A pocket-sized island paradise
just 35 mins from HK Island 🌊
A day trip here feels like stepping into a slower world—one where bicycles outnumber cars, sea breeze carries the scent of dried seafood, and centuries-old temples rest quietly among sandy beaches and turquoise bays.
Shaped like a playful dumbbell floating in the South China Sea, Cheung Chau Island is a beloved weekend escape for Hong Kong locals. With bobbing fishing boats, no-car streets, and family-run seafood restaurants lining the harbor, this island offers a refreshing contrast to the city’s fast-paced rhythm.
How to Get There
⛴️ Take the Ferry from Central Pier No. 5
The easiest way to reach Cheung Chau is by ferry from Central Pier 5. From Central Station or Hong Kong Station, follow signs toward IFC Mall and the waterfront; the pier is just a short walk away.
You’ll find two types of ferries:
| Ordinary Ferry | ~1 hour | from ~HK$15 |
| Fast Ferry | 35–40 minutes | slightly higher |
Ferries depart roughly every 30 minutes from early morning to late night, making it perfect for a flexible day trip. You can purchase tickets at the counter or simply tap in with your Octopus Card—which you can conveniently add to Apple Wallet and top up via Apple Pay on the go.
Tip: Check schedules online before your trip, as timings may vary.
Website: Sun Ferry (search “Cheung Chau timetable”)
https://www.sunferry.com.hk/en/route-and-fare/timetable
Time Table | Route & Fare | Sun Ferry Services Company Limited
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www.sunferry.com.hk
🏝️ First Impressions
Stepping off the ferry, you’ll spot a McDonald’s and a Wellcome supermarket—little reminders that, yes, you’re still in Hong Kong. Yet most visitors here aren’t tourists—they’re Hong Kong locals seeking a quiet weekend escape. That alone says a lot.
🐟 Seafood Heaven
Cheung Chau has recently gained fame through Korean travel shows like 짠내투어, and yes—the seafood hype is real. Prices here are friendlier than in the city, and most restaurants offer set menus for groups (e.g., “2 dishes for X, 4 dishes for Y”), so the more friends you bring, the better variety you can try.
One popular spot from TV is So Bor Kee (小寶記) — but there are plenty of excellent mom-and-pop seafood joints along the harbor. Fresh, simple, delicious.
🚲 Rent a Bike & Explore
The island is mostly car-free, making it a cycling paradise. Rental shops sit near the ferry pier; deposits are common and payment is usually cash. There are bikes with baskets, family bikes, and even kids’ bikes with training wheels.
Pedal along peaceful coastal paths, stop for photos, grab a coconut or cold drink—it’s island life at its finest.
🚵♂️ Pirate Legend Spot
On the island’s southwest sits Cheung Po Tsai Cave, once rumored to hide a pirate’s treasure. The entrance is surprisingly tiny—easy to miss unless you know what you're looking for—which makes the tale feel even more intriguing.
Bring your phone flashlight; it’s narrow and dim in spots. It’s a simple thrill, but charmingly local—and yes, there’s even a tiny souvenir stand at the entrance because… Hong Kong 😄
⛩️ Best Views on the Island
A 20–25 minute walk uphill from town leads to the North Lookout Pavilion, offering sweeping ocean views. It’s especially magical at sunset, when the sky turns gold and the sea glimmers around fishing boats heading home.
It’s a short but slightly steep walk—worth every step.
🌊 A Peaceful Beach Escape
Cheung Chau has two swimming beaches, but Tung Wan Beach is the bigger and more accessible one—just a 5–10 minute walk from the pier.
Facilities include:
- Showers & changing rooms
- Toilets
- Beach umbrella & chair rentals
- Small cafés nearby
Come on a weekday or at sunset for the quietest vibes. On local holidays, it can feel unexpectedly lively—think: Hong Kong’s mini version of Busan’s Haeundae Beach ✨
Swimming Season: typically April–October
Even if you don’t swim, sitting on the sand with a takeaway beer while listening to the waves? Pure bliss.
✔️ Why Cheung Chau Belongs on Your List
Cheung Chau offers a slice of Hong Kong life many visitors never experience.
It’s where joggers greet each other, school kids pedal home in uniform, and fishermen mend nets by the shore. It feels honest, lived-in, and refreshingly calm.
Come here when you want:
- A break from skyscrapers
- Fresh seafood by the sea
- Sunset views without a crowd
- Slow travel, not city rush
Rent a bike, breathe salty ocean air, eat seafood with cold beer, and let the island work its simple magic.
Cheung Chau isn’t just a day trip—it's a reset button. 🏝️
A perfect slow-day plan
escape from the city 🌊🚴♀️✨
Took an early ferry from Central → rented a bicycle upon arrival → cycled along the coastal road → explored the Cheung Po Tsai Cave → hiked up to the lookout pavilion for sunset → enjoyed seafood and beer at a local restaurant for dinner → strolled through the night market → returned by ferry.