Chi Ma Wan
Chi Ma Wan, on the southern coast of Lantau Island, is a quiet escape from Hong Kong's urban bustle. This rugged peninsula offers wild beaches, coastal walks, and a glimpse into the area's fishing and mining history. It's a place for solitude and nature, with dramatic sea views and a laid-back vibe that rewards those who venture off the beaten path.
Highlights & What to See
- Chi Ma Wan Beach – A long, sandy beach backed by hills, perfect for a peaceful stroll or a picnic. The water is clean and inviting, though swimming is not supervised.
- Chi Ma Wan Peninsula Walk – A scenic trail that hugs the coastline, offering panoramic views of the South China Sea and the distant islands. Keep an eye out for remnants of old mining structures and WWII relics.
- Former Chi Ma Wan Correctional Institution – An abandoned prison complex that adds a haunting, historical layer to the landscape. While you can't enter, the exterior and its cliffside location are photogenic.
- Sunset Point – The western side of the peninsula provides a prime spot to watch the sun sink into the sea, with the silhouette of Lantau's peaks in the background.
Suggested Time to Spend
Half a day is enough to explore the main beach and do a short walk, but if you want to hike the full peninsula loop (about 2-3 hours) and relax on the beach, plan for a full day. Combine it with a visit to nearby Mui Wo or Silvermine Bay for a more complete Lantau outing. The area is best visited from October to April when the weather is cooler.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Mui Wo (Silvermine Bay) – The main ferry hub on Lantau, with a charming waterfront, seafood restaurants, and the Silvermine Beach Hotel.
- Silvermine Bay Beach – A popular, well-maintained beach just a short bus ride from Chi Ma Wan.
- Tung Chung – A modern town with the Ngong Ping 360 cable car to the Tian Tan Buddha and Po Lin Monastery.
- Tai O – A historic fishing village on the west coast, famous for its stilt houses and dried seafood.
- Lantau Trail – The island's long-distance hiking route passes near Chi Ma Wan; you can join it for a more extensive trek.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.
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Image credits
- Silvermine Bay Beach — Siubwiki / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Tung Chung — am730 / CC BY 3.0
- Lantau Trail — CC BY-SA 3.0