Cheung Chau
A charming, car-free island escape from Hong Kong, offering beaches, seafood, hiking trails, and a relaxed pace of life.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Cheung Chau
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming, car-free island escape from Hong Kong, offering beaches, seafood, hiking trails, and a relaxed pace of life.
"Cheung Chau is the best place to be for the perfect blend of cultural experiences, natural beauty, and relaxation."
🚲 Rent a Bike for Exploration
Navigate the island with ease by renting a bike. It's the primary mode of transport and a fun way to see more!
💰 Cash is King for Street Food
Many delicious street food stalls prefer cash. Come prepared to sample local treats!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Seafood Feast on the Waterfront
Waterfront Promenade
Indulge in fresh catches from the sea at numerous restaurants lining the harbor. A true taste of island life!
Cheung Chau Family Trail (Mini Great Wall)
Southeast coast
A scenic coastal path with unique rock formations and stunning sea views. Perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Tung Wan & Kwun Yam Wan Beaches
Eastern side
Relax on sandy shores, swim in the clear waters, and enjoy the vibrant beachside atmosphere.
Cheung Po Tsai Cave
Western coast
Explore the legendary hideout of a notorious 19th-century pirate. An intriguing historical site.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Island Escape: Ferry Essentials
Embrace Island Life: What to Pack
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚲 Rent a Bike for Exploration
Navigate the island with ease by renting a bike. It's the primary mode of transport and a fun way to see more!
💰 Cash is King for Street Food
Many delicious street food stalls prefer cash. Come prepared to sample local treats!
👟 Wear Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and hiking, so comfy footwear is essential.
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are a must for a day out on the island.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚲 Rent a Bike for Exploration
Navigate the island with ease by renting a bike. It's the primary mode of transport and a fun way to see more!
💰 Cash is King for Street Food
Many delicious street food stalls prefer cash. Come prepared to sample local treats!
👟 Wear Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and hiking, so comfy footwear is essential.
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are a must for a day out on the island.
🌊 Be Mindful of Wildlife
Keep an eye out for wildlife, including snakes on trails. Stay on marked paths.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Cheung Chau is widely praised as a refreshing escape from Hong Kong's urban hustle, offering beautiful beaches, scenic hikes, and delicious seafood. Visitors appreciate its laid-back island atmosphere and cultural attractions like temples and the pirate cave. Some note that it can get crowded, and a few residents may seem less welcoming to tourists.
"A place to refresh and recharge our stressful lifestyle. The egg tart selling at the back alley is super delicious. Can bring kids along to seaside swimming, public toilet with bath area available near the swimming area. Recommended. Travel from Hong Kong Pier No 5 take about 1 hour by ferry."
joey thien
"If you think Hong Kong is just a concrete jungle get out to one of the islands.
Cheung Chau has amazing beaches and scenery.
The island is car free. Bikes are the main form of transport. Bikes can be hired along the waterfront.
Fascinating place to visit.
Stop at one of the numerous restaurants along the waterfront, you won’t be disappointed."
Brian Lord
"☝️of the BEST spots in the Hong Kong to get stuck in the great outdoors is Cheung Chau (長洲 Long Island is known as Dumbbell Island due to its resemblance to a dumbbell.)
・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・
🛥️ Ferries are the only way to get to the island. Cheung Chau is accessible by ferry from Central Pier 5 in Hong Kong, and they operate frequently throughout the day. Monday-Saturday, the last ferry to Central leaves at 11:45pm, and on Sundays and public holidays, it leaves at 11:30pm.
🪅Bun Festival (Jiu), which is typically held during April or early May, near Buddha's birthday, is characterized by colorful parades, lion dances, and a competition to climb mountains made of buns.
🛕Dumbbell Island is home to a significant attraction known as the Tin Hau Temple. A shrine dating back to 200 years is dedicated to the Taoist Goddess of the Sea and offers stunning views of the beach below.
🖱️Cheung Po Tsai Cave was once a place where a notorious pirate commanded thousands of bandits in the 19th century.
🛤️ The Cheung Chau Family Trail is renowned for its distinctive rock formations and stunning beach vistas, referred to as the 'Mini Great Wall of Cheung Chau'. The trail, built in 1997, is roughly 850 metres long and is located near Kwun Yam Beach and Chi Ma Hang headland, southeast of Cheung Chau. The North Lookout Pavilion is a short hike that is highly recommended.
🏖️ Holiday visitors love Tung Wan and Kwun Yam Wan, two beaches located on the eastern side of Cheung Chau. Tung Wan Beach is more widely known and preferred. Despite being narrow, it is still fairly commercial with plenty of restaurants and cafés close by. The beach has the primary facilities (showers, restrooms, lifeguards). Nearby shops offer the option to rent beach umbrellas.
🍽️ Cheung Chau is also known for its thriving street food scene. Various stalls along the waterfront feature local delicacies like fish balls, mango mochi, frozen watermelon slices and fresh seafood that visitors should not miss out on.
🏬 The main Tung Wan Road is where most of the boutique shops are located for shopping.
The ❤️ Love Lock Wall is another popular tourist attraction where people or couples can hang up locks and heart-shaped wooden plaques to commemorate their visit to the island.
🕳️
If you're searching for the perfect blend of cultural experiences, natural beauty, and relaxation, Cheung Chau is the best place to be. 👍🏼
⚠️ As I was ascending the trail, I unexpectedly encountered what appeared to be a black cobra. The sight of this snake was unexpected and alarming, adding a thrill to my hike. Please take caution and refrain from leaning on grass and dense vegetation."
MoCもし
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach Cheung Chau is by taking a ferry from Central Pier 5 in Hong Kong. You can choose between the fast ferry (approx. 35 minutes) or the ordinary ferry (approx. 1 hour). Ferries operate frequently throughout the day. +1
Ferries to Cheung Chau from Central Pier 5 run regularly. On weekdays and Saturdays, the last ferry back to Central departs around 11:45 PM, and on Sundays and public holidays, it's around 11:30 PM. It's always best to check the latest schedule before your trip.
Yes, the fast ferry is quicker but typically more expensive and can be bumpier. The ordinary ferry is slower, more affordable, and offers a more relaxed journey with better views.
No, Cheung Chau is an island and is only accessible by ferry. There are no roads connecting it to the mainland, and it is a car-free island.
Ferry prices vary slightly between the fast and ordinary ferries, and between weekdays and weekends. Expect to pay around HKD 20-40 for a one-way trip. The deluxe class on the ordinary ferry is a bit more but offers a more comfortable experience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, you typically do not need to buy ferry tickets in advance. You can purchase them at the ferry terminals at Central Pier 5.
Most attractions on Cheung Chau, such as beaches, hiking trails, and temples, are free to access. Some specific activities or events might have associated costs.
Cheung Chau is an inhabited island and is generally accessible at all times. Ferry services have specific operating hours, and shops and restaurants have their own business hours.
Yes, the famous Cheung Chau Bun Festival (Jiu) is held annually, usually in April or early May, around Buddha's Birthday. It's a major event with parades and bun-climbing competitions.
While you can book ferry tickets and some specific activities through platforms like Klook, much of Cheung Chau's charm lies in spontaneous exploration. Some travel bloggers mention using promo codes for discounts on bookings.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Cheung Chau offers a variety of activities including exploring beaches like Tung Wan and Kwun Yam Wan, hiking the Family Trail (Mini Great Wall), visiting temples like Tin Hau Temple, and enjoying fresh seafood and street food.
Absolutely! The Cheung Chau Family Trail, also known as the 'Mini Great Wall,' offers scenic coastal views and unique rock formations. It's a popular and rewarding hike.
Yes, Cheung Chau has two main beaches: Tung Wan Beach and Kwun Yam Wan Beach. Tung Wan is more developed with nearby amenities, while Kwun Yam Wan is known for watersports.
Cheung Chau is famous for its fresh seafood served at waterfront restaurants. You can also find a vibrant street food scene with delights like fish balls, mango mochi, and frozen watermelon. +1
Yes, Cheung Chau is very family-friendly. It's a car-free island, has safe beaches for swimming with public toilets and showers, and offers plenty of space for kids to explore.
📸 📸 Photography
Great photo opportunities include the waterfront with its seafood restaurants, the scenic Family Trail (Mini Great Wall), the colorful Tin Hau Temple, and the unique rock formations along the coast. Sunsets on the ferry back are also stunning. 
Yes, the island offers diverse scenery from coastal views to charming village streets and vibrant food stalls, making it a photographer's delight.
Golden hour, both in the morning and late afternoon, offers beautiful light for landscape and street photography. Midday can be harsh but is great for capturing the lively atmosphere.
Don't miss the Tin Hau Temple, Cheung Po Tsai Cave, the 'Mini Great Wall' rock formations, and the Love Lock Wall for unique shots.
Drone usage may be restricted in certain areas, especially near temples or residential zones. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider renting bikes for a fun family activity, or explore the relatively easy Cheung Chau Family Trail for gentle hikes with scenic views. The abundance of casual eateries and street food stalls also makes it easy to find kid-friendly snacks and meals.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Backpackers
Enjoy the diverse food scene, from affordable street food to fresh seafood. The hiking trails provide opportunities for personal reflection and connection with nature. Accommodation options are available if you wish to extend your stay beyond a day trip.
couples
The Love Lock Wall provides a sweet spot to commemorate your visit. Renting a tandem bike or exploring the scenic hiking trails together can also be a memorable experience. The island's laid-back vibe is perfect for a relaxed getaway.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Culinary Delights: A Taste of Cheung Chau
Beyond the sit-down restaurants, the island boasts a vibrant street food scene. Keep an eye out for local specialties like chewy fish balls, sweet mango mochi (especially popular), frozen watermelon slices, and various skewers. These quick bites are perfect for snacking as you explore the island's charming streets.
Don't forget to try the famous egg tarts, often found in back alleys, which are described as 'super delicious' by visitors. For a truly local experience, sample the durian mochi if you're adventurous!
Exploring Cheung Chau's Natural Beauty
The island is home to two popular beaches: Tung Wan Beach and Kwun Yam Wan Beach. Tung Wan is more developed and closer to amenities, making it a favorite for families. Kwun Yam Wan is also a great spot for swimming and watersports. Both offer sandy shores perfect for relaxing and soaking up the sun.
For those seeking a bit more adventure, exploring the island's coastline reveals hidden coves and interesting geological features. Remember to wear appropriate footwear and be aware of your surroundings, as some trails can be uneven and wildlife, like snakes, may be present.
A Glimpse into Cheung Chau's History and Culture
Another intriguing site is Cheung Po Tsai Cave, rumored to have been a hideout for a notorious pirate in the 19th century. This adds a touch of mystery and adventure to the island's narrative.
The island is perhaps most famous for its annual Bun Festival (Jiu), typically held in April or May. This vibrant event features colorful parades, lion dances, and the thrilling bun-climbing competition, drawing large crowds and showcasing unique cultural traditions.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit