Few destinations in Asia can rival Hong Kong’s eclectic, best-of-everything energy. The city offers a seamless blend of urban sophistication and thrilling outdoor adventure.
Imagine indulging in world-class cuisine – from Michelin starred restaurants to one-of-a-kind street food vendors – and then conquering a scenic hike with breathtaking ocean views – all within 20 minutes of each other. You can even try wakeboarding or explore a vast range of outlying islands, thanks to a fantastic public transportation system that puts attractions outside of the city within arm’s reach.
Ready to unlock your inner Hong Kong explorer? Below are three insider recs to get you started.
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Witness Dramatic Scenery Across The ‘Dragon’s Back’
This iconic hiking trail, winding through Shek O Country Park, is a must for lovers of the great outdoors. It’s a fantastic way to shake off jet lag, and ranks right up there with some of Hong Kong’s greatest natural vistas.
At 8km, expect a hike of moderate difficulty with plenty of sun exposure – so plan accordingly with snacks and plenty of water. The reward? Unforgettable panoramas, at your hike’s peak, from 284 metres above sea level. Plus, your trek concludes on the golden shores of Big Wave Bay Beach – perfect for a refreshing dip.
Island Escape: Unwind On Cheung Chau
Seasoned Hong Kong explorers know that hidden gems lie beyond the hustle and bustle of Central. With 263 Islands waiting to be discovered, a short ferry ride unlocks a world away.
Cheung Chau Island, a charming, dumbbell-shaped landmass boasts a rich fishing heritage, going back over a century. The vibrant waterfront villages, dotted with colourful sampans and open-air seafood restaurants, offer a glimpse into ‘island life’, Hong-Kong-style.
The ferry terminal sits conveniently in the island’s middle – dubbed ‘the handle’ by locals. From here, a short stroll takes you to Kwun Yam Beach, where water sports enthusiasts can try their hand at windsurfing. For a more scenic route, consider strolling for half an hour all the way up to the North Lookout Pavilion: offering unparalleled views of the island’s unique rock formations.
Plan Your Trip Around Golf, Cycling, And Other Blockbuster Sporting Events
Hong Kong isn’t just mecca for Masterchef contestants: the city also boasts an exciting year-round sporting calendar. From exhilarating cycling races to prestigious golf tournaments, there’s something for every sports fan.
This year, cycling enthusiasts should mark their calendars for October 13th – when the annual Hong Kong Cyclothon is set to take place. Witness pelotons of amateur and professional cyclists race through Victoria Harbour, with the city’s iconic skyline as your backdrop.
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For those who prefer world-class club sports, consider booking a flight for early 2025: when LIV Golf returns to the iconic ‘Old Course’ at Hong Kong Golf Club, nicknamed “one of the crown jewels” of golf courses in Asia.
Finally, if a solo jog across Tsim Sha Tsui’s Avenue of Stars isn’t quite enough to get your heart racing, then don’t miss the chance to participate in the iconic Standard Chartered Marathon. An annual fixture for the city’s runners, come February 9th, 2025, it’ll give entrants the opportunity to run a range of distances – be it 10km, a half, or full marathon.
Keen to refuel before your next hike, island adventure, or pivotal sporting event? Then consult the ‘Eat & Drink’ section of our Hong Kong Insider’s Travel Guide. Alternatively, if you’re in the mood for a quality stay, explore our current list of the 16 best hotels in Hong Kong.
With a blend of exhilarating sports, outdoor adventures and luxurious islands to discover, Hong Kong is waiting. Begin planning your adventure and discover more at the link below.
This article is sponsored by The Hong Kong Tourism Board. Thank you for supporting the brands that support Boss Hunting.
