How to spend a day in Discovery Bay, Hong Kong

How to spend a day in Discovery Bay, Hong Kong
Source: Si, Wikimedia Commons


On the east coast of Lantau Island, you’ll find Discovery Bay, Hong Kong – a community embedded in nature and away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Discovery Bay is mainly known for its large expat community and resort-like atmosphere. Its relaxing lifestyle and entertainment centers attract people looking for a beautiful escape from the city. Although Discovery Bay is a residential area, it isn’t without its share of amazing restaurants and fascinating activities. We have some suggestions on making the most of your day in Discovery Bay.

Getting there

Since the community doesn’t permit any private cars into the area, there are limited ways of getting to Discovery Bay. From Central (Pier 3), you can take the DB ferry directly to the South Plaza. You can also take a taxi or the MTR to Sunny Bay station, then the DB01R. Once you get into Discovery Bay, the first thing you’ll notice are the many golf carts speeding around. Within the community, the only forms of transportation include private golf carts, the public bus, or simply, by foot. Thankfully, the area is small enough that walking around is not only efficient but also gives you a chance to spend time outdoors (which you’ll be doing a lot of when in DB).

Relax at the rock pools

One of Discovery Bay’s best attractions is tucked away in the mountains, and you wouldn’t even notice it’s there. The rock pools are a favorite spot for locals who want a refreshing dip in some cool water. It’s also a place for families since the accessibility allows an easy trail for young hikers. Following the road up the golf course, it’s only a 15 minute walk from the South Plaza. Although there are no official signs, you’ll know you have arrived when you begin to hear the rushing water.

From the main road, stay on the left and keep an eye out for small hidden trails along the side. There are many entrances to the falls along the way, but regardless of which one you take, you’ll end up at an equally beautiful section. Get your adrenaline pumping by jumping from the high rocks into the cool, refreshing water. The flat rocks by the pools overlooking lush greenery are a perfect picnic spot for a simple and intimate lunch.

If rock pools aren’t your thing, the DB Beach is the place to go. Beachgoers love setting up large nets for an amusing and sandy game of volleyball. The beach is only a 5-minute walk from the ferry pier, so it’s impossible to get lost.

Explore the South Plaza

Source: Mike-tango, Wikimedia Commons

By the time you finish at the rock pools or the beach, you’ll probably be exhausted and take a break. Although Discovery Bay has two plazas (North Plaza and South Plaza), the South Plaza is where you want to be. Whether you choose to take a seat at one of the benches or walk around and take it all in, you’ll get a glimpse of the Discovery Bay lifestyle.

Grab dinner at the D’Deck

There isn’t a shortage of restaurants in Discovery Bay – on every corner, you’ll find a new cuisine to try. However, there is no better way to unwind than by grabbing dinner at the D’Deck. The D’Deck hosts rows of different restaurants right by the waterfront. This location gives incredible views of the beach, Hong Kong Skyline and even the Disneyland fireworks. Some of the cuisines you can expect include Western, Mexican, Thai, Korean and Italian. You may be overwhelmed by the number of options, so you may have to take another trip to DB just to try them all. After dinner, your day at DB wouldn’t be complete without dropping by Hemingways for a drink and some sensational live music.

After spending an entire day at Discovery Bay, Hong Kong, you now understand why it’s a resort haven for many. With close proximity to nature and the city, you really get the best of both worlds.

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