As the mercury rises, here’s your insider guide to Hong Kong’s best beaches, from the mainstays through to hidden gems, and why these sandy paradises deserve a spot on your weekend itinerary.
From the outside, it’s easy to think of Hong Kong as one big, crowded city – it is home to the most skyscrapers in the world after all. However, anyone who lives in the city knows that Hong Kong actually has a plethora of natural spaces to explore, including mountain hiking trails, estuaries and marine parks, and hidden beaches that come to life as the summer heat arrives.
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Whether you’re arriving by boat or chauffeur-driven Toyota Crown, here are some of our favourite slices of coastal paradise.
Tai Long Wan – Sai Kung’s Crown Jewel
Tai Long Wan, or “Big Wave Bay,”, located in San Kung’s furthest reaches, boasts some of Hong Kong’s most pristine white sand and crystal-clear waters. It’s a haven for surfers and beach lovers alike – yes, Hong Kong has surf breaks.
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The journey here, involving a picturesque hike if you’re not adding it to your junking itinerary (you’ll need to take the MTR to Diamond Hill, then a bus to San Kung Town, and a minibus to San Wan Pavilion before you head out on two feet), adds to the sense of adventure but the beach’s remote location ensures fewer crowds, making it ideal for a tranquil retreat.
Ham Tin Wan – The Secluded Sister
If Tai Long Wan is a bit too bustling for your taste, head over to Ham Tin Wan, also in Sai Kung and another of our favourite hidden beaches. You’ll reach this locale by following the same route to Tai Long Wan and then hiking over one last hill. But what you’ll find when you arrive is a beach that offers similar stunning scenery but with even more solitude.
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You’ll also be rewarded with a couple of local restaurants where the Blue Girl flows like water and where you can enjoy fresh seafood with an ocean view, adding a delightful culinary twist to your beach day.
Turtle Cove Beach – A Hidden Urban Oasis
Turtle Cove is a tiny, secluded beach that feels worlds away from the city despite its proximity. Nestled between lush greenery and gentle waves, you’ll reach this heavenly spot by taking the MTR to Chai Wan and then a cab to Redhill Peninsula, before descending the stairs.
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Turtle Cove is perfect for a peaceful afternoon of sunbathing and swimming and despite the massive housing areas nearby, remains a hidden gem cherished by locals for its privacy and beauty.
Tung Ping Chau – The Remote Marvel
Another beach located in Hong Kong’s most northwest corner, Tung Ping Chau is a geologist’s dream and is famous for its unique rock formations and fossil-rich shoreline. Its remoteness – you’ll need to take a ferry, which only runs on weekends and public holidays, from Ma Liu Shui Ferry Pier near University MTR station – means a fairly serene atmosphere, although crowds can fluctuate.
The island is also a designated UNESCO Global Geopark, making it a perfect spot for both relaxation and exploration.
Hap Mun Bay – The Family-Friendly Escape
Hap Mun Bay, also known as Half Moon Bay and another of our favourite hidden beaches, is a crescent-shaped beach that’s perfect for families. You’ll reach this bucolic coastline on Sharp Island via ferry from San Kung Pier, and upon arriving discover calm waters that are ideal for swimming. There are also basic facilities including picnic areas and changing rooms.
Despite being more accessible, it maintains a tranquil charm and is less crowded than more popular beaches like Repulse Bay and the ferry ride along makes for a great experience, especially for those unfamiliar with the region.
Bluff Island – The Ultimate Seclusion
For those with hidden beaches on the mind, Bluff Island (or Sha Tong Hau) offers complete seclusion. With its rugged cliffs, clear waters, and untouched beaches, it’s a paradise for snorkelling and exploring marine life.
The adventure of reaching it – you’ll need to rent a junk or join a boat tour from San Kung Pier – by boat only adds to its allure.
Upper Cheung Sha Beach
One of the city’s most beautiful and serene beaches, Upper Cheung Sha is located in Lantau Island, and is best known for its clean white sand, clear blue waters, and picturesque views of the surrounding mountains – oh, and for its resident herd of cows, which arrive to lounge on the sand each afternoon. The beach is less crowded compared to many other beaches in Hong Kong, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and enjoying nature.
To get to Upper Cheung Sha Beach, you can take a bus or taxi from Tung Chung or jump in a cab at Mui Wo for the 10 minute coastal drive. Alternatively, you can also hike to the beach from nearby trails for a more adventurous experience. When you arrive you’ll find an expansive beach and a host of small restaurants and bars steps from the sand.
Chung Hom Kok Beach
Another secluded strip of sand, Chung Hot Kok is located in the southern part of Hong Kong Island, making it as easy to get to as it is beautiful. Known for its tranquil atmosphere, clear waters (most of the time), and views of Round Island, this intimate little beach is a prized find for those looking to leave the crowds in their wake.
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To get to Chung Hom Kok Beach, you can take a bus or taxi to Chung Hom Kok Road in Stanley, and then walk down to the beach. Be sure to bring all that you need as there’s not much in the way of infrastructure here save for some bathrooms and a few coveted BBQ pits.
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