Sport and fitness

For a prime yet convenient swimming spot head to Shek O, a small beach and fishing village at the end of a peninsula on Hong Kong Island’s Southside. It is accessible by bus or a 20-minute cab ride from Central.

Set in a sheltered bay, it’s a great place for a dip and you can rent parasols or deckchairs for next to nothing. Grab lunch at Thai restaurants beside the car park; cold beers are available from bars towards the beach’s East End. Otherwise, sample delicious Mediterranean food at Cococabana’s terrace on the beach. 
Big Wave Bay Road 

Although Hong Kong can appear to have let many traditions go, the daily morning practice of tai chi is not one of them. Pass through even the most built-up areas and you’ll see groups of (normally elderly) Hong Kongers going through the fluid movements of the martial art. 

Whereas the groups in places such as Central’s Statue Square or around Wan Chai’s Harbour Road are unlikely to take you under their wing, masters Pandora and William will give you a lesson three mornings a week at a site behind the Cultural Centre that flanks Victoria Harbour. Head over for a 07.30 start on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. No booking is necessary. Teachers will be very happy to guide you through the exercises that form a core part of the beginning of many Chinese people’s day.
Next to Serenade Chinese Restaurant
+852 9415 5678 

The second-highest peak in Hong Kong is the place to catch the sunrise over the city. There are various routes up to the peak and this hike takes about four hours. Start at Pak Kung Au, which has a relatively steep climb up some steps before things flatten out. The trail continues with steep ascents followed by short bursts of flat land. Just before you reach the peak you clamber up a stone “ladder” of high steps to the summit. Views onto Po Lin Monastery, the Big Buddha and miles of Hong Kong make it worthwhile. Head down the south side of the summit to reach the beach. 
Tung Chung MTR