For many travellers, Hong Kong conjures images of neon-lit streets, luxury shopping malls, and iconic skyscrapers over Victoria Harbour. Yet beyond the urban buzz lies an entirely different Hong Kong: a green, mountainous, and coastal landscape where outdoor experiences abound. With more than 70 per cent of its land area covered in country parks, forests, beaches, and outlying islands, Hong Kong is a haven for hikers, nature lovers, and adventure seekers.
Here are seven ways to experience the great outdoors in Hong Kong.
Perhaps the most celebrated hike in Hong Kong, the Dragon’s Back offers breathtaking views of Shek O, Tai Long Wan, and the South China Sea. It is part of the longer Hong Kong Trail but can be completed in about two to three hours. The path is well-marked and suitable even for casual hikers. Starting from To Tei Wan on Shek O Road, the trail climbs gently before opening onto a ridge resembling a dragon's spine, giving it its name. The final stretch leads down to Big Wave Bay, where hikers can reward themselves with a swim or a meal at a beachside café.
Sai Kung, often called Hong Kong’s “back garden,” is a paradise of turquoise waters, volcanic rock formations, and fishing villages. The Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark showcases spectacular hexagonal rock columns created by volcanic activity over 140 million years ago. Visitors can take a boat tour to see these geological wonders up close, along with sea arches and caves. Sai Kung is also known for its pristine beaches, such as Ham Tin Wan and Tai Long Wan, which are accessible via short hikes or boat rides. Within the town, waterfront seafood restaurants let travellers sample freshly caught fish and shellfish.
Lantau is the largest of Hong Kong’s islands and home to some of its most diverse attractions. Adventurers can climb Lantau Peak, the second-highest mountain in Hong Kong, for spectacular sunrise views. At Ngong Ping, the Tian Tan Buddha statue and Po Lin Monastery offer cultural encounters in a serene mountain setting. Lantau is also rich in coastal trails, including the scenic route from Mui Wo to Pui O, which winds through forests, beaches, and villages.
Few travellers realise that Hong Kong has dramatic waterfalls hidden in its hilly landscapes. Bride’s Pool and Mirror Pool near Tai Mei Tuk are popular spots, reached by easy walks through shaded forest paths. In Lantau, Silvermine Waterfall is named after the silver mines that once operated nearby. Another spectacular cascade is Ng Tung Chai Waterfall, one of the tallest in Hong Kong, located along a trail that takes visitors past several smaller falls before reaching the main plunge. These sites are ideal for photography, picnics, and quiet immersion in nature.
Beyond its hiking trails, Hong Kong offers excellent opportunities for water sports. With calm, clear waters and stunning coastal scenery, Sai Kung and Stanley are particularly popular for kayaking and paddleboarding. Kayak rental shops and guided tours are widely available, catering to beginners and experienced paddlers. Exploring the small outlying islands by kayak is a memorable way to see sea caves, mangroves, and untouched beaches. For a different perspective, stand-up paddleboarding lets visitors glide over the water while taking in the city’s skyline in the distance.
Hong Kong sits on the East Asian–Australasian Flyway, one of the world’s most important migratory bird routes. The Mai Po Nature Reserve in the northwestern New Territories is internationally recognised for its wetlands, mangroves, and mudflats. Managed by WWF, the reserve is home to over 400 bird species, including black-faced spoonbills, egrets, and herons. Guided tours allow visitors to explore boardwalks and hides while learning about the region’s fragile ecosystems. Winter and spring are the best times for birdwatching, when thousands of migratory birds arrive to rest and feed.
Camping is an excellent option for those who want to immerse themselves fully in Hong Kong’s outdoors. There are more than 40 designated campsites across the territory, many free to use. Popular locations include Pui O Beach on Lantau Island, Nam Shan Campsite near Mui Wo, and Tap Mun, also known as Grass Island. Nights away from the city lights provide stargazing opportunities, while mornings bring the sounds of waves or forest birds. Campers can hike, swim, and explore nearby villages during the day, making it a well-rounded outdoor experience.
Accessibility: Most trails and outdoor sites are well-connected by public transport. Ferries, buses, and the MTR make it easy to reach starting points.
Best Season: October to March offers cooler, drier weather that is ideal for hiking and outdoor sports. Summers can be hot and humid, with sudden rain showers.
Preparation: Carry enough water, sunscreen, and insect repellent. For hikes, sturdy shoes are recommended.
Guided Tours: Eco-tours, guided hikes, and kayaking excursions are widely available for those who prefer organised experiences.
Respect Nature: Hong Kong’s country parks are well-maintained. Visitors are encouraged to carry their trash back and avoid disturbing wildlife.
