About Peng Chau Island
Peng Chau Island offers a quiet retreat from the hustle and bustle of Hong Kong. Known for its laid-back vibe and affordability, it’s a great spot to unwind, especially if you’re looking to escape the tourist crowds. The island is small, making it easy to explore on foot, and it offers a glimpse into a slower-paced lifestyle.
Getting to Peng Chau Island
Reaching Peng Chau is straightforward. Most visitors take the ferry from Hong Kong Central Pier 6. The journey is about 30 minutes, with options for both ordinary and fast ferries. On weekdays, an adult ticket for the ordinary ferry costs HKD 15.90, while the fast ferry is HKD 29.60. Prices increase slightly on Sundays and public holidays. Alternatively, you can arrive from Discovery Bay on Lantau Island via the “kaito” ferry, which is both frequent and affordable.
Exploring the Island
Peng Chau is compact, covering just about 1 square kilometer, so you won’t find cars or buses here. Instead, enjoy the island’s charm by walking or renting a bicycle. Here are some notable spots to check out:
Tin Hau Temple
This temple, dating back to 1792, is dedicated to the Goddess of the Sea. It’s located at the end of the main promenade and features a whale rib and a stone monument warning about pirates. The temple’s historical significance and serene atmosphere make it a worthwhile visit.
Finger Hill
For panoramic views, head to Finger Hill, the island’s highest point. The hike is manageable and offers stunning vistas of Disneyland and the Tsing Ma Bridge. It’s a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts.
Peng Chau Heritage Trail
The Heritage Trail provides a window into the island’s past, showcasing traditional Chinese architecture and remnants of old fishing villages. It’s a leisurely walk that connects you with the island’s history.
Best Time to Visit
Visit Peng Chau in spring or autumn when the weather is mild. Summers can be hot and humid, which might detract from outdoor activities. If you time your visit right, you might experience local festivals like the Tin Hau Festival or the Dragon Boat Festival.
Local Transportation
With no cars or buses, Peng Chau is best explored on foot or by bicycle. You can rent bikes from local shops like Yin Hop Company or 宜佳公司, which also offer tricycles and quadracycles. The absence of motor vehicles adds to the island’s tranquil atmosphere.
Additional Activities
For a change of scenery, take the “kaito” ferry to the Trappist monastery on Lantau Island. From there, you can hike to Mui Wo or Discovery Bay. The island also offers unique attractions like the Peng Chau Leather Factory, an outdoor art space built around the ruins of an old factory. Don’t miss Tung Wan Beach, where you can enjoy the natural seashore and possibly spot Chinese white dolphins.
