Photo: Wpcpey / CC BY-SA 4.0
Cheung Sha Beach is one of Hong Kong's longest and most serene beaches, stretching over 2 kilometers along Lantau Island's southern coast. With its fine golden sand, gentle waves, and backdrop of lush green hills, it's a peaceful escape from the city's hustle. The beach is split into Upper and Lower Cheung Sha by a small river, offering plenty of space for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Despite its length, it remains uncrowded even on weekends, making it a favorite among locals and in-the-know travelers.
Highlights & What to See
- Swim and sunbathe – The clear, clean waters are ideal for swimming, and the long stretch of sand means you can always find a quiet spot.
- Water sports – Rent a kayak, stand-up paddleboard, or surfboard from one of the beachside shops; the waves are gentle enough for beginners.
- Hike from the beach – Follow the trail up to the nearby hill for panoramic views of the coastline and the distant mountains of Lantau.
- Dine at a beachfront café – Several casual restaurants and bars line the shore, serving everything from fresh seafood to Western comfort food and craft beer.
- Watch the sunset – The west-facing beach offers spectacular sunset views over the South China Sea.
Suggested Time to Spend
Most visitors spend a half-day to a full day at Cheung Sha Beach. Arrive mid-morning to claim a good spot, enjoy a few hours of swimming and sunbathing, then have a leisurely lunch at one of the cafés. If you're keen on water sports or a short hike, plan for at least 4–6 hours. The beach is also a lovely place to simply relax with a book and watch the waves – you could easily while away an entire afternoon.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Tai O Fishing Village – A historic stilt-house village on the western edge of Lantau, famous for its fishing culture, dried seafood, and boat tours.
- Ngong Ping 360 & Tian Tan Buddha – Take the cable car up to the Big Buddha, Po Lin Monastery, and the Ngong Ping cultural village for a day of culture and spectacular views.
- Lantau Trail – Hike sections of this 70-km trail that passes through Cheung Sha and connects to other scenic spots on the island.
- Mui Wo – A laid-back town with a ferry pier, Silvermine Bay Beach, and a few good eateries; it's the gateway to Lantau's southern beaches.
- Pui O Beach – A quieter, more rustic beach just east of Cheung Sha, known for its camping site and relaxed vibe.
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
- Tai O Fishing Village — Ceeseven / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Ngong Ping 360 & Tian Tan Buddha — Fitri Agung aka fitri.agung on Flickr. / CC BY-SA 2.0
- Lantau Trail — Underwaterbuffalo / CC BY-SA 4.0