Are you looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of Hong Kong? Do you want to experience a different side of the city, where nature, culture and diversity coexist peacefully? If yes, then you should visit Lamma Island, one of the most charming and laid-back destinations in Hong Kong.
Lamma Island is the third-largest island in Hong Kong, but it feels like a world apart from the skyscrapers and neon lights of the city. Lamma Island is home to fishing villages, multicultural communities, sandy beaches, hiking trails, cultural attractions and delicious cuisines. Whether you want to relax, explore, or indulge, Lamma Island has something for everyone.
In this article, we will show you how to get to Lamma Island, what to do, where to eat, where to shop and where to stay on this amazing island. We will also share some tips and insights that will make your trip more enjoyable and memorable. By the end of this article, you will be ready to book your trip to Lamma Island and discover its relaxing and multicultural charms.
How to Get to Lamma Island
Getting to Lamma Island is easy and convenient, as there are regular ferries that connect the island with Central and Aberdeen on Hong Kong Island. The ferry ride takes about 25 to 30 minutes and costs around HK$20 to HK$30 per person, depending on the time and the destination.
There are four piers on Lamma Island: Yung Shue Wan, Sok Kwu Wan, Mo Tat and Pak Kok. Yung Shue Wan is the main pier and the most populous region of the island, where you can find most of the restaurants, shops and cafes. Sok Kwu Wan is the second-largest pier and the quieter and more secluded part of the island, where you can enjoy authentic seafood and scenic views. Mo Tat and Pak Kok are smaller piers that serve the southern and northern parts of the island, respectively.
You can check the ferry schedule and buy tickets online on the Hong Kong and Kowloon Ferry website. You can also use the Octopus card to pay for the ferry fare. We recommend that you arrive at the ferry terminal at least 15 minutes before the departure time, as the ferries can get crowded during peak hours and weekends.
What to Do on Lamma Island
Lamma Island offers a variety of activities and attractions for all kinds of travellers. Whether you are into nature, culture, or adventure, you will find something to suit your taste and mood on this island. Here are some of the best things to do on Lamma Island:
Beaches
One of the main attractions of Lamma Island is its beautiful beaches, where you can swim, sunbathe and picnic in a relaxing and serene environment. Some of the best beaches on Lamma Island are:
Hung Shing Yeh Beach: This is the most popular and accessible beach on Lamma Island, located about 20 minutes’ walk from Yung Shue Wan pier. The beach has clear water, soft sand and a stunning view of the Lamma Power Station. The beach also has facilities such as showers, changing rooms, toilets, barbecue pits and a refreshment kiosk.
Lo So Shing Beach: This is another lovely beach on Lamma Island, located about 30 minutes’ walk from Sok Kwu Wan pier. The beach is quieter and more secluded than Hung Shing Yeh Beach, and has crystal-clear water, fine sand and a lush green backdrop. The beach also has facilities such as showers, changing rooms, toilets, barbecue pits and a refreshment kiosk.
Power Station Beach: This is a hidden gem on Lamma Island, located about 40 minutes’ walk from Yung Shue Wan pier. The beach is named after the nearby Lamma Power Station, which adds a unique contrast to the natural scenery. The beach is ideal for swimming, surfing and camping, as it has clean water, smooth sand and a spacious area. The beach has no facilities, so you need to bring your own food, drinks and equipment.
Shek Pai Wan Beach: This is the largest and most remote beach on Lamma Island, located about an hour’s walk from Sok Kwu Wan pier. The beach is a paradise for nature lovers, as it has clear water, golden sand and a rocky coastline. The beach is also a great spot for fishing, snorkelling and hiking, as it has abundant marine life and a nearby hill. The beach has no facilities, so you need to bring your own food, drinks and equipment.
Hikes
Another main attraction of Lamma Island is its hiking trails, where you can enjoy scenic views, fresh air and cultural sites. Some of the best hiking routes on Lamma Island are:
Lamma Island Family Walk Trail: This is the most popular and easy hiking trail on Lamma Island, connecting Sok Kwu Wan and Yung Shue Wan with a leisurely 5 km path. The trail takes about 1.5 hours to complete and offers panoramic views of the island and the sea. Along the way, you can also visit attractions such as Tin Hau Temple, Kamikaze Cave and Lamma Winds.
Ling Kok Shan Hike: This is a moderate and rewarding hiking trail on Lamma Island, starting from Yung Shue Wan and ending at Sok Kwu Wan with a 6 km loop. The trail takes about 2.5 hours to complete and offers stunning views of the island, the sea and the surrounding islands. Along the way, you can also visit attractions such as Lo So Shing Beach, Shek Pai Wan Beach and Ling Kok Shan Pavilion.
Mt Stenhouse Hike: This is a challenging and adventurous hiking trail on Lamma Island, starting from Mo Tat and ending at Sok Kwu Wan with a 7 km route. The trail takes about 4 hours to complete and offers spectacular views of the island, the sea and the city skyline. Along the way, you can also visit attractions such as Mo Tat Old Village, Mt Stenhouse Peak and Tung O Ancient Trail.
Hong Kong Greenhouse Trail: This is a unique and educational hiking trail on Lamma Island, starting from Pak Kok and ending at Yung Shue Wan with a 4 km route. The trail takes about 1.5 hours to complete and offers a glimpse of the island’s eco-friendly initiatives and projects. Along the way, you can also visit attractions such as Hong Kong Greenhouse, Lamma Art Collective and Lamma Corner.
Culture
Lamma Island is also rich in culture and history, as it has been inhabited by various groups of people over the centuries, such as fishermen, farmers, hippies and expats. Some of the cultural attractions and sites on Lamma Island are:
Lamma Fisherfolk’s Village: This is a themed cultural village that showcases the history and culture of fishing in Hong Kong. The village is located near Sok Kwu Wan pier and has exhibits, displays and activities that illustrate the fishing lifestyle and techniques. You can also visit a fish farm, feed the fish, try fishing and taste fresh seafood at the village.
Tin Hau Temple: This is a modern village house that honours Tin Hau, the Chinese goddess of the sea and the patron saint of fishermen. The temple is located near Sok Kwu Wan pier and has a colourful and ornate facade and interior. You can also see a collection of model boats, paintings and statues that depict the maritime culture and history of Hong Kong.
Kamikaze Cave: This is a historical site that commemorates the Japanese suicide attacks during World War II. The cave is located near Yung Shue Wan and has a plaque and a sign that explain the history and significance of the cave. You can also see the remains of the wooden jetty and the concrete platform that were used by the Japanese to launch their boats.
Lamma Winds: This is a wind turbine that generates green energy and reduces carbon emissions on Lamma Island. The windmill is located near Yung Shue Wan and has a height of 71 metres and a diameter of 50 metres. You can also visit the exhibition centre and the observation deck that provide information and views of the windmill and the island.
Lamma Art Collective: This is a community art space that promotes and supports local and international artists on Lamma Island. The art collective is located near Pak Kok and has a gallery, a studio and a shop that display and sell various artworks, such as paintings, sculptures, ceramics and jewellery. You can also join workshops, events and exhibitions that are held regularly at the art collective.
Where to Eat on Lamma Island
Lamma Island is a foodie’s paradise, as it offers a wide range of cuisines and dishes that cater to different tastes and budgets. Whether you are craving for fresh seafood, vegetarian delights, western classics or local specialties, you will find something to satisfy your appetite on this island. Here are some of the best places to eat on Lamma Island:
Seafood
Lamma Island is famous for its seafood, especially in Sok Kwu Wan, where you can find dozens of seafood restaurants along the waterfront. These restaurants serve a variety of dishes, such as fish, prawns, crabs, lobsters, clams, oysters and more, cooked in different styles and sauces. You can also choose your own seafood from the tanks and have it prepared according to your preference. Some of the best seafood restaurants on Lamma Island are:
Rainbow Seafood Restaurant: This is one of the most popular and reputable seafood restaurants on Lamma Island, serving fresh and delicious seafood since 1984. The restaurant has a spacious and comfortable dining area, as well as a free ferry service for customers who book in advance. Some of the specialties of the restaurant are the steamed fish with soy sauce, the deep-fried squid with spicy salt, the baked lobster with cheese and the fried rice with crab meat.
Lamma Hilton: This is another well-known and reliable seafood restaurant on Lamma Island, serving quality and affordable seafood since 1986. The restaurant has a cozy and friendly atmosphere, as well as a stunning view of the sea and the hills. Some of the specialties of the restaurant are the garlic prawns, the black bean clams, the crispy chicken and the fried noodles with seafood.
Sok Kwu Wan Seafood: This is a hidden gem on Lamma Island, serving authentic and tasty seafood since 1992. The restaurant has a simple and rustic decor, as well as a warm and hospitable service. Some of the specialties of the restaurant are the steamed scallops with garlic, the sweet and sour fish, the chili crab and the fried rice with shrimp.
Vegetarian
Lamma Island is also a haven for vegetarians, especially in Yung Shue Wan, where you can find several vegetarian restaurants and cafes that offer a range of options and flavors. These places serve dishes that are healthy, nutritious and satisfying, using fresh and organic ingredients. Some of the best vegetarian places on Lamma Island are:
Bookworm Cafe: This is a charming and cozy cafe that serves vegetarian and vegan food, as well as books, magazines and board games. The cafe has a relaxing and inviting vibe, as well as a friendly and knowledgeable staff. Some of the specialties of the cafe are the tofu burger, the hummus wrap, the quinoa salad and the chocolate cake.
Green Cottage: This is a delightful and elegant restaurant that serves vegetarian and vegan food, as well as organic wines and beers. The restaurant has a romantic and refined ambiance, as well as a courteous and attentive service. Some of the specialties of the restaurant are the mushroom risotto, the spinach lasagna, the vegetable curry and the cheesecake.
Lamma Gourmet: This is a modern and stylish restaurant that serves vegetarian and vegan food, as well as smoothies, juices and coffee. The restaurant has a bright and spacious interior, as well as a cheerful and helpful staff. Some of the specialties of the restaurant are the avocado toast, the falafel bowl, the veggie burger and the brownie.
Western
Lamma Island is also a great place to enjoy western food and drinks, especially in Yung Shue Wan, where you can find many restaurants and bars that offer a variety of cuisines and beverages. These places serve dishes that are familiar, delicious and satisfying, using quality and fresh ingredients. Some of the best western places on Lamma Island are:
The Waterfront Bar & Restaurant: This is a popular and lively restaurant and bar that serves western and fusion food, as well as cocktails, beers and wines. The restaurant and bar has a spacious and comfortable dining area, as well as a stunning view of the harbour and the city. Some of the specialties of the restaurant and bar are the steak, the pizza, the nachos and the mojito.
Lamma Grill: This is a cozy and friendly restaurant that serves western and Mediterranean food, as well as smoothies, juices and coffee. The restaurant has a relaxing and inviting atmosphere, as well as a courteous and attentive service. Some of the specialties of the restaurant are the burger, the salad, the falafel and the milkshake.
The Blue Goose Tavern: This is a charming and rustic tavern that serves western and Irish food, as well as beers, whiskies and ciders. The tavern has a warm and welcoming vibe, as well as a fun and sociable staff. Some of the specialties of the tavern are the fish and chips, the shepherd’s pie, the Guinness and the Jameson.
Brunch
Lamma Island is also a perfect spot to have brunch, especially in Yung Shue Wan, where you can find several spots that offer a selection of dishes and beverages that are ideal for a late morning or early afternoon meal. These spots serve dishes that are tasty, filling and energizing, using fresh and organic ingredients. Some of the best brunch spots on Lamma Island are:
The Green Cottage: This is a delightful and elegant restaurant that serves vegetarian and vegan food, as well as organic wines and beers. The restaurant has a romantic and refined ambiance, as well as a courteous and attentive service. Some of the specialties of the restaurant are the mushroom risotto, the spinach lasagna, the vegetable curry and the cheesecake.
Lamma Gourmet: This is a modern and stylish restaurant that serves vegetarian and vegan food, as well as smoothies, juices and coffee. The restaurant has a bright and spacious interior, as well as a cheerful and helpful staff. Some of the specialties of the restaurant are the avocado toast, the falafel bowl, the veggie burger and the brownie.
Andy’s Seafood Restaurant: This is a casual and family-friendly restaurant that serves seafood and local food, as well as tea, coffee and soft drinks. The restaurant has a simple and spacious dining area, as well as a fast and efficient service. Some of the specialties of the restaurant are the dim sum, the congee, the noodles and the toast.
Where to Shop on Lamma Island
Lamma Island is also a great place to shop, especially if you are looking for unique and local products that reflect the island’s culture and diversity. You can find a variety of shops and markets that sell handicrafts, clothing, souvenirs and more, at reasonable prices and quality. Here are some of the best places to shop on Lamma Island:
Handicrafts
If you are interested in handmade and local products, you will love Lamma Island’s handicraft shops, where you can find pottery, jewelry, accessories and souvenirs that are made by the island’s artists and craftsmen. These products are not only beautiful and original, but also meaningful and eco-friendly. Some of the best handicraft shops on Lamma Island are:
Lamma Pottery Studio: This is a cozy and creative studio that sells pottery products, such as cups, bowls, plates and vases, that are made by the owner and other local potters. The studio also offers pottery classes and workshops for beginners and advanced learners, where you can learn the basics and techniques of pottery making and create your own masterpiece.
Lamma Island Handmade Jewelry: This is a charming and elegant shop that sells jewelry products, such as earrings, necklaces, bracelets and rings, that are made by the owner and other local jewelers. The shop also offers jewelry classes and workshops for beginners and advanced learners, where you can learn the basics and techniques of jewelry making and design your own piece.
Lamma Island Souvenir Shop: This is a fun and friendly shop that sells souvenir products, such as magnets, keychains, postcards and stickers, that are made by the owner and other local artists. The shop also offers custom-made souvenirs, where you can choose your own image and text and have it printed on your preferred product.
Clothing
If you are looking for clothing and fashion items, you will find plenty of options on Lamma Island, where you can find vintage, bohemian, ethnic and casual styles that suit your personality and taste. You can also find accessories, such as hats, scarves, bags and shoes, that complement your outfit and style. Some of the best clothing shops on Lamma Island are:
Lamma Vintage: This is a cool and trendy shop that sells vintage clothing and accessories, such as dresses, shirts, jackets and sunglasses, that are sourced from around the world. The shop also offers alterations and repairs, where you can have your old clothes fixed or transformed into something new and fashionable.
Lamma Bohemia: This is a colorful and eclectic shop that sells bohemian clothing and accessories, such as skirts, tops, pants and earrings, that are inspired by the island’s hippie and free-spirited culture. The shop also offers handmade and organic products, such as soap, candles and incense, that are made by the owner and other local artisans.
Lamma Ethnic: This is a vibrant and exotic shop that sells ethnic clothing and accessories, such as saris, kurtas, kaftans and necklaces, that are imported from India, Nepal, Thailand and other countries. The shop also offers henna tattoos and piercings, where you can have your body decorated and adorned with natural and safe materials.
Markets
If you are looking for a bargain and a variety of products, you will enjoy Lamma Island’s markets, where you can find organic, flea and night markets that offer fresh and local products, such as fruits, vegetables, flowers, bread, cheese, honey and more. You can also find second-hand and vintage products, such as books, records, toys, clothes and more. Some of the best markets on Lamma Island are:
Organic Farmers’ Market: This is a weekly market that takes place every Sunday from 11 am to 5 pm at the Yung Shue Wan Main Street. The market sells organic and locally grown products, such as fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, eggs, bread, cheese, honey and more, that are produced by the island’s farmers and vendors. The market also offers live music, workshops and demonstrations, where you can learn more about organic farming and living.
Flea Market: This is a monthly market that takes place every last Saturday of the month from 12 pm to 6 pm at the Yung Shue Wan Main Street. The market sells second-hand and vintage products, such as books, records, toys, clothes, accessories and more, that are donated or sold by the island’s residents and visitors. The market also offers a free exchange zone, where you can swap your unwanted items with others.
Night Market: This is a seasonal market that takes place every Chinese New Year, Mid-Autumn Festival and Christmas Eve from 6 pm to 12 am at the Yung Shue Wan Main Street. The market sells festive and local products, such as lanterns, decorations, snacks, drinks and more, that are made or sold by the island’s artists and vendors. The market also offers entertainment, such as games, performances and fireworks, where you can have fun and celebrate with others.
Where to Stay on Lamma Island
Lamma Island is also a wonderful place to stay overnight, especially if you want to enjoy the island’s tranquility and beauty at night. You can find different types of accommodation on Lamma Island, such as hotels, guesthouses and campsites, that cater to different needs and budgets. Here are some of the best places to stay on Lamma Island:
Hotels
If you are looking for comfort and convenience, you can choose from the hotels on Lamma Island, especially in Yung Shue Wan, where you can find a range of facilities and services that will make your stay more enjoyable and relaxing. Some of the best hotels on Lamma Island are:
Concerto Inn: This is a cozy and elegant hotel that offers rooms and suites with sea views, balconies and jacuzzis. The hotel also has a restaurant, a bar, a garden and a private beach that provide a romantic and serene setting. Some of the facilities and services of the hotel are the free Wi-Fi, the free breakfast, the room service and the laundry service.
Lamma Island Hotel: This is a modern and stylish hotel that offers rooms and apartments with city views, kitchenettes and sofa beds. The hotel also has a rooftop terrace, a fitness centre and a business centre that provide a chic and functional setting. Some of the facilities and services of the hotel are the free Wi-Fi, the free shuttle, the concierge service and the luggage storage.
Lamma Island Resort: This is a rustic and charming hotel that offers rooms and cottages with garden views, patios and fireplaces. The hotel also has a restaurant, a cafe, a pool and a spa that provide a relaxing and rejuvenating setting. Some of the facilities and services of the hotel are the free Wi-Fi, the free parking, the massage service and the bicycle rental.
Guesthouses
If you are looking for authenticity and affordability, you can choose from the guesthouses on Lamma Island, especially in Sok Kwu Wan, where you can find a variety of features and experiences that will make your stay more memorable and adventurous. Some of the best guesthouses on Lamma Island are:
Lamma Fisherfolk’s Village Guesthouse: This is a themed and cultural guesthouse that offers rooms and dorms with sea views, air conditioning and shared bathrooms. The guesthouse also has a restaurant, a museum and a fish farm that provide an educational and entertaining setting. Some of the features and experiences of the guesthouse are the fishing activities, the cultural exhibits and the seafood cuisine.
Lamma Art House Guesthouse: This is a creative and artistic guesthouse that offers rooms and studios with garden views, private bathrooms and kitchenettes. The guesthouse also has a gallery, a workshop and a shop that provide an inspirational and expressive setting. Some of the features and experiences of the guesthouse are the art classes, the art exhibitions and the art products.
Lamma Eco Guesthouse: This is an eco-friendly and organic guesthouse that offers rooms and tents with mountain views, solar power and compost toilets. The guesthouse also has a farm, a yoga studio and a library that provide a sustainable and holistic setting. Some of the features and experiences of the guesthouse are the organic farming, the yoga sessions and the book exchange.
Campsites
If you are looking for adventure and nature, you can choose from the campsites on Lamma Island, especially near the beaches, where you can find a level of comfort and fun that will make your stay more exciting and enjoyable. Some of the best campsites on Lamma Island are:
Power Station Beach Campsite: This is a spacious and scenic campsite that offers tents, sleeping bags and mats for rent or for sale. The campsite also has a barbecue area, a volleyball court and a bonfire pit that provide a social and festive setting. Some of the features and experiences of the campsite are the swimming, the surfing and the camping.
Lo So Shing Beach Campsite: This is a quiet and secluded campsite that offers tents, sleeping bags and mats for rent or for sale. The campsite also has a shower area, a toilet area and a picnic area that provide a basic and comfortable setting. Some of the features and experiences of the campsite are the snorkelling, the hiking and the picnicking.
Shek Pai Wan Beach Campsite: This is a wild and remote campsite that offers tents, sleeping bags and mats for rent or for sale. The campsite also has a fishing area, a rock climbing area and a cave exploring area that provide a challenging and thrilling setting. Some of the features and experiences of the campsite are the fishing, the rock climbing and the cave exploring.
Lamma Island is the ultimate destination for anyone who wants to enjoy Hong Kong’s relaxing and multicultural escape. Lamma Island has something for everyone, whether you want to relax on the beach, hike on the trail, explore the culture, eat the food, shop the market or stay the night. Lamma Island is a place where you can experience a different side of Hong Kong, where nature, culture and diversity coexist peacefully.
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