There is more to Hong Kong than meets the eye, and Kyle Johnson has compiled a list of things that will help you appreciate Hong Kong on a whole new level.

Discovery Bay

Discovery Bay on Lantau Island is only a 20-minute ferry ride from Central but with its family friendly vibe and spacious surroundings, it feels a million miles away. Discovery Bay Plaza is a new complex along the ocean front hosting restaurants, shops and occasional markets. Right next to the plaza is Tai Pak Beach, a pleasant and safe place to swim or to let the kids run loose. With over half of Lantau Island designated as country parks, there is no shortage of walks and hiking trails. A popular walk takes you from Mui Wo to Tung Chung (five hours). More adventurous hikers may try the 70 kilometre Lantau Trail which circles the island, though note that this trail is intended for well-equipped hikers. A 24-hour ferry service runs between Pier 3 in Central and Discovery Bay. A one-way ticket costs $27.

Hong Kong Wetland Park

The Wetland Park is a world-class conservation, education and tourism facility located at the northern part of Tin Shui Wai in the New Territories. It was originally intended to be an ecological area to compensate for the wetlands that were lost when Tin Shui Wai New Town was developed. The Wetlands Park is home to an enormous range of wildlife including unusual species of birds and fish. There are five galleries in the Visitor Centre, displaying different aspects of wetlands life and focusing on issues such as deforestation, acid rain and over hunting. The park is open every day except Tuesdays from 10am to 5pm. Tickets are $30 for adults and $15 for children. Enquiries: 2708 8885

The MacLehose Trail

The MacLehose Trail is a hiking trail that will take you across much of the New Territories, starting from Pak Tam Chung in Sai Kung in the east to Tuen Mun in the west. The whole trail is more than 100 kilometers long and takes in some of the most beautiful countryside you are likely to see in this part of the world. Opened in 1979, the trail is named after Crawford Murray MacLehose, the longest-serving governor of Hong Kong and an enthusiastic hiker. Don’t be put off by the length of the trail as there are different sections you can follow if you are short on time or not an experienced hiker. The Hong Kong Trampers organise regular hikes and walks and you can check the difficulty of hikes before signing up to choose one that suits your fitness level. Check www.hktrampers.com or www.hkhiking.com for news and information about local hikes.

Lamma Island

Home to many modern-day hippies, Lamma Island lies just south of Aberdeen and is a wonderful place to spend a day walking and indulging in the great fresh seafood that is synonymous with the restaurants here. It takes approximately two hours to walk from one side of the island to the other. Have a good lunch before you set off as Lamma has no motorized vehicles so you can’t catch a bus or hail a cab if you feel tired.

There are two bays, one at each end of the island and both served by public ferries. If you catch a fast ferry from the Central ferry piers, it takes only 30 minutes to reach the island. Ferries to Lamma Island leave frequently throughout the day from pier 4 in Central to the main village of Yung Shue Wan and to the second biggest village, Sok Kwu Wan. Ferries to Yung Shue Wan depart at least hourly while ferries to Sok Kwu Wan depart approximately every two hours. There is a fast ferry which costs $16.80, and a regular ferry which costs $11.80.

The Peak to Aberdeen

You can stay comfortably close to civilization and still take in a great hike from The Peak above Central and across the hilly landscape to Aberdeen. The trail begins at the island's Peak Lookout. Along the way you will be treated to panoramic views of Victoria Harbour, Kowloon and the outlying islands. The trail will take you through Pok Fu Lam Country Park, Aberdeen Country Park and Tin Hau Temple. To get to the Peak, catch the Peak Tram from the Garden Road Terminal in Central which costs $22 one way or $33 return. The Peak Tram operates from 7am until midnight. You can also catch the number 15 bus from the Central Star Ferry Pier or Exchange Square for $9.20, or the number 1 minibus from Two IFC in Central for $8.

Shek O Beach

Shek O is a delightful little village on the south coast of Hong Kong island. The name Shek O aptly means "rocky bay," as the beach is nestled between rocky hills making it sheltered and a great place for sunbathing. The beach is clean and there are lifeguards on duty at peak times. Facilities include showers and toilets and a number of BBQ pits so you can bring your own grub and cook up a storm after a few hours sun. Arriving at the village of Shek O feels like landing in a remote part of Thailand and there are a number of Thai restaurants in the village reinforcing the atmosphere. Catch bus number 9 from Shau Kei Wan MTR station or on Sundays and public holidays bus number 309 goes from Exchange Square in Central. Alternatively take a taxi which will cost around $150 for the 40 minute trip.

Ngong Ping 360

For the ultimate family day out, Ngong Ping is a super attraction. You can catch the Skyrail cable car from Tung Chung MTR station which travels along the 5.7 kilometre track for 25 minutes, taking in views of Lantau Island country park with its valleys, trees and waterfalls. At the end of the cable car is Ngong Ping village, offering a historical insight into the area and the people who live there. There are numerous shops and restaurants and several themed attractions including Walking with Buddha and the Ngong Ping Tea House. Entrance to the village and a return trip on the cable car costs $145 for adults and $75 for children. Enquiries: 2109 9888