7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Sheung Wan

Sheung Wan, a vibrant and historic neighborhood in Hong Kong, is a hub for digital nomads who enjoy the area's rich culture and convenient urban living. While the bustling city life can be exhilarating, everyone needs a break from the concrete jungle from time to time. Fortunately, Sheung Wan's location makes it easy to escape to a variety of destinations for a refreshing weekend getaway. From popular tourist spots to hidden gems, there's something for every type of traveler. Here are seven fun weekend getaways that are perfect for those living in Sheung Wan, including three off-the-beaten-path destinations for a unique experience.

Lamma Island

Lamma Island offers a peaceful retreat from the fast-paced life of Hong Kong. Known for its laid-back atmosphere, scenic hiking trails, and beautiful beaches, Lamma is a great place to unwind and enjoy nature. Visitors can explore the traditional fishing villages, enjoy fresh seafood, and take in the stunning views from the island's various lookout points. The island also hosts a vibrant expat community, which often gathers for beach parties and outdoor activities.

How to Get There: The best way to reach Lamma Island is by taking a ferry from Central Pier, which is just a short walk from Sheung Wan. The ferry ride takes about 30 minutes.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the Lamma Winds, a single wind turbine that is a symbol of Hong Kong's efforts in renewable energy. It's also a great spot for panoramic views of the island.

Where to Stay: Consider staying at the Concerto Inn, which offers beachfront rooms and a relaxing atmosphere. For a more unique experience, Airbnb has several listings for private homes and apartments on the island.

Where to Eat: The Lamma Rainbow Seafood Restaurant is a popular choice for its delicious dishes and waterfront dining experience. Try their signature garlic steamed prawns.

Tai O Fishing Village

Tai O is a traditional fishing village on Lantau Island, known for its stilt houses and unique cultural heritage. This picturesque village offers a glimpse into Hong Kong's past and is a stark contrast to the modern cityscape. Visitors can take a boat tour to see the Chinese white dolphins, explore the local market, and learn about the traditional salted fish production. Tai O also has some quaint cafes and shops selling artisanal goods and local snacks.

How to Get There: To get to Tai O, take the MTR to Tung Chung Station, then catch the New Lantao Bus 11 to Tai O bus terminus. The journey takes around an hour and a half.

Travel Tip: Visit the Tai O Heritage Hotel, a beautifully restored colonial building that was once a police station, offering stunning views and a slice of history.

Where to Stay: Espace Elastique B&B is a cozy option with a homely feel, located right in the heart of the village.

Where to Eat: Try the Tai O Banyan Tree for a relaxing coffee break and some homemade cakes, or sample traditional street food like the famous Tai O doughnuts.

Cheung Chau Island

Cheung Chau is a small island known for its lively Bun Festival, beautiful beaches, and seafood restaurants. The island's car-free streets make it perfect for exploring by bike or on foot. Visitors can enjoy the laid-back island life, visit the Pak Tai Temple, and hike to the Mini Great Wall for stunning coastal views. Cheung Chau is also a hotspot for windsurfing and other water sports.

How to Get There: Ferries to Cheung Chau depart from Central Pier 5, with the fast ferry taking about 35 minutes and the slow ferry around an hour.

Travel Tip: Make sure to explore the Cheung Po Tsai Cave, once a hideout for the infamous pirate Cheung Po Tsai.

Where to Stay: The Warwick Hotel on Cheung Chau offers sea-view rooms and is conveniently located near the beach.

Where to Eat: New Baccarat is renowned for its seafood dishes, especially the deep-fried squid and the steamed fish.

Sai Kung Peninsula

The Sai Kung Peninsula is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering some of the most beautiful natural scenery in Hong Kong. With its pristine beaches, clear waters, and impressive geoparks, Sai Kung is perfect for hiking, kayaking, and swimming. The area is also known for its seafood street, where visitors can select their own seafood to be cooked at one of the nearby restaurants.

How to Get There: Take the MTR to Hang Hau Station, then transfer to the minibus 101M to Sai Kung Town. The total journey is about an hour.

Travel Tip: Visit the Hong Kong Global Geopark to see the stunning hexagonal volcanic rock columns, a truly unique natural phenomenon.

Where to Stay: Sai Kung's Airbnb listings offer a range of options, from beachfront houses to cozy village homes.

Where to Eat: Chuen Kee Seafood is a local favorite, offering fresh seafood with a view of the harbor.

Peng Chau Island

Peng Chau is a small, quiet island that is often overlooked by tourists, making it a perfect off-the-beaten-path destination. The island has a charming village atmosphere, with narrow lanes, small temples, and a slower pace of life. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks, visit the old lime kiln and matchstick factory ruins, and relax at the beach. Peng Chau is also known for its local crafts and traditional snacks.

How to Get There: Ferries to Peng Chau leave from Central Pier 6, and the journey takes about 40 minutes.

Travel Tip: Climb to the top of Finger Hill for panoramic views of the island and the surrounding sea.

Where to Stay: There are a few guesthouses on Peng Chau, such as the Peng Chau Guesthouse, which offers a quaint and authentic stay.

Where to Eat: Kee Sum Café is a local institution, famous for its traditional Hong Kong-style milk tea and freshly baked pastries.

Ma Wan Island

Ma Wan Island is an unusual destination that offers a mix of history, nature, and abandoned structures. The island is home to the old Ma Wan Village, which has been largely deserted, providing a unique and somewhat eerie experience for visitors. There's also the Ma Wan Park and the Noah's Ark theme park, which are great for families. Nature lovers will appreciate the Tung Wan Beach and the island's ecological park, which showcases local flora and fauna.

How to Get There: Reach Ma Wan by taking a ferry from Central Pier 2. The trip usually takes less than an hour.

Travel Tip: Explore the abandoned village during daylight and bring a camera to capture the haunting beauty of the deserted homes and school.

Where to Stay: Noah's Ark Hotel and Resort offers themed accommodations and is conveniently located near the island's attractions.

Where to Eat: The Harvest Restaurant in Noah's Ark Hotel serves a variety of international dishes with views of the Tsing Ma Bridge.

Yim Tin Tsai Island

Yim Tin Tsai is a tiny, uninhabited island with a fascinating history. Once home to a thriving Hakka community, the island is now known for its abandoned salt pans and the restored St. Joseph's Chapel, a declared monument. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the island's history and the process of salt-making. The island's tranquil environment and rich cultural heritage make it an intriguing destination for those looking to explore beyond the usual tourist spots.

How to Get There: Access to Yim Tin Tsai is via a small ferry from Sai Kung Pier. The schedule can be irregular, so it's best to check the times in advance.

Travel Tip: Join a guided tour to get a comprehensive understanding of the island's history and to visit the chapel, which is a key highlight.

Where to Stay: As Yim Tin Tsai is uninhabited, there are no accommodations on the island. Stay in Sai Kung and make it a day trip.

Where to Eat: Back in Sai Kung town, enjoy a meal at Sing Kee Seafood Restaurant, which offers a range of delicious dishes with waterfront dining.