5 nature spots in Hong Kong to add to your bucket list in 2024

We all travel abroad for different reasons. While most of us head to the most popular tourist spots, amusement parks or shopping centers, others opt for more laid-back spaces that will reinvigorate the soul or strengthen their relationships.

If you and your travel companions are looking for swathes of lush green and crystal blue to add to your bucket list, then Hong Kong can fill your need to commune with nature. The island's great outdoors also offers a kaleidoscope of adventures for all.

Make sure to add these nature spots to your new year itinerary.

Dragon's Back in Hong Kong Island

2024 marks the year of the wood dragon. Invite some good luck by taking the trail of Dragon’s Back, which has an undulating ridge similar to a dragon’s backbone. The slopes will take you down at sea level, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the sea and nearby isles. The path ends at Big Wave Bay, where you can sunbathe and go for a good swim.

Lantau Island

As you hike through the Shek Pik Reservoir on Lantau Island, you will be greeted by circle-like rock cravings and spiral squares believed to have existed for three millennia. Finishing the trail on Lantau Peak will reward you with panoramic views of Hong Kong International Airport and the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge atop the beautiful plateau of Ngong Ping. Don’t miss stopping at marvelous Buddhist structures including Po Lin Monastery, the Tian Tan Buddha, and Wisdom Path while on Lantau Island.

Ha Pak Nai in New Territories

If you’re into nature photography, then Ha Pak Nai is a perfect spot to birdwatch and take snaps of its mangroves and rich marine life, including the endangered horseshoe crabs. The picturesque destination also has dazzling views of Deep Bay and the glitzy buildings of Shenzhen, China.

Here’s a bonus: While Ha Pak Nai’s sunset undoubtedly offers a visual treat, you can also treat yourself to a mouth-watering seafood dinner, which is just a short minibus ride away in the village of Lau Fau Shan. The village has a long history of oyster farming, and the golden dried oysters here are a sought-after delicacy. One of the local favorites is a recipe that involves pan-frying the oysters until the outside is slightly crusty, while the inside remains tender and bursting with flavor. In addition to dried marine produce, the main street is lined with shops offering freshly caught seafood, which customers can select and have one of the restaurants prepare to order.

Tai Mo Shan in New Territories

Tai Mo Shan is the city’s highest peak and an extinct volcano. Because of its altitude, it’s cooler up there and you can see frost and icicles occasionally appear on the upper slopes. You can experience being surrounded by quick-moving clouds or see the sun rise in Hong Kong.

PRO tip: After catching the sunrise, indulge in a traditional dim sum meal at Duen Kee Tea House. Located at 57-58 Chuen Lung Estate, Route Twisk, Tsuen Wan, this self-service restaurant is only open from 6am to 2pm.

Bride's Pool Nature Trail in New Territories

If you’re just looking for an easy hike, you can take the Bride’s Pool Nature Trail which will take you to the breathtaking river of Bride’s Pool and the majestic falls of Mirror Pool plummeting torrents. Make sure you pose for some snaps at the beautiful stone bridge connecting the villages of Chung Mei and Kau Tang.

Meanwhile, at the southern end of Bride’s Pool Road is Tai Mei Tuk, a waterfront recreational area comprising of a group of small villages. Located just a few minutes' drive from the Bride’s Pool Nature Trail, many Hong Kong residents come here to relax and unwind. You can rent bicycles, boats, or kayaks for the day from local shops, fly kites, or take a stroll along nearby Lung Mei Beach before returning to Tai Po. You’ll also find here a spacious barbecue area where you can cook delicious meals and enjoy quality time with your loved ones. Moreover, there are several restaurants specializing in Thai cuisine and barbecued dishes, as well as cafes and shops selling instant noodles and other snacks.

These are just five of the great outdoors in Hong Kong that will help you connect with nature and replenish your body and soul during your trip.

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Editor’s Note: This article was provided by Hong Kong Tourism Board.