This article is a complete guide to Hong Kong attractions, including opening hours, tickets, and the best routes.
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Wan Chai is not an island, but it's one of the best departure points for exploring Hong Kong's many charming islands. This article shares how to conveniently reach those hidden harbors far away from the city bustle from Wan Chai.
Why Depart from Wan Chai?
Wan Chai Ferry Pier is located in the core of Hong Kong Island, adjacent to MTR Wan Chai Station and Exhibition Station, making it extremely convenient. Compared to the farther Central Ferry Pier, departing from Wan Chai to several popular islands is actually more time-saving. In 2026, Hong Kong's tourism industry continues to recover, with visitors increasing by 18% compared to the same period last year, many of whom come specifically for these hidden island destinations away from the crowds.
Recommended Islands & Highlights
1. Lamma Island — The Most Family-Friendly Ecological Paradise
Lamma Island is Hong Kong's third-largest island, located about three kilometers south of Hong Kong Island. It boasts pristine beaches and dense mangroves. No vehicles are allowed on the island, and the air is exceptionally fresh, making it perfect for family outings.
The island has two main beaches: Sok Kwu Wan and Hung Shing Wan. Sok Kwu Wan features seafood restaurants and beach barbecue areas, while Hung Shing Wan is about a 20-minute walk away with scenic views along the way. The island has good safety records and in recent years has been rated as a "Low-Carbon Tourism Demonstration Island," making it the top choice for family travelers.
2. Cheung Chau Island — Where Traditional Fishing Village Meets Creative Cuisine
Cheung Chau is Hong Kong's most traditionally-colored fishing village island, preserving a strong fishing culture and warm local hospitality. Traditional sailing boats can be seen docked at the pier, and the fish market starts bustling early in the morning. The island's prosperity buns attract many worshippers each year for blessings, and its creative desserts have also gained attention recently.
Cheung Chau's Tung Wan and Kwun Yam Wan are the main beaches with crystal-clear water. The island's alleyways are a labyrinth of surprises—turning a random corner might lead you to a traditional cha chaan teng or a trendy 文青 cafe. Fish balls and cha liang are must-try classic delicacies.
3. Tap Mun Island — Hong Kong's Version of Penghu Bay
Located east of Sai Kung, Tap Mun is a relatively off-the-beaten-path island that preserves a very primitive fishing village style. Local residents make their living from fishing and aquaculture, and fishermen can always be seen sorting their nets at the pier.
The highlight here is "Tap Mun Grassland" — a vast grassy slope facing unlimited sea views, making it a perfect spot for camping and stargazing. On clear days, you can clearly see the Sai Kung mountain range on the opposite shore, with scenery comparable to Taiwan's Penghu. The island has one or two simple eateries serving the most authentic seafood pasta and curry fish balls.
4. Peng Chau — Miniature Version of Tai O Water Town
Peng Chau is one of Hong Kong's smallest "quiet" islands, covering only about one square kilometer. Walking around the island takes only about forty minutes. The island preserves traditional stilt house areas, with colorful small wooden houses reflected on the water surface, resembling Tai O but with far fewer tourists.
The island's "Finger Hill" is the only elevated point, offering a panoramic view of the entire southern coast of Hong Kong Island. Island residents live at a slow pace, with elderly people sunbathing at their doorsteps and stray cats running around. There are no chain stores here, only two or three family-run cha chaan teng serving the simplest milk tea and egg sandwiches.
5. Po Toi Island — Hong Kong's southernmost Hidden Gem
Po Toi Island is located at the southern tip of Hong Kong Island, under the jurisdiction of Sai Kung district. It's one of Hong Kong's less-visited primitive islands, famous for its strange rocks and boulders. The most famous ones are the "Conch Shell Rock" and the "Coffin Rock" — huge coffin-shaped giant rocks that are popular photo spots.
The island has a over-century-old Tin Hau Temple, with two old banyan trees in front providing natural shade. Residents use sailing boats as their main transportation, with sparse schedules of only about two to three trips daily, reflecting the most primitive outlying island lifestyle. This is suitable for travelers who enjoy exploring underdeveloped attractions.
Practical Information
Transportation
Ferry routes departing from Wan Chai Ferry Pier:
To Lamma Island: Ferries require a transfer at Central Pier. The walk from Wan Chai to Central takes about 15 minutes or one MTR Island Line stop. Total journey is about 45 minutes, fare is approximately HK$22.
To Cheung Chau: Same as above, transfer required at Central. Total journey is about 55 minutes, fare is approximately HK$24.
To Tap Mun: Departing from Sai Kung Pier, no direct ferry from Wan Chai. Recommended MTR to Hang Tung Station (about 25 minutes), then minibus or taxi to Sai Kung Pier (about 20 minutes), then ferry (about 30 minutes).
To Peng Chau: Direct departure from Central Pier, same transfer process as Wan Chai. Total journey is about 40 minutes, fare is approximately HK$18.
To Po Toi Island: Ferries only operate on weekend and public holiday afternoons from Aberdeen Pier. On weekdays, you need to route through Stanley. Recommend taxi directly from Causeway Bay or Central to Aberdeen Pier (about 30 minutes).
Ferry Schedules & Fees
Ferry fares are calculated in Hong Kong dollars, usually divided into regular ferries and fast ferries. Regular ferries are slower but more affordable, approximately HK$18-28; fast ferries are about 15-20 minutes faster, with fares approximately HK$35-50. There are more ferry services on weekends and public holidays but also more crowds. Less popular islands like Tap Mun and Po Toi have limited daily departures, so be sure to check the New Ferry website for the latest schedules before your trip.
Opening Hours
Most islands essentially have no "closing hours" since residents live there 24 hours a day. Restaurants, for example, usually open at 6 AM and close around 8 PM. Beaches have no fences and can be accessed at any time.
Budget Suggestions
Basic expenses for a day trip:
- Round-trip ferry tickets: HK$40-100
- Food and drinks: HK$80-150
- Small souvenirs: Under HK$50
It is recommended to bring an Octopus card, which can be used directly on the ferry for ticket purchases without needing cash.
Travel Tips
Avoid the Crowds: Saturday mornings are peak times on each island. Visiting from Sunday to Thursday is relatively quieter.
Bring Cash: Some merchants on small islands do not accept credit cards or electronic payments. Octopus cards and cash are essential.
Check the Weather: Sea conditions during typhoon season (June-October) may affect ferry services. It is recommended to check the Observatory warning the night before your trip.
Hiking Gear: Tap Mun Grassland and Po Toi Island require walking along mountain paths. It is recommended to wear comfortable sports shoes and bring drinking water.
Allow Time for Return: The last ferries to remote islands like Po Toi Island and Tap Mun usually depart before 5 PM. Missing it requires chartering a boat, which can cost HK$800 or more.
