Swap city sightseeing for the unexpected outdoors

Hong Kong is no ordinary metropolis. Surrounded by tree-lined mountains and abundant greenery, this urban jungle occupies hundreds of lush islands and untouched peninsulas, many of which sit just half an hour from the city. Spread across 24 protected country parks, here’s how to get out and experience it all.

Hop from island to island

There’s no better way to explore Hong Kong’s lesser-visited bays than by ferry. Sample authentic Cantonese seafood in the quaint village of Tai O, visit a temple devoted to the goddess of the sea on Lamma Island or learn about traditional fishing culture on Kat O and Ap Chau. For a unique look at the islands off the coast of the Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark, take a boat tour of the uninhabited Ung Kong and Kow Chau Islands.

Take to the trails of the geopark

As nature destinations go, you won’t find many more impressive than Sai Kung. Dubbed ‘the back garden’ of Hong Kong, this peninsula is known for its quiet beaches, imposing volcanic formations and slower pace of life, counting the UNESCO Global Geopark among its many attractions. To see the best of it, hike the High Island Geo Trail and enjoy stellar views of the reservoir, rock columns and idyllic bays of Long Ke Wan.

Get active with hiking, biking and climbing

If you’re an adventure seeker that doesn’t mind breaking a sweat, there’s plenty of outdoor action to be had in Hong Kong. With beginner hikes, trail runs and biking routes available everywhere from the New Territories to the Shing Mun River, you don’t need to be a pro to see the sights – but if you do fancy something more challenging, head to Tung Lung Chau for technical rock climbing with a beautiful backdrop.

Become a beach bum

With nearly 500 kilometres of coastline, Hong Kong isn’t shy of beautiful beaches. One must-visit favourite is Repulse Bay Beach, famous for its silky sands, calm waters and superb swimming. For something more active, rent a paddleboard and navigate the winding waterways and quaint coves of the Kei Ling Ha coast, then, at sunset, head to Pui O, a remote beach on popular Lantau Island.

Visit breath-taking viewpoints

No trip to Hong Kong is complete without savouring spectacular views. To get above the clouds, scale the city’s highest peak on the Tai Mo Shan trail and be rewarded with dramatic, panoramic views of the Yuen Long plain. For countryside lovers, pack your camera and head to the reflective mudflats of Ha Pak Nai or take a steep, rewarding hike to High Junk Peak for a truly memorable moment.