The Outlying Islands
Lamma Island
Lamma Island is Hong Kong's hippie island — car-free, green, relaxed, and with a bohemian atmosphere that stands in stark contrast to the mainland. The main settlement, Yung Shue Wan, has cafés, bookstores, and vegetarian restaurants, and the hiking trail to Sok Kwu Wan (1.5 hours, easy) leads over hills with sea views to waterfront seafood restaurants. On weekends: a favorite excursion for Hongkongers.
- Ferry: From Central Pier 4, every 30 minutes, 20-minute ride, 18 HKD.
- Must-Do: The hike Yung Shue Wan → Sok Kwu Wan, seafood lunch, then ferry from Sok Kwu Wan back to Central.
Cheung Chau
Cheung Chau is a dumbbell-shaped island with a lively fishing village, temples, a Mini-Great-Wall (coastal walk with rock formations), and the famous Bun Festival (Cheung Chau Bun Festival, May) — a Taoist festival where giant bun towers are climbed. The main beach (Tung Wan) is suitable for swimming, and the village's alleys are full of food stalls and souvenir shops.
- Ferry: From Central Pier 5, every 30–60 minutes, 35–55-minute ride, 14–28 HKD.
- Must-Eat: Giant fishballs at the harbor, mango mochi, and freshly grilled squid skewers.
Peng Chau
The smallest and quietest of the Outlying Islands — a place where time has stood still. No cars, few tourists, old temples, and a Finger Hill (95 m) with panoramic views of the surrounding islands and Lantau. Perfect for a half-day of tranquility after the hustle and bustle of the city. Ferry from Central Pier 6 (30 minutes, 16 HKD).