How to explore two of Hong Kong’s most secluded islands in just one day

While many associate Hong Kong with just Hong Kong Island and Kowloon, the city actually boasts hundreds of islands, both populated and uninhabited.

However, not all of these islands are equally accessible. Some, like Lamma and Peng Chau, are served by frequent ferry services, have thriving local communities, and offer various shops and amenities. Others, however, can only be reached by private boat or kayak.

Ap Chau and Kat O—also known as Duck Island and Crooked Island—strike a perfect balance. These remote islands, located in the far north of Hong Kong near the Shenzhen border, are within reach with a little thoughtful planning ahead.

The reward? Two islands, each with its own unique charm, offering a stark contrast to the bustling Hong Kong, all for just a small fee.

The Essentials

The first clue that you’re not on a typical commuter ferry is the boat itself. To reach islands like these, you’ll board a kaito – a compact vessel resembling a fishing boat rather than a sleek passenger ferry.

While some kaitos accept the Octopus card (the same one used for Hong Kong’s buses and MTR), others only accept cash, as they’re operated by independent companies rather than the city.

The kaito service to Ap Chau and Kat O departs from Sha Tau Kok, located in the New Territories in northern Kowloon. The journey to the departure point itself can be a bit tricky, taking anywhere from 90 to 120 minutes from Central.

To get there, you’ll need to take a combination of MTR subway lines and then transfer to a minibus, or opt for a taxi. In the New Territories, taxis are green instead of red, and payment is cash only. Since English-speaking taxi drivers are not guaranteed, it’s a good idea to have your hotel write the destination in Cantonese for you, just in case.

Four kaito departures daily – 8:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 2:45 p.m., and 5:00 p.m. However, if you’re catching the last one, be prepared for a bit of waiting, as the return ferries operate at 6:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m., and 4:00 p.m.

Another departure point for the kaito is Ma Liu Shui, located near the bustling Sha Tin district. It’s a trade-off – while this route is much easier to reach by public transport, it only runs once a day on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays. The ferry leaves at 9 a.m. and departs from Kat O at around 3:30 p.m.

The Journey

The kaito ride, though long (around 90 minutes from Ma Liu Shui), offers breathtaking views. This trip is as much about the journey as the destination, with the added bonus that the destination is just as stunning. You’ll be able to walk around and enjoy plenty of photo opportunities.

As you travel, you’ll pass through the UNESCO-listed Hong Kong Global Geopark, with the Plover Cove Reservoir on your left. In the distance, you’ll spot the towering 250-foot statue of Guanyin, the second tallest Buddhist statue in the world. The brilliant white statue sits at the heart of the Tsz Shan Monastery, a personal project of Hong Kong business magnate Li Ka-shing.

The first stop on your ferry ride is Ap Chau, the smaller of the two islands. Ap Chau, meaning 'Duck Island,' should not be confused with Ap Lei Chau (Duck Lip Island), a densely populated residential area. Ap Chau is believed to be the smallest inhabited island in Hong Kong's archipelago.

The ferry will stay docked at Ap Chau for about an hour, giving you time to explore the tiny island. Afterward, everyone will board the ferry again to head to Kat O. Since Kat O is larger and has a few businesses, you’ll have about three hours to explore before returning to the kaito for the trip back to the mainland.

What to do

Both islands are part of the Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark. While both are inhabited, strict regulations govern the types of activities allowed there.

Tourism on Ap Chau is minimal, with the main activities being hiking and enjoying the views. Both islands feature a small 'story room' – makeshift museums that offer insights into the area's history and natural environment.

On clear days, hikers on Kat O will be able to spot the Shenzhen shipping port just across the sea border with mainland China.

Kat O, being larger and home to a slightly bigger population, offers more activities than just nature walks. Its name means 'auspicious bay' in Cantonese, and the island’s distinctive (and indeed crooked) shape makes it an interesting place to explore.

In the tiny fishing village where the ferry docks, you’ll find a family-run Cantonese restaurant, Yik Man. It’s a great spot to grab a bite and recharge before heading out on a walk.

While Hong Kong is home to some of the world’s finest dining spots, nothing quite compares to the experience of eating at a laid-back, outer-island restaurant. Meals are casual – often with just one set menu – and served family-style for everyone at the table. If you want a drink, you can simply head over to the cooler and help yourself. Payments are strictly cash, so avoid using large bills when possible.

Many Hong Kong residents are fluent in English, but as you venture further from the city center, you’ll find that fewer people speak it fluently or regularly. Learning a few basic Cantonese phrases will win you points with the locals – try saying ho ho (very good) when they ask about the food, and mmgoi (thank you) when you leave.

The main trail on Kat O is about a kilometer long and fairly easy to walk. For a bit more of a challenge, make your way up to the Tin Hau temple. The view is breathtaking, even on a hazy day – the Shenzhen container port looks so close that it feels like you could almost touch it.