Weekend Getaway Hong Kong - Lamma Island Hong Kong - Low Rise Buildings

Lamma Island-

Located about half an hour by ferry from bustling downtown Hong Kong, Lamma is an eclectic melting-pot of arty culture and Chinese tradition. Due to its proximity to town, it is one of the most adored weekend getaways. Clean air, golden beaches, delicious seafood and fantastic hiking are the main draws.


In fact, many city folk love the island so much that they have moved here in recent years, creating a thriving community of expatriates and commuting locals. Bicycles are the mode of transport as there are no cars. Skyscrapers are not to be seen as the buildings are all low-rise.

Two of the most popular places to visit on the island are the villages of Sok Kwu Wan and Yung Shue Wan. People come from all over the world to sample the seafood at Sok Kwu Wan's plethora of terraced restaurants raised on stilts above the bay. Fresh chilli crab, garlic prawns, deep-fried squid and steamed fish with ginger and spring onions are all firm favourites. Yung Shue Wan, which also has western-style restaurants and bars to enjoy offers handicraft shops along its laid-back main street. The village also boasts a Tin Hau Temple built more than 100 years ago.

A walk between the two villages is a great way to discover this green haven. This panoramic hike passes by swimming coves and lush greenery. Other paths lead up and around Mount Stenhouse on the south of the island.

Located between the two villages is Sham Wan (beach), the only site in Hong Kong where green turtles regularly lay their eggs.

Sun worshippers, meanwhile, head for the beaches of Hung Shing Yeh and Lo So Shing