On Your Doortsep: HK's Best Beaches!

Time to swim, tan and get socialA DENSELY POPULATED URBAN HUB, Hong Kong is in fact awash with fantastic beaches. Within Lantau, Pui O Beach is our top pick: a wild and windswept water-sports’ hub, with intriguing brown-black sand and incredible sunsets. There’s a government-run campsite with barbecue pits, plus the option to eat and overnight at Treasure Island Beach Club. KNOWN FOR ITS POWERFUL SURF BREAKS and rugged cliffs, Tai Long Wan (Big Wave Bay) is quite a hike to get to – 45 minutes from Sai Wan Pavilion in Sai Kung town. The lure? You’re rewarded by four interconnected, often deserted beaches – Sai Wan, Ham Tin Wan, Tai Wan and Tung Wan – which stretch across 3 kilometres of coast. THE CRESCENT-SHAPED SHORELINE and palm-fringed promenade of Repulse Bay Beach makes it one of the most popular in Hong Kong. It’s a great spot for people watching, packed at weekends, with every amenity on tap. Find a beachfront mall, high-end restaurants and bars, changing rooms, raft rental and even a beach volleyball court. ENCAPSULATING COASTAL LIVING, Stanley Main Beach is as vibrant and bustling as the village that homes it. (To avoid the crowds, walk 15 minutes to St Stephen’s, a pretty little cove just east of the village). Once you’ve topped up your tan, explore Stanley’s markets and eateries, and take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade. DUBBED THE MALDIVES OF HONG KONG, Long Ke Beach exceeds expectations, delivering fine white sand and bright turquoise waters. You can expect a real Robinson Crusoe experience as it’s well off the beaten track; facilities are limited so bring your own food and water supplies. Hike there from Sai Kung East Dam, or hire a speedboat at Sai Kung Pier. DETERMINEDLY LOW KEY, Shek O Beach has everything it takes, particularly for families, with a tempting expanse of sand, calm waters and great facilities including changing rooms and barbecue pits. The laid-back vibe continues into the village, where there are plenty of sleepy cafés serving up quality eats.CALL US BIASED BUT this guide would not be complete without a shoutout to DB’s own Tai Pak Beach. The city’s first man-made beach, backed by rolling hills, it’s our go-to for leisurely swims and long walks, sun worshipping and beach games. Family-friendly amenities include a kids’ playground at the far end by Lantau Boat Club.