Hong Kong Island East Devil's Peak

Devil's Peak, perched on the eastern edge of Hong Kong Island, offers one of the city's most rewarding hikes with panoramic views over the South China Sea, Stanley, and the distant islands. Once a strategic military outpost, this rugged headland now draws hikers and history buffs alike with its abandoned fortifications, wild coastal scenery, and the chance to escape the urban bustle within an hour of Central. The trail is moderate, with steep sections and exposed ridgelines, but the payoff—a 360-degree vista from the summit—is pure magic, especially at sunset.

Highlights & What to See

• Devil's Peak Summit – The apex of the hike, offering sweeping views of Shek O, Big Wave Bay, and the outlying islands. On clear days, you can see all the way to Lamma Island.
• Military Ruins – Explore remnants of British-era coastal defense batteries, including gun emplacements, bunkers, and a redoubt. The site was part of the 'Lei Yue Mun Fortifications' and played a role in the Battle of Hong Kong (1941).
• Shek O Country Park – The trail winds through this lush park, where you can detour to Shek O Beach for a swim or a seafood lunch at one of the village's open-air restaurants.
• Big Wave Bay – A short walk from the Devil's Peak trailhead, this famous surfing beach also features a prehistoric rock carving, the 'Big Wave Bay Rock Carving,' dating back to the Bronze Age.
• Lei Yue Mun Seafood Bazaar – After the hike, head to this fishing village on the Kowloon side (accessible via ferry from Sai Wan Ho) for a classic Hong Kong seafood feast—choose your live catch from the tanks and have it cooked to order.

Suggested Time to Spend

Set aside a half-day for the Devil's Peak experience. The hike itself takes about 2–3 hours round trip from the trailhead at Cape Collinson Road (near the Chinese Permanent Cemetery). Start in the late afternoon to catch the sunset from the summit—the golden light over the islands is stunning. After descending, you can easily add a beach stop at Shek O or Big Wave Bay for a swim and dinner. If you're combining with the Lei Yue Mun seafood dinner, allow an extra hour for the ferry crossing and wandering the market.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Shek O – A laid-back coastal village with a beautiful beach, surf-friendly waves, and a handful of casual seafood restaurants. Perfect for a post-hike chill.
• Big Wave Bay – Hong Kong's premier surfing beach, with rental boards and a lively beachside café scene. Don't miss the ancient rock carving.
• Stanley – A picturesque town on the south side of the island, known for the Stanley Market, the historic Murray House, and a waterfront promenade lined with bars and restaurants.
• Tai Tam Country Park – A network of trails connecting reservoirs, waterfalls, and WWII relics. The Tai Tam Tuk Reservoir hike is a gentle option that links to the Wilson Trail.
• Lei Yue Mun – Across the harbour in Kowloon, this former fishing village is famous for its seafood bazaar and the Lei Yue Mun Fort (now a museum). Accessible by ferry from Sai Wan Ho Pier.

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