With its iconic skyline, curious islands, nature-clad mountains and sandy beaches, Hong Kong has something for everyone — plus it’s only a 2.5-hour plane ride from Bangkok. Quiet towns also offer a character all of their own, and great transport links make it a destination that’s easy to explore. The attractions for families are also plentiful, with theme parks, museums, temples and child-friendly attractions. Here’s our guide to six top activity options for families.
1. Visit Hong Kong Disneyland
Telling the kids you’re taking them to Disneyland is almost certain to be met with squeals of delight. Along with meeting Mickey and his cast of all-star friends, Hong Kong Disneyland features similar (albeit scaled-down) attractions to the American-based parks, including Space Mountain and Sleeping Beauty’s Castle. Alongside the rides, glitzy parades and firework displays promise to keep the whole family entertained. Hong Kong Disneyland is located on Lantau Island; it is easy to reach using the MTR’s Disneyland Resort Line. To make the most of your visit, stay at the on-site resort (expensive but so convenient!).
2. Spend a Day at Ocean Park
Not keen on Disneyland? Consider Ocean Park, which features a marine park, aquarium and zoo. Highlights include the giant and red panda habitat, a rainforest zone and a polar zone. There is also an amusement park with a large carousel, roller coasters and other thrill rides, and carnival style games. Operating since the 1970s, the park covers an area of 91.5 hectares (226 acres), with two of its main areas, The Summit and The Waterfront, separated by a mountain. Take a 1.5 km cable car ride up to The Summit, and check out the expansive views of the ocean and mountains. Those with a fear of heights or enclosed spaces can opt to take a train up the mountain instead. Get to Ocean Park by taking the MTR (Ocean Park Station), by bus from the Admiralty MTR Station, or simply via taxi (drivers will know it by its Cantonese name: Hai Yang Gong Yun).
3. Ride The Star Ferry
Riding the Star Ferry across Victoria Harbour ranks as one of the world’s quintessential travel experiences. Ideal for little ones, the trip only takes around 10 minutes and offers a dramatic view of Hong Kong’s soaring skyscrapers and forest-clad peaks. Take the trip from Kowloon to Central for the most impressive views. If you’re crossing in the other direction, combine your outing with a stroll around Kowloon’s buggy-friendly Avenue of the Stars. Star Ferry also offers a 60-minute Harbour Tour priced between HK$80 to HK$200.
4. Take a Bus Trip to Stanley
Located on the southside of Hong Kong Island, the coastal town of Stanley offers a welcome respite from the big crowds and high rises. Stanley Market is the main attraction for bargain hunters, and the waterfront area is great for lots of buggy-friendly strolling. Stanley Ma Hang Park also has buggy-friendly nature trails, along with birdwatching platforms and a butterfly garden. You’ll also find plenty of alfresco cafes, bars and restaurants to enjoy a relaxing family lunch.
5. Get a Bird’s Eye View on the Peak Tram
Hong Kong’s most popular tourist attraction, the Peak Tram is the world’s steepest funicular railway and takes less than 5 minutes to travel nearly 400 metres. The views from the top are breathtaking and worth the trip alone. But there are also plenty of other things at the summit to keep kids entertained, including the Art of Chocolate Museum, Madame Tussauds, the Trick Eye Museum, and a kids’ playground — all situated within the Peak Galleria.
6. Enjoy Beachside Bliss
Hong Kong also has plenty of beaches that offer families a free and easy day out. Pui O Beach is a great option with its calm and shallow waters, and the family-led fun of Shek O (on the south-eastern part of Hong Kong Island) offers a golden stretch of sand with gentle rolling waves, with nearby shops that sell ice creams, snacks, hats and sun cream. If you’re taking a trip to Stanley, nearby Repulse Bay Beach is easy to reach, and its soft golden shore is popular for watersports and ideal for building sandcastles with the kids.
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