Did you know that Hong Kong is actually 75% green?
Hong Kong is known globally as a financial and economic superpower, however many do not know this is only one side of the Special Administrative Region. One of the main reasons I loved Hong Kong when living there was that I was able to live the big city life but also escape to natural beaches and hikes. I decided to put a list together of... dare I say it, nature's hidden gems in Hong Kong. These are spots locals hit up for a day exploring, potentially not in your average Hong Kong guide book.
Sai Kung Rockpools and Waterfalls
Located in the Northern Territories, Sai Kung rockpools will likely be the main activity for your day! Comprised of four rock pools, you get your adrenalin pumping by cliff jumping or just relax by the side. Make sure you bring your snacks and refreshments with you so you have don't have to keep tracking back to the nearest shop!
It's pretty simple to get to:
Take the minibus 29R to Sai Wan Pavilion (or taxi)
30-minute hiking route to Sai Wan Village
take a left at the "Oriental" Restaurant
walk along the beach until you hit a footbridge
take the left path and after a short walk, you've arrived!
Fei Ngo Shan Country Park- Kowloon Peak
Kowloon peak, also known as Suicide Cliff, is the tallest mountain on Kowloon. Offering unobstructed views of Hong Kongs famous skyscrapers from above, this is one not to be missed (unless you aren't good with heights). Kelvin Yuen's photo won the National Geographic Photography Award in 2015 for his shot of the country park... I think it speaks for itself.
This hike is relatively steep and doesn't have a rail for safety so there are safety warning signs, of course, be careful! You'll need plenty of water and insect repellant...better to be safe than sorry. I would opt for a long sports legging and a short-sleeved top; protects your legs from any bushes and bugs on the ground.
When I hiked Kowloon Peak, it took us about 4 and a half hours, but totally worth it. If you wanted a slightly shorter option, you can take a taxi up to the end of the road (just out Kowloon Peak in your location drop off point), and follow signs for Kowloon peak. It'll take you about 830 metres elevation, out of the total 957 metres.
Peng Chau Island
Peng Chau is a 1 square kilometre island located off the north-eastern coast of Lantau Island. Famous for its seafood and temples, it's one of the best spots to escape the busy city life of HK Island.
The Tin Hau Temple, Lung Mo Temple, Seven Sisters Temple, and the Golden Flower Shrine are some of the most beautiful spots. Many of the buildings are of 19th and 20th century decent, some. of the architecture is just outstanding. Finger Hill is the place to see the best of the island and nearby islands. You'll be able to see Lamma Island, Disneyland, Discovery Bay, and Tsing Ma Bridge all within a 45-minute walk/hike. At the end of the hike is a small secluded beach.., perfect for a picnic. You could even rent a bike for the day from a local provider!
There's a number of local shops and restaurants to have a browse around- definitely try a seafood spot as most of the fish will be locally caught!
Sharp Island- Hap Mun Bay and Kiu Tsui Country Park
Take a small ferry from Sai Kung pier to Sharp Island for one of the less crowded beaches in Hong Kong. The ferry will cost about $50HKD each way.
Also known as Half Moon Bay Beach, the turquoise waters are not to be missed. Whilst this is quite far away from central, it's definitely worth the day out.
Global Unesco Geopark- Basalt Island
Hong Kong’s Giant’s Causeway. The Hexagonal rock formation is a part of Hong Kong's UNSECO Geopark, therefore there are no tourist facilities. I recommend taking an organised tour to see them up-close. Head to the centre in Sai Kung to start your tour.
Cape D’Aguilar
Cape D'Aguilar is located in the region of Shek-O, south-east Hong Kong. This peninsular is home to Hong kong first lighthouse and some amazing waves. There's also an abundance of small caves framing the coastline. Often an overlooked destination, Cape D'Aguilar is one not to be missed, you'll catch some of the most beautiful sunsets here.
Shing Mun Reservoir
Shing Mun is located in the New Territories, between Tsuen Wan and Sha Tin. Take the 82 minibus from Chung On Street in Tsuen Wan straight to the Reservoir, pretty simple. Alternatively, you could combine this trip to the reservoir with a hike. There are a few options; 'Shing Mun Reservoir Hike', 'Pineapple Dam Nature Trail', 'Maclehose Stage 7', or the 'Wilson Trail Stage 7' (the first two are the flattest). You may even see monkeys, exotic birds, and wild cows.
Although its purpose was to increase the fresh water supply to Kowloon, nature here is second to none. There's plenty of open space along the water to sit back and watch the world go by.
Ng Tung Chai Waterfall
Ng Tung Chai Waterfall is located in the New Territories, there's a series of four waterfalls that are just stunning. You can even swim in the water below each waterfall; just be careful of rocks and try to avoid standing right underneath the waterfall.
This hike will take approximately three hours, not including stops, so make sure you allowed more than enough time if you plan to stop around the waterfalls.
I would suggest using the 'All Trails' app to follow the route, as Google Maps, unfortunately, does not have the full route. This app will also enable you to download the route for offline use. The app combines the 'Man Tak Yuen' and 'Ng Tung Chai' waterfalls.
Click on the image to be taken to Walter's Instagram where you can see more of his HK pictures!
The final option is a difficult one as it can only be accessed with a special visitors pass... if you're lucky!
Although typically this island is closed to the public, I just couldn't miss this off my list of the top spots. Shek Kwu Chau is the home of a Treatment and Rehabilitation Centre through SARDA for substance users. The reason I wanted to mention this due to the fact that the island is beautiful. Unfortunately, or perhaps, fortunately, I have not yet had the chance to visit. I definitely can't wait to visit if I ever get the chance.
There's a roman bath, faux marble, statues and shrines. You'll need a visitors pass to visit here, for instance, if you wanted to conduct a scientific research project, or perhaps film a documentary. You must email SARDA explain the purpose of your proposed visit.
Check out some of the pictures for yourself:
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-Alicia
About The Author
Founder of Alicia's Travel Guide
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Image Sources:
Instagram: @tiinaoijala, @mirtobonan, @littlej1428, @yellowriver, @jessica_lkw, @de.aliyah, @dellwalter88
Kelvin Yuen: Kowloon Peak (here)
Shek Kwu Chau: Martin Williams (here), Nora Tam (here)
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