Dragon’s Back,Hong Kong

• Dragon’s Back ridgeline (the scenic spine walk)
• Big Wave Bay — beach, swimming and surfing
• Shek O Village and Shek O Beach — seafood restaurants and village atmosphere
• Shek O Country Park viewpoints (panoramic coastal outlooks)
• Nearby coastal bays visible from the ridge (including smaller Tai Long Wan near the island)

• Panoramic coastal views of the South China Sea, Shek O and Big Wave Bay
• A gently rolling serrated ridge that looks like a dragon’s back
• Easy urban access — one of the best examples of an urban-nature interface
• Good mix of exposed ridgeline and vegetated slopes with coastal flora and birds
• Excellent sunset and sunrise photo opportunities from multiple viewpoints

• Hiking the Dragon’s Back trail (part of the Hong Kong Trail Section 8)
• Trail running and fitness walking
• Photography and landscape observation
• Birdwatching and spotting local butterflies and lizards
• Beach activities at Big Wave Bay — swimming, surfing and relaxing
• Eating at Shek O’s seafood restaurants and small cafés after the hike

Best seasons: October to December and March to May for cooler, clearer weather. Time of day: early morning or late afternoon for milder temperatures and best light. Avoid mid-summer heat and typhoon season (June–September).

Subtropical climate — hot, humid summers with sudden showers and occasional typhoons; mild, drier winters. Conditions on the exposed ridge can feel hotter and windier than in the city.

Common route: take the MTR to Shau Kei Wan (Island Line) or Heng Fa Chuen, then transfer to bus No. 9 (to Shek O) or a green minibus that stops near To Tei Wan/Shek O Village. The trailhead is a short walk from the bus stops. Taxis and ride-hailing are also convenient if you prefer door-to-door travel. From Hong Kong International Airport expect ~1–1.5 hours by public transport to the trailhead depending on connections.

Plan for 2–4 hours for the standard Dragon’s Back hike (ridge + descent to Big Wave Bay and a return). Add time if you want to swim, surf, or eat in Shek O.

Wear sturdy walking shoes or trail runners, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and bring at least 1–2 liters of water per person. Pack a light rain jacket in summer and a small first-aid kit. Trekking poles can help on descents but aren’t required.

After the hike, enjoy fresh seafood and casual cafés in Shek O Village or beachside snacks at Big Wave Bay. Small surf shops sell boards/gear and there are stalls offering drinks and light bites. Typical Hong Kong souvenirs available in nearby areas include snacks, tea, and simple crafts — Shek O itself is more about food and beach culture than shopping.