It’s already September and summer is slowly fading away in most the other countries in the northern hemisphere… except for Hong Kong! So do your duty and enjoy the heat ’til it’s beat by becoming a dedicated beach bum for the entire month. There’s a strip of sand for every mood and occasion in Hong Kong, so whether you’re down to get drunk, get romantic, or simply get out of the house, this quick-reference guide will have you covered (in sand).
The ‘get drunk with loads of people’ beach
Sheko O Beach. Photo credit karen0109
Shek O, located on the eastern end of the Hong Kong Island, is well known for its large open barbecue sites and busy beach. It’s one of the most popular beaches in Hong Kong for large gatherings, so although you might have to fight for a spot on the sand, no-one’s going to give you evils for playing your tunes or generally causing a ruckus.
There are buses from Siu Sai Wan MTR station. We recommend arriving and leaving late, as it can be a bit of a mare trying to escape at 6pm with the rest of the world.
The ‘showing off your moves and perving’ beach
Big Wave Bay. Photo credit: jonathonjackson
As you can tell from its name, Big Wave Bay is occasionally blessed with the odd nice wave, unlike the many other even gentler Hong Kong beaches. Which means…it’s a haven for sexy surfers! Come down either if you’ve got moves to show off, or if you see surfing as more of a spectator sport – gorgeous girls and guys wash up here every weekend.
A 15-minute walk from the bus stop (same bus as Shek O Beach, get off the stop before), Big Wave Bay has got a waaay more chilled vibe. Gnarly, dude.
The smoochy couples’ beach
Repulse Bay. Photo credit: beabiro
If it’s date day (boring), Repulse Bay is an easy and safe bet. It’s one of the quickest beaches to get to on the south side, it’s clean, quiet (apart from a few Chinese tourists), and backed by a couple of nice restaurants. Stroll the beach hand-in-hand, snap the obligatory silhouetted jumping pictures against the sunset, and then head into Stanley for a romantic waterside dinner.
Buses run from Central Exchange Square.
The ‘hell is other people’ beach
Deep Water Bay. Photo credit champagnerrobbo
If you’ve got the hangover grumps and the last thing you want to be surrounded by is screaming children, loved-up couples or posers, get away from it all at Deep Water Bay. Although it’s the first beach you come to on emerging from the Aberdeen Tunnel, it’s remarkably peaceful, mainly frequented by quiet locals who find their spot and keep themselves to themselves. Lovely!
Buses run from Central Exchange Square.
The ‘let’s be different and adventurous’ beach
Sai Wan rock pools. Photo credit Sol Han
If you’re feeling lively and up for a challenge with great rewards, head out to Sai Wan Beach and rock pools, and you won’t be disappointed. The gorgeous beach is little-frequented, while the rock pools behind it are seldom found, even by those who know they’re there.
Get a taxi from Sai Kung to the entrance of Sai Wan village, and take the 30-minute trail down to the beach. Once there, follow the path along the back of the beach to the left until you see a stone bridge. Instead of crossing it, head into the bushes at the side and follow the unpredictable path until you see the waterfall and pools. Beware of the slippery moss and wear shoes, as some of the rocks are very sharp.
