Looking to soak up some sunshine and have a fun day out? This guide to Hong Kong day trips will guarantee you an awesome day
With plenty of public holidays, we’re excited to plan different short trips from Hong Kong. And if we’re short on cash? It can’t hurt to plan a few fun Hong Kong day trips with friends or family. For when you’re not lounging on the most beautiful Hong Kong beaches or enjoy a pampering day in some of the best spas, we’ve put together a guide that includes our favourite action-packed day trip adventures.
These fun Hong Kong day trips are for all ages
1. Tai O Fishing Village
Want a taste of Hong Kong’s humble past as a fishing village? Head down to Tai O Fishing Village on the west coast Lantau. There, you can see the traditional stilt houses, pick up some classic shrimp paste at the market and enjoy a seafood feast in one of the many restaurants. You can also explore the fishing village via sea kayak – and if you’re lucky – you might run into a pink dolphin.
Read our full guide to Tai O Fishing Village.
Tai O Fishing Village, Tai O, Lantau Island, Hong Kong, 大嶼山大澳漁村
2. Chi Lin Nunnery
A stunning Buddhist complex located in Diamond Hill, Kowloon, Chi Lin Nunnery is a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle. The whole complex was constructed without using a single nail – be sure to visit the museum that illustrates its history and building technique. Spend the rest of your day wandering around the Tang Dynasty style architecture, blooming lotus pond garden and immaculate bonsai trees. Don’t miss stopping off at the vegetarian restaurant while you’re there.
Read our full guide to Chi Lin Nunnery.
Chi Lin Nunnery, 5 Chi Lin Drive, Diamond Hill, Kowloon, Hong Kong, p. 2354 1888, 九龍鑽石山志蓮道五號
3. Ham Tin Beach, Sai Kung
A white sandy beach with clear turquoise water, Ham Tin Beach makes for one of the most gorgeousHong Kong day trips. Getting there requires some planning and a bit of hiking, but trust us, it’s worth it. Feeling hungry after the hike and a swim? There is also a restaurant close by that serves up decent Chinese food and most importantly, beer! You can also rent camping equipment there if you decide to spend the night under the stars.
Find out where to go camping in Hong Kong or our guide to Sai Kung.
Ham Tin Beach, Sai Kung, New Territories, Hong Kong, 西貢鹹田灣
4. Kadoorie Farm & Botanical Garden
Kadoorie Farm & Botanical Garden spread over 148 hectares of land on the north slopes of Tai Mo Shan in the central New Territories. A paradise for nature lovers, there are various educational displays of animals, including a reptile lookout, wildlife pond, parrot sanctuary, and more. There is also a self-contained and self-sufficient eco-garden where you can learn about growing your own flowers and vegetables in an urban environment. When you’re feeling hungry after a day with the flora and the fauna, head down to the Sun Garden Café for a fresh and delicious vegetarian meal.
Kadoorie Farm & Botanical Garden, Lam Kam Road, Tai Po, New Territories, Hong Kong, p. 2483 7200, 新界大埔林錦公路嘉道理農場暨植物園
5. Tai Kwun
Finally opening its doors to the public in June 2018, Tai Kwun in Central is the one of the cosiest Hong Kong day trips for those of us who like to stay in the city. Before it became a space for art and culture, the complex was a ‘one-stop shop’ where criminals were charged, stood trial, sentenced, and imprisoned. In addition to the fascinating exhibitions of prison life, the JC Contemporary offers high-quality contemporary art exhibitions and an eclectic zine library. Visitors are also welcome to do a public or an audio tour, just remember to reserve a spot online beforehand. Feeling thirsty? Dragonfly and Behind Bars both serve excellent cocktails after your day of history and culture.
Visit our favourite spots in Tai Kwun.
Tai Kwun, 10 Hollywood Road, Central, Hong Kong, 中環荷李活道10號大館
6. Macau
Most known for being a casino empire, our cool neighbour Macau is just ninety minutes away if you take the ferry. From art galleries and classy hotels to vegetarian restaurants and quaint cafes, there is more to discover in Macau than you can imagine. Just don’t forget to give its signature Portuguese egg tarts a try!
Read our full guide and find fun things to do in Macau.
