Hong Kong hikes that finish where you can swim – beaches and rivers to cool off this summer
- Sweaty and hot after a long hike, you can plunge in the sea or a river to cool down from the exertion
- End a hike at the Sai Kung beaches or by a hidden plunge pool on Lantau
The heat of Hong Kong is back, but you do not have to suffer. There are plenty of hikes you can take that end near cool refreshing water that is ideal for a swim.
Sunset Peak – 10km
Hong Kong’s third highest mountain is a tough hike. Start in Mui Wo, turn left at the round about and keep walking along the pavement until you get to a wooden arch declaring the entrance to Lantau Country Park. Across the flat grassy space, the stairs begin to climb through the woods. Keep climbing until the plateau with the huts near Sunset Peaks summit.
After the plateau you will descend steep steps to Pak Kung Au. Go over the road, turn left and you will see a concrete road behind a car barrier going off to the right. Descend that concrete road and after 30 minutes of walking you will reach the main road. On the other side is Lower Cheung Sha Beach, and the cool seas you crave. There are also some restaurants if you turn left (as you face the water) and walk along the beach.
Sharp Peak – 15km/7km (depending on if you get the boat back)