Whilst visiting Hong Kong a boat trip to one or more of its outlying islands provides for an enjoyable break from the hustle and bustle of city life. Many of the islands are easily accessible by ferry and the three I have documented below are all within an hour’s distance of Hong Kong Island.
Cheung Chau
Getting there: Take a ferry from Central Pier No. 5, which is accessible from MTR Hong Kong Station. The journey takes about 35–40 minutes on the fast ferry and around one hour on the slower one. Standard one way fares are HK$29.20 (£2.98) on the fast service and HK$14.80 (£1.51) on the regular sailings. Fast ferries offer more comfortable seating and a shorter journey time to Chung Chau whereas the regular ferries are cheaper and have better photo opportunities as it is possible to sit out on deck. If time allows I would suggest travelling one way by fast ferry and the other on the slower service. Payment of fares is by Octopus Card so remember to top up your balance before setting off. The small island of Cheung Chau is situated 10 km south of Hong Kong and is the furthest from Hong Kong island of the ones I have chosen to review.
After leaving the ferry terminal we wandered along Cheung Chau’s promenade which is a riot of colour and was bustling with activity. Small shops and cafes adorned with brightly coloured parasols line the seafront with cyclists attempting to weave their way through the crowds. The waterfront is picture perfect with many small fishing boats and sampans bobbing around in the harbour. Cheung Chau is a car free island as the streets are very narrow but little electric vans and carts frequently pass by carrying goods and building materials.
We took a look inside the fish market which is quite large and stands in a prominent position along the seafront. Fishing is still the major local economy alongside tourism with freshly caught fish being on offer in many of the island’s restaurants. We enjoyed a walk through the village and then visited the ornate Pak Tai Temple which is one of the oldest in Hong Kong and is ‘guarded’ by small stone lions.
On leaving the temple we followed a hiking trail which leads to the right passing behind the Cheung Chau Aged Persons Home from where it’s easy to follow the well maintained path. It was a very warm morning as we climbed the seemingly never ending stone steps but on reaching the lookout point we were rewarded with some stunning views of the narrow strip of Cheung Chau town with its harbour on one side and the beach on the other. The path continues to further viewpoints and we enjoyed the trail almost to ourselves. Hundreds of butterflies fluttered through the hedgerows, we spotted four varieties but they seemed impossible to photograph despite frequent attempts.
Returning to the bustling seafront we relaxed with cold drinks and our Hong Kong favourite of freshly baked coconut buns. Our visit was during the morning and as we’d eaten well at the breakfast buffet in our hotel we weren’t ready for a full meal, but if you are then I’d highly recommend sampling some of the fish dishes on offer.
Peng Chau
Getting there: Take a ferry from Central Pier No. 6, the boat ride taking approximately 40 minutes. Standard single fares to Peng Chau are HK$19.80 (£2.02).
This is a small island located off the north eastern coast of Lantau Island. It is noted for its temples and delicious seafood, has a laid back vibe and is ideal for a peaceful getaway following one or more of the walking trails before enjoying a tasty lunch.
As with Cheung Chau, there are no cars on the island just bicycles and motorised small carts. Peng Chau translated from Cantonese means ‘flat island’ and that describes it very well. Covering less than 1 sq. km it’s possible to walk around the perimeter of the island in just over an hour at a leisurely pace.
Peng Chau receives fewer tourists than its larger neighbours and for this reason the island has been more able to retain its authentic village feel. In addition to walking around the island we enjoyed losing ourselves along the narrow winding lanes and exploring some of the beautiful small temples dotted around.
Lamma Island
Getting there: Take the ferry to either Yung Shue Wan or Sok Kwu Wan from Central Ferry Pier 4. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes. Standard single tickets cost HK$22.10 (£2.25).
Just a short ferry ride away from Central, we enjoyed good views of Central and Kennedy Town behind. Stepping off the ferry we walked along the pier with its brightly coloured banners fluttering in the wind, welcoming us to the island.
We decided to take it easy and enjoy a gentle stroll along the pretty tree lined seafront. As with the other outlying islands we’d visited, Yung Shue Wan is the largest village and its attractive promenade has several seafood restaurants and cafes, all with outdoor tables, their parasols faded from years in the sun.
Wandering further along the promenade we looked in the small Tin Hau Temple dedicated to the Goddess of the Sea and near there spotted a tiny hospital which had a miniature sized ambulance parked outside designed to negotiate the very narrow roads.
The Star Ferry
I’ve included the Star Ferry in this post as although it doesn’t go to any of the outlying islands, its an iconic feature of Hong Kong and shouldn’t be missed. The Star Ferry operates from both Central and Wan Chai to Tsim Sha Tsui and with a fare of only HK$5 (50p) it offers the most amazing views for a bargain price.
I’d recommend taking the ferry during the day and then again at night when Victoria Harbour is illuminated and at its most magical. Payment is by Octopus card and although the fare is the same on both crossings, you benefit from a longer journey from Wanchai allowing more time to soak up the jaw dropping views.
