Cheung Sha Beach

Cheung Sha Beach, meaning 'Long Sand' in Cantonese, is the longest and most tranquil beach on Lantau Island, offering a serene escape from Hong Kong's urban buzz. Its golden sands stretch for nearly three kilometres, backed by lush green hills and dotted with laid-back surf-style cafes. Unlike the crowded beaches closer to the city, Cheung Sha feels like a hidden coastal retreat where you can swim, surf, or simply unwind with a cold drink while watching the South China Sea roll in.

Highlights & What to See

• Upper and Lower Cheung Sha Beaches: The northern (Upper) section is quieter and good for families, while the southern (Lower) part has more restaurants and surfboard rentals. Both offer clean, calm waters ideal for swimming.
• Surfing and Stand-Up Paddleboarding: Cheung Sha is one of the few places in Hong Kong with consistent waves. Several shops rent boards and offer lessons for beginners.
• Beachfront Cafés and Restaurants: Stop by The Stoep for South African–inspired barbecue and craft beer, or Bathers for a chic beachside meal with a view of the water.
• Lantau Trail Section 8: A scenic coastal walk that connects Cheung Sha to Tong Fuk and Pui O, passing through quiet villages and offering panoramic sea views.
• Sunset Views: The beach faces west, making it a prime spot to watch the sun dip below the horizon over the islands of the Soko Archipelago.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend half a day (4–5 hours) at Cheung Sha Beach, combining swimming, a meal at one of the cafés, and a short walk along the coast. If you want to surf or hike part of the Lantau Trail, plan for a full day. The beach is easily combined with a visit to the nearby fishing village of Tai O or the Ngong Ping 360 cable car to the Big Buddha, so many travellers allocate one full day on Lantau Island.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Tong Fuk Beach: A quieter, smaller beach just south along the coast, with a few excellent restaurants and a Sunday farmers' market.
• Tai O Fishing Village: A historic stilt-house village where you can see traditional fishing culture, sample dried seafood, and take a boat trip to spot pink dolphins.
• Ngong Ping & Tian Tan Buddha: The iconic Big Buddha statue and Po Lin Monastery, accessible by cable car or bus from Tung Chung.
• Pui O Beach: A popular family beach with a laid-back vibe and a handful of eateries, located a short bus ride north of Cheung Sha.
• Discovery Bay: A planned community with a waterfront promenade, international dining, and easy ferry connections to Central, perfect for a relaxed evening.

Please check official sources for current details.