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Got nothing planned this weekend? Or are you just tired of the repetition of your usual routines? Thankfully, and without even having to plan a weekend abroad, Hong Kong is filled with exciting activities to fill the boring void.
With its unique and advantageous position of being both urban and rural, you will be hard-pressed to find a city as juxtaposed as Hong Kong. One can find themselves in a chaotic and boisterous neighbourhood one minute and be transported to a peaceful mountainside the next. From relaxing by the lapping waves of beautiful beaches to spelunking around dense emerald mountains, here are some of our best Hong Kong day-trip ideas to spice up your weekends.
Did you know that Hong Kong is home to some of the world’s most unique geological features? For travellers and newcomers, their first thought of Hong Kong will conjure up futuristic lights, soaring skyscrapers, and dense urban jungles for which the city is known globally. However, long-time residents will know that Hong Kong is full of natural wonders, including many sea caves and caverns.
Escaping the city from time to time to go spelunking is a great way to unwind, recharge, ignite your adventurous spirit, and appreciate the natural bounties of Hong Kong. Venture outside of your urban comfort zone and explore one of Hong Kong’s many uninhabited islands for your next epic day trip, whether it’s the stunning geological rock formations of Tung Ping Chau, the awe-inspiring red sands of Port Island, the gorgeous clear waters of Middle Island, and more.
Not to be outdone, inhabited islands are also home to many sea caves. Follow in the footsteps of the legendary pirate Cheung Po Tsai and step inside his once treasure-stashed cave, explore the abandoned mines of Lin Ma Hang, or visit the Kamikaze Caves, once constructed by Japanese troops in the Second World War to hide bomb-rigged speedboats. These dark chambers are waiting to be explored.
Catch a ferry to one of Hong Kong’s Outlying Islands to explore, eat, and play the day away! Traversing through these quaint villages and communities will also have the added benefit of forcing you to go at a slower pace and take in a rural kind of living that’s much different to city life, as there are often hidden gems that often go unnoticed.
Over the years, many of these islands have experienced massive transformations, opening up modern businesses to serve visitors and locals alike amid the rise of domestic tourism. Notably, many of these outlying islands now boast chic cafés and coffee shops to fuel weary travellers. Whether you’re off to uncover everything that the sleepy villages of Cheung Chau, Tai O, or Lamma Island offer, we guarantee there is plenty there to do, eat, and see on your day trip.
We all know Hong Kong folks have a burning passion for travelling overseas. Visit the airport before the long holidays, and you’ll see them ready to conquer the world map. That’s why it may come as a surprise that Hong Kong plays host to a great line-up of global splendours! If you know where to look, you’ll uncover places around the city where one can feel transported to all corners of the globe.
From the salt flats of Bolivia and the falls of Luang Prabang to the bamboo forests of Kyoto, little-known spots all across Hong Kong offer a taste of international destinations. Want to revel in the lavender fields of Provence? Just head to Tsz Shan Monastery instead, where seas of purple will greet you just the same. Here are some replacement-worthy places to explore if you are really feeling the travel fever, and here are some more if you’ve exhausted the first list.
Hiking is the best way to explore Hong Kong’s countryside and soak in the natural wonders of this urban jungle. With a weekend ahead of beautiful weather, why not head outside to explore new trails and routes? Sometimes, it almost seems like everyone and their mothers are hitting the mountains and as a result, many well-known routes can be busy and congested.
Instead, why not beat the crowds and tackle a lesser-known trail this weekend? If you’re not at all getting along with the infamous summer heat and humidity of Hong Kong, here are some shaded hikes that’ll keep you sheltered. And if you think hiking trips should end with a cooling reward, check out some waterfall hikes that will make your day more enjoyable.
How can there be a Hong Kong summer without a beach-bum weekend? Hong Kong boasts more than 100 beaches at your disposal, whether you’re looking for a tan or an active day in the water.
If you are tired of hitting up Repulse Bay or Deep Water Bay, and pushing for space among the throng of sunbathing day-trippers, you’ll want to know more about the secret beaches that we highly recommend, as well as the cleanest water spots around Hong Kong. Of course, if you are a pet owner, you can’t leave Fido behind—check out this article for the best pet-friendly beaches in Hong Kong.
Located just a 55-minute boat ride away, Macau is one of the most popular choices for an easy day trip from Hong Kong. While it is known for its glitz and glamour, the city houses a plethora of historic sites that showcase its past as a Portuguese colony. Take a detour from the lavish hotels and casinos and the old Macau will unfold before your eyes. For a taste of colonial Portuguese architecture in the urban centre, Senado Square is a must-visit for its mosaic-tiled pavements and protected colonial-era monuments. To discover Macau’s tranquil villages and countryside, head out to Taipa or Coloane. These places will surely change your idea of Asia’s casino city!
The Hong Kong archipelago houses not only stunning skyscrapers but also geological features that are out of this world. From island-connecting sandbars and marvellous rock formations, you will not believe what often lies before your eyes. For the ultimate nature experience, head over to the Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark on your next weekend adventure. You will find crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and, of course, fascinating rock structures like columnar rocks and the infamous Devil’s Fist. Besides uncovering these intriguing rocks, you can also take a hike or kayak around this volcanic rock region to give your muscles a good workout.
First published on 12 August 2020. Written by David Yeung. Last updated by Stella Li.
Covering the hottest new eats, the best places to play, offbeat takes on local culture, and so much more, Localiiz is every Hongkonger’s destination for how to live a well-rounded life in our vibrant city. Why the strange spelling? Well, Localiiz is designed to be your “local eyes”—and for that, you need two i’s.
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