Often when I mention that I work in outdoor programmes in Hong Kong, people reply, “There are outdoor spaces in Hong Kong?” To many, the city has an image of skyscrapers, bustling streets, and shopping. When I explain that there are plenty of outdoor spaces on Hong Kong Island—where I can take a short bus journey and go climbing, hiking, or even swim in waterfalls—the response is usually surprise. In fact, around 40 per cent of Hong Kong’s land is designated as country parks or protected habitats.

With that in mind, here are four outdoor spots I recommend adding to your Hong Kong itinerary.

1. Hiking in Sai Kung East Country Park

Sai Kung East Country Park is a lush green space that spans over 4,000 hectares, filled with forests, canyons, and mountains.

There are many trails you can hike in the country park, and the Hong Kong government has put together a comprehensive list of routes you can explore independently. From this list, you can choose scenic trails, nature-focused walks, heritage routes, or family-friendly options.

A route I recommend is the Luk Wu Country Trail, a beginner-friendly hike where you can pass through the park’s canyons and discover clear pools of water along the way.

2. Rock climbing at Cape Collinson

Hong Kong is a haven for outdoor rock climbers. It is rare for a city to offer such easy access to amazing climbing sites, from dramatic sea cliffs to granite slabs in the mountains. Outdoor climbing areas are usually free to enter, though climbers need to bring their own ropes and equipment.

Climbing in Hong Kong is great for beginners like myself because many routes feature grippy granite rock, making climbs feel more approachable.

One site I recommend is Cape Collinson, which is better suited to intermediate or advanced climbers. Here, you scale cliffs right by the turquoise sea—close enough that you may even feel sea spray during your climb.

Located along the coast, access to the climbing area is affected by tide levels. The route to Cape Collinson is not entirely straightforward, but there are plenty of online resources that clearly guide visitors to the beach.

3. Island-hopping to Yim Tin Tsai

There are plenty of stunning islands and beaches accessible from Sai Kung Public Pier. The pier itself is a lively destination, lined with seaside restaurants. You can enjoy fresh seafood straight from tank displays, or venture into Sai Kung’s alleyways for affordable Thai, Vietnamese, and Arabic cuisine.

Just next to the pier is a public running track and promenade, often animated by street performances—a pleasant place to spend time before boarding a boat.

From the pier, you can hire a boat to several islands and beaches. However, if you’re looking to combine outdoor exploration with local history, Yim Tin Tsai Island is an excellent choice.

The island is just a 15-minute boat ride from Sai Kung Pier and was settled by the Hakka community around 300 years ago, who built their livelihoods around salt panning and farming. Today, Yim Tin Tsai is home to a UNESCO-recognised heritage site, St Joseph’s Chapel, which blends Catholic and Hakka architectural influences.

Visitors can explore hilly paths that weave through heritage buildings, mangroves, and restored salt pans.

4. Sunset views along Lugard Road

If you have limited time in Hong Kong but still want to experience nature, Lugard Road Lookout is an ideal option.

Lugard Road sits near Victoria Peak. You can take the Peak Tram or a bus to the summit, or hike up if you’re feeling adventurous (or budget-conscious).

The 2.4-kilometre path follows the contour of the hillside, offering sweeping views of the city skyline and harbour. On the mountainside, forest and greenery frame the path, making it a particularly photogenic walk.

For a bigger challenge, Lugard Road connects to the Hong Kong Trail—a 50-kilometre hiking route that begins at Victoria Peak and ends at Big Wave Bay.

Your trip to Hong Kong doesn’t have to be limited to busy streets, markets, and spaces. It can also include peaceful green landscapes and remarkable views. I hope you find time to step beyond the city centre and experience Hong Kong’s country parks, because it’s impressive how thoughtfully the city has preserved its natural spaces alongside urban life.

All images are credited to Sofia Shamsunahar, unless stated otherwise.