Cheung Chau Island Guide: Beaches, Hiking Trails, Restaurants & More

From pristine beaches, scenic hiking trails, mango mochi and more, hop on the Cheung Chau ferry and discover what this little island gem has to offer.

Find out just what Cheung Chau is so famous for. From seafood restaurants and pet-friendly cafes to mango mochi and giant fishballs, the island is a foodie’s dream. And that’s just what to eat! There are also plenty of charming local shops to browse, beaches to chill at and hiking trails to explore. So what are you waiting for? Hop on the Cheung Chau ferry for a day trip and see what this sleepy little island has to offer!

Read More: Lamma Island Guide – Beaches, Hikes, Restaurants, Staycations & More

Jump To:
Cheung Chau Ferry Times
What Is Cheung Chau Famous For?
Famous Snacks On Cheung Chau Island
Where To Eat & Drink On Cheung Chau Island
Cheung Chau Beaches
Cheung Chau Hiking Trails
Things To Do On Cheung Chau Island
Where To Shop On Cheung Chau Island
Hotels On Cheung Chau Island

Cheung Chau Ferry Times: Central To Cheung Chau Island

Ferries to Cheung Chau leave from Central Pier 5. They alternate between the slow (55 to 60 minutes) or ordinary ferry (35 to 40 minutes), and the fast ferry, which will zip you there in around 30 minutes. Grab window seats on the Cheung Chau fast ferry or head to the open deck on the slow ferry ride for breathtaking views along the way.

Lantau Island residents can use the inter-island ferry service that covers Cheung Chau, Chi Ma Wan, Mui Wo and Peng Chau Island.

Head here for the Cheung Chau ferry timetable.

Sassy Tip: Cheung Chau is a great spot to enjoy with your pet, but if your furry friend is joining you on your day trip, you’ll have to take the slower ferry.

Read More: 10 Hong Kong Day Trips to Fill Your Weekends With

What Is Cheung Chau Famous For?

Cheung Chau Bun Festival

The Cheung Chau Bun Festival, aka Cheung Chau Da Jiu Festival, is a seven-day Taoist sacrificial ceremony that is celebrated annually. It originated in the 18th century when Cheung Chau (then infiltrated by pirates) was affected by a plague. Residents and local fishermen paraded the village disguised as deities to drive away evil spirits.

The festival falls on the eighth day of the fourth month of the Lunar calendar and it usually coincides with Buddha’s Birthday (which means you can make the most of the public holiday!). 

Each year, the Bun Festival attracts thousands of goers who gather to witness the colourful parades coupled with traditional lion and dragon dance, and the “bun snatching competition”. Three towers are placed by the Pak Tai Temple and are entirely covered by buns (plastic ones) and competitors race to the top to snatch as many buns as possible (the more the buns, the better the fortune).

Note that during the Bun Festival, the entire island goes vegetarian for three days – most of the restaurants also adhere to this traditional so meat and seafood options may be removed from the menu during these days.

Read More: What To Know About The Dragon Boat Festival In Hong Kong

Cheung Chau Food

Historically a fishing village, the seafood here is the main attraction! But there are also traditional Cantonese restaurants, along with western-style places, so rest assured there is something for everyone.

Sassy Tip: Most places are cash only, so hit the ATM before you head out there or stop off at the island’s HSBC or various convenience stores.

Read More: The Best Beachside Restaurants And Bars In Hong Kong

Famous Snacks On Cheung Chau Island

Fishballs

If you’re a fan of fishballs, Cheung Chau is the place to be. Get them steamed, boiled in stock or served with a black pepper sauce. Options on the island come in all shapes and sizes (including the island’s signature giant fish balls!). Gan Yongtai is located in the square across from the ferry pier and is said to be one of the best.

Frozen Watermelon

Slices as big as your head are offered, and on hot summer days, these are definitely an irresistible treat!

Mango Mochi

Famous here on the island, a generous slice of fresh mango wrapped in a glutinous rice casing makes for a light and refreshing (and not overly sweet) dessert.

Read More: Your Guide To Local Hong Kong Dessert Shops

Where To Eat & Drink On Cheung Chau Island

Cheung Chau Bing Sutt

Traditional Hong Kong desserts are the order of the day at this laid-back local hangout. Order from its signature shaved iced treats, including its BAILEYS or Thai milk shaved ice topped with red bean and taro balls, or opt for the delicate almond sweet soup or osmanthus sugar tricolour grass jelly for something more classic.

Cheung Chau Bing Sutt, 19C Pak She Praya Road, Cheung Chau, Hong Kong, 2981 2982, cheungchaubingsutt.com

Cheung Chau Corner

The camera drinks first at Cheung Chau Corner, where you can order brightly coloured yoghurt drinks decorated with seasonal fruits. The café’s wall is covered in blue tiles to look like an MTR station (if only there really was one for Cheung Chau!) — making for the perfect backdrop for your pics.

Cheung Chau Corner, 78 San Hing Street, Cheung Chau, Hong Kong, 5682 4638, www.facebook.com/cheungchaucorner

Cheung Chau Tough Guy

Enjoy all your favourite Hong Kong street foods at Cheung Chau Tough Guy. The selection of skewers includes everything from chicken skin to abalone, with plenty of options for vegetarians too! Be sure to save room for some custard buns — a bestseller at this casual haunt.

Cheung Chau Tough Guy, 65 San Hing Street, Cheung Chau, Hong Kong, 8489 3143, www.facebook.com/cheungchautoughguy

Read More: Your Guide To Vegan & Vegetarian Restaurants In Hong Kong

Cheung Chau Windsurfing Centre & Outdoor Café

This al fresco restaurant is perched on top of a hill overlooking the swells and surfs of the South China Sea. Part of the Cheung Chau Windsurfing Centre, dishes on the menu here include vegetarian samosas, spring rolls, tapas and Hong Kong-style fried chicken wings, amongst other tasty bites. It also offers an extensive wine selection and spectacular panoramas of the beautiful coastline.

Cheung Chau Windsurfing Centre & Outdoor Café, 1 Hak Pai Road, Cheung Chau, Hong Kong, 2981 8316, www.ccwindc.com.hk

Read More: Your Guide To Outdoor Dining – The Best Al Fresco Restaurants In Hong Kong

Chinese Bayview Restaurant

Set inside Cheung Chau’s Warwick Hotel, Chinese Bayview Restaurant serves a delectable selection dim sum, classic Cantonese dishes and the like. If you have time to stay on the island until sunset, the restaurant is the perfect vantage point for sweeping ocean views.

Chinese Bayview Restaurant, Warwick Hotel, East Bay, Cheung Chau, Hong Kong, 3176 6312, warwickhotel.com.hk

Read More: Your Guide To Dim Sum In Hong Kong

Delicious Seafood Restaurant Cheung Chau (真味海鮮菜館長洲)

At Delicious Seafood Restaurant Cheung Chau, you can pick your selection from the tanks and get fresh seafood, including prawns, fish and more, served up to your table. Service here is friendly and efficient, and the food — as the name suggests — is in fact delicious.

Delicious Seafood Restaurant Cheung Chau (真味海鮮菜館長洲), G/F, 9C Pak She Praya Road, Cheung Chau, Hong Kong

Gogi Ice House

Gogi came onto Cheung Chau’s restaurant scene back in 2019 with its menu of mouthwatering dumplings. Try traditional favourites filled with pork and chives, or choose from its daily menu which features contemporary flavours such as salted egg yolk, kimchi and curry.

Gogi, Shop A, G/F, 86 Tai San Praya Road, Cheung Chau, Hong Kong, 5395 9328, www.instagram.com/gogi_icehouse

Heima Heima

“Heima”, the Icelandic word for “home”, hits the nail on the head with its cosy, welcoming interior and Nordic, family-style food and drink. Don’t scrimp on dessert as its homemade cakes made from seasonal ingredients are the perfect treat to finish up a dreamy day on Cheung Chau.

Heima Heima, 25 Tsan Tuen Road, Cheung Chau, Hong Kong, 6078 3417, www.facebook.com/heimaheimahk

Hing Kee Beach Bar

This charming little beach bar is perfect if you’re looking for a spot to chill out after a day exploring the island. Along with dishes such as fish and chips, pork chops, and other tasty home-cooked dishes, Hing Kee also serves a selection of local craft beers from breweries such as Gweilo, Heroes and Kowloon Bay.

Hing Kee Beach Bar, Kwun Yum Beach, Cheung Chau, Hong Kong, 2981 3478, www.facebook.com/Hing-Kee-Beach-Store

Read More: Where To Get The Best Fish And Chips In Hong Kong

Kwok Kam Kee

Found not far from Pak Tai Temple, Kwok Kan Kee Cake Shop has been supplying Cheung Chau with “ping on bao” (peace buns) for over 40 years. Hugely popular throughout the annual Bun Festival, these round white buns, instantly recognisable for their lucky red stamp, are filled with either sesame, lotus seed or red bean paste. There is no English sign on the storefront, so just look out for the buns (and the queue!).

Kwok Kam Kee Cake Shop, 46 Pak She Street, Cheung Chau, Hong Kong, 9841 5683, www.facebook.com/KwokKamKee

La Eat

Run by wife and husband duo Aaron and Yuki, La Eat serves up Singaporean favourites like Nasi Lemak, Satay, Mee Goreng, Gado Gado and more. Find La Eat on Kin San Lane, with outdoor seating where you can enjoy your meal with an ice-cold Pandan Cider or Laksa Beer from local brewery Black Kite.

La Eat, 5 Kin San Lane, Cheung Chau, Hong Kong, 5245 5961, www.facebook.com/laeatcheungchau

Morocco’s Restaurant

This small restaurant located near the ferry pier offers a predominately Indian menu, along with a few Thai dishes. The restaurant has indoor seating, as well as tables outside with a view of the water.

Morocco’s Bar, G/F, 71 Sun Hing Praya Street, Cheung Chau, Hong Kong, 2986 9767, www.facebook.com/moroccoshk

Read More: The Best Indian Restaurants In Hong Kong

New Baccarat Seafood Restaurant

This long-time Cheung Chau staple has been serving up fresh seafood for 20 years, and patrons keep coming back for more. The staff here are friendly and helpful, and speak both English and Cantonese. If you’re looking for an authentic place to enjoy some fresh food, this is the place for you.

New Baccarat Seafood Restaurant, 9A Pak She Praya Road, Cheung Chau, Hong Kong, 2981 0606

Nutshell

Looking to stop for a refreshing drink on your way to Tung Wah Beach? This cosy cafe will hit the spot with its sparkling tea-based concoctions. If you’re feeling a little peckish, dig into Nutshell’s freshly baked bread and pastries, we love the homemade shokupan (Japanese milk bread) served with three different spreads.

Nutshell, 156 Sun Hing Back Street, Cheung Chau, Hong Kong, WhatsApp: 9682 6592, www.instagram.com/thenutshell_island

Read More: The Best Bakeries In Hong Kong: Where To Buy Bread, Pastries & More

The Pink Pig Music Bar & Restaurant

A good spot to head to if you’re looking for craft beers on the island, The Pink Pig serves up the likes of Young Master Ales, Hong Kong Beer Co. and more, alongside a reasonably priced food menu.

The Pink Pig Music Bar & Restaurant, G/F, 11 Kin San Lane, Cheung Chau, Hong Kong, 5180 0692, www.facebook.com/thepinkpig.cc

Pirate Bay

Facing seaward, this friendly French-style cafe was opened by a French and Hongkonger couple. On the menu is a wide selection of French favourites such as ratatouille, beef bourguignon and a hearty homemade chicken rillette. If you’re not that hungry, we recommend ordering yourself a cheese platter and a glass of wine — the perfect accompaniment to a few peaceful hours of watching the waves.

Pirate Bay, G/F, 13 & 14 Tsan Tuen Road, Sai Wan, Cheung Chau, Hong Kong, 9664 0699, www.facebook.com/PirateBayCheungChau

Rainbow Café

Located just minutes away from the Cheung Chau ferry pier, Rainbow Café serves everything from all-day breakfasts to pizza, barbecue ribs, sandwiches and even ice cream and waffles. The café also has a rather bizarre bear theme, so don’t be too surprised by the multiple stuffed animals that may greet you!

Rainbow Café, G/F, 63 San Hing Praya Street, Cheung Chau, Hong Kong

Read More: Where To Find The Best Ice Creams In Hong Kong

SI DAN

Don’t get this eatery wrong, though its name sounds like the Cantonese word for “Whatever”, SI DAN takes food seriously. Specialising in all things eggs, SI DAN serves up quality dishes using original recipes and homemade sauces.

SI DAN, Pon 49, Pak She Street, Cheung Chau, Hong Kong, 4645 0461, www.facebook.com/sidancc

Read More: Your Ultimate Guide To Breakfast In Hong Kong

So Bor Kee

A popular seafood restaurant found right on the main street near the ferry pier, So Bor Kee offers up classic Chinese fare such as fried rice and noodles, whole steamed fish, deep-fried squid, fried clams in black bean sauce and more. The menu has both Cantonese and English (along with pictures!), and the staff are super friendly.

So Bor Kee, G/F, 11C Pak She Praya Road, Cheung Chau, Hong Kong, 2981 0998

Valor Cheung Chau

This cool coffee shop blows a brew from the city out of the water with its speciality ice drip and coconut ice drip coffees — served in an actual coconut. Don’t miss its exhibitions featuring works from local artists and photographers from across Hong Kong — the perfect weekend hangout.

Valor Cheung Chau, 4 San Hing Street, Cheung Chau, Hong Kong, 6699 5892, www.facebook.com/valorcheungchau

Cheung Chau Beaches

Kwun Yam Beach

Next to Tung Wan Beach, Kwun Yam Wan is a hotspot for water sports fanatics. The Cheung Chau Windsurfing Centre and Aquatic Centre can be found nearby the beach and offers windsurfing, surfing, paddle boarding and canoeing equipment for those keen to get involved.

Read More: Hong Kong Water Sports – SUP, Surfing, Scuba Diving, Kayaking And More

Tung Wan Beach

This beach is easy to get to and very pleasant. There are vendors who can rent you umbrellas, chairs, and just about anything you need to make your day at the beach a good one. Don’t miss the rafts that lie a few metres from the shore — ideal for laying out on.

Hike To Pak Tso Wan Beach & Reclining Rocks

If you’re down for a bit of adventuring but don’t want to break a sweat, take a gentle hike to Pak Tso Wan (also known as Italian Beach). Simply follow the coastal road to the Sai Wan Tin Hau Temple, then walk uphill until you reach a sign pointing out steps leading down to the beach. Not far from this isolated spot, just around the coastline, is a cluster of reclining rocks — the perfect spot to catch your breath and chill.

Read More: Your Guide To The Best Hong Kong Beaches

Cheung Chau Hiking Trails

Cheung Chau Family Trail & Mini Great Wall

If you have time, go for a quick hike around the island and see if you can find the “Mini Great Wall”, which offers amazing views of many parts of the island. This hiking trail was made in 1997 by the Home Affairs Department and is part of the Cheung Chau Family Trail. It’s a 1.2-kilometre walk from the ferry pier. Be sure to look for the oddly named rocks along the path, such as Human Head Rock and Vase Rock. The entire island can be walked in about two hours.

Read More: Hikes With A History – The Best Historic Walking Trails In Hong Kong

Cheung Po Tsai Cave

Explore the Cheung Po Tsai cave, rumoured to be a hiding spot for the infamous pirate Cheung Po Tsai. It gets dark inside, so remember to either bring a small handheld torch or use your phone torch. Plus, make sure you’re wearing sensible shoes!

How to get there: Make a right after you get off the ferry and walk for about 20 minutes toward Sai Wan Tin Hau Temple. When you get to the temple, walk up the hill for about 10 minutes and you will reach the cave.

North Lookout Pavilion

As the highest point on the island, the North Lookout Pavilion offers stunning views of Cheung Chau and beyond. A great option for visiting guests, or those who fancy a bit of a walk but not a full-on hike, this spot is simple to get to.

From the ferry pier, turn left and continue walking along San Hing Praya Street, before turning left at the end of the road. Follow the signs to the North Lookout Pavilion. You should soon find yourself on Cheung Kwai Road, which then leads to Cheung Pak Road and the Pavilion. In total, the walk should take around 40 minutes.

Read More: Hiking Trails Under Two Hours In Hong Kong

Things To Do On Cheung Chau Island

Saiyuen Adventure Park

An outdoor adventure playground spread out over 11 acres of land, Saiyuen promises an unforgettable trip with family or friends. From bubble soccer, abseiling and tree canopy walks to wild camping, glamping and romantic barbecues, this weekend hotspot has it all.

Saiyuen Adventure Park, DD CC Lot 12, Cheung Chau, Hong Kong, saiyuen.com

Read More: Where To Go Glamping In Hong Kong

Love Lock Garden

You may have heard of the Love Lock Bridge in Paris; well, Cheung Chau has its very own Love Lock Garden! If you happen to be on the island with your SO, take a walk down from the ferry pier and seal the deal on your love by clasping a lock onto the unmissable wall. BnB The Creative Workshop (across the road) sells locks, so all you have to do is inscribe your personal message!

Love Lock Garden, 80 Tung Wan Road, Cheung Chau, Hong Kong

Read More: 15 Underrated Instagram-Worthy Places In Hong Kong

Rent A Bike

Rent a bike (for as cheap as $50 for the day) and ride around the island. Turn left when you get off the ferry and stroll along the waterfront until you get to a bike shop. You may be asked to leave a deposit, but it’s refundable when you return your bike. From there, you can head to the beach, visit the caves or just explore where you like. Bikes come with baskets for your bag and locks so you can keep them safe while you explore. The island is small enough to bike around, so we suggest getting there early, having a seafood lunch and then enjoying an afternoon at the beach.

Read More: The Best Cycling Trails in Hong Kong

Where To Shop On Cheung Chau Island

There are lots of local shops, boutiques and stores selling everything from trinkets to sarongs, jewellery and more on Cheung Chau. Here are a few of our favourites:

BnB The Creative Workshop

Not strictly a shop, but more of a hybrid between a B&B and an art jamming/creative space, The Creative Workshop is certainly unique to Cheung Chau. Get creative and make your own souvenirs, pick up a lock to add to the Love Lock Garden, or get some henna from the owner.

BnB The Creative Workshop, 82 & 83 Tung Wan Road, Cheung Chau, Hong Kong, 9669 8075, www.facebook.com/bnbthecreativeworkshop

Cheung Chau Market

Be sure to stroll through Cheung Chau Market where you’ll find traditional dried seafood and other fresh produce. This wet food market will come in handy for those who are staying for a night or two and plan on cooking.

Cheung Chau Market, 2 Tai Hing Road, Cheung Chau, Hong Kong

Islander Cheung Chau

As Cheung Chau’s only bottle shop, Islander Cheung Chau is a go-to for a wide selection of Hong Kong craft beers, including brews from Black Kite, Yardley Brothers, Carbon Brews and Dead Man, to name a few. The store also carries non-alcoholic drinks such as kombucha from Taboocha and locally sourced honey sodas. Take your pick and knock one back on the cushioned steps out front.

Islander Cheung Chau, G/F, 3 Tung Wan Road, Cheung Chau, Hong Kong, 9864 4580, www.instagram.com/eatdrinkislander

Island Workbench

This little store is quite tucked away but is worth the search as it sells a gorgeous selection of Cheung Chau-made products such as jewellery, bags, cards and accessories. We particularly like the string bags that are made from recycled fishing nets! As well as its store, Island Workbench has a small café just up the road which serves a selection of coffees, teas, pastries and omelettes.

Island Workbench, N0.2, G/F Rear, San Hing Back Street, Cheung Chau, Hong Kong, WhatsApp: 5722 4252, www.island-workbench-store.com

Read More: Hong Kong Jewellery Shops – Online & Independent Designers And Stores We Love

myarts

Myarts is full of unique pieces and crafts by local designers. Whether you’re looking for small homeware items, jewellery, greeting cards, decorative pieces or eco-friendly gifts, you’re sure to find them here.

Myarts, G/F, 3 Tung Wan Road, Cheung Chau, Hong Kong, www.facebook.com/MyArtsCC

Read More: Your Guide To Zero Waste & Bulk Food Stores In Hong Kong

Where To Stay: Hotels On Cheung Chau Island

Warwick Hotel Cheung Chau

Nestled right next to Tung Wan Beach, Cheung Chau Warwick Hotel is a quaint seaside escape from the hustle and bustle of inner-city life. Explore the island by day and unwind in private accommodation that looks out over the ocean at night. Bring the pup and book in for a pet-cation that promises cute, pooch-friendly amenities such as dog bed, treats, wipes, water bowl and toys.

Cheung Chau Warwick Hotel, East Bay, Cheung Chau, Hong Kong, 2981 0976, www.warwickhotel.com.hk

Lychee Sunset Hotel Cheung Chau

Located just a five-minute walk from the ferry pier, Lychee Sunset Hotel is a sweet spot to spend the night. This pick has 19 brightly coloured rooms available (some with a spacious balcony overlooking the water). Settle down with a nightcap at the hotel’s rooftop Sunset Terrace, where you can watch the sun sink below the horizon with a bubbly drink in hand.

Lychee Sunset Hotel, 94-95 Lai Chi Yuen, Cheung Chau, Hong Kong, 2986 9992, WhatsApp: 9727 1792, lycheehotel.hk

Read More: The Best Hotels To Book For A Staycation In Hong Kong

Editor’s Note: “Your Neighbourhood Guide To Cheung Chau” was originally written by Roxanne Dowell in October, 2017 and was most recently updated in September, 2022 by Nicole Moraleda. With thanks to Debbie Ong for her contribution.