Hong Kong is at no shortage of things to do, especially during the hot and humid peak of summer. There are ways to embrace the heat—or escape it by heading indoors—through a range of wellness activities to help boost endorphins. From pottery making to bamboo yoga, here are 15 summer activities to try this summer in Hong Kong.
Bamboo Yoga
Founded by Aleksandra Milewicz, Bamboo Yoga is one of the most unique outdoor activities and takes aerial yoga to the next level. Offering beginners level, private and corporate classes, the workshop hangs you from a bamboo tripod and is 100% safe and fun for the curious. Taking place on Hong Kong’s beautiful Sai Wan Beach, Bamboo Yoga is a way to connect with nature and your own body, whilst helping you learn to achieve body balance.
Island hopping
There are over 250 islands in Hong Kong, most of which are easily reached by regular boat trips or ferries. Take a day out to explore the vast and spectacular outdoors by visiting a new island within an hour’s reach. Some of the most popular go-to’s include Cheung Chau, Lantau, Discovery Bay and Lamma Island, accessible by ferry from Central pier.
See also: Finding Paradise: The Best Luxury Wellness Retreats in the Pacific Islands
Pottery making
Learn something creative this summer, like making a delicate bowl or plate with Two Parts Studio’s pottery classes. With two locations (one in Taikoo and one in San Po Kong), the studio specialises in small classroom settings for up to four people. Opt for a beginner, advanced, or pottery self-service course, depending on personal preference and skill.
Various locations | +852 5505 0828 | twopartstudio.com
Kayaking
Kayaking is a great way to get outside without completely melting in the heat, thanks to regular dips in the cool waters. The Hong Kong UNESCO Geopark is made up of eight areas in one region. Embark on a sea expedition with Sea Kayak Hong Kong, which takes you to up to all the places on the list—tours range from half days to nine days of outdoor adventure.
Yung Shue Ho Village Sai Kung, New Territories | +852 5506 3620 | seakayakhongkong.com
Hiking
Those who live in Hong Kong know that the city’s hiking trails are some of the best in Asia. Conquer hills, mountains, and country parks, for a taste of the lush greenery only an hour away (or less) from Central. Some of the most recommended trails include Dragon’s Back, Sai Wan Pavilion, Sunset Peak, and Pui O, to name a few.
See also: Hong Kong Hikes: The Top 12 Hiking Trails To Try Now
Indulge in a luxury staycation
With many of us cooped up this summer in the city due to travel restrictions, many luxury hotels have launched staycation packages for local people. From a weekend at The Peninsula to an evening of bliss at the Mandarin Oriental, guests can indulge in the finer things in life, including Michelin-starred food and impeccable service.
See also: Hong Kong’s Top Spa Hotels For An Urban Wellness Staycation
Camping
If you’re an outdoors junkie, then camping in Hong Kong will fulfill your needs. Pack a tent, suncream, and mosquito repellent and head out to one of the outlying islands or hiking trails to set up camp on a secluded shore. Some of the most peaceful places to go camping include Tai Long Sai Wan, Long Ke Wan Beach, Wan Tsai Peninsula and Yuen Ng Fan.
Learn a new recipe
Working from home allows time to learn new skills, including cooking up a new and exciting healthy recipe. With virtual access to online recipes of all cuisine, the world is your oyster—so pick and choose wisely. Try making COMO’s Green Salad or Trisara’s Quinoa and Halloumi Salad to spruce up healthy kitchen habits.
Find more healthy retreat recipes here
Volunteer for a local charity
There are plenty of volunteering opportunities in Hong Kong, many of which are in need of regular assistance. Lend a helping hand this summer to a local charity, whether it’s helping the disabled at Christian Action or delivering necessities to the homeless with HandsOn Hong Kong.
Read a new book
If you’ve been meaning to start that novel since New Year’s, now’s the time. Summer days in (or out on the beach) are perfect for reading and taking a break from electronics. Avid readers can try something new—perhaps a different genre from their typical choice.
Visit a local organic farm
There is an abundance of nature in Hong Kong’s countryside, hence the increasing demand for local organic farms. For a sense of peace and quiet—and fresh fruits and vegetables—visit a local farm to try a wholesome activity, like strawberry picking or animal petting. Some favourites include Kadoorie Farm, Mingle Farm, and Rainbow Organic Strawberry Farm.
Try a luxury virtual wellness retreat
Wellness retreats across the world have launched online initiatives to encourage wellness at home—many of them being complimentary to all. Try a virtual wellness retreat, which includes yoga tutorials, meditation guides, and online recipes, to bring the retreat home. Find out more about luxury virtual wellness retreats available here.
Biking
Discover the range of biking trails across Hong Kong to get you out and about. If you’re a beginner, try something flat like Tai Wai/Sha Tin where you can rent bikes for the full day. For something a bit more challenging, try Chi Ma Wan which follows the trail of Lantau’s southern coast.
Head out on a sampan
Sai Kung pier is bustling with old ladies selling cheap tickets for sampan day trips. Visit one of the secluded outlying islands (with tickets as cheap as HK$10 one way) to uncover hidden beaches and peaceful trails across the seas. Some of the best-recommended trips include Sharp Island and Yim Tin Tsai.
Plan your wellness adventures in advance
If travel is restricted in your region, there is the option to plan in advance. Many of our wellness retreat partners are offering exclusive deals and book now, travel later packages for healthy holiday hunters. Our wellness concierge team and Compare Retreats founder Dervla are here to help you every step of the way. Contact bookings@compareretreats.com if you have any queries or concerns.
See also: Wellness Retreat Opening Updates
