Best Hong Kong staycation ideas for a holiday at home

Hopping on a plane to jet off to some tropical islands sure sounds inviting, but it’s not always possible if you’re rooted to a busy schedule that requires you to stay put in Hong Kong. If you fancy a mini-break without breaking the bank, our city has no shortage of classy hotels and family-friendly resorts for you to call home for the weekend. So take the day off to stay, dine and explore this beautiful city!

Sai Kung

Stay: Located on the waterfront of Pak Sha Wan, Sai Kung’s latest luxury development The Pier Hotel has sweeping views of the ocean, with rooms taking on a blue and white colour scheme for a light and airy feel. With a large rooftop area and an outdoor swimming pool, it’s the perfect place to unwind away from the city. A free shuttle bus service to both Sai Kung town and Hang Hau MTR is also available for guests throughout the day, making it a convenient location for those without a car.

Dine: Take it outside with the town’s many al fresco restaurants. If you are craving for some home comforts, The Picture House has you covered with a pub-inspired menu including all the classic grubs like chunky pie and chips. If you are hankering for something a little more tropical, Thai Dao offers a range of Thai delights, which you can eat while overlooking the ocean at Sha Ha Beach.

Do: Sai Kung is all about enjoying the outdoors, with many hiking trails, beaches and water activities. Rent a kayak at Sha Ha Beach and spend the day out on the water or hike to Sai Wan Beach from Sai Wan Pavilion and enjoy the day on one of Hong Kong’s most beautiful beaches and rock pools.

Soho

Stay: For a touch of luxury in the heart of the city not far from Soho, Upperhouse is a modern and sophisticated hotel designed by architect Andre Fu. The hotel has a number of special dining options including weekend brunch and afternoon tea for guests to indulge in. A special weekend retreat package is also available and includes a $500 dining voucher to Cafe Grey Deluxe, cinema tickets to AMC Pacific Place and complimentary access to group yoga classes throughout the weekend.

Dine: When it comes to food in Soho, you’re spoiled for choice. All around, you’ll find a number of delicious eats, including modern Chinese food at Social Place, steak frites (with unlimited fries!) at La Vache!, casual vegetarian takeaway at Mana! and indulgent freshly made pasta at Pici. There are great restaurants everywhere you turn.

Do: If you’re visiting Hong Kong for the first time (heck, the second time or the fiftieth time), head up to The Peak and bask in the panoramic views of Hong Kong. Get your exercise on and hike up the morning trail for a healthy start to the day instead. At night, spend a night out in Lan Kwai Fong and enjoy a true Hong Kong experience.

Tsim Sha Tsui

Stay: Renowned for its panoramic views of Victoria Harbour, The InterContinental has taken pride of place on Hong Kong’s waterfront since 1980. Guests can enjoy a dip in its harbour view swimming pool or indulge in a wellness treatment at the on-site I-Spa. Just a ten-minute walk away from the Star Ferry and MTR, this is the ideal location for accessing both Hong Kong Island and the rest of Tsim Sha Tsui, where there are plenty of restaurants and shopping opportunities.

Dine: The hotel’s on-site restaurant NOBU is a firm favourite among sushi lovers. If you’re looking for more of a party scene, Knutsford Terrace offers a large number of bars and restaurants including The Chop House and Assembly to round off a night at.

Do: Take a stroll down to Kowloon Park and enjoy the range of wildlife including flamingos and swans. In the evening, watch the skyline light up with Hong Kong’s famous light show, A Symphony of Lights, every night at 8pm along the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade.

Sha Tin

Stay: Located in the east of Hong Kong, Sha Tin is one of the destinations that few out-of-towners have explored. The Hyatt Regency sits alongside Tai Po’s promenade giving it spectacular views of Tolo Harbour and Kau To Shan mountain. The hotel’s spacious location is a breath of fresh air compared to the busy city. Guests can hire bikes from the hotel’s rental service to ride around Tai Po’s promenade. The range of activities makes it the perfect place for children as they even offer an activity camp throughout the summer.

Dine: The award-winning Sha Tin 18 is located on the fourth floor of the hotel, serving up its famed Peking duck along with other traditional Cantonese dishes. There is also an on-site pool bar offering a range of light snacks and refreshments to keep guests hydrated while lazing in the sun. If you decide to head out, New Town Plaza mall has a range of delicacies to sink your teeth into, including Michelin-starred restaurant Din Tai Fung.

Do: With the Hong Kong Heritage Museum and Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery located close by, you can experience some traditional Hong Kong. If you have children in tow then Snoopy World is a great way to keep them entertained with characters and props around the park, plus a free boat ride available.

Lantau Island

Stay: With three unique and characteristic hotels within walking distance of Hong Kong Disneyland, guests can enjoy a magical weekend in a faraway land. While the main attraction is the theme park, guests can also enjoy relaxing around the pool at Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel or wander around the four themed gardens surrounding Disney Explorers Lodge. Disneyland also offers special package deals for rooms and park tickets.

Dine: The hotels in Disneyland each offer different dining opportunities depending on where you stay and guests can alternate between the different hotel restaurants. Feeling like Chinese food? Head over to Crystal Lotus to try dim sum shaped like Disney characters. If you’re extra hungry, the Enchanted Garden Restaurant serves up an international buffet all day. Alternatively, head out of the park altogether, catch the bus to Mui Wo and enjoy a day on the beach with some alfresco dining at Treasure Island Restaurant & Bar.

Do: There’s plenty to do outside of Disneyland on Lantau Island. You can visit the iconic Big Buddha by either taking the Ngong Ping 360 cable cars up or even trek through the Lantau trail to reach your destination. Prefer to stay indoors (and away from the heat)? Shopaholics can bag a bargain at the Citygate Outlets, with brands including Burberry, Levi’s and many more.

Southside

Stay: Get your Vitamin Sea at Ovolo Southside this summer with the ultimate summer staycation and make the most of the summer rays with a day at Repulse Bay Beach. The hotel will provide a picnic basket with a takeaway lunch packed full of delicious goodies from Komune. You’ll also get a bag swag from Sunnylife with a pool ring, inflatable drink holders and fun beach items. With return uber rides to Repulse Bay Beach included in the package, the only thing left to do is chill out, relax and seas the day.

Dine: The Pulse is bursting with international restaurants overlooking the stunning Repulse Bay Beach. Grab a quick bite before heading back in the water at Hot Shot or enjoy a fine dining experience with an array of fresh seafood at Limewood.

Do: Head over to the iconic Stanley Market and pick up some bargains from hand-painted artwork to novelty souvenirs. If you’re looking for more of a thrill, spend the day at Ocean Park where you’ll find rides, pandas and an aquarium. There’s plenty to do to keep the little ones entertained!

Feature image courtesy of Shutterstock.