“I love the humidity!” said nobody ever in HK. Keep cool in Hong Kong with our handy hints this summer.
Some people love being outside in the warm weather, spending time at the best beaches in Hong Kong or hitting up any of the cities amazing hiking trails. But some people struggle to beat the heat, so we’ve put together a beginner’s guide on how to keep cool in Hong Kong. If none of these work, then just head straight to the nearest beer bar for a frosty pint.
How to keep cool in Hong Kong
Beat the heat with these handy hints to survive in the humidity. Read full story here: https://bit.ly/2jrUXIS
Posted by Honeycombers Hong Kong on Wednesday, August 1, 2018
1. Grab some cheap and cheerful ice cream
A local favourite, a Twist Cone from McDonald’s is nothing short of pure happiness. With locations scattered across the city, getting your licks on a cone (or two) at Macky D’s is the ultimate cheap way to help you keep cool in Hong Kong. Want some crunch added into the silky smooth soft serve? Order an Oreo or M&M Mcflurry while you’re at it! And if you’re feeling more bougie or are dying for some quality gelato, you can check out some of our fave ice cream stores in Hong Kong. We promise, you won’t be disappointed with the magic!
McDonald’s has multiple locations across Hong Kong.
2. Up your fan game in Sham Shui Po
The invention centre of Hong Kong, where local vendors demo their newest and weirdest wonders, Sham Shui Po is the best place to pick up a customised fan to strut your stuff through the streets. You can also always count on the stalls selling cheap yet sturdy portable fans that’ll last you through a few heat waves. Whipping out one of these bad boys when the sun’s blazing definitely makes you a true Hong Konger!
Check out these markets across Hong Kong.
3. Blades of polar glory
Shopping malls are the real heroes of summer in Hong Kong! Get a face full of air con and ice when you visit Cityplaza. Located in the bustling mall is the Ice Palace for you to glide around or, in our case, claw onto for dear life. Catch us dragging ourselves around the rink while questioning our life choices…
Find other ice rinks in Hong Kong here.
Ice Palace, 2/F, Two Cityplaza, 18 Tai Koo Shing Road, Tai Koo, Hong Kong, p. 2844 8688
4. Flail around at Kennedy Town Swimming Pool
While the idea of a public swimming pool in an overcrowded city may not inspire confidence in some, trust us when we say Kennedy Town Swimming Pool is a pretty nice place for a quick dip. While there are over 40 public pools around Hong Kong, this spot in K Town has a cool, futuristic look with its indoor and outdoor pools. For under $20, you’ll be able to cool off in no time.
These are our other top picks for swimming pools in Hong Kong.
Kennedy Town Swimming Pool, 2 Sai Cheung Street North, Kennedy Town, Hong Kong, p. 2817 7973
5. Throw back some sugar cane juice
Summer in Hong Kong isn’t summer without some freshly made sugar cane juice. Sipping on sugar cane is a traditional Cantonese pastime, as well as a healthy and tasty way of cooling yourself off. Conveniently located in the heart of Central, Kung Lee peels and steams sugar cane using traditional methods before pressing it with an antique juicer – truly an affordable and classic way to enjoy this sweet cooler.
Kung Lee, G/F, 60 Hollywood Road, Soho, Central, Hong Kong, p. 2544 3571
6. Grab some shades in Causeway Bay
Future lookin’ a little too bright? Or is that just the insane sun? Either way, remember to pack some sunnies before heading out during the hot days in Hong Kong. Whether in one of the stores at Causeway Bay or a big sprawling mall in that area, you can find a pair of shades to keep you from squinting.
Check out our guide to Causeway Bay.
7. Opt for lighter, more refreshing meals
When the weather’s boiling, you rarely want your food to be as well. Opt for refreshing treats like fruit (you can never go wrong with watermelon!) when you want a snack. However, if you’re looking for a full meal, sometimes wolfing down a heavy burger can just make your temperature rise. Go for some of the city’s many salad and vegetarian restaurants for a lighter meal that will leave you feeling fresher and less bogged down.
Discover the best salads and vegetarian restaurants in Hong Kong.
8. Hit the waters at the beach
While pools always make a splashy good time, nothing hits quite like the salty seas. No doubt a hotspot for the days of high temps and humidity, the beaches in Hong Kong are a classic for good reason. You can take advantage of the sun and get your tan on, or take a dip in the waves to cool off. Try heading to a hidden beach to fight some of the crowds on the especially popular days.
Discover more beaches across Hong Kong.
9. Dip into a waterfall
If you’re one that loves to explore the greener side of Hong Kong on sunny days, there’s nothing better than finding a beautiful waterfall at the end of a toiling hike. With picturesque waterfalls just a short way into the mountains, including the famously haunted (as well as gorgeous) Bride’s Pool, venture off the beaten path for cool rewards. Make sure you practise basic safety when exploring these waters, as the rocks can be slippery!
Discover Hong Kong’s amazing waterfalls.
10. Cheers to happy hour
Perfect for a boiling day in Hong Kong (or after a long day at work), happy hour is certainly a godsend. With countless bars across the city offering exceptional deals for early drinkers, you’ll have no shortage of places to imbibe. Whether you want to grab a few tipples before dinner with friends or seize a discount at your neighbourhood favourite, happy hour is always the answer!
Find awesome happy hour deals across Hong Kong.
[This article was originally published in August 2018 and updated in 2024 by Min Ji Park.]
