Setia SPICE Aquatic Centre

Dive into a world of water fun and sports in the heart of Penang state. The SPICE Aquatic Centre (full name — Setia SPICE Aquatic Centre) is a modern indoor complex in George Town, which is rightfully considered one of the finest sporting facilities that Malaysia is proud of.

SPICE Aquatic Centre. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The center's main pride is the 50-meter 10-lane Olympic pool filled with saltwater, which makes swimming not only pleasant but also beneficial. For thrill-seekers, there is a dedicated diving pool with a platform, while the youngest guests can enjoy the vibrant Splash Pool zone with waterfalls and spiral slides.

In addition to water activities, the complex offers a full range of sports infrastructure, from squash courts to a modern fitness center. Interestingly, the facility runs on solar power thanks to a massive rooftop panel system, highlighting its status as an eco-friendly and innovative destination for the whole family.

To clarify visiting details or book sports facilities, you can use the official communication channels. The center staff are always ready to help with information regarding current rates and court availability.

Start your visit with a swim in the professional Olympic pool — the lack of chlorine smell and the spaciousness make your workout exceptionally comfortable. If you’re here with family, head to the children's town, which features the famous rocket-shaped spiral slide and giant water buckets that will delight the little ones.

For those who prefer to stay "dry," the center offers excellent indoor sports opportunities. You can rent a badminton court, play squash, or try your hand at the increasingly popular pickleball. The complex also features a dance studio and a spacious gym with modern equipment.

A pleasant addition is a visit to the sauna to relax muscles after exercise or resting in the comfortable lounge areas. Don't forget to stop by the local cafe for a snack, and keep the strict dress code in mind: proper swimwear is mandatory for water access, ensuring perfect cleanliness and hygiene for all visitors.

Located in the Bayan Lepas area, this aquatic complex is just a 5–10 minute drive from Penang International Airport. The fastest and most comfortable way to get here from the city center is by using Grab or a regular taxi, which is relatively inexpensive.

For those who prefer public transport, buses heading towards Bayan Lepas are a good option. You should get off at stops along Jalan Tun Dr Awang, followed by a short 10-minute walk that will lead you straight to the center's doors. If you plan to travel by rental car, there is a spacious and free parking lot on the premises.

The journey from the historic center by car usually takes about 15–20 minutes via the E36 highway. Thanks to its proximity to a major convention center and hotels, the SPICE Aquatic Centre is an ideal spot for active recreation, easily accessible from any part of the island.

The history of this place began long before its modern appearance. Previously, the facility was known as the PISA Aquatic Centre and was part of the Penang International Sports Arena. In the early 2000s, it hosted significant events such as the Sukma Games and SEA Games, becoming a hub for the region's sporting life.

However, over time, the complex required serious changes. In 2016, after a massive renovation costing approximately 16 million ringgits, the center opened under its updated brand. Today, it serves as a key training base for Penang's professional athletes while maintaining its status as an accessible public space.

Special attention during the renovation was paid to the environment. One of the state's largest photovoltaic systems was installed on the roof, generating a vast amount of energy annually. Thanks to this, the center received the Green Building Index certificate, becoming an example of sustainable urban infrastructure development.

To fully enjoy all the center's facilities, it is recommended to set aside 3 to 5 hours for your visit. This time is enough to swim in the main pool, relax in the sauna, and let the children play to their heart's content on the water slides.

If you plan to combine water activities with a workout in the gym or a game of badminton, it is better to plan for half a day. Also, factor in time for changing and relaxing in the lounge area or local cafe after your active sessions.

The aquatic center is open to visitors daily, making it easy to fit sports activities or family vacations into any schedule. The doors of the complex are open from early morning until late evening.

Opening hours from Monday to Sunday: 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM. Regardless of the day of the week, you can count on a full range of services throughout this time.

A visit to the aquatic center can be easily combined with exploring other interesting locations in the southern part of the island. The surrounding area offers many options for family leisure and entertainment, allowing you to create a full-day itinerary.