 11 standard football fields |
| Length | 1,013 meters | Longer than the Eiffel Tower is tall laid end to end |
| Water volume | 250 million liters | Equivalent to about 100 Olympic pools |
| Maximum depth | 3.5 meters | Suitable for recreational swimming and lounging |
Location and Setting
Coastal Environment
San Alfonso del Mar is a private resort community on Chile’s central coast, about 100 kilometers west of Santiago. The pool occupies a coastal lagoon separated from the Pacific Ocean by a sandbar, providing calm, clear water.
Surrounded by beaches, dunes, and dry coastal vegetation, the site emphasizes outdoor recreation and relaxation. The nearby town of Algarrobo serves as a base for visitors needing services and accommodations beyond the resort.
Design and Engineering
Seawater and Filtration Technology
Engineers pump seawater directly from the Pacific into the pool, where it is continuously circulated and purified. Advanced filtration and a specialized computer system maintain water clarity and quality despite the large volume.
The design minimizes wave action and maintains a mild temperature by blending seawater with controlled fresh water inputs. This approach allows comfortable swimming conditions even in an exposed coastal location.
Tourism and Visitor Experience
Activities and Resort Amenities
Guests can swim in the pool, practice kayaking, and enjoy paddleboarding along its vast surface. The surrounding resort offers walking paths, viewing areas, and opportunities to photograph the dramatic coastline.
Travelers often combine a visit to the pool with nearby vineyards, coastal hikes, and seafood restaurants. The combination of natural scenery and the pool’s scale makes the site appealing for both relaxation and sightseeing.
FAQ
Where exactly is the largest swimming pool located?
It is located at the San Alfonso del Mar resort in Algarrobo, Valparaíso Region, Chile, on the Pacific coast.
How does the pool maintain its water quality?
The pool uses continuous filtration and a computer-controlled system to treat and circulate the seawater, ensuring clarity and hygiene.
Can visitors swim in the pool year round?
Yes, swimming is generally available year round, with water and air temperatures remaining comfortable for most visitors.
What makes this pool larger than other record holding pools?
Its combination of surface area, water volume, and length exceeds other large pools, supported by verified measurements and public records.
Planning a Visit
- Check resort opening hours and entry requirements before traveling
- Book accommodations early, especially during Chilean holiday periods
- Prepare sun protection, as UV exposure can be strong near the coast
- Consider combining the visit with nearby nature and cultural attractions
- Use official transport or parking options to streamline arrival
