Joanna James
While Hong Kong may not be renowned as a beach holiday destination, the island nation is home to some of Asia's finest seaside landscapes. Here are seven beaches every traveller must experience during a trip to the country.
Located at the foot of towering mountains on the edge of Hong Kong Island, Shek O Beach is separated from the hustle and bustle of city life to the delight of many beachgoers. Occupying pride of place in an oceanside village of the same name, this relaxing and secluded beach is the perfect place to work on one's tan. Swimmers of all ages can hit the water without fear as lifeguards are on standby in case of emergencies. Don't forget to wine and dine in some of the many quaint Chinese restaurants located in the village after a dip in the ocean.
This white, sandy beach is one of the most developed beachfront resort hubs in Hong Kong and very unlike the hidden village beaches of Shek-O or even Big Wave Way. In spite of its name, there's nothing repulsive about this stunning beach where one can find an array of local restaurants and sports shops. A large strip mall is also located across the street from Repulse Bay Beach so one can also enjoy a shopping spree after a day in the water.
Ideally situated a short distance away from Shek-O Beach, Big Wave Bay is another lesser-known beach hideaway that's decidedly laid back and free of large crowds. Revered as one of the best surfing beaches on the island the rocky headlands are known to produce massive swells ideal for wave riding. Outdoor restaurants and barbeque facilities are also found in abundance on the shores of Big Wave Bay where the atmosphere is casual and care-free.
Those based at Tsim Sha Tsui hotels the likes of the Park Hotel Hong Kong or similar establishments should not miss the chance to lounge around in Hong Kong's Golden Beach. Packed to the brim on weekends and public holidays, this idyllic beach is located close to the Tuen Mun MTR station in the Gold Coast area.
Another peaceful beach that's known for its privacy and charming surroundings, Deep Water Bay Beach is a honeymooner's dream destination in Hong Kong. There are only a handful of restaurants near the beach serving mainly Italian delicacies so visitors can dig into pizzas and pasta after splashing around in the sea.
Situated in Lantau, the sands of Pui O Beach are dark but in no way less impressive than those at Cheung Sha Beach. The easiest way to travel to this scenic beach is to take the Mui Wo ferry followed by bus number 1 or 4 towards Pui O San Wai Tsuen.
As the longest of all the beaches in Hong Kong, visitors should not miss the chance to explore this stunning beachfront in Lantau Island. Stretching across 3km, the crystal clear waters off the coast of the beach are not only ideal for swimming but also a plethora of water sports activities such as surfing, windsurfing and kayaking. Boogie boarding is also possible on this breathtaking beach which is lined with seafood restaurants. The easiest way to reach Cheung Sha Beach is to take a Mui Wo ferry from Central.
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