For Watersports: Pui O Beach

Look no further than sleepy Pui O in South Lantau for an adrenaline-fuelled beach day. You can bring your own gear to go body boarding, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking or even camping on the beach, but all the necessary equipment is also available for rent at beachside shop Treasure Island. There’s a good chance of getting to watch a few of Lantau Island’s friendly, wild water buffalo roam the sand.

For Windsurfing: Kwun Yam Beach

Overlooked by most visitors to Cheung Chau, this secluded cove comes with a great view of Hong Kong Island. It’s also where Hong Kong Olympic windsurfing champion Lee Lai-shan once trained. Refuel at Hing Kee Beach Store, a seaside cafe that has been run by the same family for more than 70 years.

For Pristine Water: Hap Mun Bay

Hong Kong’s least polluted beach, according to data from the Environmental Protection Department, this crescent-shaped stretch of sand on Sharp Island in Sai Kung has crystal-clear azure water.

For Room to Spread Out: Cheung Sha

Hong Kong’s longest public beach, Cheung Sha runs for nearly three kilometres along the southern shore of Lantau Island.

Hero image: Derry Ainsworth