Cover Here are the best beach hikes in Hong Kong (Photo: @jiannemsoriano/Instagram)

In need of a dip after hiking? Hong Kong has beach hiking trails that offer beautiful sea views that make for a refreshing cool-down

It might not be obvious but 70 per cent of Hong Kong is actually taken up by nature. From waterfall hikes, beginner hikes, high peaks to heritage trails, the city has a lot to offer for those looking to explore the great outdoors.

If you have a weakness for coastal views and the beach, you’re in luck because there are plenty of beach hikes in Hong Kong for you to explore. It’s also a great reward to dip your toes into the crystal clear waters or see the sunset while enjoying a refreshing glass of beer after a good day’s hike.

Here, we rounded up the best beach hikes in Hong Kong that you shouldn’t miss.

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1. Mui Wo to Pui O Beach

For those looking for a little adventure, the Mui Wo to Pui O beach hike is a no brainer. After a scenic ferry ride to Mui O (or a bus ride from Tung Chung), you’ll well on your way.

The hike can be quite challenging but the sweeping views are well worth the little effort. Along the way, you’ll see breathtaking sea views and eventually be rewarded with a swim (or relaxation) at Pui O beach.

Distance: 9km

Duration: 3 hours

How to get there: Take the ferry to Mui Wo from Central Ferry Pier 6. Alternatively, you can take a bus 3M from Tung Chung station. When you arrive at Mui Wo, the trail begins alongside the Mui Wo Ferry Pier Road that eventually takes you to the entrance of Lantau Trail on your right.

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2. Dragon’s Back to Big Wave Bay

If you’re a novice hiker, the Dragon’s Back to Big Wave Bay route is easily one of the most doable hikes. Dragon’s Back has always been a crowd favourite among hikers, thanks to its majestic views that combine lush greenery, the ocean and cityscapes.

In the end, you’ll arrive at Big Wave Bay, a popular surfing spot. Treat yourself to an amazing meal over at Shek O after.

Distance: 4km

Duration: 2 hours

How to get there: From Shau Kei Wan MTR Station, head over to the bus terminus and take bus 9 or the mini-bus with the Shek O sign. Get off at Tei Wan, Shek O Road. You won’t be able to miss the starting point as chances are, other hikers are already gathering there.

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3. Lamma Island Family Trail

Lamma Island is a perfect choice for a little weekend getaway. One of the things you can do is hike from Sok Kwu Wan to Hung Shin Yeh Beach. The hike is scenic and great for those looking for a less strenuous option.

Around the trail, you’ll be treated to coastal views, traditional fishing villages and even the historic Tin Hau Temple. It’s a mixed bag of sorts but at the end of it all, you can reward yourself with an indulging seafood meal.

You can also bring your furry friend along if you need some company. Also remember to keep an eye out for the infamous Snoopy Rock, which resembles the beloved cartoon character its named after.

Distance: 7km

Duration: 2.5 hours

How to get there: Take the ferry from Central Ferry Pier 6 to Sok Kwu Wan. From there, walk until you see a T-junction and then turn right. You can start following the signs for the Lamma Island Family Trail from there.

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4. Cheung Chau Island Hike

Cheung Chau is certainly a crowd favourite when one wants to go island hopping. With delicious seafood, sprawling and scenic views to boot, who could resist this little island gem?

Don’t let its 14-kilometre length bring you down. It’s a long hike but you’ll get to see incredible views of the ocean, amazing rock formations and pristine beaches along the way. Of course, you can also always choose to just hike until Cheung Chau Peak Road and explore the rest of the island after.

Distance: 14km

Duration: 5 hours

How to get there: Take the ferry from Central Ferry Pier 5. Once you arrive, walk along San Hing Praya Street until you see a junction.

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5. Tai Long Wan Hiking Trail

This hiking trail boasts some of the best scenic views in Hong Kong. While it can be long, the trail is generally suitable for hikers of all levels. Here, you can spot beautiful wildflowers and birds as well as a rural village on the way to Pak Tam Au.

The trail is actually a little more secluded than most so it’s a great choice for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the main city. The picturesque view of Ham Tin Wan and Sharp Peak will leave you in awe. It’s also a dog-friendly trail so your pup can join you for some bonding time.

Distance: 11km

Duration: 3 hours

How to get there: Take the MTR to Choi Hung Station and get off at exit C1. From there, take green mini-bus 1A to Sai Kung Town and then head over to the Sai Wan Pavillion.

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6. Lung Ha Wan Trail Hike

Short, easy, accessible and scenic—what more can you ask for? That’s Lung Ha Wan Country Trail. As it cuts through Clear Water Bay Country Park, you can see sprawling views of both Sai Kung and Clear Water Bay.

The trail also boasts lush green hills and crystal clear water as well as ancient rock carvings. The main trail is popular among novice hikers but if you’re up for a challenge, the returning trail is a great option—it’s long but well worth it for the island and cliff views.

Distance: 10km

Duration: 3 hours

How to get there: From Tseung Kwan O MTR Station, take green mini-bus 103. You can also take green mini-bus 16 from Po Lam MTR Station or bus 91 from Diamond MTR Station. Regardless of what bus you take, alight at the roundabout near Clear Water Bay Road and Tai Au Mun Road.

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7. Tung O Ancient Trail

If you’re up for a challenge, the Tung O Ancient Trail or Tung Chung to Tai O trail is perfect. It’s almost 15 kilometres long and takes about five hours to complete. Yet this trail has the best of both worlds—one minute you’re in the middle of a bustling metropolis, the next you’re at ground zero of the city’s cultural heritage.

You can also feel like you’ve travelled back in town as the trail used to be the main route that villagers take in the past, long before Tung Chung became the urban place it is today. While the scenic views are definitely one to look out for here, the opportunity to see old settlements is also an added bonus.

Distance: 14.5 km

Duration: 4.5 hours

How to get there: Take the MTR to Tung Chung Station and get off at exit A. From there, walk to the Tung Chung Fire Station and turn onto Yu Tung Road until you pass Yat Tung Estate. Turn right to a path and take the stairs down to Hau Wong Temple. Alternatively, you can take buses 39M, B6, E21A or E31 from Tu Tung Court, near the fire station and get off at Mun Tung Estate Mun Wo House and start your hike near the temple instead.

Read also: What to eat, drink and do in Tung Chung

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