As a territory surrounded by water, Hong Kong has a ton of islands to explore – more than 250, in fact. Many are uninhabited, while others could keep you busy for days. With so many to choose from, here’s our mix of six to pique a variety of interests.
Lantau
If size matters, then head to Lantau. Bigger than Hong Kong Island, it is home to the Tian Tan, aka Big Buddha (best reached on the Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car) and Disneyland. There are hikes and beaches aplenty, including the challenging Lantau and Sunset Peaks, and Cheung Sha Beach, popular for water sports and dotted with feet-in-the-sand restaurants and bars. Shoppers can pick up a bargain at Citygate Outlets, or for history and culture, don’t miss Tai O fishing village. When you’re ready to leave Hong Kong, the airport is here, too.
Lamma
Lamma retains the feel of a quintessential fishing village. Visitors will see plenty of fish farms, stalls selling dried fish and seafood, and at least three Tin Hau temples dedicated to the goddess of the sea. A major draw is the restaurants with tanks of live seafood, especially in the village of Sok Kwu Wan. Walk off your meal by following the trail to Yung Shue Wan, stopping for a swim in Hung Shing Yeh beach.
https://www.discoverhongkong.com/eng/explore/great-outdoor/lamma-island.html
Peng Chau
Charming and accessible Peng Chau packs a lot into a little island. Life moves at a slower pace here, with elderly residents seen exercising, playing mahjong or going about their daily routine. Highlights include an old leather factory that’s covered in street art, Lung Mo Temple, and Finger Hill, the highest point on Peng Chau. Ferries depart from Central Pier 6.
https://www.discoverhongkong.com/eng/explore/great-outdoor/wellness/peng-chau.html
Tung Lung Chau
Rock climbers know that one of the best places to indulge their passion is Tung Lung Chau, thanks to its rugged walls and cliff faces that test varying climbing abilities. Its natural beauty makes it popular for hiking and camping too, while old rock carvings and Tung Lung Fort are human-made attractions. Ferries depart from Sam Ka Tsue pier in Yau Tong.
Yim Tin Tsai
Catholicism meets Hakka culture at Yim Tin Tsai, a centuries-old village that was abandoned and is slowly being brought back to life. The name reflects the island’s history as a salt-farming centre, and the old salt pans have been revitalised and are working again. St Joseph’s Chapel, built in 1890, has been restored, and is testament to how the local Hakka population was converted to Catholicism. The island can be reached by boat from Sai Kung town.
Po Toi
Just a short sail from Hong Kong Island is Po Toi, a small settlement that functions without proper running water or electricity. A looping path takes you to sights such as the lighthouse, heritage-listed Bronze Age carvings, and a haunted house. But perhaps the best reason to go there is for no-frills Ming Kee Restaurant, which serves delicious seafood at fair prices.
https://www.discoverhongkong.com/eng/explore/great-outdoor/wellness/po-toi-island.html
