6 Outdoor Activities in Hong Kong (that you probably didn’t know existed)

With Hong Kong’s weather beginning to cheer up, it’s time to slather on the sun lotion and get yourself outdoors. Junk boats are booking up and the beaches are starting to overcrowd, so why not try out some of these alternative outdoor pursuits, many of which were probably not even on your radar.

Hurling yourself off a cliff thirty meters above crashing waves may not sound like your perfect sunny afternoon, but put your fears aside and take the plunge – you’ll be glad you did! Soar between two cliff faces on beautiful Tung Lung Chau (one of Hong Kong’s most underrated islands) – the forty meter wire may only take a matter of seconds to cross, but the adrenaline will last a lot longer. Race back for another go or see how you fare on the abseil, a nerve-racking descent from the cliff edge. Expert instructors demonstrate the activities and ensure your utmost safety throughout, so there’s really no reason not to give it a go!

What more excellent way to explore Sai Kung’s UNESCO World Heritage Geopark than from a kayak? Recommended for more experienced kayakers, discover the area’s relatively unseen oceanic wonder. More suitable for those with less experience, kayaking in Tai O provides scenic paddling near the ancient fishing village, also home to Hong Kong’s loveable pink dolphins! Both activities include all equipment, expert guides and lunch in a beautiful destination.

Brought to you by the same adventure professionals who operate ziplining, canyoning is an adrenaline-fuelled activity involving climbing over rocks, navigating rapids, leaping into pools and abseiling down waterfalls. You’re certain to get very wet so this outdoor adventure is best experienced in the summer months.

Despite criticism for its lack of suitable bike paths, there are in fact a number of excellent cycling routes in Hong Kong if you know where to look. Be led on a tour of the beautiful New Territories by Tin Shui Wai and Yuen Long youngsters. They know the area well and at the same time you’ll be supporting local youth and eco-projects too. Gain an insight into oyster farming in Hong Kong, explore the Nam Sheng Wai wetlands, savor a delicious local seafood lunch and discover Hong Kong’s best location to view the sunset.

The quintessential outdoor challenge, Hong Kong is not short of excellent rock climbing locations. Arguably the best is Cape Collinson (east Hong Kong Island) with coastal views that are worth the trip alone. With 55 routes over three sectors, the crag offers a dream climb for novices and experts alike.

 

Amp up your survival instincts with a day of paintball – one of the more heart-jittering outdoor activities in Hong Kong. Climb towers, dive under bridges and army roll between obstacles as you try to avoid being hit by the colorful pellets.

Price: 280 HKD. Contact Paintball Headquarters in Kowloon Bay

Hong Kong’s well-loved boat race with annual competitions. Anyone is free to join a team, just ask around on social media groups, friends, work or even your local bar. It’s an excellent work out and a great way to meet new people. Not up for the challenge? No worries, it’s a fun spectator sport too.

The Hong Kong Sedan Chair Race is an annual fundraising event raising money for Hong Kong charities in need. Teams of 9 competitors race about the Peak carrying one person in a sedan chair, many are also in fancy dress!

Hong Kong provides beautiful scenery and excellent weather for some fantastic sailing. You can check out a number of yacht clubs (Aberdeen Boat Club, Hebe Haven Yacht Club, Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club, Lantau Boat Club, Discovery Bay Yacht Club) many of which provide sailing courses or are often looking for volunteer crew for race days. To volunteer for charity sailing for adults with learning disabilities, why not contact Sailability and see how you can help out.