Scenic Drive Hong Kong: Unveiling the Best Routes You Never Knew Existed

You’re halfway up the winding Tai Mo Shan Road. The fog is rolling in, giving the surrounding forest an eerie, mystical vibe. You haven't seen another car in miles, and yet, you're just 40 minutes from downtown Hong Kong. Who would have thought that this bustling metropolis would hold such secluded, scenic drives?

Hong Kong isn’t just about skyscrapers, busy streets, and high-end shopping districts. It’s also home to some of the most breathtaking, hidden scenic drives in the world. These drives take you through tranquil coastal roads, past ancient temples, and up to mountaintops with panoramic views that will leave you speechless. If you’ve ever craved an escape from the busy urban life without having to leave the city, these routes offer exactly that. But here’s the catch—you have to know where to look.

The Tai Mo Shan Drive is just the beginning of this adventure. Start your engines, because we’re about to take a journey through the most stunning and surprising drives Hong Kong has to offer. And here's something most people don't realize: you don't need to be an expert navigator to experience these hidden gems. Let’s dive right in, but not in the usual “start here and go there” way—we’ll work backward, ending where your journey could begin.

Route 1: Shek O Road

As you exit the winding, coastal Shek O Road, you’ll feel a mixture of awe and serenity. The drive takes you along cliffs that drop straight into the turquoise waters of the South China Sea, while dense foliage on the other side offers a stark contrast. But you didn’t start here. No, you began at the chaotic heart of the city, traveling along busy roads before suddenly—almost miraculously—breaking free onto this coastal paradise.

This road connects you with some of the most untouched, less-touristy beaches, such as Big Wave Bay, where surfers congregate during the right season. Want to mix in a bit of history with your drive? Stop at Dragon's Back, one of the most famous hiking trails in Hong Kong. The views from the trail are unmatched, and the route itself is easily accessible from Shek O Road.

Key highlight: Despite being relatively short, Shek O Road provides an escape into nature that feels worlds away from Hong Kong's high-rise-filled landscape.

Route 2: Tai Mo Shan Road

Now, we rewind to the highest point of Hong Kong: Tai Mo Shan. This drive is where your senses get a workout, as the road twists through thick fog, dense forests, and eventually opens up to reveal panoramic views of Kowloon and beyond. There’s something surreal about climbing this high in such a densely populated region. As you ascend, you’ll start to feel the temperature drop. Hong Kong’s highest peak offers an almost alpine climate, and it’s a well-kept secret that locals love to visit when they need a break from the oppressive summer heat.

While the drive itself is exhilarating, with its tight curves and sharp elevation changes, the real reward lies in the views. At the top, if you’re lucky enough to catch a clear day, you’ll be treated to a sweeping vista of the entire city. Even if you’re surrounded by fog, there’s a haunting beauty in the mist-shrouded trees and winding roads below.

Key highlight: The thrill of driving through clouds and seeing Hong Kong like never before.

Route 3: South Lantau Road

Looping back to where you might want to start, South Lantau Road is one of the most scenic routes in all of Hong Kong, cutting through the southern half of Lantau Island. Your journey begins in the small, peaceful village of Mui Wo, where the ferry drops you off. From there, this drive takes you past the famous Tian Tan Buddha, or "Big Buddha," one of the largest seated Buddha statues in the world.

This route is all about diversity. As you continue, the scenery constantly shifts—from rural farmland to lush forest and coastal views of quiet beaches. As you reach Cheung Sha Beach, Hong Kong's longest stretch of sand, the atmosphere becomes even more laid back. This drive is ideal if you want to stop along the way and explore. And it’s all accessible without the chaos of city traffic.

Key highlight: The serenity of this drive will make you feel like you’ve left Hong Kong entirely.

Route 4: The Classic Peak Road Drive

At the heart of every local’s recommendation is the classic Peak Road Drive, leading up to Victoria Peak. If you want an iconic Hong Kong experience, this is it. The road twists its way up to the most famous viewpoint in the city, giving you glimpses of skyscrapers, the harbor, and lush, green hillsides along the way.

But here’s where the locals’ knowledge comes in: don’t just stop at the top. Once you’ve reached The Peak, continue driving through Lugard Road and Harlech Road, which form a scenic loop around the summit. These roads are narrow, winding, and offer a much quieter experience than the crowded viewpoint area. The key to enjoying this route is to go during off-peak hours—early morning or late evening when the city is bathed in soft sunlight or glowing under the night sky.

Key highlight: The chance to explore beyond the typical tourist stops and see The Peak from a new perspective.

The Unbeatable Drive: From Cityscape to Seascape

One of the most mind-blowing experiences is the juxtaposition between Hong Kong's bustling city center and the tranquil, scenic drives just outside it. Imagine beginning your day in the heart of Central, with its dense crowds and towering skyscrapers. An hour later, you’re on Clear Water Bay Road, a coastal escape with rolling hills and turquoise waters stretching out in front of you. As you drive past the rugged cliffs, you can’t help but wonder how such natural beauty can exist so close to a megacity.

This road connects you with the Sai Kung Peninsula, one of Hong Kong's best-kept secrets. If you have time, consider stopping by Sai Kung Town for fresh seafood and a stroll along the waterfront. From there, the nearby High Island Reservoir offers more jaw-dropping views, with towering rock formations and crystal-clear waters that almost feel Mediterranean.

Key highlight: The smooth transition from urban to coastal landscapes within such a short time.

Where to Begin: Your Journey Awaits

Whether you’re a local looking for a quick weekend escape or a visitor wanting to explore beyond the typical tourist spots, Hong Kong's scenic drives have something for everyone. Start from any of these iconic routes, or mix and match to suit your schedule. One thing is for sure: you’ll see a side of Hong Kong you never expected.

For the ultimate experience, make sure to bring a camera, pack some snacks, and leave your itinerary open. The best part of these drives is the unexpected detours and hidden spots you'll discover along the way. So, hop in, buckle up, and let Hong Kong surprise you at every turn.