Where to get an unobstructed view during the golden hour
Our cosmopolitan city may be crammed with highrises and skyscrapers, but the view of a picturesque sunset – or 'salted egg yolk' as some Hongkongers call it due to its resemblance – is never too far away thanks to our diverse landscape. From sprawling mangroves and beautiful country parks to hidden spots within bustling neighbourhoods, here are some of the best spots to chase those golden rays in Hong Kong.
RECOMMENDED: If you're more of a night owl, these beautiful night hikes will let you in on a whole different side of Hong Kong.
A 3km hike to Braemar Hill will take you to one of the best vantage points in the city to catch the golden hour. You can even skip the hike if you're only after sunset sightings; a short bus ride via the green minibus 25 from Causeway Bay will take you to a bus stop near the summit. Due to its popularity, the hill can get crowded. Make sure to get here at least an hour before sunset so you can nab the best viewing spot.
Causeway Bay Typhoon Shelter's waterfront offers scenic views of the setting sun. A 10-minute walk from the Causeway Bay MTR station will bring you to the typhoon shelter. From Victoria Park, head to the footbridge to get a good vantage spot. Here, you can watch the beautifully hued skies reflected on the water. The docked boats by the typhoon shelter add to the quaint scenery.
Situated next to the seafood market and fishing village of Lei Yue Mun, Devil's Peak offers picturesque views of the sunset and sweeping vistas of Kowloon. Set aside some time to see relics and ruins of the Gough Battery near the trail. A short hike to the area begins in Lei Yue Mun, where a trail will lead you past the Chinese cemetery and to the numerous relics of former bunkers that date back to the Second World War.
Make your way up to Garden Hill before the sun sets to discover one of the best vantage points overlooking Sham Shui Po. The peak is just a short 20-minute trek from the Mei Ho House track. Perched on top of this iconic hill is a spacious observatory, where you can enjoy gazing at orange hues of the sunset while admiring the bustling city streets down below.
Located in the southwest of Yuen Long in the New Territories, Ha Pak Nai is one of the few areas that still retains the cultural landscape of an old Hong Kong village. Untouched by urbanisation, Ha Pak Nai's stretch of coastline offers some of the most incredible sunset views. It's a stunning scene to capture when both the sky and water appear red and orange during those golden hours, making it prime time for some fab photo opportunities.
This peaceful spot offers an unobstructed view of the sea, surrounded by islands and mountains dotting the horizon. Relax on the beach or grab a bite at one of the restaurants nearby as you watch the golden sun sink towards the skyline– we promise you won't be disappointed.
Built somewhere between the 60s to 70s, the Sai Wan swimming shed is the only swimming shed remaining in Hong Kong. Facing west of Victoria Harbour, this spot offers vast views of the sea and is the perfect location to soak up the changing hues in the sky as the sun descends. Take a romantic stroll along Victoria Road and head down to the shed for a splendid view.
Sunset Peak is Hong Kong’s third-highest peak and a popular hiking destination on Lantau Island offering picturesque views. As the name suggests, the spot is perfect for chasing the golden hour. The uphill climb heading there is arduous, but the idyllic view at the summit will make the difficult climb more than worth it.
Known to many as the 'little Venice of Hong Kong', Tai O fishing village is packed with history, walking paths, stilt-houses and fishing boats. It is a beautiful location for taking in the unfettered vista that you can't find within the bustling city. For a guaranteed view, take a short hike up a stair trail to the Dolphin Viewing Point (also known as Fu Shan), which is another wonderful spot to bask in the sunset view on the island.
Art Park in West Kowloon Cultural District is an excellent spot for viewing the Victoria Harbour during sunset. Visit the exhibition spaces within this art hub and head towards the sprawling lawn area by the harbourside to catch the setting sun. Pack a picnic and bring along your furry friends to make it a day out!
Situated at the far end of Ma On Shan Promenade, Wu Kai Sha beach is an idyllic waterfront paradise that's definitely worthy of a place on the list. The beach first gained its fame when residents formed a massive heart-shaped structure from stones, which attracted more people to visit as the beach also offers a spectacular view for watching sunsets. Get your cameras ready for that perfect 'sunset over water' moment.
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