A horde of weekend yachting aficionados often descend on the waters of such popular locations as Repulse Bay and Sai Kung, no doubt drawn by the opportunity to escape from social distancing restrictions and work-from-home norms that prevail in the city today. However, the attractions of these hotspots have worn a little thin of late, fear not, for concealed along the coasts of Hong Kong’s myriad islands are a few hidden yachting destinations that might just offer a new ocean-going experience.
Tai Tam Bay
Just beyond the shores of the touristy beachside hub of Stanley, nestled between lush rolling hillsides and several sheltered coves is Tai Tam Bay. Thanks to the protection offered by its surrounds, the calm waters here are perfect for paddle boarding, kayaking, jetskiing or swimming. Visitors can also choose to take a short hike through the small island, which leads to flowing creeks and cascading waterfalls just waiting to be explored.
South Bay Beach
The southern coastline of Hong Kong island has some of the most popular beaches known to the city, but one that is less frequented yet still offers sweeping sea views, ample serene space and sandy shorelines is South Bay Beach. Among the most easily accessible hidden yachting destinations in the city given its proximity to Central Pier and Aberdeen Marina Club, popular activities here include wakeboarding and banana boating.
Po Toi Island
A picture perfect trip to the underrated southeastern tip off Hong Kong Island is Po Toi beach, located just 3km from Aberdeen and Stanley. Boasting scenic vistas across the ocean and the island’s natural rock formations, no trip here would be complete without visiting Ming Kee Seafood Restaurant, long a popular dining option for the city’s discerning epicureans.
Tung Ping Chau
For those not keen on beaches or water sports but still wanting to embark on an adventure in the open sea, the striking island of Tung Ping Chau in the eastern part of the New Territories affords visitors a very different yachting experience. Formed entirely of sedimentary rocks that back some 60 million years, this multi-layered, brightly coloured geopark pretty much guarantees fun for the entire family, with activities like coast walking and fossil-spotting all very much on the itinerary.
Turtle Beach
Lamma Island ranks among the city’s most popular island getaways, but what many may not be aware of, though is that it is home to Turtle Beach, a turtle sanctuary and the only known nesting area for green turtles in the whole of Hong Kong. Also known as Sham Wan, this hidden gem is closed to the public between the months of June and October – the season where chelonians come ashore to nest and lay their eggs. During the rest of the year, though, it’s a beautiful, serene spot that allows visitors to commune with nature in a manner almost unheard-of in the city. However, if you’re looking to wakeboard or hop on a banana boat, heading to one of the other hidden yachting destinations may be more suitable, lest you disturb the indigenous animals.
Charter a yacht
For those without a sloop of their own to venture out into open sea, you can look to charter a private yacht as a luxurious alternative. Asia’s leading yacht broker charters a slew of yachts with a wide range of itineraries for any, and every, occasion. Choose from their wide selection of brands and models for your next nautical escapade.