Hong Kong Islands Ferry Guide

Hong Kong’s outlying islands are a breath of fresh air from the city’s neon frenzy, and the Star Ferry and other public ferries are your ticket to a day of rural trails, seafood shacks and sleepy fishing villages. Whether you’re after a quick escape to Lantau’s Big Buddha or a full-day hike on the Dragon’s Back, this guide helps you navigate the iconic green and white ferries that connect Hong Kong Island, Kowloon and the outlying islands.

Highlights & What to See

• Star Ferry – The classic 10-minute ride between Tsim Sha Tsui and Central offers unbeatable skyline views; do it at sunset.
• Lantau Island – Ride the Ngong Ping 360 cable car to the Tian Tan Buddha, then explore the fishing village of Tai O on stilts.
• Cheung Chau – A car-free island famous for its bun-snatching festival, seafood street and family-friendly cycling paths.
• Lamma Island – Hike from Yung Shue Wan to Sok Kwu Wan past beaches and hills, then feast on seafood with harbour views.
• Peng Chau – A tiny, laid-back island with a short coastal walk, a quirky finger-rock geology and old temples.
• Discovery Bay – A resort-style enclave on Lantau with a beach, restaurants and a golf course, reached by fast ferry from Central.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow a full day for a single outlying island – arrive mid-morning, explore at a relaxed pace, have a seafood lunch, and catch an afternoon ferry back. For Lantau, combine the Ngong Ping cable car and Tai O in one long day (start early). If you’re short on time, the Star Ferry alone is a 20-minute round trip; tack it onto a Kowloon or Hong Kong Island sightseeing day. Ferry schedules vary by island and season, so check the Transport Department website before you go.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade – Stroll the waterfront from the Star Ferry pier to the Hong Kong Cultural Centre for skyline views.
• Victoria Peak – Ride the Peak Tram for panoramic views; easily combined with a Central–Star Ferry trip.
• Central District – Explore the Mid-Levels Escalator, PMQ and SoHo’s bars before or after your ferry.
• Stanley – A seaside town on Hong Kong Island with a market and waterfront dining; take a bus from Central.
• Mui Wo – Lantau’s ferry gateway, with a beach, Silvermine Cave and a laid-back vibe – good for a short stop.

Please check official sources for current details.