Hong Kong has no shortage of escapes that feel a world away from the city. But truly remote corners are rare.
The southern waters off Lantau Island are one of them. Here lies the often overlooked Soko Islands, a rugged archipelago that feels far removed from urban life. For adventurous day trippers, yet still manageable for families, the Sokos remain one of Hong Kong’s most intriguing hidden gems.
With no scheduled ferries, reaching the islands requires a little planning. But those who make the journey are rewarded with a landscape of quiet beaches, open sea views and fragments of the islands’ layered past.
If you are not travelling by private boat or chartered junk, the simplest way to reach the Sokos is via Cheung Chau. From there, you can usually arrange a same-day drop-off and pick-up with a local boat operator.
Kayaks can also be rented in Cheung Chau for those considering a more adventurous approach. However, this route crosses exposed waters and is recommended only for experienced paddlers. If in doubt, it is best to arrange a qualified guide.
There are two main islands where visitors can spend time ashore: Siu A Chau and Tai A Chau. Both offer several beautiful beaches and have piers where small vessels can safely land.
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Until the late 1970s, the Soko Islands were home to just a handful of farming families who relied on small-scale agriculture and fishing. This changed dramatically in the decades that followed when Tai A Chau became the site of a large refugee camp housing people fleeing the conflict in Vietnam.
Although the Vietnam War ended, the refugee situation persisted for years. The Soko Islands camp was gradually phased out in the lead-up to the 1997 handover, with residents transferred to facilities elsewhere in Hong Kong.
More than 25 years on, surprisingly little of the camp remains. For the most part, only concrete foundations are visible, although a closer look reveals subtle traces of what once stood here.
The Sokos remain one of Hong Kong’s most remarkable coastal escapes. A visit offers not only striking natural scenery but also a quiet reminder of the city’s complex history, just beyond the urban skyline.
This article was contributed by Rory Mackay, founder of adventure company Wild Hong Kong.
