Crystal Lagoon at San Alfonso Mar Resort: World's Largest Pool

(photos: Crystal Lagoons Corp)

Begs the question why build the world's larges pool when the world's largest ocean is just steps away? The Crystal Lagoon at the San Alfonso del Mar resort on the Pacific Coast in the city of Algarrobo, Chile holds the Guinness record as the world's largest outdoor pool. It stretches more than half a mile, equivalent to 20 Olympic-size swimming pools, and is filled with 66 million gallons of clear seawater.

Opened in 2006, construction took nearly five years and cost $1.2 billion. At its deepest, the pool also holds the world record at 115 feet to the bottom and covers 20 acres. Heated to 26 degrees celsius, it costs about $3 million annually to upkeep.

A computer-controlled suction and filtration system is used to pull water from the ocean and pump it into the pool. The nearly crystal clear lagoon provides ideal conditions for bathing and practicing sports with its consistent quality of water. That predictability and its beautiful look makes it popular despite being located next to the ocean.

Visit crystal-lagoons.com for more information about the Crystal Lagoons Corporation. Visit sanalfonso.cl for more information about the San Alfonso Del Mar resort.

(photos: Crystal Lagoons Corp)