After a few days in the middle of Hong Kong surrounded by smog, a day trip to one of the island's many bays and beaches is a good way to break up a trip. From the west of the island, the beaches stretch around in a curve. The first bay that you arrive at from Hong Kong, Repulse Bay, is the most popular. A long stretch of golden sand, it gets really busy, especially on weekends and holidays. 

Head south from here and you'll reach Middle Bay and South Bay, two tiny, tranquil beaches that are popular with local expats. 

To the west of Repulse Bay is Deep Water Bay, made up of several quiet stretches of sand just a few kilometers east of Aberdeen. 

On the southeastern corner of Hong Kong Island are Shek O and Big Wave Bay, two laid back beaches that are perfect for getting away from the downtown hustle and bustle and, if the wind is blowing, hitting the surf.