Lamma Island is a charming and laid-back island located southwest of Hong Kong Island known for its scenic hiking trails, beautiful beaches, vibrant village atmosphere, and diverse culinary offerings. The ferry takes only 30 minutes from Central so it is very easy to reach.
The island is car-free and hosts a few beautiful hiking trails. The Family Trail is a popular route that takes you from the main pier to the charming fishing village of Sok Kwu Wan. Another popular trail is the Lamma Island Family Walk, which connects the villages of Yung Shue Wan and Sok Kwu Wan, offering picturesque views along the way.
It is also home to some nice beaches like Hung Shing Yeh Beach, located near Yung Shue Wan. and Lo So Shing Beach, located near Sok Kwu Wan.
How to get There?
Ferries operate from Central or Aberdeen Piers in Hong Kong Island to one of the four piers on Lamma Island. The Octopus card can be used to pay for all ferries.
From Central Pier, which is the most common departure pier, you can go to
- Yung Shue Wan. It is the main pier in the north of the island that serves most of the villages and has the most traffic. It takes about 20 minutes. See schedule.
- Sok Kwu Wan. It is the second main pier in the centre of the island and takes ~30 minutes. (See schedule)
And from Aberdeen Pier, you can go to
- Yung Shue Wan (via Pak Kok Tsuen). It takes 25 minutes to Pak Kok Tsuen, a smaller pier near Yung Shue Wan, and another 15 minutes to Yung Shue Wan. See schedule.
- Sok Sku Wan (via Mo Tat Wan). It takes 25 minutes to Mo Tat Wan, a smaller pier in the centre of the island, and another 10 minutes to Sok Kwu Wan. See schedule.
What to bring?
This will depend on your trip, especially if it is for a day or more and if you are planning to spend time on the beach and maybe swim, but in general, I would suggest the following.
- Trainers: the hike is not difficult at all, but you may prefer a good pair of trainers instead of flip-flops.
- Water: depending on the season the weather can be very hot. So one or two bottles per person at least. You can always buy in some of the shops as well.
- Camera: of course, you will want to take pictures.
- Beach pack: sandals, dry clothes and/or towel: you may want to consider this if you are going to spend time on the beach. There are toilets and showers in case you need them before heading back.
- Food: snacks and/or fruits can be a good option as well.
Top attractions
Where shall you go on the island? We recommend picking a departing pier and an area in Lamma and building an itinerary around it.
If you cannot decide, my suggestion would be to go to Yung Shue Wan from Central Pier. It is the main pier and the most popular region, hosting most restaurants and shops, from local to Western cuisine and more. From there you can decide if you want to simply walk around the area, or you want to spend time at Hung Shing Yeh Beach or take a hiking trail (see section below).
The main attractions on the island are:
- Hung Shing Yeh Beach. The largest and most popular beach, with many facilities like showers and a barbeque area.
- Tin Hau Temple. A traditional Chinese temple dedicated to the goddess of the sea.
- Lamma Winds. A sustainable energy education centre that offers visitors a chance to learn about renewable energy sources.
- Kamikaze Caves. Were used as a hiding place for Japanese suicide bombers during the WWII war.
- Fisherfolk’s Village. A small museum that showcases the traditional fishing culture of the island
Hiking trails
These are some of the best hiking trails on Lamma Island that you can explore during your day trip.
- Yung Shue Wan Trail to Sok Kwu Wan (or vice-versa). This is a very common and popular trail, which follows an easy route that joins the two main piers on the island. It offers beautiful coastal views and takes you through the picturesque Sham Wan Beach and the iconic Kamikaze Caves, remnants of World War II. It takes around an hour and you can take the ferry back from the destination pier of your choice. It is also called The Family Walk.
- Family Trail. Hikers can head to Pak Kok Shan on northern Lamma Island, a lookout point offering a panoramic view of the surrounding area. It’s a 25-minute walk one way. The view of the southern side of Hong Kong can be admired from this point.
- Ling Kok Shan Trail. For experienced hikers seeking a more challenging adventure, the Ling Kok Shan Trail is an excellent choice. This steep and demanding trail takes you to the highest peak on Lamma Island, offering panoramic views of the surrounding islands and Hong Kong’s skyline. Be prepared for a strenuous but rewarding trek.
- Mt Stenhouse. It is the highest point on Lamma Island, although not part of any official and maintained trail.
- Tai Peng to Tung O Ancient Trail. Immerse yourself in history as you hike along the Tai Peng to Tung O Ancient Trail. This trail connects two traditional villages and allows you to explore Lamma Island’s rich cultural heritage. You’ll encounter ancient rock carvings, ancestral halls, and traditional houses, providing a glimpse into the island’s past.
Where to eat and drink?
We didn’t try too many restaurants on our last trip, but we did have many recommendations from locals, including a good friend who lives in and works in Hong Kong. Our favourite was Sau Kee Seafood Restaurant in Yung Shue Wan. We enjoyed delicious scallops with garlic and glass noodles (see picture above) in a great setting overlooking the pier. And The Beer Shack is where we had the best selection of craft beers.
Other good restaurants in Yung Shue Wan are
And there are more good places in Sok Kwu Wan
What about Mo Tat Wan? It has only one restaurant called The Bay.
Check our post Best Traditional Food in Hong Kong. A Delicious History if you need the inspiration to know what to try.
More Pictures
