Lamma Island hiking guide – everything you need to know
Lamma Island is the ultimate destination for city dwellers looking to escape the Hong Kong hustle.
A few minutes every morning is all you need.
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Lamma Island is the ultimate destination for city dwellers looking to escape the Hong Kong hustle. Where better to find some respite than atop a mountain, surrounded by lush forests and coastal paths, discovering hidden waterfalls and ancient temples along the way? Plus, you're never too far from street markets and delicious dim sum spots to refuel after a day of adventuring. So lace up those hiking boots and get ready to discover the refreshing beaches and welcoming community with our guide to everything you need to know about hiking on Lamma Island.
Lamma Island Family Walk Trail
The Lamma Island Family Walk Trail is a relaxed 5-kilometer path linking Sok Kwu Wan and Yung Shue Wan villages. This scenic route offers gentle terrain and stunning vistas of Lamma Island's coastline, beaches and quaint villages, with a chance to even peek into a World War II-era cave. Consider taking detours to hidden gems like Lamma Winds, Lo So Shing Beach and Power Station Beach for added adventure. While the trail is mostly paved for easy walking, brace yourself for a steep climb to Lamma Winds, where you might encounter some unexpected wildlife – including spiders the size of dinner plates!
Quick facts
- Starting point – Sok Kwu Wan
- Distance – 5 kilometers
- Duration – 1.5 hours (standard loop)
Mount Stenhouse Loop
At 353 meters, Mount Stenhouse reigns supreme as Lamma Island's highest peak, and this hike is no cakewalk. Kick off your journey from Sok Kwu Wan ferry pier, meander towards the Tin Hau Temple, and catch your breath at the Lookout Pavilion, treating yourself to breathtaking vistas. But here's where the real fun begins – as you climb towards the phallic-shaped rock (yes, you heard that right!), expect a steep ascent, and don't shy away from using ropes for assistance. Once you reach the summit, you'll be greeted by the triangulation station and some overgrown bushes blocking the views. But fear not, the journey back down is just as rewarding.
Quick facts
- Starting point – Sok Kwu Wan
- Distance – 8.5 kilometers
- Duration – 4 hours (standard loop)
Lo So Shing Beach
After a 20-minute stroll along the Lamma Island Family Walk from Sok Kwu Wan, you’ll find a sign leading to the Lo So Shing Beach loop. Enjoy a break at this charming spot, complete with showers and changing rooms. Then, retrace your steps towards Yung Shue Wan, relishing the shade from overhead trees as you explore the Lamma jungle. This 10-kilometer loop trail offers a moderately challenging yet rewarding adventure, with an average completion time of about 3 hours and 16 minutes.
Quick facts
- Starting point – Sok Kwu Wan, along the Lamma Island Family Walk
- Distance – 10 kilometers
- Duration – 3 hours 16 minutes (standard loop)
Lamma Island Extended Loop
For stunning sea views to complement your hike, check out the Lamma Island Extended Loop, an 11.9-kilometer trail near Lamma Island. It's moderately challenging and ideal for birdwatching, hiking or leisurely strolls, providing a serene getaway from the city buzz. While you won't bump into many fellow adventurers, expect some overgrown sections that might result in a few scratches – but the vistas make it all worthwhile. Don't forget to pack plenty of water, especially on sunny days, as much of the trail is exposed to direct sunlight.
Quick facts
- Starting point – Sok Kwu Wan
- Distance – 11.9 kilometers
- Duration – 4 hours 39 mins (standard loop)
Lamma Island Small Loop
Looking for a scenic hiking trail with a touch of adventure? The Lamma Island Small Loop has you covered. This trail is a real gem, offering all sorts of landscapes and experiences to make your hike as challenging as it is fun. Clocking in at 14.6 kilometers, it's just the right mix of challenging and exciting, with plenty of chances to spot some feathered friends and soak in breathtaking views. Just a heads up, though – you might bump into a few fellow hikers, especially if you hit the trail in August.
Quick facts
- Starting point – Tai Peng Village
- Distance – 14.6 kilometers
- Duration – 3 hours 46 minutes (standard loop)
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