Things To Do
in Cheung Chau
Cheung Chau is a compact fishing island just southwest of Hong Kong’s main territories, reachable by ferry from Central. Its streets wind along the waterfront, lined with markets, seafood stalls, and family-run eateries that give the island a relaxed, small-town vibe. The coastline offers sandy beaches and whale-blue sea views, while culturally significant temples and bun-tossing traditions add a sense of history.
With easy biking, short hikes, and a friendly, low-key atmosphere, Cheung Chau provides a refreshing counterpoint to Hong Kong’s skyscrapers and hustle.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Cheung Chau ferry terminal and take in the beautiful coastal views. Start your day with a leisurely walk along the waterfront promenade, absorbing the island's vibrant fishing culture. Enjoy a local breakfast of freshly made pineapple buns and milk tea at a nearby café.
Visit the Cheung Po Tsai Cave, said to have been used by the infamous pirate Cheung Po Tsai, and imagine the adventures that took place within its walls. Stroll through the charming streets of the village, stopping by local boutiques and seafood restaurants. Relax at the beach as you soak up the sun and watch fishermen at work.
As the sun sets, find a seaside eatery to indulge in delicious seafood dishes freshly prepared from the day's catch. Enjoy a leisurely dinner while watching a stunning sunset over the South China Sea. After dinner, take a peaceful walk along the beach, listening to the soothing sounds of the waves.
Start your day with an energizing hike up to the peak of Cheung Chau for breathtaking panoramic views of the island and surrounding waters. The trail is lined with flora and fauna, offering plenty of photo opportunities along the way. Enjoy a packed breakfast at the summit while appreciating the view.
Descend and head to the tranquil Sai Yuen Beach, where you can swim, sunbathe, or participate in water sports like kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. Grab lunch from a food stall and taste the local flavors in a picnic setting. Later, explore the nearby fishing villages, where you can witness traditional practices and local craftsmanship.
After a day spent in nature, savor a relaxing dinner at a beachfront restaurant trying out local specialties like seafood fried rice or fish congee. As darkness falls, immerse yourself in the island's nightlife with friendly bars and live music venues. Wind down by taking a night stroll along the waterfront, enjoying the soft breeze and twinkling lights.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🧆Street snacks / quick bite | $2-5 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $2-5 |
| 🚲Bike rental (half-day) | $5-12 |
| 💧Bottle of water / soft drink | $1-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Fresh seafood and local flavors right by the harbor
- Relaxed, walkable island with scenic beaches and viewpoints
- Rich local culture and Bun Festival heritage
- Easy day trips from Hong Kong Island
- Limited nightlife and shopping compared to central HK
- Occasional language barriers in smaller stalls
- Seasonal crowds around peak festival times
- Some areas have steep or uneven paths
- "你好" - Hello
- "唔該" - Please/Thank you
- "多謝" - Thank you
- "幾錢?" - How much is it?
- "廁所在哪裡?" - Where is the toilet?
- "可以給我地圖嗎？" - Could you give me a map?
Places to Visit in Cheung Chau
Visit one of these nice places.
Early morning or late afternoon light over fishing boats makes for atmospheric harbor photos and reflections on the water.
Intricate stonework and lanterns with a backdrop of the sea; a classic spot for architectural and cultural shots.
Colorful stalls, vendors, and activity along the waterfront provide vibrant street photography opportunities.
Soft sands and glowing skies over calm water—ideal for landscape and portrait photography.
Coastal viewpoints and rocky cliffs offer dramatic seascapes and scenic horizons.
Food in Cheung Chau
Cheung Chau Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Springy fish paste balls served on skewers or in broth, widely found at market stalls and street vendors along Main Street.
Must-Try!
Freshly caught squid brushed with garlic, chili, and a kiss of lemon, sold at waterfront stalls and nearby eateries.
Assorted shellfish and dumplings steamed to order at seaside stalls and small seafood houses.
Soft steamed buns associated with Bun Festival season; iconic to try at bakery stalls or bun houses on the island.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Main Street market with seafood stalls, snack vendors, and casual eateries—great for sampling local street foods and fresh produce.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Queue politely in lines, especially for ferries and popular stalls; speak softly in public spaces and avoid loud behavior near temples and residential areas.
Ask before photographing people, particularly in temples or homes; respect restrictions in certain religious sites.
Show respect in temples and during local events; dress modestly at religious sites and remove hats in sacred spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Cheung Chau
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not mandatory. If service charge is not included, a 5-10% tip is appreciated in nicer restaurants; in casual spots, rounding up is common. In markets and street stalls, cash is often preferred.
Cash and Octopus cards are widely accepted; many restaurants and shops also take major credit cards. For smaller stalls, cash is most reliable; keep small bills handy.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with high humidity; frequent showers and occasional typhoons. Pack light clothing, sunscreen, hats, and water; plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons.
Pleasant and comfortable temperatures with lower humidity. Crowds lessen compared to summer; great for walking and photography.
Mild and cooler, with occasional cool sea breezes. Warm layers are useful, especially in the evenings, but overall very manageable.
Warm days with a chance of showers. Blooming vegetation and favorable conditions for outdoor exploration and seafood markets.
Cheung Chau at Night
Hiking in Cheung Chau
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular circular coastal route suitable for all ages, offering sea views and photo opportunities around the island.
A short path leading to coastal vantage points and the harbor area, ideal for sunset shots and restful walks.
Airports
How to reach Cheung Chau by plane.
Main international gateway for Hong Kong; connected to Central by high-speed ferries and road links. Typical journey to Cheung Chau involves a ferry ride from Central after reaching the city by MTR or taxi.
Alternative gateway for travelers from Mainland China; requires cross-border travel to reach Hong Kong and the ferry routes to Cheung Chau.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A long-standing, close-knit population with deep ties to the sea and seafood trade.
Long-time inhabitants and multi-generational families living on the island, many with ties to traditional crafts and markets.
Visitors drawn to the island’s seafood, markets, and relaxed pace; mainly weekend and holiday arrivals.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A traditional and popular water sport in Hong Kong, with events sometimes occurring near Cheung Chau during festivals or local races.
Calm harbor conditions around the island make these water activities accessible and enjoyable for visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cheung Chau.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many places offer vegetable dishes, tofu options, and noodle bowls. If stock is made with seafood or meat, ask for a vegetarian version or request vegetable stock; communicate clearly in Cantonese or English when possible.