After a late night out, Julian and I decided that we needed to get away from the city. But we didn't have time to go too far. So we decided to take a day trip to one of Hong Kong's outlying islands: Cheung Chau island. Cheung Chau's waterfront seafood restaurants, easy hiking trail, pirate cave, temples, boutique shops, and beaches make it a "must go" for any Hong Kong tourist. A quick one hour ferry ride away, Cheung Chau makes for an easily accessible and fun weekend escape.
We got there early in the afternoon and wanted to head straight to the pirate cave. So, I grabbed a delicious waffle with blueberry jam from a street vendor and we whizzed away on a two-seater rickshaw (you can rent them on the street for super cheap!) to the beginning of the trail. We parked our rickshaw and after a brisk 20 minute walk, we made it to the entrance of the cave. There was a short line, because the cave is just big enough to walk through if you're crouching down. You can only fit in single file, so we waited our turn and I climbed down to an unknown fate.
It was pitch black inside and a tight squeeze, but luckily Julian brought a flash light so he was able to guide me out the other end. I'm not claustrophobic, but if you are then climbing through this cave would be a great step in conquering your fear! Don't forget to bring a flashlight. Legend has it that this cave, formally known as Cheung Po Tsai cave, used to be a stash house for notorious pirate Cheung Po Tsai. During the late 18th century, Cheung Po Tsai at one point commanded a fleet of 600 ships and 50,000 men before he surrendered to the Qing government in 1810. Great inspiration for a new Pirates of the Caribbean installment!
After cave exploring, we stopped by the North Lookout Pavillion which is the highest point on the island and the Pak Tai Temple on our way to grab some grub on Seafood Street. Located right next to the pier, "Seafood Street" as its known is a collection of local seafood restaurants that dish out some of the freshest seafood in HK straight from their still-active fishing fleet. Among our choices were: garlic clams, salt & pepper fried squid, spinach with garlic, steamed garlic scallops, and clams with black bean garlic stir fry. Talk about a garlic overload! Nestled right on the water, stop at any of the multiple seafood restaurants for a memorable experience.
After a long day of hiking and adventuring, we got to sit out at the restaurant long enough to watch the sunset. A milky way of orange, yellow, and pink streaks, this was the best possible way to end our day. I'll definitely be heading back sometime soon!