Summary
The city of Hong Kong is globally acknowledged for being a vibrant cosmopolitan center and financial hub, featuring an array of appealing attractions that can keep visitors engaged for extended periods.
From casinos to rooftop bars, towering skyscrapers to shopping malls, coupled with world-class dining options, the metropolis caters to diverse interests.
Moreover, its positioning on an archipelago and the surrounding undeveloped land ensure a multitude of destinations that are in stark contrast to the city’s bustling life.
In just a few hours, you can explore sandy beaches, quaint fishing villages, and sparsely populated islands, each providing a distinct experience of mainland China beyond Hong Kong.
Let us examine the top day trips from Hong Kong:
1. Cheung Chau
In just 40 minutes by ferry, one can reach the picturesque island of Cheung Chau, a destination where the liveliness of its harbor coexists harmoniously with the serene beaches, both conveniently accessible.
Notable attractions include ancient temples like the Mini Great Wall, as well as Cheung Po Tsai Cave, both of which can be explored in a few hours.
Subsequently, you may wish to dine at one of the popular open-air seafood restaurants, where an array of delectable dishes awaits at reasonable prices.
If a sunny day appeals to you, consider visiting Kwun Yam Wan Beach; alternatively, to experience island life like a local, stroll along the pier teeming with trawlers, junk boats, and houseboats, creating an exhilarating atmosphere.
2. Macau
Located only an hour away by ferry from Hong Kong, Macau stands as one of the region’s most sought-after day trip destinations.
This former Portuguese territory exudes colonial charm and historical significance while also serving as the world’s largest gambling center.
Cultural and history enthusiasts will find numerous sites worth visiting, including the Ruins of St. Paul’s Church, Guia Hill, A-Ma Temple, and the quaint village of Coloane.
Should you desire a culinary intermission, indulge in Macanese cuisine, which beautifully marries Portuguese and Cantonese flavors, or test your luck at one of the dazzling casinos lining the main thoroughfare.
3. Sai Kung
Sai Kung can be likened to tropical coastlines found on distant shores and serves as Hong Kong’s premier destination for sun seekers, surfers, and seafood aficionados, thanks to its stunning beaches and inlets.
This lush green area is situated in the northeastern New Territories and can be reached in approximately one hour from Central Hong Kong via MTR or boat.
Here, visitors can hike to scenic spots like Tai Long Wan and Sharp Island, where the sandy shores combined with flourishing landscapes provide excellent hiking and relaxation opportunities.
A visit to Sai Kung Town is also recommended, particularly for its intriguing floating seafood market along with its array of unique shops and eateries.
4. Shenzen
As a vibrant retail destination filled with unique attractions and delightful dining options, Shenzen is renowned for its exceptional shopping opportunities, drawing visitors across the Chinese border seeking lower prices.
Serving as a gateway to mainland China, it boasts an active metropolis with affordable experiences, including day spas, the quirky Dafen Oil Painting Village, and the souvenir-rich Windows of the World Amusement Park.
For an authentic lunch experience alongside the locals, visit Xiangmihu Holiday Village, where you can savor delectable barbecue dishes accompanied by refreshing cold beers.
Finally, no trip is complete without exploring Dongmen Pedestrian Street, a large market ideal for adventurous travelers seeking a diverse range of products.
5. Lantau
The large outlying island of Lantau is the most extensive island accessible from Hong Kong, featuring a beautiful landscape of gently rolling forested mountains, charming villages, and pristine beaches, ideal for a rejuvenating day trip.
Among the numerous cultural sites that warrant attention are the Wisdom Path and the Tian Tan Buddha, which stands majestically atop almost 300 steps ascending the mountainside.
As is customary with many of Hong Kong’s outlying islands, you will also uncover some exceptional seafood around Lantau’s coastal villages.
6. Mai Po Marshes
If you wish to escape the crowds of Hong Kong and prefer not to visit another beach, a trip to Mai Po Marshes provides an ideal opportunity to connect with nature.
This ecological area is managed by the esteemed World Wildlife Fund organization, and entry necessitates a complimentary permit, which takes several weeks to process.
Once admitted, visitors will discover one of Asia’s most remarkable nature reserves, home to over 55,000 migratory birds, in addition to a multitude of mammals, insects, and reptiles.
Spend your time wandering through the enchanting forests and marshlands, catching glimpses of the fascinating wildlife.
7. Shui Hau Beach
If a truly rural coastal experience appeals to you as a peaceful retreat from the bustling city, a day trip to the secluded Shui Hau Beach is recommended.
The soft, white sands are complemented by kite surfers gliding through the waves, and the absence of amenities in the vicinity contributes to the area’s tranquility.
Additionally, this location is well-known for its abundant clam populations, allowing visitors the chance to try clamming by renting the necessary tools from the Fung Wong Bungalow Center.
8. Zhuhai
Located within the Pearl River Delta, Zhuhai is slightly over an hour from Hong Kong and consists of more than 100 islands accessible via ferries.
This results in numerous stunning beaches, where one can dive into the clear waters of Dong’ao Island or relish irresistible seafood on Hebao Island.
Apart from its palm-fringed beaches, Zhuhai is renowned for its vibrant nightlife, with areas such as Lotus Road and Gangbei famous for their streets lined with nightclubs and stalls serving cocktails late into the night.
9. Guangzhou
Guangzhou, the third largest city in China, caters to an array of preferences.
For an invigorating urban experience that provides respite from Hong Kong, Guangzhou showcases a rich colonial history influenced by both French and British architecture, particularly evident on Shamian Island.
The combination of European architecture alongside a bustling Chinese metropolis creates a novel and engaging atmosphere.
Art enthusiasts will find Xiaozhou Village, an artistic enclave filled with ancient structures, canals, and captivating street art to be particularly enchanting.
10. Shunde
The city of Shunde represents a hidden gem within China’s cultural landscape, often overlooked but definitely worthy of exploration.
The city is adorned with historical sites and natural attractions, each showcasing extraordinary beauty, such as the Baoling Temple and Taiping Mountain.
The prevalence of cultural sites amid areas of natural splendor renders Shunde an exceptionally delightful region to explore.
For example, Shunfengshang Park features a network of canals, ornate bridges, forests, and temples, offering a fantastic day excursion.
11. Lamma Island
The third largest island in Hong Kong has long been an appealing refuge for those seeking an alternate pace of life without venturing far from the city.
The sandy shores of Lamma Island provide just that, with beaches such as Hung Shing Yeh drawing city dwellers year-round to bask in the sun.
With its relaxed, visitor-friendly atmosphere, Lamma Island is also inviting for hikers.
Stroll through Main Street, soak in the scenery, or seek out delicious food, particularly at the waterfront seafood restaurants in Sok Kwu Wan.
12. Tai O
Often aptly referred to as “The Venice of Hong Kong,” the quaint fishing village of Tai O is celebrated for being the last remaining stilt settlement in the region, making it not only a valuable day trip but a remarkably picturesque experience.
In Tai O, visitors can discover delicately crafted local shrimp paste alongside exceptional seafood, and engage with the enduring Tanka “boat people” community, who still inhabit the area, providing a captivating glimpse into past lifestyles.
Nature enthusiasts may also be fortunate enough to spot the renowned pink dolphins, cherished and protected within Tai O.
13. Ngong Ping
The elevated region of Ngong Ping, situated on the western side of Lantau Island, serves as an excellent day trip destination for individuals with either religious inclinations or those simply wishing to appreciate the area’s beauty.
It is renowned for the impressive statue of the Tian Tan Buddha, towering at a remarkable 34 meters in height and visible from great distances.
Easily accessed by cable car from Tung Chung, the Buddha attracts numerous visitors annually, who often also visit the adjacent Po Lin Monastery.
14. Beijing
What better way to discover the heart of China than by visiting its capital, which boasts some of its most significant cultural treasures.
To make the most of your trip, it is advisable to begin your day early, scheduling an 8:00 am flight to allow several hours in the city, as the experience is worthwhile.
Once in Beijing, explore The Forbidden City, the Ming Tombs, and numerous other national treasures that narrate China’s captivating history.
15. New Territories
Adjacent to the Kowloon Hills and the border with mainland China, the suburban area conveniently termed the New Territories represents a rich cultural melting pot reflecting traditional customs alongside modern sensibilities.
Noteworthy locations include the Kat Hing Wai Walled Village, encircled by a moat and inhabited by the descendents of the Deng clan, its original builders.
Additionally, the beautiful Lam Tsuen Wishing Tree and the elaborate Che Kung Temple are also deserving of attention.
