If you want to get away from the crowds, lounge by the beach, and shop for island-exclusive souvenirs made by local artisans, head to Peng Chau, a small outlying island of Hong Kong. With a thriving butterfly population and a plethora of secluded spots, pick Peng Chau for a truly chilled out time.
So what’s the best way to get to this quaint little island, located off the northeastern coast of Lantau?
Pro Tip: Read our Peng Chau guide for top tips on what to do, see, and eat, and where to stay.
How to get to Peng Chau
Like Cheung Chau, Peng Chau does have a helipad. However, it’s generally used for medical emergencies, rather than fanciful jaunts. Fortunately, the ferries to Peng Chau from Central are fairly frequent (roughly every 25 minutes) and very affordable. There’s also a more elusive route running from Discovery Bay via Our Lady of Joy Abbey, an atmospheric Trappist monastery located along a hiking trail that leads to Mui Wo, in addition to the somewhat impractical but entirely charming Inter-Island Ferry.
Here’s a quick rundown:
| Mode | Price | Time | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ordinary Ferry (departs from Central Pier 6) | From HK$19.80 | ~45 minutes | See the timetable here |
| Fast Ferry (departs from Central Pier 6) | From HK$36.90 | ~35 minutes | See the timetable here |
| Inter-Island Ferry (Cheung Chau -> Chi Ma Wan -> Mui Wo -> Peng Chau) | From HK$14.50 | ~1 hour | See the timetable here |
| Discovery Bay to Peng Chau via Trappist Monastery | From HK$7.50 | ~15 minutes | See the timetable here |
Getting to Peng Chau from the city center
- First, make your way to Central Station
- Then, exit the station and head to the Central Ferry Piers (you can walk through IFC Mall)
- Locate Central Ferry Pier 6
- Check the schedule for the next departing ferry
- Tap your Octopus, go through the turnstiles, and board the ferry
Getting to Peng Chau from other islands
The Inter-Island Ferry is a slow and meandering cruise around Hong Kong’s various outlying islands. It takes the following route: Peng Chau -> Mui Wo -> Chi Ma Wan -> Cheung Chau.
Alternatively, you can board a ferry departing from Discovery Bay. If you’re keen for an adventure, hike about 30 to 40 minutes from Discovery Bay to the Our Lady of Joy Abbey Trappist Monastery, then descend to the tiny ferry pier and take the irregular but gorgeously rustic kaito (small ferry).
Pro Tip: Want the complete island-hopping experience? Read our guides to Cheung Chau and Mui Wo, two adventure spots where Hong Kong’s frenetic hustle and bustle melts away.
How do I get to other attractions in Hong Kong?
For directions on how to get from the Hong Kong International Airport to specific areas in the territory, make sure to check out our handy guides:
Getting from the airport to:
From the city center, getting to:
Frequently asked questions
Is Peng Chau worth visiting?
Certainly — especially if you’re keen to see a different side of Hong Kong! Palms swaying in the breeze, local craft beer or rosé on a park bench offering stunning sea views, and more island cats than you could ask for — that’s what Peng Chau is all about.
Are attractions on the island free to visit?
Yes!
What’s the best time to visit?
The majority of shops and eateries on the island open during the weekend. However, if you don’t mind skipping the retail therapy, it’s a beautiful and completely crowd-free place to visit during the week.
Can I stay overnight?
Currently, there are no hotels on the island– another testament to its unspoiled beauty! However, you could stay in nearby Discovery Bay. We recommend the Auberge Discovery Bay Hong Kong, which boasts incredible ocean views.
While we do our best to ensure it’s correct, information is subject to change. Post first published in April 2024.
