Repulse Bay is known as Hong Kong’s best beach. Located on the southern coast of Hong Kong Island, south of Victoria Peak, it has a sandy beach and crystal-clear waters just a short trip from Hong Kong city center. It is said to have gotten its name from a British Royal Navy ship. Repulse Bay in Cantonese and Chinese means “shallow water bay.”
There’s something to do for the whole family at Repulse Bay. The area is known for its luxurious residences where many celebrities live. There’re plenty of upscale hotels with gorgeous views of the bay and a variety of dining options. The beach has excellent public facilities so you can fully enjoy yourself. It’s a good place to take things easy and relax when you travel to Hong Kong.
Fast Facts about Repulse Bay
- In Chinese: 浅水湾, Qian Shui Wan
- In Cantonese: Tsin Shui Wan
- Location: Southern coast of Hong Kong Island, in the Southern District
- Hours: the beach is open all day; the facilities are usually open 9AM-6PM daily
- Tickets: free, but you might pay for services and facilities there
- Recommended Visit Time: half a day
- Best Time to Visit: all year around except for the summer months
- Suited to: families, couples, anyone seeking a beach holiday
What to See and Do at Repulse Bay
Relax on Repulse Bay Beach
Since the 19th century, Repulse Bay has been Hong Kong’s most popular spot for beach days. It is well-loved by locals and visitors alike. The soft sandy beach stretches on by the calm, clear waters, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, beach volleyball, and water sports. Nearby, there are convenient amenities like changing rooms, showers, toilets, lifeguards, restaurants, and shops.
Visit Tin Hau Temple
Right by the beach, you’ll find a Taoist temple with shrines of two deities, Kwun Yam, the Goddess of Mercy, and Tin Hau, Goddess of the Sea. The two colorful and large statues overlook the ocean. The worship of Tin Hau has a long history in Hong Kong. She is said to bring prosperity to the local fishing industry.
Have a Satisfying Meal at The Pulse
The Pulse is a beachfront shopping center at Repulse Bay. It’s where you’ll find a variety of dining and shopping options with an unobstructed view of Repulse Bay. Once you’ve had enough of the sun on the beach, go in and find a restaurant that satisfies your cravings. For families traveling to Hong Kong with kids, the beachside complex also has playgrounds and organized activities like games and workshops.
Stroll along Seaview Promenade
The Seaview Promenade is a paved coastline track perfect for walking along the beach with your loved ones. The 30-minute walk will take you to Deep Water Bay. You’ll have an amazing view of Hong Kong Golf Club and Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club. You’ll see the theme park, Ocean Park, which is another great spot for families on Hong Kong tour. If you’re up for a more serious hike, head to Violet Hill or The Twins.
Enjoy the Beach at Deep Water Bay
Deep Water Bay has a less crowded beach than Repulse Bay. Have a swim and a quiet read on the beach. Afterwards, you can have a beachside barbecue! See the yachts and boats anchored at the bay and have a fun time with your family.
Explore nearby Attractions
Explore the area around Repulse Bay to see luxurious estates and facilities. You can visit Stanley, a nearby seaside town with the famous Stanley market. Ocean Park is also close by. Kids love this Hong Kong aquatic theme park with rides, shows, animals, and cable cars.
Where to Stay at Repulse Bay
There are many hotels near Repulse Bay ranging from US$100 to US$300 per night. Here are some recommendations.
- The Fullerton Ocean Park Hotel Hong Kong is a five-star hotel newly built in 2022. It’s about a 15-minute walk from Ocean Park, 13-minute drive from Repulse Bay. You will have an amazing view of the sea. Services and facilities include a swimming pool, a spa, restaurants, and a fitness center.
- Nina Hotel Island South is just 5 minutes from Wong Chuk Hang station, 10-minute drive from Repulse Bay. The rooms have an urban design with gorgeous views of the bay.
- The Emperor Hotel is about 12 minutes away from Repulse Bay by car. It is nearby Causeway Bay in Wan Chai, closer to the city center.
- Hong Kong Ocean Park Marriott Hotel is right by Ocean Park MTR station, about 10 minutes from Repulse Bay by car. It has nature-themed rooms with pools, spa, and a fitness center.
Best Time to Visit Repulse Bay
Hong Kong weather is relatively mild and pleasant for most of the year. Spring, from March to May, is generally nice but changeable. The average temperature ranges from 17 to 26°C (63–79°F). Fall is the best season to visit Repulse Bay and Hong Kong, because it is usually clear and sunny with little rainfall. The average temperature from September to November ranges from 18 to 31°C (64–88°F).
The winter also has nice temperatures, but there’re usually more tourists. The holiday season with Christmas, New Year’s, and Chinese New Year, sees higher prices at the hotels. Summer in Hong Kong is hot and humid with occasional typhoons. So it is best to avoid visiting Repulse Bay in the summer. Also, as Repulse Bay is popular among locals, it can be busy on weekends and public holidays.
How to Get to Repulse Bay
By bus: You can take bus No. 6, 6A, 6X, 66, or 260 from Exchange Square Bus Terminus in Central to Repulse Bay Beach bus stop.
By minibus: Hop on minibus No. 40 or 40X from Jardine’s Bazaar in Causeway Bay to Repulse Bay Beach in about 20-25 minutes.
By taxi: Take a taxi from anywhere in Hong Kong to Repulse Bay. It takes around 15-20 minutes from Central, 25-30 minutes from Tsim Sha Tsui, and 45-50 minutes from the airport.
Attractions nearby Repulse Bay
Ocean Park Hong Kong is a theme park with thrilling rides, aquariums, and a zoo area for both land and aquatic animals. There’re fun shows to watch, souvenir shops, plus educational exhibitions. It is about a 16-minute drive from Repulse Bay.
Aberdeen Fishing Village is Hong Kong’s oldest village of the boat people. You will find locals selling freshly caught and dried seafood from their boats. Go on a sampan ride and discover the floating restaurant. It’s 12 minutes from Repulse Bay by car.
Stanley Market is the best Hong Kong market for arts and crafts. Sitting by the waterfront, the market offers a shopping experience that is relaxing and fun. Look for local handicrafts and antique home decors. The town of Stanley, where the market is, is about 11 minutes from Repulse Bay by car.
