What to see in Hong Kong: 8 must-sees

Relax on Hong Kong's most famous beach, where sand, restaurants and the view create a perfect setting. Beach, restaurants and the view of the sea. Relax on the beach where sand, sea and nature make a postcard landscape. Snorkel, stroll the shoreline and enjoy the sun and the sea breeze. The crystal-clear water and fine sand create a perfect setting for relaxation and swimming.

Follow the trail down from Shek O and arrive at Big Wave Bay, Hong Kong's most famous beach for surfing. Here the waves break hard on fine sand, ringed by green hills and a small village with food stalls. Rent a board at the shops by the shore, snorkel in the calm zones or stroll the beach at sunset. The crystal-clear water invites a swim, and the combination of sea, mountain and relaxed atmosphere makes it a peaceful refuge within the city itself.

Descend the tree-shaded trails of Victoria Peak after taking in Hong Kong from its 552 meters — the city's highest point, where Victoria Harbour, the towers of Central and the hills of Kowloon sketch themselves into a single panorama. Reach the summit on the Peak Tram, a funicular running since 1888, and follow the Lugard Road circuit among subtropical vegetation, viewpoints and the remains of colonial residences. At dusk, the harbour lights and the distant hum of traffic mark the distance from the calm of the bamboo-covered slopes.

Board the Star Ferry and cross Victoria Harbour in 12 minutes aboard Hong Kong's oldest ferry, in service since 1888. From the deck you will see the profile of Hong Kong Island change with every minute of the crossing: the towers of Central, the Peak in the background and the merchant ships that still use the channel. Pick the upper deck for a few cents more and feel the sway of the green-and-white painted wooden vessels, unchanged for decades.

Behold the Buddhist monastery where the Big Buddha, architecture and history create a spiritual landscape. Monastery, Buddha and the view of the valley. Visit the sacred temple where spirituality, architecture and history create a space of peace and reflection. Admire the architectural details and feel connected to the transcendent.

Behold the sharks of the Grand Aquarium before climbing aboard the Hair Raiser roller coaster, which skirts the cliff edge with views over the South China Sea. At Ocean Park, Hong Kong's largest theme park, you cross between its two zones by cable car or on the Ocean Express funicular, see dolphins and giant pandas, and try attractions for every age. Wear comfortable shoes: the park spreads across a hillside, and the slopes never let up.