other Outlying Islands

The Hong Kong Region is one of islands, more islands than most people realize at about 225.  The exact number depends on how you define "island" as some are now merged or connected to other structures such as dams. While Lantau is by far the largest and most important there are many interesting things to be found on others.

As the main business and administrative parts of Hong Kong are themselves on an island, Hong Kong Island, the other islands are known as Outlying Islands. This term also includes Lantau but also many smaller islands of varying populations and interests.

Here are the three most popular and suitable for a visit.

Lamma Island - The third largest island by size in Hong Kong, coming after Lantau and Hong Kong Island, but one of the more sparsely populated. However the two villages on the island, which are quite distinct, both have great facilities for tourists to enjoy hiking, seafood and the quiet side of Hong Kong life.

Cheung Chau - One of the busiest of the outlying islands this dumbbell shaped small island is popular as a day trip and weekend destination for Hong Kong people. Well known for fresh seafood and "fishball" snacks it is also home to sandy beaches.

Peng Chau - A smaller but still well populated island this is a great destination to see the quiet side of Hong Kong village life and step back a hundred years in terms of tradition and lifestyle.

Both Cheung Chau and Peng Chau can be reached directly from Lantau via the "Inter Island Ferry", or via their own ferries from the Central Ferry Piers.  While Lamma Island can be reached only by it's own ferry also from the Central Ferry Piers