Happy Place: Repulse Bay
It’s autumn! I love Autumn in Hong Kong – lanterns, moon cakes, fireworks – what’s not to like? It’s really such a happy place to spend the season. October has finally arrived, which means cooler, drier days are just around the corner. But, don’t break out your jumpers and boots, just yet, Hong Kongers. With temperatures in the high 20s (and the occasional T3), there’s still plenty of time to enjoy our beautiful beaches!
Clearwater Bay, Big Wave Bay, Cheung Sha Beach, Lamma Island…WOW! While each of Hong Kong’s beaches has something spectacular to offer, many are difficult to reach and/or offer limited food and beverage choices. Taking a picnic or hiking to your destination is always fun. But, if you’re looking for an easily-accessible beach with stunning scenery and plenty of things to do, try heading to one of my favourite happy places, Repulse Bay.
Repulse Bay is located just 15 minutes from Central, but feels like a different world. To get there, hop in a taxi (around $100 from Central) or catch a bus at Exchange Square (Bus 6, 6A, 6X, 66 or 260) and alight at Repulse Bay Beach. Set yourself up in the sand or head over to The Pulse, located at 28 Beach Road, for a bit of shopping and dining. Here are my top picks:
Best Place to CHILL: If you’re looking for a great place to hang out and soak up a little California Love, check out HotShot.
This super funky surf-meets-skate beach restaurant offers American cuisine and cocktails with a generous side of cool. Any place that is decorated with surfboards and skateboard decks and serving cocktails from an old, silver Airstream trailer gets this California girl’s approval! Definitely hit up HotShot on Lobster Night (every Wednesday), when they offer a whole butter poached lobster, corn on the cob, unlimited French fries AND free flow Sauvignon Blanc for $480.
Shop 114-115, The Pulse
Best Seat in the House: Let’s be honest, there are great views all around Repulse Bay. But, the best seat just may be the swings at Classified.
Perhaps it’s the ocean air or perhaps it’s the homemade quiches, pies, tarts and cakes on offer, but, these swings are pure bliss. If you see that one is available, snag it and swing the afternoon away whilst staring at the beach. Try not to knock over your brunch, which you’ll surely want to order when you see the items on offer.
Shop 107, The Pulse
Best Place to Shop: Forget your flip flops or really just fancy a new pair? No worries. Stop by Lovers & Friends and take a look at their colourful selection of footwear and accessories.
With international lifestyle brands like Havaianas and Superga, you’re sure to find a pair of sandals or sunglasses for your day at the beach.
Shop 106, The Pulse
Best place for a Drink: On the hunt for one of the best cups of coffee in town? Coffee Academics is the place to go.
This specialty coffee shop offers delicious hand-drip coffees made with their own signature beans. In the mood for something boozy? Check out their drinks menu for a selection of wine, whisky, cider and beers (including draught Tetley’s!)
Shop 108, The Pulse
With so much to offer, Repulse Bay is definitely a great place to soak up the Hong Kong beach vibe, enjoy an afternoon drink or stuff your face with lobster and fries. I know I’ll be visiting again in October, even if I have to bring my raincoat!
The Pulse is located at 28 Beach Road in Repulse Bay. Please check above referenced websites for individual operating hours. Website: www.thepulse.com.hk
Brandie is an American living in Hong Kong with a British husband, a Chinese pug and a Parisian soul. She believes in making bold decisions and living a life full of happiness and laughter. A few years ago, she quit her job as an attorney to explore the world and she blogs about it here: