8 quiet places in Hong Kong for peaceful moments

Think of Hong Kong, and most of us think of the city’s glistening skyline and bustling streets. Yet beyond – and sometimes, amid – the skyscrapers and neon lights are havens of calm and quiet. Pristine beaches, wildlife-rich nature trails, and lesser-known neighbourhoods are all within easy reach of your hotel, offering opportunities to slow down and relax in one of the world’s most energetic cities. 

1. Have a beach day at Long Ke Wan 

Venture to Sai Kung East Country Park, and between mountains and ocean you’ll discover Long Ke Wan : a crescent-shaped stretch of pearl-coloured sand and turquoise water. Accessible by hike from the East Dam or by boat from Sai Kung Pier, this hidden paradise feels a world away from the city. While its more popular neighbour Tai Long Wan draws surfers to its rugged shores, this secluded beach is ideal for a light walk, paddle or snooze. Cap off your day with a fresh seafood feast back in Sai Kung Town Centre.

2. Explore the natural world at Kadoorie Farm and Botanical Garden

Gather the whole family for a day of discovery at Kadoorie Farm and Botanical Garden . Spread across the foothills of Tai Mo Shan, this nature conservation and rehabilitation centre is brimming with flora and fauna, including over 200 bird species, nearly 70 per cent of the city’s mammal species, a butterfly garden, a monkey sanctuary and tropical greenhouses – sure to spark wonder in young minds. Your entry ticket includes a shuttle ride up the steep slopes of the park to a pavilion, from which you can enjoy a leisurely walk down along lush fern trails. 

3. Find your Zen at Chi Lin Nunnery and Nan Lian Garden

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city at Chi Lin Nunnery  and the adjacent Nan Lian Garden , located just steps from Diamond Hill MTR station. As you stroll through this tranquil urban sanctuary, you can admire classical Tang dynasty architecture, manicured gardens and beautiful lotus ponds. Complete the experience with a cup of tea at Song Cha Xie teahouse and a plate of vegetarian dim sum at Chi Lin Vegetarian, which overlooks a cascading waterfall. Visit on weekday mornings to enjoy the site at its most peaceful.

4. Take it easy in Tai Hang neighbourhood

Just a short walk from the boutiques and department stores of Causeway Bay’s lively shopping district, Tai Hang is a charming, laid-back neighbourhood where quirky shops and hip cafés are interspersed among local eateries and historic temples. Pause to soak up the relaxed atmosphere from the balcony of contemporary European restobar Tipsy , enjoy nostalgic comforts at open‑air street‑side eatery Bing Kee , and browse vintage gems at The Minimal .

5. Reconnect with nature along Shing Mun Reservoir Walk 

Fill your lungs with fresh mountain air on the Shing Mun Reservoir Walk, a forested trail where paperbark trees tower overhead and monkeys wander freely. The full loop stretches about seven kilometres, but its crown jewel is Pineapple Dam – which you can cut straight to by hopping on green minibus 82 from Tsuen Wan MTR Station Exit B1. The scenery shifts with the seasons, but the dry months are especially beautiful, when receding waters reveal the roots of Sweet Gum and other plantation trees sprawled across rust-yellow banks – a mesmerising sight from every angle.

6. Dine by the water on Po Toi Island

Hong Kong is home to more than 200 outlying islands, but Po Toi is arguably the best for indulging in fresh seafood delicacies. The island, just a short kaito ferry ride from Stanley Blake Pier or Aberdeen Pier, boasts a long, rich tradition of fishing and seaweed harvesting. It also abounds in natural beauty, including dramatic rock formations that line the windswept coastline, sculpted by crashing waves over millennia. Be sure to visit Tin Hau Temple, built to protect fisherfolk, and the island’s most famous seafood spot: Ming Kee Seafood Restaurant .

7. Go art gallery hopping in Wong Chuk Hang 

Once an industrial district, Wong Chuk Hang has evolved into a burgeoning art hub, home to a vibrant mix of art galleries and studios – all surreptitiously tucked away in former factory buildings. Exploring everything from fine art to multimedia installations, you can get to know the city’s top talent and tastemakers at renowned venues like Blindspot Gallery , Axel Vervoordt  and de Sarthe , alongside must-visit niche galleries including Boogie Woogie Photography  and the edgy Current Plans . 

8. Stay active at Go Park Sai Sha

If you’re looking for a fun family day out minus the queues and crowds, head to Go Park Sai Sha , a sprawling sports complex in the New Territories. Rent bicycles to cruise along scenic bike paths, picnic by the water or paddle through mangroves on kayaks. The park is also home to the city’s largest public golf range – and the only one with Trackman tech for monitoring your performance. After letting off some steam, unwind in one of the park’s lifestyle complexes, packed with family‑friendly restaurants and entertainment.