Grab your sunscreen and brave the heat for these spectacular things to do this summer in Hong Kong.
The weather is getting warmer and the days are getting longer – that’s right, summer is just around the corner! While our beloved city is infamous for its humidity, the summer months do get a little more tolerable with their beach-perfect weather and plenty of things to do around town. Whether you’re looking for a nice day out at one of the city’s best beaches, scouting for the most decadent ice cream cones, or simply want to stay cool and AC-ed up, here are our best picks for things to do this summer in Hong Kong.
2024 Summer in Hong Kong: Top things to do
1. Visit 2024 summer fairs
One of the best things to do during summer in Hong Kong is to visit a fair! A series of annual arts, cultural, and educational fairs set up shop at the HKCEC from June to August every year. The most popular fairs have got to be the Ani-Con & Games Hong Kong and the Hong Kong Book Fair. Whether you’re a professional cosplayer eager to show off your latest ensemble, or simply want to stock up on books to read for the rest of the year, these summer fairs in Hong Kong have you covered.
Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC), 1 Expo Drive, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, p. 2582 8888
2. Sing to your heart’s content at 2024 summer music festivals
Get your concert fits ready! An impressive line-up of international artists are coming to Hong Kong in summer 2024. From mega music festivals like S2O Songkran and Waterbomb to individual acts (our inner Kpop fangirl is screaming), there are plenty of gigs to choose from. Check out our full list of 27 upcoming concerts and festivals in Hong Kong that you won’t want to miss!
3. Go island-hopping
Take advantage of the sunshine and plan a weekend trip to the outlying islands! While the majority of Hong Kong’s beat is on Hong Kong Island and Kowloon, remote islands such as Lantau and Lamma have much to offer, too. Hiking enthusiasts, be sure to hit up the trails on Lantau Island – you’ll encounter the Big Buddha and other Taoist religious monuments along the way. In addition, Lamma Island offers plenty of authentic local food and drinks for you to enjoy in a laid-back, rustic atmosphere.
4. Cool off with a cold treat
While we love some quality ice cream and silky smooth gelato, the same ol’ soft serve can get a little repetitive throughout Hong Kong’s unending summer. So, why not spice things up with some alternative cold treats this year? There are various “cotton” shaved ice specialists around town where you can quench your thirst with a tall mount of flavoured ice. What’s more, local dessert shops never fail to serve up refreshing mango pomelo sago on a scorching summer day.
5. Get cultured, get crafty
Take refuge from the heat and visit some of the best museums and art galleries in town. Whether you wish to learn about local culture and history, or admire some awe-inspiring art, Hong Kong has a wide variety of artsy locations for you to choose from – and rest assured they’re mostly air-conditioned! If you consider yourself to be a bit of an artist, unleash your creativity at a ceramic class. Alternatively, enrol yourself in creative courses or art jam sessions after some inspiring trips to the museums.
6. Game on indoors
Let’s face it – gaming alone can get a little boring, especially during the summer holidays. While online games with multiplayer options are more abundant now than ever before, nothing beats actually beating your gang at an intense game of DDR or air hockey! Fellow gamers can stay cool while scoring points at some of the best arcades and game centres in Hong Kong this summer. Equipped with top-of-the-line machines, these are the perfect destinations for your next gathering with friends.
7. Throw back a couple of cold ones
Hot and thirsty? Chill out with a frosty pint or a specialty cocktail at the best bars in Hong Kong. Our local bar scene offers an amazing variety of nighttime entertainment to visitors and locals alike. Say cheers with a craft beer, spill some tea over a tall glass at a speakeasy, or clink glasses at a classy wine bar. Plus, summer in Hong Kong is also the time for the LGBTQ+ community to shine – so make sure to check out LGBTQ-friendly bars for exciting Pride Month events and celebrations!
8. Stay active and sweat it out
The glaring sun is no excuse to skip leg day, Honeys! Get your daily workouts in at indoor gyms and fitness studios this summer in Hong Kong. From bouldering gyms to spin studios, the city’s fantastic selection of sports venues caters to just about any fitness interest, level, and goal.
9. Party crazy on a junk
Junk season is upon us! If you’re running out of ideas for your next summer bash, why not host your party on a chartered boat? Planning a get-together on the sea is easy. Simply check out these junk catering packages that cover food, drinks, and entertainment on board. After that, round up your friends, bring your swimming trunks and bikini, and you’re good to go!
10. Say yes to a mindful summer
Congratulations! You’ve made it through half the year. Why not take some time off for yourself and reflect on how your year has fared so far? Finish that Netflix series you’ve been putting off or finally pick up that book you bought years ago at a garage sale. Finally, pamper yourself with a spa treatment or manicure, and take the time to relax and enjoy life – you deserve a break!
