Lamma Island is another instant favourite for those looking for a weekend getaway and change of pace. The island is the third-largest island in Hong Kong and has two main villages for you to explore, each with its own unique charm. Yung Shue Wan boasts quirky cafes, craft stores and quirky boutiques while Sok Kwu Wan is filled with seafood restaurants. A scenic hiking trail connects the two with a variety of hidden gems waiting to be discovered.

How to get there: Take the ferry from Central Pier 4

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Peng Chau is mostly overlooked compared to its larger cousins but this quaint island has plenty to offer. While it has natural wonders to boast, the charm of Peng Chau is in its peacefulness, close-knit community and family-run restaurants. Less crowded than other bigger islands in Hong Kong, Peng Chau is the perfect place for creatives and hipsters alike—just look at the traces of its past still since in the long-abandoned matchstick factory, Instagrammable leather factory and old cinema.

How to get there: Take the ferry from Central Pier 6

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Moving away from the islands to a place a little closer to the city: Stanley. The Southside’s prized coastal town is bustling with stunning promenades and lively street markets. You’ll also be spoiled for choice in the trendy restaurants and entertaining activities to do whether it's a visit to Stanley Main Beach, Murray House or Stanley Plaza.

How to get there: Take buses 6, 6A, 6X, 66 or 260 from Exchange Square bus terminal in Central. Alternatively, you can also take the minibus 16M from Chai Wan station via exit C.

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Known for its various sports activities and as a foodie paradise, Sai Kung isn’t to be missed for a day trip. This seaside village has plenty of hipster cafes, Michelin-starred restaurants and even bars. But there’s nothing like the incredible view from the waterfront promenade—it’s a haven for photographers. Those into sports can opt for scuba diving and kayaking. Otherwise, boat tours are available to explore the village and surrounding offshore islands.

How to get there: Take the MTR to Choi Hung Station and then change to minibus 1A or bus 92. Alternatively, you can also take bus 92 from Diamond Hill Station.

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Tai O, a former fishing and trading post is undeniable one of Hong Kong’s secluded gems and makes for a perfect day trip. This seaside village has become a vibrant community famed for its unique culture, gorgeous scenery and iconic traditional stilt houses that are uniquely Hong Kong. Often dubbed as a “Venice of Hong Kong”, the quaint fishing village is a great escape from the concrete blocks and skyscraper-filled metropolis.

How to get there: Take the ferry from Central Pier 6 to Mui O, then take bus 1 to Tai O. You can also take the MTR to Tung Chung Station and then bus 11 from the town centre.

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Looking to do something more adventurous for your day trip? Consider heading to Yim Tin Tsai. This island, once home to salt farms, is now one of Hong Kong’s few remaining traditional villages. Reminders of the past are still prevalent on the island including the St Joseph's Chapel and former Ching Po School. Now, the island is filled with art installations amidst the abandoned houses. It’s the perfect place for adventure seekers and explorers.

How to get there: Take the Kaito ferry from Sai Kung Public Pier, which is only available during weekends and public holidays.

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Tai Mei Tuk is an ideal day trip for families, friends and couples as you’re likely to enjoy a weekend of cycling, barbecuing, fishing and boating. Known for its cycling attractions, you simply cannot miss hopping on your bike and just exploring the area. Those more into the wild, you can also take one of Tai Mei Tuk’s mainly hiking routes including the Pat Sing Leung trail or the picturesque Bride’s Pool Nature Trail. Before leaving Tai Mei Tuk, pay a visit to the Tsz Shan Monastery and see the 76-metre-tall Guanyin statue.

How to get there: Take the MTR to Tai Po Market Station. From there, take minibus 20C or bus 75K.

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Tap Mun is also known as Grass Island and true to its name, it has plenty of greenery and hillocks that make it a great camping and kite-flying spot. But its most attractive feat is the undisturbed views of the mountains and ocean. It’s a great place to get in touch with nature. If you’re looking for just a day to unwind, Tap Mun is also a great picnic spot—away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

How to get there: Take bus 94 from Sai Kung Bus Terminal to Wong Shek Pier. From there, take the Kaito ferry which runs every hour. Alternatively, you can also take the ferry from Ma Liu Shiu Ferry Pier.

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If you don’t want to go out of your way and still want to be close to the city, then the classic day out is in Lantau Island. It starts from Tung Chung MTR station and then, taking the cable car to the Big Buddha and from there, exploring the surrounding places such as the Ngong Ping Village, Wisdom Path, the Tung Chung Fort or the Po Lin Monastery. Exploring Lantau is definitely for the history culture buffs.

How to get there: Take the MTR to Tung Chung Station and then the cable car to reach the Big Buddha. Alternatively, you can also take the ferry from Central Pier to Mui Wo and then bus 2 from the Mui Wo Ferry Pier.

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