Island hopping adventures in HK

Hong Kong is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, with three-quarters of its 1,104 square kilometers of land remaining rural and almost untouched. It is also home to approximately 230 islands of different sizes. If you are looking for weekend island hopping adventures near Shenzhen, here are some options.

Tap Mun Island

Unlike Hong Kong’s better-known islands such as Shek O, Lamma Island and Cheung Chau Island, Tap Mun Island remains relatively undiscovered by most visitors. This unspoilt gem, untouched by tourism development, offers a pristine landscape with its rugged mountains, forests, rocky beaches, calm seas and the sight of roaming herds of cows and wild boar, showcasing a raw and untamed natural beauty.

Tap Mun offers a breathtaking view of the sea. File photos

Tap Mun is so small that it only takes about two hours to circumnavigate the southern part of the island. The island has a large open lawn with a breathtaking panoramic view of the sea. Chilling on the grass, under the blue sky and a gentle coastal breezes, is a simple pleasure that Tap Mun offers its guests.

Tap Mun offers camping sites for travelers to rest.

Take a stroll along the island’s coastal paths, where seats are conveniently placed for visitors to rest and admire the ocean views, while watching cows amble through the grass, leisurely munching on the green landscape.

There is no accommodation on the island, but camping at designated sites, complete with public facilities such as toilets and showers, is a viable overnight option. Witnessing the spectacular sunrise in Tap Mun promises to be a memorable experience for those who choose to spend the night.

A view of Tap Mun Pier.

How to get there: Take Hong Kong MTR East Rail Line to University Station, exit at B and walk for 15 minutes to Ma Liu Shui Pier, from where you can take a ferry to Tap Mun. A one-way trip takes approximately 90 minutes and costs HK$20 per person.

Stanley Peninsula

Technically, Stanley isn’t an island, but the coastal town on the Stanley Peninsula always appears on many lists of must-visit destinations among Hong Kong islands.

Often referred to as Hong Kong’s equivalent of the French Riviera, Stanley’s vibrant buildings and community of laid-back locals make it an ideal place for a holiday or romantic getaway.

A street scene at Stanley.

One of Stanley’s most notable buildings is the century-old Victorian-style Murray House. It served as the headquarters of the British Forces Overseas Hong Kong after they moved from Central to Stanley in 1999.

Murray House in Stanley.

When visiting Stanley, don’t miss the breathtaking ocean views from the Blake Pier and the Stanley Promenade. Soak up the local culture by unwinding in a tranquil setting, enjoying the gentle sea breeze, and engaging in casual conversation over a cup of coffee, just as the locals of Stanley do.

A street scene at Stanley.

How to get there: Take the MTR to Admiralty, exit through C1, and take bus No. 6/6X or 260 to Stanley Plaza; alternatively, take the MTR to Causeway Bay, exit from F2 and take bus No. 40/40X to Stanley Plaza.

Sai Kung

Often referred to as the charming backyard garden of Hong Kong, Sai Kung is known as a quaint fishing village with a leisurely pace of life. Surrounded by numerous smaller islands, it is the ideal setting for a day of island hopping adventure.

Just a short 15-minute ferry journey from the New Public Pier in Sai Kung is Half Moon Bay. Here, the crystal clear waters shimmer like a precious blue diamond, inviting you to dive in for a refreshing swim or snorkeling session, perfect for escaping the summer heat.

Visitors enjoy the beach and sea at Sai Kung.

The fascinating Sharp Land, known for its distinctive geological features, can be reached from Half Moon Bay via a convenient 2-kilometer hiking trail. These include the Pineapple Bun Rocks, which resemble the popular Hong Kong sweet bun with a golden, crispy crust reminiscent of a pineapple. There is a natural sand and rock causeway on the island called Angel’s Path, which is only visible at low tide. There is a direct ferry service from Sharp Island back to Sai Kung, with the last ferry leaving at 6:30 p.m.

It’s a good idea to bring your own food and water from Sai Kung, as there are no restaurants or shops on the islands, although parasols can be hired.

Check the Hong Kong Observatory website for tidal updates to avoid being stranded by rising waters. Carrying cash is essential for your trip.

How to get there: Take the MTR Kwun Tong Line to Choi Hung Station, exit at C2 and take bus No. 1A to Sai Kung New Public Pier; alternatively, take the East Rail Line to Sha Tin Station and change to Bus No. 299X to Sai Kung Terminus.

The ferry from Sai Kung to Sharp Island costs HK$30 per person for a 20-minute ride, while a scenic 20-minute trip to Half Moon Bay costs HK$40 per person.