Things to do and see around Hong Kong: Best activities & Day trips
By Tina
May 21, 2026
Hong Kong is famous for its skyscrapers and fast-paced lifestyle, but just a stone's throw from the centre, tranquil islands, trails with sea views, beaches and lush green mountains are waiting for you.
In this Trip.com article, you’ll discover the best excursions from Hong Kong, ideal for day trips or weekend getaways and perfect for switching off without leaving the urban buzz behind.
Top Activities Around Hong Kong 🎫
- 🏞️ Lantau Island (Big Buddha + Tai O + Ngong Ping 360) – Perfect for a full day | The plan: culture, views and the sea
- 🏖️ Lamma Island (bohemian vibes + seafood + coastal walks) – Ideal for: a half-day or a relaxed day out | The plan: local life + food + the sea
- 🥾 Dragon’s Back (famous trail with stunning views) – Best time: morning / sunset | Plan: hiking + panoramic views
- 🥾 Lantau Trail (longest route) – Ideal for: a full day | Plan: mountains + nature
- 🏝️ Sai Kung (beaches + kayaking + geopark) – Ideal for: a full day / weekend | Your plan: sea + adventure + nature
What to Do Around Hong Kong by Time Available 🧭
Hong Kong can really surprise you (in a good way!) when you venture a little further from the city centre. Suddenly, lush green islands, coastal paths with sea views, and unexpectedly peaceful beaches appear.
It’s a bit like how you can whisk yourself away from Barcelona to the Costa Brava in no time. And the best part is, it’s a perfect fit whether you’ve only got a few hours to spare or a full weekend to explore.
⏱️ Time available | Recommended spots | Type of experience | Perfect for |
Half-day | Lamma Island, Dragon’s Back, a short stroll through Tai O | Tranquil island + hiking | Long layovers, making every day count. |
1 day | The Complete Lantau Island: Big Buddha, Ngong Ping 360 & Tai O | Culture + views + sea | First time in HK: the perfect plan |
2 days | Take your time exploring Sai Kung and the Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark, or wander along stretches of the Lantau Trail. | Nature + adventure | Slow Travel |
Weekend | Sai Kung with its beaches and islands, or a combo of Tai Mo Shan and a nearby island. | Unplug and Unwind | A real change of scenery |
Best places to visit near Hong Kong
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Top 5 Activities and Places Around Hong Kong 🗺️
🏞️ Lantau Island: the classic that deserves a full day
If there’s one day trip that feels like a natural fit near Hong Kong, it’s Lantau Island.
It’s the largest island, home to some of the most famous spots and, what’s more, it blends nature and culture quite naturally. Plus, dedicating a full day to it is usually the best decision.
💡 Fun fact: although many people think of Hong Kong as just a city, the territory actually boasts more than 260 islands. Most of these are uninhabited or covered in lush greenery, which explains why getaways like Lantau work so well without completely leaving the urban buzz behind.
Tian Tan Buddha
The Tian Tan Buddha is a truly striking sight from afar. It’s one of the largest Buddha statues in the world (standing at a total height of 34 metres!) and the setting really adds to the experience: the silence of the mountains and a wonderfully serene atmosphere.
The thing is, it’s not just about getting the perfect shot. Climbing the steps, wandering along the platform, and peering out from the viewpoints gives you a completely different perspective of the landscape.
- Getting there: MTR to Tung Chung + Ngong Ping 360 cable car
- Estimated time: 1.5–2 hours
- Best time to visit: the morning, for fewer crowds and beautifully clear light.
📌 Trip.com Tip: If the sky is clear, the views are spectacular and you can really appreciate the natural side of Hong Kong.
Ngong Ping 360
Introducing the Ngong Ping 360. Far more than just a way to get around, it’s a key part of the adventure. With glass cabins, mountains below, and the sea shimmering in the distance, the journey itself is well worth the trip.
Mind you, keep an eye out for foggy days, as it loses quite a bit of its charm then.
- Journey time: around 25 minutes
- Best time: first thing in the morning or mid-afternoon
- Top tip: a standard cabin is usually more than enough, unless you're looking for the full experience.
Tai O
After all those picture-perfect views, you might fancy something a bit more down-to-earth, and Tai O fits the bill perfectly. With its stilt houses, relaxed pace of life, and the scent of seafood in the air, this is where you’ll discover the authentic, local side of Hong Kong—a world away from the skyscrapers.
- How to get there: bus from Ngong Ping or Tung Chung
- Recommended time: 2 hours
- What to do: take a stroll, enjoy some fresh fish and sit back without keeping an eye on the clock.
🏖️ Lamma Island: Seafood, coastal trails and zero cars
Lamma Island is one of those places where you instantly shift down a gear the moment you arrive. There are no cars, the vibe is laid-back, and everything invites you to take it slow. Not only that, it’s one of the easiest islands in Hong Kong for a spontaneous day trip.
A stroll + seafood: the simple plan that never fails
The walk between Yung Shue Wan and Sok Kwu Wan is short, sweet, and easy-going. Essentially, you enjoy a gentle stroll and end up sitting by the sea with a plate of seafood right in front of you. To be honest, it’s hard to say no to a plan like that!
- Getting there: ferry from Central
- Trail duration: 1–1.5 hours
- Ideal for: leisurely day trips from Hong Kong
Coastal paths and peaceful viewpoints
Besides the main trail, there are little paths along the seafront that are perfect for photos and for stretching out the afternoon. You can really feel the bohemian vibe here—it's unmistakable!
- Best time: a mild afternoon
- The perfect plan: stroll + coffee + sunset
🥾 Hiking in Hong Kong: Dragon’s Back and the Lantau Trail
Hong Kong is surprisingly green! One minute you're on the bustling MTR, the next you're stepping onto a serene hiking trail – it's a delightful disorientation at first! But here's the golden rule... it's all about picking the perfect path to match your time and energy levels.
Dragon’s Back
Dragon’s Back is short, rewarding, and boasts constant sea views. It’s the perfect choice if you want a straightforward walk that ends right by the beach.
- Duration: 2–3 hours
- Difficulty: easy to moderate
- The grand finale: a breathtaking descent into Shek O!
Lantau Trail
Now we’re talking about something a bit more serious! The Lantau Trail can be tackled in sections, blending traditional villages, mountain peaks, and lush greenery on a grand scale.
- Duration: by section
- Ideal for those looking for something a bit more powerful
- Top tip: get an early start and bring some water
🏝️ Sai Kung: Beaches, kayaking and the wild side of Hong Kong
Sai Kung is the city’s natural backyard. Here, the landscape truly transforms, offering the ultimate sense of escape. And when the weather is fine, it’s hard not to stay a little longer than planned.
Beaches and small islands
Pristine beaches, little boats and crystal-clear water. It’s the perfect plan for summer or a bright, sunny day.
- Getting there: bus from Diamond Hill
- The classic combo: beach + boat
- Minimum time: Half a day
Geopark
The Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark will amaze you with its stunning rock formations and easy trails. It’s the perfect spot if you love snapping photos and enjoy a leisurely stroll.
- Duration: 2–3 hours
- Ideal for: nature without the crowds
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🌄 Tai Mo Shan: Hong Kong's Highest Peak
Tai Mo Shan is the perfect choice if you fancy heading for the heights and escaping the noise. You won't find any skyscrapers or typical urban viewpoints here; nature is firmly in charge. Being up there, surrounded by fresh air and silence, really changes the perspective many people have of Hong Kong.
Tai Mo Shan stands at 957 metres tall. It’s the highest point in Hong Kong, and you’ll certainly feel the difference as you head up; it’s cooler, breezier, and a real breath of fresh air from the city.
A rewarding climb and stunning views when the weather is on your side
To start with, Tai Mo Shan treats you to stunning, wide-open views when the skies are clear.
You’ll see rolling hills, lush greenery and, in the distance, even a glimpse of the skyline. Mind you, there’s one thing to note: the mist often makes an appearance. It might hide everything from view, but that’s all part of the atmosphere. It feels almost like something out of a film, with low clouds racing by and a vibe that’s worlds away from the city below.
- Getting there: Take the MTR to Tsuen Wan, then hop on a bus or grab a taxi.
- Total time: a relaxed half day
- Perfect for: natural viewpoints near Hong Kong and day trips from Hong Kong
Gentle paths and that wonderful feeling of switching off
Then there’s the walk itself. You don’t need to be a pro hiker by any means. There are paved paths and gentle routes that allow you to wander at your own pace, stop to take photos, and simply soak up the surroundings. The thing is, even if you don’t walk very far, you’ll feel completely 'away from it all'.
- What to pack: some warm layers, even in the dry season, as it gets a bit chilly at night.
- Best time: early morning or late afternoon
Easy to combine
And that’s where Tai Mo Shan fits perfectly into your itinerary. You can head up in the morning and then head back to more urban areas for lunch or to keep on exploring.
This brilliant plan doesn't require a full day, but it certainly leaves you feeling like you've seen a different side of Hong Kong—one that's greener and more peaceful.
Top Hotels in Hong Kong
5 star
6419 Reviews
Tsim Sha Tsui and Kowloon West Hong Kong|2.67km from city centre
I stay at this hotel almost every month, but this time was definitely one of my worst experiences. Issue 1: The key card system for the elevators and room doors is a problem. The elevator card reader often doesn't work, and I usually have to try opening my room door three to five times or more. This system is ancient and really needs an upgrade. Issue 2: While dining in the executive lounge, I found insects. The staff's handling of the situation was unprofessional and inadequate, making me feel disrespected. Truly a poor stay.FromHK$927
Very Good5563 Reviews
Mong Kok Hong Kong|0.18km from city centre
Right across from Langham Place, directly accessible from the MTR station exit. The hotel lobby is just across the road. The location is truly authentic; you can wander around downstairs, and everything within a few kilometers feels familiar, giving off that old Hong Kong vibe. The main thing is the excellent location and great service. Next time I visit Hong Kong, this will definitely be my first choice again.FromHK$1,200
Very Good8518 Reviews
Mong Kok Hong Kong|0.73km from city centre
We booked a family room, and for Hong Kong, the room was really spacious. The two queen-sized beds were large and comfortable, the bedding was clean, and the bathroom was spotless. The hotel is located inside a mall. It's just a short walk from the MTR exit – turn right, and you'll find the hotel's back entrance. Step out the front entrance, and the bus stop is not far away. Dining, shopping, and a supermarket are all conveniently located in one spot. The Man Wah Restaurant next door had good food that our child enjoyed. Unfortunately, it rained for several days, so we didn't get to experience the outdoor swimming pool.FromHK$1,104
Good4856 Reviews
Tsim Sha Tsui and Kowloon West Hong Kong|2.46km from city centre
## Facilities
1. As an established five-star hotel, I was pleased to find that the shower wasn't the kind where you have to stand in a bathtub, which I often encountered during previous stays in Hong Kong.
2. The bathroom has a direct drinking water tap, and the water tastes good, so I could easily refill my mineral water bottles.
3. There's a luggage rack in the room, which saves you from bending over to access your suitcase.
4. Hooks on both sides of the bathroom door are very convenient, and the toilet is a smart bidet model.
## Cleanliness
The room was spotless and tidy, very satisfied.
## Environment
1. The location is excellent, near the Tsim Sha Tsui East MTR Exit P2 and close to the Shangri-La Hotel. I feel this hotel offers better value for money. From my room, 719, I could look down and see the dining area on the 3rd floor, which was quite interesting and cleverly designed.
2. It's also close to the Hong Kong Museum of History, Hong Kong Science Museum, and Victoria Harbour.
## Service
The service was excellent. The doorman promptly opened the door, the front desk attendant spoke fluent Mandarin, the concierge was enthusiastic, and the ladies maintaining the restrooms in the 3rd-floor common area were all very kind.
## Overall
This was a very satisfying stay, without a single flaw. I will definitely choose The Royal Garden Hotel again on my next visit to Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong.FromHK$965
Good9120 Reviews
Sha Tin Hong Kong|8.21km from city centre
I was really satisfied with my stay here in Africa. It's an easy 8-minute walk from Shimen MTR station, which is on the Tuen Ma line. This makes it super convenient for getting to concerts at Kai Tak and Hung Hom. You can also easily transfer to the East Rail Line at Tai Wai for trips across the harbor to Admiralty or even up to Lo Wu in Shenzhen. The hotel and rooms are both brand new and offer great value for money.FromHK$722
Family friendly
Good16097 Reviews
Tsim Sha Tsui and Kowloon West Hong Kong|2.11km from city centre
Amenities: They provide complimentary bottled water, tea bags, and even a universal adapter, which was very convenient.
Cleanliness: The room was clean and hygienic, very satisfying.
Environment: Clean and comfortable.
Service: A big shout-out to the front desk lady! She was so nice and upgraded our room when she saw I was with two small children. Other staff members also greeted us whenever they saw us.FromHK$608
6821 Reviews
Tsim Sha Tsui and Kowloon West Hong Kong|2.53km from city centre
The hotel's location and other aspects were decent, but there were a few significant drawbacks:
1. The elevators were incredibly slow and always crowded. We often had to wait a long time, only for an elevator to arrive completely full, meaning we had to wait even longer. It was quite frustrating.
2. None of the pump dispensers for the hand soap, shower gel, shampoo, etc., in the bathroom were working properly. This clearly shows that these items are never checked.
3. The sink stopper was broken and leaked even when closed.FromHK$885
Good10723 Reviews
Wan Chai and Causeway Bay Hong Kong|4.45km from city centre
Our stay at The Emperor Hotel Causeway Bay in Hong Kong was absolutely fantastic! As soon as my daughter walked in, she said she loved it. I immediately started taking photos and posted on social media about how wonderful and elegant this hotel is. We were on the 29th floor, and the large window offered stunning views of Victoria Harbour. The ceilings are high, and they provided toothbrushes, soap, coffee, and tea. On the second day, we even received a complimentary bottle of mineral water. The front desk also offers free tea, coffee, and newspapers. This hotel completely shattered my preconceptions about Hong Kong accommodation being expensive and small. The Tin Hau MTR station is super convenient for getting around. On our last day, when we stored our luggage, they even gave us two Ferrero Rocher chocolates as we left – so polite and incredibly thoughtful! My daughter and I both agreed that we'll definitely stay here again next time we visit Hong Kong! Several parents who saw my Hong Kong trip photos have asked me where we stayed, and I've been recommending The Emperor Hotel Causeway Bay without hesitation! You can really see how much we loved this hotel from my photos!FromHK$498
4695 Reviews
Tsuen Wan Hong Kong|7.01km from city centre
We stayed for 4 nights in this hotel, at first we thought it’s far as we arrived middle of the night by taxi, I’m thinking if i made a right decision. After a day of stay we familiarised the hotel, especially the shuttle service and it turns out that we have a good deal! We enjoyed the pool and gym. The filtered water station is available in each level. So far a good and best deal from trip.com! There’s one 7-11 outside the hotel.
SoFromHK$569
6268 Reviews
Tsuen Wan Hong Kong|10.89km from city centre
This was my second trip from Guangdong, and I chose this hotel specifically because it has metered parking right outside. However, the parking is free from 8 AM to 8 PM, Monday to Saturday, and from 10 AM to 10 PM on Sundays and public holidays. If there are no spots available there, you can opt for the hotel's own parking for HKD250 per day.
Image two shows the view from the hotel's sea-view room. The shipping lane can get quite busy at times, and it's fascinating to watch cargo ships constantly moving in and out.
Image three displays the hotel's breakfast, which offers a selection of fixed set menus. The hotel is also currently running a breakfast promotion for guests, which makes it pretty good value for money.
The nearby beach and Ting Kau Village are also perfect for a very chill stroll.FromHK$450
Swimming pool
Very Good8358 Reviews
Tsim Sha Tsui and Kowloon West Hong Kong|2.59km from city centre
The environment was great! We chose a sea-view room and the view was absolutely stunning. We also received complimentary welcome fruit, though it was a bit basic. The hotel is conveniently located with many restaurants nearby. K11 shopping mall is just about a 7-minute walk away, and there's a delicious Thai restaurant right next to the hotel.
As for hygiene, the room was very clean and tidy with no unpleasant odors.
Regarding service, the room service was quite good. However, the first front desk staff member who assisted me during check-in had a very condescending attitude. I was polite and humble with my inquiries, especially since I wasn't on the mainland, but she was extremely impatient. 🙃FromHK$1,902
11542 Reviews
Sha Tin Hong Kong|7.52km from city centre
On a Friday night, most 4-star hotels in Hong Kong are usually around a thousand [HKD], so getting the Regal for about five hundred [HKD] this time was really great value for a short weekend getaway. There are plenty of places to eat and shop nearby, which is super convenient. It's also only about a 30 HKD taxi ride from the MTR station.FromHK$648
11076 Reviews
Airport Hong Kong|24.16km from city centre
Our family of four arrived in Hong Kong from Bali at 00:05 and had a connecting flight back to Shanghai the next day at 08:10. We considered three options for an overnight stay:
1. The airport departure hall: Free, but no place to lie down, too bright, and would be noisy in the morning – definitely wouldn't get good sleep.
2. Plaza Premium Lounge: No recliners, only seats. Offers 24-hour hot water and food, but for four people, an overnight stay isn't cheap (online prices varied from tens to hundreds of RMB per person), and showering costs extra.
3. Regal Airport Hotel: Requires immigration, but offers a proper bed and a shower. We booked a family room (two 1.5-meter double beds) on Trip.com for just over 900 RMB per night.FromHK$721
Good3486 Reviews
Tsim Sha Tsui and Kowloon West Hong Kong|2.13km from city centre
The room was clean and had a bathtub, plus a universal adapter. The smart home system for lights and curtains made for a very convenient stay. Housekeeping was prompt and the service was attentive. The front desk staff gave great recommendations for food and attractions, and every single staff member I encountered was friendly and enthusiastic. The location is also excellent, with plenty of good food nearby. K11, the Art Museum, and the Science Museum are just a few minutes' walk away. I was rushing for an early flight when checking out and forgot to properly check out. I called the front desk, and they kept reassuring me, saying it was fine as long as I hadn't left anything behind. All in all, it was a fantastic stay, and I'll definitely choose this hotel again when I come back to Hong Kong.FromHK$978
6832 Reviews
Hung Hom and Kowloon City Hong Kong|3km from city centre
There are already many people waiting for check-in when we arrived.
The reception guide us to the check- in machine to skip the queue, but the machine instruct us back to the counter.
A young lady then help us go through all the procedures before another kind gentleman offer my daughter an upgrade to a sea view twin room with her classmate.
The view is perfect. The services are excellent.
They had a wonderful experience for their graduation dinner downstairs.FromHK$1,147
Best Time to Visit Around Hong Kong 🌦️
The weather here really shapes the experience, especially if you’re planning to head out to the islands, go hiking, or hit the beach. There’s no need to obsess over the forecast, but picking the right time makes a world of difference to how you’ll enjoy everything around Hong Kong.
Station | Weather | Top sights to see | Experience |
The driest and most pleasant season (October–March) | Mild temperatures, lower humidity, and clearer skies (18–25 °C) | Hiking trails like Dragon’s Back or Tai Mo Shan, natural viewpoints, Lantau | Clearer views, comfortable hikes, and stress-free outdoor plans |
Wettest and hottest season (April–September) | Hot and humid with frequent showers (26–33 °C) | Islands with flexible plans like Lamma, villages like Tai O, and short routes | Lush, green landscapes; it's worth being flexible and having a plan B ready in case of rain. |
Dreaming of exploring Hong Kong's incredible surroundings? The sweet spot for your visit is usually autumn and winter. You'll find it's so much more comfortable for strolling around, and the views? Oh, they're absolutely breathtaking!
That said, summer has its own special charm too. Even though the heat can be quite intense, the sea looks spectacular and you’ll get to experience the islands in a completely different way.
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FAQ – Things to Do Around Hong Kong ❓
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