The 7 Best Beaches in Hong Kong

One of Hong Kong's most beloved beaches, Shek O sits at the southeastern tip of Hong Kong Island and offers wide, clean sand with a relaxed village atmosphere. Swim in the designated zones, rent a beach chair, or grab seafood at the nearby village restaurants. The journey itself — a winding bus ride through Dragon's Back country — is half the appeal. It gets very crowded on summer weekends, so aim for a weekday morning.

Ham Tin Wan, reachable by hiking the MacLehose Trail Stage 1 from Pak Tam Chung or by kaido (small ferry) from Sai Kung town, is a stunning crescent of golden sand in the Sai Kung East Country Park. The effort required to reach it means the beach stays relatively uncrowded and pristine. There's a small campsite and basic refreshment kiosk on site. This is the quintessential Hong Kong 'hidden beach' experience — genuinely worth the journey.

Hong Kong's premier surf beach sits just north of Shek O and is the go-to spot for the city's small but dedicated surfing community. Waves are best in typhoon season (summer–autumn) when swells roll in from the South China Sea. The beach is less crowded than Shek O and has a more rugged, natural feel. Facilities are basic, and there's no lifeguard outside designated hours, so check conditions before swimming.

Clear Water Bay Second Beach is widely considered one of the cleanest and most beautiful beaches in Hong Kong, with crystal-clear turquoise water and a dramatic hillside backdrop. It's a favourite among locals who know the New Territories well, and the water quality here consistently ranks among the best in the city. The adjacent country park offers excellent hiking trails. Parking is limited and the access road gets congested on sunny weekends.

Cheung Sha is Hong Kong's longest beach, split into Upper and Lower sections on Lantau Island's south coast. The Lower beach is quieter and more scenic, while the Upper beach has more facilities and the well-regarded Stoep restaurant nearby. The water is clean and the setting — backed by hills with minimal development — feels genuinely remote. Getting here requires a bus from Tung Chung or Mui Wo, which keeps crowds manageable.

The main beach on Lamma Island is a short walk from Yung Shue Wan ferry pier and combines a decent sandy beach with the island's famous laid-back, bohemian atmosphere. Swim, then head to one of the nearby seafood restaurants for a post-beach lunch — this combination is a classic Hong Kong day out. The beach is modest in size but the overall experience of the island makes it special. Note the power station visible in the background, which some find jarring.

The most famous — and most manicured — beach on Hong Kong Island's south side, 25-30 minutes by double-decker bus from Central, with soft sand, calm water, free showers, and upscale dining at The Pulse. It's pleasant rather than spectacular; locals rank other beaches higher for swimming. No lifeguards December through February.