8 Top Hong Kong Attractions For Kids And Families

THE BIG BUDDHA

A visit to the Big Buddha makes for a fun day trip with the little ones! Take the ferry to Lantau Island and then a bus, or take the Ngong Ping 360 gondola from Tung Chung. The 268 steps to reach the Buddha take around 15 minutes and might seem challenging, but are in general manageable for kids ages 4+. Take lots of pictures, visit the Po Lin Monastery and then head out to one of Lantau's top restaurants for kids. One of our favorites is Bathers - enjoy!

Big Buddha, Ngong Ping Road, Lantau Island, +852 2985 5248, www.plm.org.hk

THE PEAK AND PEAK TRAM

The Peak tops many must-do lists in Hong Kong for the stunning panoramic view of the city and harbor. Waiting time for the Peak Tram can take up to 2 hours, but the steep ride uphill is fun, especially with kids and worth the wait. We suggest getting the fast track pass or going in the early morning before 9 am to avoid the crowd. Alternatively, take a hike up to the top via Bowen Road. Once you’re up there, shop at the mall and market and take a wander around the stroller-friendly path. Then have a meal break at Peak Lookout before heading to one of Hong Kong's secret playgrounds - Mount Austin!

Peak Tram, Garden Road, Central, Hong Kong, +852 2522 0922, www.thepeak.com.hk. Peak Tram is open from 7am to 12pm daily.

BEST THEME PARKS IN HONG KONG

Theme parks are the perfect destination for any getaway with the little ones. Hong Kong has several family-friendly amusement parks, and each of them caters to a slightly different age group from toddlers to bigger kids. For families with younger ones, Hong Kong Disneyland is not as big and also much easier to navigate. Those with adventurous and brave hearts should head to Ocean Park, which is Asia’s biggest theme park packed with exciting and adrenaline pumping rides.

Hong Kong Disneyland, Lantau Island, Hong Kong, www.hongkongdisneyland.com

Ocean Park Hong Kong, 180 Wong Chuk Hang Road, Wong Chuk Hang, Hong Kong, www.oceanpark.com.hk

Noah’s Ark Hong Kong, 33 Pak Yan Road, Ma Wan, New Territories, Hong Kong, www.noahsark.com.hk/eng/index.jsp

VISIT AN OUTER ISLAND IN HONG KONG:

Lantau, Lamma, Cheung Chau, Grass Island, there are many islands to visit in Hong Kong! And each of these islands has something different to offer - seafood, local snacks, arts & crafts, water play, hikes and more. Each island promises (at least) one day worth of fun and can make for a short, comfortable staycation for the family.

Check out the Little Steps Guide to Islands in Hong Kong!

VISIT A HONG KONG MARKET:

Hong Kong is dotted with Street Markets and Shopping Streets: Ladies Market in Mong Kok, Temple Street in Yau Ma Tei, Cat Street in Sheung Wan. Markets are a great place to catch a glimpse of the local life as well as a paradise for enthusiastic shoppers and bargain hunters. From fresh produce to souvenirs and toys, to antiques and jade, these street markets offer unending surprises at very affordable prices.

Check out the Little Steps Guide to The Top 10 Markets In Hong Kong!

VISIT A FAMOUS TEMPLE IN HONG KONG:

Temples play an important part in Hong Kong’s culture and history. There are over 600 of them in Hong Kong which can be found hidden in alleyways, surrounded by skyscrapers and even on a floating boat. These religious establishments are open to everyone and frequented by Buddhists and Taoists. Kiddos will be intrigued by the otherworldliness, culture and unique architecture. You can also find fortune tellers in some temples. Click here for more information on how to locate the temples.

Check out out the Little Step's video on the secret temple in Clear Water Bay.

HIT THE BEACH IN HONG KONG:

When it comes to beaches, we are spoilt for choice in Hong Kong. Hong Kong boasts an eclectic array of scenic beaches and most of them are easily accessible from the city, which makes it perfectly easy to soak up some sun and have a play in the water even for families with young kids. Some are equipped with plenty of facilities such as barbecue pits, children's playground, refreshment kiosks and showers.

Check out the Little Steps Guide to Top 10 Family Beaches.

JOURNEY ON THE STAR FERRY WITH KIDS:

The world famous Star Ferry is another iconic Hong Kong experience you must not miss! Sailing between Tsim Sha Tsui to Wan Chai or Central, the ferry ride offers impressive views of the Victoria Harbour and guaranteed fun experience for the kiddos. It is also one of the best places to catch the Symphony of Lights, a multimedia laser show that happens daily at 8 pm.

Star Ferry, www.starferry.com.hk