10 Short Hikes in Hong Kong With Amazing Views (Tips From a Local!)

Looking for easy hiking trails in Hong Kong that will get you back to the city in time for happy hour? Look no further!

Hong Kong is often considered to be a concrete jungle with colossal skyscrapers, but in reality the city is a tropical island with a splash of towering high-rises. One of the best ways to make the most of what Hong Kong has to offer is to embark on one of the 50-plus hiking trails and immerse yourself in nature.

But here’s the thing, some of the best Hong Kong hikes with a view can be intense, involve lengthy travel times and are better suited to advanced hikers…and that’s just not everyone’s cup of tea! While I’m happy to venture out to get off the beaten track, my idea of a perfect hike is one that is short and sweet, ends with killer views, and gets me back in time for happy hour on a rooftop bar.

Sound like your ideal day out? Here is a list of some of the best easy hikes in Hong Kong that won’t take you all day, but will deliver big time on breathtaking views. But first, some quick tips if it’s your first trip to Hong Kong!

Looking for even more Hong Kong travel tips and insider recommendations? Head on over here for my collection of Hong Kong destination guides!

Quick Hong Kong travel tips

• The local currency in Hong Kong is the Hong Kong dollar, and cash is king despite the fact that most places accept credit cards. Most transportation options (taxis, subway, buses) only take cash or Octopus card (a stored value card), so make sure you exchange or withdraw some money upon arrival.
• One of the first things you have to do when you arrive in Hong Kong is get an Octopus card. It is a stored value card that works on all public transportation (but not in taxis). You can purchase your tourist Octopus card in advance here, just pick it up from the airport when you arrive.
• The best time of year to go hiking in Hong Kong is from October to May. During this time, the weather is cooler and there is a smaller chance of encountering thunderstorms and typhoons. From June to August the temperature can soar above 30 degrees Celsius (86 Fahrenheit) and the humidity can be nauseating, not to mention many hiking trails in Hong Kong offer little to no shade – so plan accordingly and bring lots of water, sunscreen and a hat. Hiking is one of the most popular pastimes in Hong Kong, so if you are looking to beat the crowds then opt to go for a hike on a weekday instead of over the weekend or on a public holiday.
• The main language spoken in Hong Kong is Cantonese, a local dialect. Many people speak English (or at least basic English), and almost all signs are bilingual. Trails in Hong Kong tend to be well-marked and you should be able to receive cell signal in most places – however, you should always plan ahead and download the route map just in case.
• Most visitors opt to book hotels on Hong Kong Island or on Kowloon side. Look into hotels in Wan Chai, Central, Soho, Sheung Wan and Causeway Bay for maximum convenience! Here are some of my personal favourite boutique hotels in Hong Kong, or you can also click here to book highly-rated accommodation in Hong Kong.

Are you visiting Hong Kong for the first time? Click here for for the most iconic sights to add to your Hong Kong itinerary!

The best easy hikes in Hong Kong

One of the top things you should know before visiting Hong Kong is that although Hong Kong is widely considered to be a dense metropolis, about three-quarters of land is actually lush countryside! If you’re looking for something unique to do in Hong Kong then embark on one of these easy outdoor adventures – suitable for beginner and advanced hikers alike! Without further ado, here are my favorite top short hikes in Hong Kong.

1. Cape D’Aguilar

Cape D’Aguilar on the south side of the island is one of the most underrated easy Hong Kong hikes and often overlooked in favour of the nearby Dragon’s Back trail. However, the relatively flat and well-paved trail takes you to the craggy coastline and offers up incredible views of Hong Kong’s only marine reserve. Its protected status means that you cannot strip off into your bathers and swim here, but you can visit the unique formations – Thunder Cave or Crab Cave – or the small lighthouse at the rocky outcrop.

Though this hike is relatively “long” compared to some of the other quick hikes in Hong Kong on this list, the majority of the path is somewhat shaded (but you’ll still need plenty of water, sunscreen and a hat). As this is a marine reserve there are no toilet facilities or trash bins – remember to take all of your garbage with you!

How to get there: MTR to Shau Kei Wan on the Island line and then hop on bus 9 to Cape D’Aguilar, or red minibus towards Big Wave Bay. Make sure the bus you are on will stop at Cape D’Aguilar as buses occasionally bypass this stop – ask the driver if it will stop at “Hok Zui”.

Difficulty level: 6/10 – the path is relatively flat, even and mostly shaded, but expect the return journey to take approximately 3 hours with time for photos. The total length of the hike is around 9 KM.

View payoff: 8/10 – the rock formations are fascinating, and you get lovely views of Tai Tam Bay along the path. Don’t miss the archway at the Crab Cave!

2. Red Incense Burner Summit

The “Red Incense Burner Summit” hike is one of the best hikes in Hong Kong with a view. Sandwiched between Quarry Bay and Causeway Bay, the trail head to “Hung Heung Lo Fung” begins just behind the Chinese International School and involves some minor bushwacking to get to the summit (follow the ribbons).

If you want to take some incredible sunset photos then make sure you head to the summit early to nab a spot – it is one of the most popular quick Hong Kong hikes among avid photographers as it offers an unparalleled vantage point to view the sunset across Victoria Harbour. Make sure you bring a flashlight or have your phone on you as you’ll need it to get back down safely after the sun goes down.

How to get there: Take a taxi to “Hon Kay Gok Jai Hok Hau” or Chinese International School, or hop on minibus 25 across the street from H&M in Causeway Bay.

Difficulty level: 4/10 – the hike shouldn’t take you any longer than 20-30 minutes to get to this viewpoint from Braemar Hill, but you should still wear appropriate footwear as some sections are nothing more than a dirt trail. Keep your eyes peeled for coloured ribbons tied to tree branches as they mark the way to the top – there is no signage to get to the summit.

View payoff: 10/10 – I mean, just look at this view! You can see why it’s one of the best sunset viewpoints in Hong Kong.

3. Dragon’s Back

You can’t really write a Hong Kong hiking article without mentioning Dragon’s Back, widely considered to be one of the best hiking trails in Hong Kong. Dragon’s Back is a beginner friendly hike that is an easy Hong Kong day trip destination for those looking for a beautiful view minus the struggle. The trail starts with a quick upward ascent with lots of steps, but don’t worry – the path flattens out once you reach the ridge at the top of the mountain and you’ll get a much-needed chance to catch your breath.

Most of the trail is exposed so you’ll want to bring a hat, water and sunscreen. It should only take you 3 hours or so to get to the end of the trail at Big Wave Bay in Shek O where you can grab a bite to eat or go for a dip in the ocean. The best time of year to do the Dragon’s Back hike is during the autumn months, when it is still bright and sunny but much less humid.

How to get there: MTR to Shau Kei Wan (on the blue Island line) and then hop on bus 9 towards Shek O, or red minibus towards Shek O/Big Wave Bay.

Difficulty level: 6/10 – the entire trail stretches along for approximately 9 KM and you can take your time while taking in the views, but the first half can be a struggle on a hot day as there is minimal shade.

View payoff: 8/10 – on a clear day, the view of Shek O Peninsula is pretty spectacular.

You might also like: 12 Easy Hong Kong Day Trip Ideas for When You Need a Change of Scenery

4. Mount High West

Although not as elevated as the iconic Victoria Peak, Mount High West offers unobstructed views of Tai Mo Shan, Lantau and Lamma on a clear day. Mount High West is one of the best short hikes in Hong Kong and can easily be reached by taking the small trail on the left behind this pavilion area where Harlech Road meets Lugard Road.

If you start the upward ascent from the Peak instead of Pok Fu Lam it shouldn’t take you any more than an hour to reach the summit. The short-but-intense hike involves nearly 500 seemingly-unending steps, but the payoff is breathtaking as you’re greeted with sweeping views on all sides.

How to get there: Take bus 15 or 15X to the Peak and start walking along Harlech Road. Once you reach this pavilion garden (it should only take 10-15 minutes) take the paved path on the left behind the garden. To get back to where you started either walk back along Harlech Road or continue on via Lugard Road.

Difficulty level: 6/10 – short but challenging because of the number of steps up. The round-trip journey is only about 4-5 KM in total and you can easily do the Mount High West hike from the Peak in under 2 hours (with plenty of time for photos).

View payoff: 9/10 – I loved the 270 degree views from the Mount High West viewing pavilion, and the viewing platform offers plenty of signage to help you understand what you’re looking at.

5. The Peak Circle / Harlech Road and Lugard Road

The Peak Circle “hike” is one of those unique things to do in Hong Kong that isn’t in a guidebook because the vast majority of tourists head straight to the Peak Tower observation platform instead. However, the stroll along Lugard Road and Harlech Road is extremely leisurely and mostly-shaded, and you get some jaw-dropping views of Hong Kong and Kowloon.

It’s one of the easiest Hong Kong island hikes that you can do if you’re short on time and/or energy, you don’t even need to wear proper hiking or running shoes! It is also very stroller friendly for families looking for an easy hike in Hong Kong. On those sweltering hot days you’ll appreciate the cool shade offered by towering banyan trees along the way.

The Peak Circle walk only takes around 60-90 minutes to complete and loops right back to where you started – it’s one of the best short Hong Kong hikes for people who are after unobstructed panoramic views with minimal effort. You can start at either Harlech Road or Lugard Road on the left hand side of the Peak Tower – it doesn’t matter much where you begin as both meet in the middle.

How to get there: Take bus 15/15X up to the Peak or hop on the Peak Tram.

Difficulty level: 2/10 – it doesn’t get much breezier than this. The Peak loop is under 4 KM in distance and will take about an hour and a half to complete without breaking a sweat. There are no steps or inclines, just an easy, paved path the whole way through.

View payoff: 9/10 – you get pretty much the same view from here as you do from the Peak Tower, minus the entrance fee and hordes of people. Minimum input, maximum ROI.

6. Brick Hill

In my opinion, Brick Hill (or Nam Long Shan) is one of the best short hiking trails in Hong Kong because so few people head here for the panoramic views, and the trail head is easily reachable by subway. Most people don’t consider hiking Brick Hill but I can’t quite understand why, given that the trail is relatively short and manageable, and there are several areas to rest and catch your breath.

The hike starts with a mild incline all the way from the MTR station up to the trail head (past Singapore International School and Canadian International School), and then lots of stairs up to the helicopter landing pad. While the hike up can be intense in the mid-day sun, there are 2 pavilions on the way up where you can rest. You’ll likely spot some wild boar foraging for food – steer clear of them as they can be aggressive, especially if they are protecting any piglets.

Once you reach the top you get a sweeping view of Deep Water Bay, Repulse Bay in the distance and Middle Bay, which makes it one of the most picturesque hikes on Hong Kong island.

How to get there: Take the MTR to Wong Chuk Hang Station (on the green South Island line) and head to exit B. From there, keep walking up Nam Long Shan Road until you reach the trail head past Canadian International School. Turn around and take the same route back to get out.

Difficulty level: 7/10 – I found this hike slightly more challenging because of the never-ending steps, minimal shade and hordes of mosquitoes, but you can complete the round-trip journey (from the MTR station to the Brick Hill summit) in approximately 2 hours. The entire Brick Hill hike is under 5 KM.

View payoff: 8/10 – the view is not the typical city view which makes it less common, and on a clear day you can see the various golden beaches along Hong Kong’s south side.

Psst: Wong Chuk Hang is also home to some of the best street art in Hong Kong, so why not combine this short hike with a self-guided street art tour? Here is my guide on the best places to see street art in Hong Kong.

7. Coombe Road and Barker Road to the Peak

Looking for one of the best quick hikes in Hong Kong? This is an easy, relatively flat walk that will take you from Stubbs Road to the Peak in under an hour. This isn’t an “official” hike per se as you mainly walk along minor roads lined on either side by residential buildings, but it’s one of my favourites because it is easy to get to by public transportation, mostly flat and very shaded. It’s my go-to easy Hong Kong hike when I’m craving some fresh air with views to match, and was my favourite

The 2.5 KM walk (follow these directions) takes you past some historic buildings in Hong Kong including Victoria House, and roadside viewpoints with a 180-degree view of Wan Chai and Central from above. Because you walk past residential areas it is quiet and extremely leisurely – perfect for a lazy afternoon stroll up to the Peak. If you don’t feel like walking back down do what we do – hop on the Peak Tram back down to Admiralty!

How to get there: Take the bus 15 to the Coombe Road playground/Police Museum, and then walk along Coombe Road all the way to the end where it meets Peak Road. Cross the road and continue along Barker Road. Take a left at the end of Barker Road and finish the hike up along Findlay Path. You’ll find yourself at the entrance to the Peak Tower.

Difficulty level: 5/10 – short and sweet hike which shouldn’t take you any longer than 45 minutes each way. Plus you can choose to take the Peak Tram or bus into town instead of walking back!

View payoff: 7/10 – lovely views of Wan Chai, Admiralty and Central from above.

8. Rhino Rock

Rhino Rock is a peculiar-looking rock high up on a hill on Hong Kong island’s southern end. Take one look at the rock formation and you’ll see where it got its name! The hike to Rhino Rock is short but involves some bushwhacking through the jungle, and climbing over boulders (at some points on all fours) to get to the final viewpoint – all you have to do is follow the ribbons that other expert hikers have kindly left behind to mark the path.

I’d call this a weird-and-wonderful short hike in Hong Kong, because who doesn’t like checking out uniquely-shaped rocks around the world? The hike also shows you Stanley Prison on one side and Stanley Barracks on the other, so I’d recommend against flying a drone here unless you want the PLA to pay you a little visit.

How to get there: Take bus 6, 6X or 260 to Stanley and then take a taxi (or 14) to Stanley Fort, or catch the 14 from Sai Wan Ho. The trail starts right next to Stanley Fort.

Difficulty level: 6/10 – the hike should only take about half an hour each way, but involves some bushwhacking through dirt paths. However, there are plenty of spots where you can stop to catch your breath. I recommend wearing shoes with good grip as there’s lots of loose dirt and gravel along the way. The return journey comes to approximately 4 KM in total.

View payoff: 8/10 – one of the more unique hikes in Hong Kong as you get to check out rock shaped like a rhino’s head!

9. Jardine’s Lookout

If delayed gratification has never really been your strong suit then head to Jardine’s Lookout for a quick hike in Hong Kong. This hike is only approximately 1 KM each way, or for the hiking fanatics out there you can keep going along the Hong Kong Trail towards Mount Butler.

The Jardine’s Lookout viewpoint gives you a view similar to that from the Red Incense Burner Summit (which means it’s another great sunset viewpoint in Hong Kong), and mainly consists of hundreds of steps up to the peak. Pace yourself, breathe through it and you’ll be fine! Though the steps up can feel unending, it took us just 25 minutes or so to get to the top, and 15 minutes to head back down.

How to get there: Take bus 6 or 66 towards Stanley and then walk up Tai Tam Reservoir Road. The entrance to the trail is just across the street from the Parkview residential complex. Alternatively, take a taxi to Parkview – ask the taxi driver to take you to “Yeung Ming San Jong”. Once you arrive at these gates just take the first right and follow the signs for Jardine’s Lookout.

Difficulty level: 6/10 – the hike should take you less than half an hour each way, but involves lots and lots of steps. The return journey comes to approximately 2.5 KM in total.

View payoff: 9/10 – fantastic place to get a 180-degree view of Hong Kong’s skyline and Victoria Harbour.

10. Bowen Road Fitness Trail

It really doesn’t get much easier than this short hiking trail in Hong Kong: beloved by runners and dog owners alike, the Bowen Road Fitness Trail winds and weaves its way above “Mid-Levels East” in Wan Chai, starting at where Stubbs Road meets Tai Hang Road and stretching towards Magazine Gap Road.

The vast majority of the trail is shaded with a number of lookout points over Happy Valley and Wan Chai, and the best part about this easy hike in Hong Kong is that it is as flat as a tack (perfect for parents with strollers!). Coming in at just 4 KM or so, you can easily saunter down Bowen Road Fitness Trail before brunch without breaking a sweat. There are a number of small sitting areas and public toilet facilities if needed, as well a minor tourist attraction, “Lover’s Rock”.

How to get there: Take bus 15 towards The Peak or 6 or 66 towards Stanley and get off near Hong Kong Adventist Hospital. The entrance to the trail is is unmissable, just parallel to Stubbs Road. Alternatively, take a taxi to Adventist Hospital – ask the taxi driver to take you to “Si To But Do Gong On Yee Yuen” or “Si To But Do Bo Wan Do”.

Difficulty level: 2/10 – the leisurely one-way jaunt should take you less than two hours, you can either hop on a taxi where Bowen Road meets Borrett Road (near the Stone House) or continue onwards and detour down through Hong Kong Park.

View payoff: 6/10 – sure, the views may not be as jaw-dropping as the ones you get from other short hikes in Hong Kong, but the time and energy investment is also absolutely minimal. This is a perfect easy hike option for a lazy day.

I hope this list of beginner-friendly hikes in Hong Kong inspires you to get out and explore more of Hong Kong’s nature (without having to bring your hiking poles and gear)! These are a few of my favourite easy hiking trails in Hong Kong that involve less travel time and minimal effort – yet still deliver on maximum views.

Want even more Hong Kong insider recommendations? Click here for my Hong Kong destination guides!

You might also find these Hong Kong travel tips helpful:

• Don’t know what to expect in Hong Kong? Here are some important things you should know before you go!
• There are some common travel mistakes to avoid in this city – read on for what not to do in Hong Kong (and what you should do instead)
• Are you a solo female traveler? You might want to read this article on traveling alone as a woman in Hong Kong
• Always looking for the best unique things to do when you travel? Here are some of my top off-the-beaten-track things to do in Hong Kong
• And last but not least, there are some fabulous day trips you can go on – read this article for more Hong Kong day trip ideas!

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