Meet Dragon's Back, Hong Kong's Most Popular Hiking Trail
In the southeastern corner of Hong Kong Island, the Dragon’s Back Trail is a must-do for hikers and nature lovers alike. This iconic trail, named for its ridge that resembles a dragon’s spine, was selected by CNN as one of the world's 23 best trails in 2019. It offers stunning views of the coastline and surrounding hills.
The hike begins near the To Tei Wan bus stop and stretches approximately 8.5 kilometers, finishing at the picturesque Big Wave Bay. It's an ideal half-day adventure, and the average hiking time is 3 hours.
Whether you’re a local looking for a weekend escape or a visitor seeking a taste of Hong Kong’s natural wonders, the Dragon’s Back Trail is a great, easily accessible experience!
___
Shek O As Seen from Dragon's Back
___
Dragon's Back: Key Facts
| From | To Tei Wan Bus Stop |
|---|---|
| To | Big Wave Bay |
| Difficulty | ⛰️⛰️ (Moderate) |
| Distance | 8.5 km |
| Recommended Time | 3 hours at a leisurely walking pace |
| Route | Dirt paths, some stairs. |
___
Why Hike Dragon's Back
Hiking the Dragon's Back trail from To Tei Wan to Big Wave Bay is a great half-day adventure on Hong Kong Island. By staying in Big Wave Bay or Shek O after the hike, it can easily be extended into a wonderful full day out!
This 8.5-kilometer section is renowned for its moderate difficulty and breathtaking scenery. The trail's elevation gain is not overly demanding, making it accessible to a wide range of fitness levels. The hike typically takes around three hours to complete with stops for photos or for soaking up the beautiful views.
One of the primary reasons to hike Dragon's Back is its scenic beauty. The trail winds along a mountain ridge, offering panoramic views of the Shek O Peninsula and the sea to the east, while the western side provides vistas of the southern part of Hong Kong Island.
On clear days, these views are truly spectacular, making the hike a must-do for anyone visiting Hong Kong. Additionally, the trail ends at Big Wave Bay, where hikers can enjoy a refreshing swim or a meal at one of the local cafes, providing a perfect way to cap off the adventure.
The Dragon's Back trail is also an excellent choice for those looking to challenge themselves without feeling overwhelmed. The initial ascent is the most demanding part, featuring a steep climb to Shek O Peak, which stands at 284 meters.
However, once this section is completed, the trail becomes more level and undulating, making it easier to enjoy the surroundings. The well-maintained path and clear signage ensure that hikers can focus on their journey rather than navigating the route.
Furthermore, the trail's popularity means that it is well-supported with amenities like public toilets and rest areas, making it an ideal choice for families and solo hikers alike.
The Dragon's Back is also part of the Hong Kong Trail, a popular 45km hiking trail on Hong Kong Island that starts at the Peak and finishes at Big Wave Bay.
___
After Your Hike: Things to Do Near Dragon's Back
After conquering the Dragon’s Back Trail, you’ll likely be ready to refuel—and both Big Wave Bay and Shek O offer excellent dining options to satisfy your appetite.
At Big Wave Bay, you’ll find casual beachside eateries serving everything from fresh seafood to classic Western comfort food. It’s the perfect spot to relax with a cold drink and a hearty meal while enjoying the laid-back vibe of this coastal village.
If you’re up for a short trip, head to Shek O, one of Hong Kong Island’s most beautiful beaches. Known for its charming village atmosphere, Shek O has a larger selection of restaurants offering local Cantonese dishes, international cuisine, and even Thai food. After your meal, consider renting a sunbed and umbrella for a relaxing afternoon by the sea.
Getting to Shek O from Big Wave Bay is easy—you can take a minibus, hop in a taxi, or walk for approx. 20 minutes along the road.
Whether you choose to unwind at Big Wave Bay or explore Shek O, both destinations provide the perfect way to cap off your Dragon’s Back adventure.
___
How to Get To Dragon's Back
To get to the start of the Dragon's Back trail at To Tei Wan, you can take the MTR to Shau Kei Wan Station on the Hong Kong Island line.
From there, exit and find the bus station outside, where you can catch bus number 9 towards Shek O. Get off at the To Tei Wan bus stop, which is directly across from the trailhead. Usually, this is where most people (at least those dressed for hiking) get off the bus, so if you are uncertain if you are at the right stop, following the crowd is a good idea.
To return home after completing the section, you can end at Big Wave Bay and take bus number 9 back to Shau Kei Wan Station.
Alternatively, you can take a taxi from Big Wave Bay to the Chai Wan MTR or to Stanley and then catch a bus back to Central.
On weekends and public holidays, you can also take bus number 309 directly from Big Wave Bay to Central. Additionally, there are frequent yellow/red minibuses that run from Shek O to Shau Kei Wan MTR station.
