7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Tai Po

Digital nomads living in Tai Po, are perfectly positioned to explore a variety of weekend getaways that offer a blend of urban excitement, cultural experiences, and natural beauty. While the city itself provides a vibrant lifestyle with all the conveniences one could ask for, sometimes a short escape can rejuvenate the spirit and provide fresh inspiration. From popular tourist spots to hidden gems, here are seven weekend getaways that cater to different tastes and interests.

Lamma Island

Lamma Island is a popular escape from the hustle and bustle of Hong Kong, known for its laid-back atmosphere and beautiful natural scenery. It's a great place for digital nomads to unwind, with opportunities for hiking, beach relaxation, and sampling local seafood. The island's Family Trail is a pleasant hike that offers stunning views and ends at the quaint village of Yung Shue Wan, where you can explore small shops and cafes.

How to Get There: The best way to reach Lamma Island is by ferry from Central Pier 4 in Hong Kong, which takes about 30 minutes to Yung Shue Wan.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to try the island's famous seafood at one of the waterfront restaurants. The freshly caught fish and shrimp are a must-try for any visitor.

Where to Stay: Consider staying at the Concerto Inn, which offers a comfortable stay and is just steps away from the beach. For a more unique experience, look for local guesthouses or Airbnb options.

Where to Eat: The Bay Restaurant is known for its delicious seafood dishes and offers a great view of the sea. It's a perfect spot to enjoy a meal after a day of exploring.

Tai Long Wan

Tai Long Wan, or Big Wave Bay, is a series of four pristine beaches on the eastern coast of the Sai Kung Peninsula. It's a haven for surfers and beach lovers looking for a more secluded spot. The area is also excellent for hiking, with the MacLehose Trail Stage 2 offering panoramic views of the coastline. Camping is popular here, so digital nomads can enjoy a weekend under the stars.

How to Get There: The most adventurous way to reach Tai Long Wan is by hiking from Sai Kung Town or taking a speedboat from Sai Kung Pier.

Travel Tip: Ham Tin Wan beach has a small store where you can rent surfing gear or buy basic camping supplies if you decide to stay overnight.

Where to Stay: Camping is the most common accommodation, but for those who prefer a bed, Sai Kung offers a range of hotels and guesthouses.

Where to Eat: On Ham Tin Wan beach, there's a small restaurant serving simple local dishes and cold drinks, perfect for refueling after a hike or swim.

Cheung Chau

Cheung Chau is a charming island that's a mix of traditional Chinese culture and a laid-back seaside village. The island is famous for its annual Bun Festival, but it's a delightful destination year-round. Visitors can explore the Pak Tai Temple, take a leisurely bike ride around the island, or relax on Tung Wan Beach. The narrow streets are lined with shops selling everything from handicrafts to dried seafood.

How to Get There: Ferries to Cheung Chau depart regularly from Central Pier 5 in Hong Kong and the trip takes about 40 minutes.

Travel Tip: Make sure to explore the Cheung Po Tsai Cave, once a hiding place for pirates, and enjoy the stunning views from the nearby cliffs.

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

Where to Eat: The New Baccarat Seafood Restaurant is a favorite among locals and tourists alike, known for its fresh seafood and waterfront dining experience.

Plover Cove

For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure, Plover Cove in the northeastern New Territories is a hidden gem. It's home to the second-largest reservoir in Hong Kong and offers a range of outdoor activities such as cycling, hiking, and bird watching. The Plover Cove Reservoir Country Trail provides stunning views of the surrounding water and mountains, making it a perfect spot for nature-loving nomads.

How to Get There: Take a bus or minibus from Tai Po Market MTR Station to Tai Mei Tuk, which is the starting point for many trails around Plover Cove.

Travel Tip: Rent a bike in Tai Mei Tuk and enjoy a scenic ride along the Plover Cove Reservoir dam with breathtaking views of the water and hills.

Where to Stay: Accommodations are limited in the immediate area, but Tai Po offers a variety of hotels and guesthouses.

Where to Eat: The So Lo Pun Village, although mostly abandoned, has a small hidden cafe that serves simple local dishes and drinks, providing a unique dining experience amidst nature.

Lion Rock

Lion Rock is an iconic landmark in Hong Kong, known for its resemblance to a crouching lion. The hike to the top is challenging but rewards adventurers with one of the best views of the city. It's a great way to escape the digital screen and get some exercise while taking in the urban and natural beauty of Hong Kong. The Lion Rock Country Park also offers a peaceful retreat with its lush greenery and wildlife.

How to Get There: To start the hike, take the MTR to Wong Tai Sin Station, then a taxi or bus to the beginning of the Lion Rock Hiking Trail.

Travel Tip: Aim to reach the summit for sunset to enjoy a breathtaking view of the city lights coming to life.

Where to Stay: While there are no accommodations on Lion Rock, the nearby areas of Kowloon offer a wide range of hotels and hostels.

Where to Eat: After the hike, refuel at one of the local eateries in Wong Tai Sin, where you can find delicious street food and traditional Cantonese dishes.

Ping Shan Heritage Trail

The Ping Shan Heritage Trail takes you through a series of historical sites in the New Territories, offering a glimpse into Hong Kong's past. Digital nomads with an interest in history and culture can explore ancient pagodas, ancestral halls, and the well-preserved Tang Clan temple complex. This trail is a quiet escape from the city and a chance to see a different side of Hong Kong life.

How to Get There: Take the MTR West Rail Line to Tin Shui Wai Station, then follow the signs to the Ping Shan Heritage Trail.

Travel Tip: Visit the Tsui Sing Lau Pagoda, the only surviving ancient pagoda in Hong Kong, and don't miss the chance to see the intricate wood carvings in the ancestral halls.

Where to Stay: Nearby Yuen Long offers a selection of hotels and guesthouses for a comfortable stay.

Where to Eat: Yuen Long is famous for its Hong Kong-style desserts, so be sure to stop by one of the local dessert shops for a sweet treat after your cultural exploration.

Tung Ping Chau

Tung Ping Chau is the most easterly outlying island of Hong Kong and is known for its unique geological features, including wave-cut platforms and shale rock formations. It's a UNESCO Global Geopark and offers a tranquil setting for hiking, swimming, and photography. The island's remote location makes it one of the least visited spots, perfect for digital nomads looking for solitude and natural beauty.

How to Get There: Ferries to Tung Ping Chau depart from Ma Liu Shui Ferry Pier near the University MTR Station, but they are only available on weekends and public holidays.

Travel Tip: Bring your snorkeling gear to explore the clear waters and marine life around the island's coral reefs.

Where to Stay: Overnight stays are limited, so many visitors camp on the beach. Alternatively, plan your visit as a day trip from Tai Po.

Where to Eat: There are a few small family-run eateries on the island that serve simple local dishes, perfect for a taste of the local lifestyle.

Whether you're looking for a beach retreat, a cultural journey, or a nature-filled adventure, these weekend getaways from Tai Po offer something for every digital nomad. Each destination provides a unique experience that can refresh and inspire, making your time in Hong Kong even more memorable.