Updated June 2025
As summer heat intensifies and cicadas sing their electric chorus, it’s time to turn up the volume on classic summer anthems and set off on a journey brimming with adrenaline and delight, straight into the heart of Asia’s World City.
Join us as we push our limits across the city’s most untamed trails, bargain like seasoned locals in neon-lit night markets, and paraglide above soaring skyscrapers.
Whichever experience you immerse yourself in this summer, make it your mission to rediscover dazzling Hong Kong in a way few travelers do.
Finding your adventurous spirit in Hong Kong’s skies and seas
If you’re looking to escape the cityscape for a while, Hong Kong opens the gateway to its Great Outdoors.
Hike on the wild side
Among the many trails to choose from, one of the most scenic is the High Junk Peak Country Trail. This 8-kilometer trek begins near Ng Fai Tin and quickly transforms into a forested hillside, where birdsong replaces the city’s constant hum. As the trail ascends toward High Junk Peak, the air sharpens, the views widen, and every step pulls you deeper into nature’s quiet rhythm.
At the summit, you’re rewarded with a sweeping panorama of aquamarine Clear Water Bay on one side and the emerald mountains of Sai Kung on the other. Whether you arrive under the golden light of morning or the dusky glow of evening, the scenery is sure to leave you spellbound.
Paraglide into a state of Zen
Paragliding in Hong Kong blends adrenaline with serenity—a feeling insiders affectionately call “adrenalizen”, the initial thrill of takeoff melting into a zen-like calm as you soar with the birds.
Wake up, drink the coffee, and catch up with Hong Kong Hike n’ Fly (the city’s well-recommended paragliding club) for a true bird’s-eye view of the city’s soaring skyline.
Flight locations shift with the wind’s whim, so depending on conditions, you might launch from the undulating spine of Dragon’s Back, glide past the golden slopes of Sunset Peak on Lantau Island, or float along the striking ridges of Pyramid Hill in Ma On Shan Country Park.
Come prepared—this is a full-day affair, complete with mountaintop picnics and cloud-level views that will redefine what freedom feels like.
Rock climb by the sea
Ever dreamed as a child of climbing a giant ladder to touch the clouds? On the mountainous island of Tung Lung Chau, that dream comes closer to reality.
This rugged location is home to two main climbing zones: the southern crag at Tathong Point and the northern crags, which include Technical Wall, Sea Gully, Big Wall, and Kite Rock.
If you take the northern path, you will come across the famous Holiday Store, where climbers refuel with dumplings and coffee, and pick up free topos (route maps) that are prized as much as the climbs themselves.
Paddle through coastal wonders
When in the Sai Kung Peninsula, adventure calls from every cove. If it’s adrenaline you are after, gear up in your SPF armor and head for the sea with a stand-up paddleboard.
Gliding across the glassy teal waters of Kei Ling Ha, you will drift past mangroves and feng shui woods, catching glimpses of rare butterfly species near Yung Shue O, and spotting curious marine life like stingrays, starfish, and mangrove crabs beneath your board.
When fatigue sets in, paddle back toward Sai Kung Town Center. Once a humble fishing village, it is now a lively waterfront haven. Boats bob gently at the pier, and a row of alfresco restaurants serve up seafood with local and international flavors here.
Ride through coastal lanes
The cycle tour of Cheung Chau or the “long island” is a tribute to slow travel. With comfortable rental bikes available across the island, you can explore the area at your own pace. These bikes are designed for comfort rather than speed, encouraging you to experience the island’s evergreen charm.
Follow the winding roads to one of the island’s most popular spots, the dumbbell-shaped ferry pier at the junction of Tai Hing Tai Road and Tai San Praya Road. Just beyond, a flavor-packed lineup of street food awaits: from Cheung Chau’s iconic curry fish balls and barbecued squid to pillowy mango mochi.
Whether you’re chasing an Instagram-worthy café or an authentic taste of Hong Kong’s culinary heritage, the island fulfills every kind of desire.
Kayak through hidden coves
If you’re traveling with friends or open to joining fellow adventurers, grab a kayak and set off on a memorable journey through the Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark.
The expedition begins in Sai Kung, often called the city’s “back garden.” Paddle through the clear waters of the Sai Kung Inner Sea toward Sharp Island, the entry point to some of the region’s most stunning geological formations.
Follow the Sharp Island Geo Trail, where time seems to blur as you pass sandy coves, sea caves, and a natural tombolo that connects the island to the mainland. Along the way, you will also encounter massive granite boulders shaped like Hong Kong’s beloved pineapple bun.
At low tide, continue along the southern stretch to discover some of the area’s richest snorkeling spots. These waters are alive with cactus corals, brain corals, bowl corals, darting fish, crabs, and the occasional sea urchin.
Riding Hong Kong’s retail rollercoaster: stalls, suites, and surprises
Few cities strike a chord between haute couture and handcrafted artistry quite like Hong Kong, where glossy ateliers and humble stalls coexist in a harmonious duet. The city of malls presents itself as an alleyway to cultural immersion just as much as it allows you to indulge in retail therapy.
Night markets
Step out for a late evening stroll and you will be bathed in the glow of neon lights. Their electric hues cast a cinematic sheen, transforming Hong Kong’s night markets into corridors of color and nostalgia for you to promenade and experience the thrill of the night markets.
Temple Street Night Market
Temple Street Market in Jordan, Kowloon, is where the city’s flavors and flair come alive along a single stretch. Wander past sizzling dai pai dongs (open-air food stalls), then circle a fortune-teller’s table to have your future read, or continue browsing for a lucky find among the stalls.
Between mouthfuls of local street food, the strum of live music, and haggling over handmade souvenirs, you will feel like the main character in a classic Hong Kong film.
Jade Market
For those who believe in the healing power of crystals, the Jade Market in Yau Ma Tei, Kowloon, makes an ideal starting point for evening shopping. Learn about the significance of jade in Chinese culture, and browse for authentic trinkets and jewelery to bring home as meaningful souvenirs for yourself and your loved ones.
Please note that the market usually closes around 8 PM.
Apliu Street
If vintage vibes and retro treasures call out to you, Apliu Street in Sham Shui Po, Kowloon, is the place to be. You can find stalls overflowing with film cameras, typewriters, vintage radios, phone accessories, and spare cables, all part of a haven for collectors and lovers of all things retro.
The energy may be intense and the pace brisk, but the second-hand treasures found here often take on new life, becoming both useful keepsakes and lasting memories.
apm
This may not be a street, but apm earns its place on this list with a name that promises action around the clock: a portmanteau of ‘am’ and ‘pm.’ Inside, you will find a mix of high-end and high-street brands, from Dior to Dr. Martens, alongside buzzing eateries and the B+ cinema apm—Broadway Circuit for a late-night movie fix.
Exclusive retail indulgences
Langham Place
Nestled in the bustling shopping district of Mong Kok, Langham Place connects directly to the subway system and extends to other malls through a network of elevated skybridges. Ride its cascading escalators or gaze upward from the atrium, and it may feel as though you have stepped into a labyrinth.
But this is a maze of delight, leading you through a curated mix of fashion, skincare, and indulgence. Whether you are craving a comforting cup from Starbucks, replenishing skincare staples from Caudalie or Bioderma, or seeking the taste of culinary artistry at Patisserie La Famille Atelier Fraicheur, Langham Place brings it all within easy reach.
Pacific Place
If the glimmer of Pacific Place catches you off guard as you step inside, it is entirely understandable. Anchored in the heart of Admiralty, this gleaming landmark is home to world-renowned luxury brands, elegant hotels, and 270 upscale serviced apartments.
Whether you are browsing for designer staples or distinctive keepsakes, Pacific Place offers something for every kind of shopper, whether it’s a pair of sunglasses from Celine or Chanel, a Bottega Veneta card case, or a handcrafted piece from Chinese Arts and Crafts.
For peak comfort, book a stay at one of the four five-star hotels within the complex, like The Upper House, Conrad Hong Kong, JW Marriott, or Island Shangri-La. Guests at The Upper House and Island Shangri-La can even arrange for a personal shopper to guide them through their retail journey for the ultimate luxe experience.
