
Po Toi Island
Discover Po Toi Island, Hong Kong's southernmost gem, with unique rock formations, ancient carvings, and a tranquil escape.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Ferries run more frequently

Po Toi Island
Best Time
Ferries run more frequently

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Po Toi Island, Hong Kong's southernmost gem, with unique rock formations, ancient carvings, and a tranquil escape.
"It's so beautiful that you won’t even believe you’re in Hong Kong, the view it awesome, and air is fresh!"

Check Ferry Times First! :ferry:
Limited ferry services mean you MUST check schedules. Don't miss the last boat back!
Bring Water & Snacks :water_wave:
Limited dining options. Pack essentials to stay hydrated and fueled for your hike.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Unique Rock Formations
Various locations across the island
Marvel at natural sculptures like Conch Rock, Palm Cliff, and Tortoise Rock. A photographer's dream!

Ancient Rock Carvings
Near the lighthouse
Discover prehistoric carvings, offering a glimpse into the island's ancient past. A true historical treasure.

Po Toi Lighthouse
Southern tip of the island
A picturesque landmark offering stunning panoramic views of the ocean and surrounding islands.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Ferry Schedules are Key
Pack Smart for Island Life
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Ferry Times First! :ferry:
Limited ferry services mean you MUST check schedules. Don't miss the last boat back!
Bring Water & Snacks :water_wave:
Limited dining options. Pack essentials to stay hydrated and fueled for your hike.
Wear Comfy Shoes :athletic_shoe:
Trails can be uneven. Good footwear is essential for exploring rock formations and carvings.
Explore the Country Trail :hiking_boot:
The 5.5km loop trail covers most sights. Stage 1 is the most scenic with rock formations.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Ferry Times First! :ferry:
Limited ferry services mean you MUST check schedules. Don't miss the last boat back!
Bring Water & Snacks :water_wave:
Limited dining options. Pack essentials to stay hydrated and fueled for your hike.
Wear Comfy Shoes :athletic_shoe:
Trails can be uneven. Good footwear is essential for exploring rock formations and carvings.
Explore the Country Trail :hiking_boot:
The 5.5km loop trail covers most sights. Stage 1 is the most scenic with rock formations.
See Seaweed Drying :seaweed:
Observe local life and the traditional drying of seaweed along the coast.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Po Toi Island is praised for its stunning natural beauty, unique rock formations, and ancient carvings, offering a peaceful escape from Hong Kong's hustle. Visitors appreciate the hiking trails suitable for all ages and the chance to witness local life. However, the limited and infrequent ferry services are a significant drawback, requiring careful planning.
"Po toi island is the best hiking trail in hong kong suitable for all ages. Trail is not too steep. Its a small island and the view is mazing. We can enjoy the deep blue water view with lot of large ships in one side and in other side lot of small boats and yacht.
Cons: obviously travel. Normally only one boat operating to the island. So be sure to return the pier on-time."
Bibin Mathew
"Little island just south of Hong Kong with a lot to offer. Getting here only requires 30 minutes ferry ride from Stanley or Abderdeen. The scenery was amazing - beautiful blue oceans, interesting historical rock carvings and of course the ever popular light house. There's a short hiking trail which will take you through all the scenic spots. If you're hungry, there are a number of small restaurants that serve some simple local food. Most people here like to order the instant noodles topped with eggs, luncheon meat and local seaweed. What I love most is that you can have a glimpse of the local people's life and you can see the local people drying the seaweed along the walk. It's guaranteed to keep you occupied for a whole day. Make sure you check out the ferry schedule when you plan your trip."
Lawrence Tang
"Such an amazing island, you won’t regret it! It’s so beautiful that you won’t even believe you’re in Hong Kong, the view it awesome, and air is fresh, definitely the most beautiful place in Hong Kong, looks just like New Zealand 🇳🇿 love this place so much, the hiking trails are also suitable for all ages, after competing and looking at the view, you will really know how beautiful this place is, can’t even describe it with words!"
Marco Yeung
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The primary way to reach Po Toi Island is by kaito ferry. Ferries depart from Blake Pier in Stanley and Aberdeen Pier. It's crucial to check the ferry schedule in advance, as services are limited, especially on weekdays. The journey typically takes around 30-50 minutes.
Ferry services are most frequent on weekends and public holidays. On weekdays, sailings are significantly reduced, often only running on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays from Aberdeen and Saturdays from Stanley. Always verify the latest schedule online before your trip.
Yes, some ferry services to Po Toi Island accept Octopus cards, while others may require cash payment. It's advisable to carry some cash as a backup, especially for smaller operators.
The ferry ride to Po Toi Island from Stanley or Aberdeen typically takes between 30 to 50 minutes, depending on the departure point and sea conditions.
Once you arrive at the pier, you can explore the island by following the marked hiking trails. The Po Toi Country Trail is well-defined and leads to most of the island's attractions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for the kaito ferry to Po Toi Island are typically purchased at the pier on the day of travel. Advance booking is generally not required, but it's wise to arrive early, especially on busy weekends, to secure your spot.
There is no entrance fee to visit Po Toi Island itself. The only cost involved is the ferry ticket to get there and back.
Po Toi Island is accessible during daylight hours, as it's an outdoor natural attraction. The main constraint is the ferry schedule, which dictates when you can arrive and depart.
While official guided tours are not widely advertised, you can explore the island independently using the marked trails. Local knowledge might be available from ferry operators or residents if you inquire.
Ferry tickets are usually bought directly at the pier before departure. Arriving 30 minutes prior to the scheduled departure is recommended to ensure you get a seat.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Po Toi Island is famous for its unique rock formations like Conch Rock and Tortoise Rock, ancient prehistoric rock carvings, a historic lighthouse, and beautiful coastal scenery. It's also a great spot for hiking and enjoying nature away from the city crowds.
Yes, Po Toi Island offers a pleasant hiking experience with the Po Toi Country Trail, a 5.5km loop. The trails are generally not too steep and are suitable for most ages, offering stunning views along the way.
Camping is permitted on Po Toi Island, making it an attractive option for those seeking an overnight escape. However, be sure to check any local regulations or advisories regarding camping.
While not a primary wildlife destination, you might spot various seabirds. The island's natural beauty is its main draw, with unique flora and fauna adapted to the coastal environment.
The hiking trails are generally manageable for families, but younger children might need assistance on steeper sections. The natural beauty and open spaces can be enjoyable for kids.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are a few small seafood restaurants and local eateries near the ferry pier, particularly along Tai Wan beach. They often serve simple local dishes like instant noodles with toppings and local seaweed.
Many visitors enjoy trying the local seaweed products and simple seafood dishes. Instant noodles topped with eggs and luncheon meat are also a popular, casual option.
It is highly recommended to bring your own water and snacks, as dining options are limited and can be basic. This ensures you have sustenance throughout your visit.
Prices for food on Po Toi Island are generally reasonable for casual local eateries. Expect to pay around HK$50-100 for a simple meal.
There are a couple of make-shift local shops that sell basic necessities like drinks and snacks, but no formal cafes or large convenience stores.
📸 📸 Photography
The island offers numerous photographic opportunities, including the unique rock formations, the lighthouse, ancient rock carvings, and sweeping coastal views. The dramatic cliffs and ocean vistas are particularly photogenic.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offers the most dramatic lighting for landscape photography. Midday can be harsh, but still good for capturing the vibrant blue of the ocean.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient to capture the beauty of Po Toi Island. However, a wide-angle lens can be useful for the expansive landscapes and rock formations.
While not explicitly stated, it's always best to be mindful of local regulations and respect privacy when flying drones. Check with local authorities if unsure.
The Conch Rock, Tortoise Rock, Palm Cliff, and the view from the lighthouse are iconic spots that many visitors capture.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating to Po Toi Island
Once you disembark at Po Toi, the island is best explored on foot. The main attraction is the Po Toi Country Trail, a 5.5km loop that guides you through the island's natural and historical highlights. This trail is generally considered moderate and suitable for most fitness levels, making it accessible for a wide range of visitors. The island's isolation means that while it offers a peaceful escape, it also requires self-sufficiency. Therefore, packing ample water and snacks is highly recommended, as the few local eateries offer basic fare and limited options.
Exploring Po Toi's Natural Wonders
Beyond the rocks, Po Toi holds historical significance with its prehistoric rock carvings. These ancient etchings, found near the lighthouse, offer a rare glimpse into the island's past inhabitants and their culture. The Po Toi Lighthouse, standing sentinel on the southern tip, provides breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding ocean and distant islands, making it a prime spot for contemplation and photography. The island's Po Toi Country Trail is the best way to experience these wonders, guiding hikers through diverse landscapes, from coastal paths with crashing waves to higher viewpoints offering sweeping vistas.
Local Life and Island Cuisine
For dining, a few seafood restaurants and local eateries are situated near the ferry pier, particularly along Tai Wan beach. These establishments offer a taste of local island cuisine, often featuring fresh seafood and simple dishes. A popular choice among visitors is the instant noodles topped with eggs and luncheon meat, a comforting and readily available meal. Many reviewers also highlight the local seaweed products as a must-try. However, given the limited options, it's always wise to bring your own water and snacks to ensure you stay refreshed throughout your exploration.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit