A Beach hopper’s Guide to Hong Kong

Anjali Tsui explores the region’s best beaches.

Hong Kong has a distinct advantage over its European and American counterparts during the hot summer months. While the crème de la crème of New York migrate to the Hamptons every year when temperatures rise, and land-locked Parisians transport 2,000 tonnes of sand and more than 1,000 deck chairs to the banks of the river Seine for the annual summer “Paris Plage”, the average Hong Konger is spoilt for choice as some of the territory's best beaches are only a bus or ferry ride away.

Best beach for the Family St. Stephen’s Beach in Stanley

St. Stephen’s Beach is Stanley’s best-kept secret. Not only does it have superior views, but it is also less crowded than Main Beach, which is adjacent to the village’s popular open-air market. St. Stephen’s is perfect for a refreshing swim and picnic with the family. Pizza Hut (tel: 3180 0000) delivers right to the waterfront. A kiosk sells drinks, ice cream and, of course, the essential bucket-and-spade set to build sandcastles. The local Water Sports Centre (tel: 2813 5407; closed on Tuesdays) offers water sports lessons and rentals that can be booked in advance.

Directions: Bus 6, 6A, 6X or 260 from Exchange Square in Central to Stanley. The beach is a ten-minute walk from Stanley Bus Terminus.

Best Beach for the Sunset South Bay

Those looking to enjoy a beautiful sunset need look no further than South Bay, a lesser-known gem of a beach located just minutes from Repulse Bay. The beach faces west, providing jaw-dropping views of the sun setting behind the hilly enclaves of Aberdeen. Although it’s quiet here on weekdays due to the lack of direct public transportation, this secluded spot becomes extremely popular on weekends because of the popularity of the South Bay Beach Club. The chic, al fresco Beach Club restaurant provides a stunning setting to relax over cocktails as the sun sets. Every Sunday, a live DJ blasts chill beach jams at the club from 3pm–8pm.

Directions: Taxi from Repulse Bay (approx. $24) or a 30-minute walk from Repulse Bay beach

Best beach for Tanning Big Wave Bay

Surfing competitions are often held at Big Wave Bay during the winter months, when northern winds create the perfect conditions to ride the waves. The surf is comparatively mild during the summer, yet Big Wave Bay still manages to attract a sizeable number of learners. According to Nelson Chow, the owner of Surf 360 Shop in Big Wave Bay, an hour-long lesson is usually enough for beginners to learn how to stand up on the board, but be sure to call in advance and check that the conditions are right for surfing. All equipment can be rented onsite. Body boards cost $20 for the day and surfboards rentals range from $50 to $70. End the day with a burger at Eric’s Kitchen on the beachfront or have an impromptu barbecue - the kiosks by the beach are well-stocked with charcoal, tongs and ingredients.

Directions: From Shau Kei Wan MTR station, Exit A3, take bus 9 to the bus terminus at Shek O, and then it’s a ten-minute walk to Big Wave Bay

Best Beach to Ride a Wave Big Wave Bay

Surfing competitions are often held at Big Wave Bay during the winter months, when northern winds create the perfect conditions to ride the waves. The surf is comparatively mild during the summer, yet Big Wave Bay still manages to attract a sizeable number of learners. According to Nelson Chow, the owner of Surf 360 Shop in Big Wave Bay, an hour-long lesson is usually enough for beginners to learn how to stand up on the board, but be sure to call in advance and check that the conditions are right for surfing. All equipment can be rented onsite. Body boards cost $20 for the day and surfboards rentals range from $50 to $70. End the day with a burger at Eric’s Kitchen on the beachfront or have an impromptu barbecue - the kiosks by the beach are well-stocked with charcoal, tongs and ingredients.

Directions: From Shau Kei Wan MTR station, Exit A3, take bus 9 to the bus terminus at Shek O, and then it’s a ten-minute walk to Big Wave Bay

Best Beach to Explore Lantau Silvermine Beach, Mui Wo

Those looking to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city should head to Silvermine Beach in Mui Wo, a charming coastal village and the gateway to Lantau Island. Silvermine Beach has a nice sandbar area, ideal for throwing frisbees or flying kites, and a swimming area monitored by lifeguards. The Silvermine Beach Hotel, located on the waterfront, makes an ideal base camp to explore Lantau Island. The concierge is more than happy to recommend the best routes for hiking and cycling.

Directions: Ferry from Central Pier 6 to Mui Wo. Silvermine Beach is a five-minute walk from the Mui Wo ferry terminus

Best Beach to Get Away from It All Lower Cheung Sha or 'Long Coast' Beach

Lower Cheung Sha Beach on Lantau Island is where you can truly escape the city in less than an hour. This tranquil beach has it all - clear water, fine sand and even coconut trees. Also known as Long Coast, this beach is among the longest in Hong Kong, stretching over 2 kilometres, making it a great spot for swimming and water sports. Long Coast Seasport (tel: 8104 6222) provides rentals and lessons for windsurfing, kayaking, wakeboarding and other water activities. Tom Hope, owner of High Tide, a popular Thai restaurant at Long Coast, first discovered Lower Cheung Sha when he was living on Lantau Island ten years ago. “It’s surprising how many people come here who are discovering Hong Kong or looking for a place to relax and unwind,” he said. According to Hope, the trees dotted around Long Coast are perfect spots to relax with your favourite novels. And the most curious visitors here? Well, that would have to be the water buffalos that mysteriously appear on the beach throughout the year.

Directions: Ferry from Central Pier 6 to Mui Wo and then New Lantau Bus 1, 2, 4 or A35 to Lower Cheung Sha Village. Alternatively, take the MTR to Tung Chung and then New Lantau Bus 11, 23 or A35 to Lower Cheung Sha Village