Hong Kong is all about dazzling contrasts. “East meets West” is the cliché you’ll hear most often, but in this case it truly fits, as Hong Kong is a melting pot of cultures. Formerly a British colony until 1997, Hong Kong contrasts significantly with mainland China, embracing more Western and European values. Compared to other parts of Asia, Hong Kong has a more open LGBTQ+ community with a variety of gay bars and events, despite some lingering conservative sentiments.

It could also be said that Hong Kong is where “nature meets technology,” as towering glass-and-steel skyscrapers compete with the lush green mountains and hills behind them, lighting up at night to create a symphony of color and reflection over Victoria Harbour. The city sprawls across a collection of small islands and the mainland, housing a densely packed population of 7 million. Thankfully, serene beaches like Repulse Bay and quaint fishing villages are just a short ferry ride away, offering a peaceful escape from the city’s intensity.

Finally, the “old meets new” cliché aptly describes Hong Kong, as its streets pulse with energy. The bustling markets of Mong Kok, filled with Blade Runner-like neon signs and vibrant stalls, contrast with the historic charm of Sheung Wan’s narrow alleys. Traditional Chinese temples like Man Mo, with their swirling incense and intricate carvings, sit side by side with chic cafés, boutique shops, and dim sum tea houses. Hong Kong is where cultures have blended together with old-world charm and modern innovation to create something really quite unique and definitely worthy of exploration.

Table of Contents

1. General Tips
2. Transportation & Airport Transfer
3. Hong Kong Gay Hotels
4. Sightseeing & Activities
5. Restaurants and Cafes
6. Hong Kong Gay Bars and Clubs
7.Gay Saunas & Cruising Bars in Hong Kong
8. Gay Beaches in Hong Kong
9. Gay Events in Hong Kong
10. Day Trips from Hong Kong

General Tips

First things first: food. Nothing is more quintessentially Hong Kong than eating locally. The city offers plenty of street food options and outdoor restaurants with shared table seating. Look for a spot with a menu you can read or with pictures to point to, and join in wherever there’s a seat. Secondly, Hong Kong isn’t exactly known for being budget-friendly, so be prepared to plan your trip with a budget if necessary.

The best time to visit Hong Kong is from September to November, when the weather is generally dry, sunny, and warm. In contrast, June to August is typically hot, humid, and rainy, so it might be worth avoiding if you have flexibility in your travel plans. Hong Kong is divided into three distinct regions: Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, and the New Territories. The city’s gay scene is centered on Hong Kong Island, particularly around Soho and Lan Kwai Fong (LKF).

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Transportation & Airport Transfer

The best way to get to the city from the airport is The Airport Express. The train ride takes just under 25 minutes and departs every 12 minutes, starting early in the morning (5:50 a.m.) until late at night (12:48 a.m.). A roundtrip costs about HK$180 (around US$23).

Public buses offer a more affordable option with plenty of choices serving a variety of locations. They’ll take no more than 45 minutes between the airport and Central and cost about US$5 or less.

Taxis are the most expensive option, and you have to choose the right color (red, blue, or green) depending on your location or destination. Most likely, you’ll want the red one, which serves all of Hong Kong Island and Kowloon and costs roughly US$35–$40.

You can easily get around the city using the MTR (public transit system), which is convenient and inexpensive. Pick up an Octopus Card, a prepaid transit card that makes traveling on the system stress-free.

Hong Kong Gay Hotels

There aren’t currently any gay hotels in Hong Kong, but there are many gay-friendly options, particularly The Eaton, which regularly hosts LGBTQ+ events.

Luxury

Mandarin Oriental – This luxury hotel has provided award-winning service and impressive facilities for more than 55 years. Located in the heart of the city, its spacious rooms and suites offer incredible views of Victoria Harbour and the city skyline. The hotel boasts ten fantastic restaurants and bars, including three with Michelin stars. Guests can also enjoy a Shanghainese-inspired holistic spa, an indoor pool, and a 24-hour fitness center.

Mira Moon – A boutique hotel with 91 themed rooms and suites, located in the center of Causeway Bay on Hong Kong Island. It is surrounded by shopping malls, dining establishments, and plenty of local transportation options.

Hotel Icon – Situated in the shopping and nightlife district of Tsim Sha Tsui, this hotel offers beautiful panoramic harbor views. Its stylish and spacious rooms, rooftop pool, health club, and in-house spa provide a luxurious stay. Guests can also dine at one of the three vibrant on-site restaurants.

Mid-Range

Butterfly on Wellington Boutique Hotel Central – Ideally located near the Hong Kong Finance Center, The LANDMARK shopping mall, the artistic SoHo District, and Lan Kwai Fong. This hotel offers boutique accommodations just a 5-minute walk from Central MTR Station.

Eaton Hong Kong – Located in the heart of Kowloon, just a few minutes’ walk from Jordan MTR Station. The hotel features a rooftop swimming pool, yoga studio, gym, co-working club, and various restaurants and bars, including a Cantonese restaurant with a Michelin star. The Eaton is likely the most LGBTQ+-friendly hotel in Hong Kong, hosting LGBTQ+ events throughout the year.

Budget

Hotel LBP – A boutique hotel with affordable prices suitable for all budgets, near Sheung Wan and Sai Ying Pun MTR stations. The area is home to several great restaurants and bars with views of Victoria Harbour. The hotel conveniently sells tickets to attractions such as Ocean Park, Disneyland, the Big Bus, and local tours. Guests can also enjoy drinks at the 4/F Lounge or a workout in the fitness center.

Pop Inn Mong Kok – A simple hotel located in Mong Kok, a commercial and shopping district with many famous shopping areas like Langham Place, Ladies Street, and Sneakers Street. Nearby popular spots include The Lounge & Bar at The Ritz-Carlton, Kowloon Park, and Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade.

Yesinn – Recently renovated and situated in a 25-story building in Yau Ma Tei, Kowloon. The Temple Street Night Market is just steps away. Guests can explore local restaurants, relax in the common room, or lounge on the rooftop garden.

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Sightseeing & Activities

Man Mo Temple – Located near the Central-Mid-Levels Escalators in Hong Kong, this historic site was built between 1847 and 1862. Declared a monument in 2010, this Taoist temple is dedicated to Man Cheong, the God of Literature, and Mo Tai, the God of Martial Arts. The temple is renowned for its serene ambiance and unique interior, where large coils of incense hang from the ceiling, filling the air with a fragrant, mystical aroma.

Victoria Peak –  Commonly known as just “The Peak”. Hong Kong's most iconic vantage point, has stunning panoramic views of the city's skyline, Victoria Harbour, and even the outlying islands on clear days. Accessible via the historic Peak Tram, the journey itself is an attraction all on its own, climbing steeply through lush greenery. At the top, the Sky Terrace 428 provides the ultimate viewing platform. The Peak also features walking trails, such as the circular Peak Loop, where you can reconnect with nature away from the sometimes claustrophobic feeling city.

Central-Mid-Levels Escalators – The longest outdoor escalators in the world is the experience you never knew you needed. It's a novel way to get a look at the scene of shops, restaurants, and bars that line the escalators. The best part is that you can cover a lot of ground while barely lifting a foot.

Tian Tan Buddha and Po Lin Monastery – Located in Ngong Ping on Lantau Island, these iconic attractions are reachable via the scenic Ngong Ping 360 cable cars. The Po Lin Monastery, established in 1906, is a spiritual haven showcasing traditional Buddhist architecture and tranquil gardens. Nearby, the towering Tian Tan Buddha, also known as the Big Buddha, stands atop Muyu Mountain. This colossal bronze statue, the largest of its kind in the world, symbolizes harmony between man and nature. Book tour →

Junk Boat Ride in Victoria Harbour – Board an authentic Chinese boat, or junk, and sail the scenic harbor to see incredible views of the city’s skyline. These vessels, originally used for trade, used to crisscross the Hong Kong waterways and sail long distances. Yes, they're those cool looking ones with the red sails from the movies. Book tour →

Hong Kong Museum of History – Covering 400 million years of history from prehistoric to modern times, this museum has a lot to say. Admire the permanent exhibit of Hong Kong's history as well as various temporary ones about local food culture, fashion, and public transportation.

Nan Lian Garden –  Located in Diamond Hill,  this serene 9-acre public park is an ode to the Tang Dynasty. It features meticulously landscaped greenery, manicured trees, lotus ponds, and traditional Chinese timber structures that reflect ancient architectural elegance. Highlights include the aptly named Golden Pavilion of Perfection and the tranquil Lotus Pond.  Book tour →

Symphony of Lights – Every night at 8pm there's a dazzling multimedia show that lights up Hong Kong’s entire skyline. Recognized as the world’s largest permanent light and sound show, it features over 40 buildings on both sides of Victoria Harbour. Laser beams, searchlights, and vibrant LED displays are synchronized with a rousing musical score. The best viewing spots include the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront, Golden Bauhinia Square in Wan Chai, or aboard a Victoria Harbour cruise.

Temple Street Night Market – Everything you could ever want from a market in Asia, you’ll find at Temple Street Night Market every night. It’s a full-on experience for the senses, with colorful stalls selling everything from clothing, accessories, and electronics to antiques and souvenirs, while fortune-tellers beckon you into their stalls and traditional Chinese opera performances pop up around you. You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to food stalls, too, as open-air dai pai dongs (street-side eateries) serve fresh seafood, noodles, and other Cantonese delights to complete the Hong Kong market experience.

Restaurants and Cafes

Cafe Queen – A stylish cafe ideal for grabbing a coffee and using your laptop or unwinding with a cocktail. There’s a full menu and daily happy hour from 5 to 8 p.m. Find it on Queens Road in the office and restaurant center.

Chôm Chôm – Offers tapas-style Vietnamese street food. In addition to the good grub, enjoy cocktails and Vietnamese beers during their daily happy hour between 5 and 7 p.m.

Fukuro – A late-night izakaya in SoHo with great sake and delightful food. Try one of their signature dishes like seasonal sashimi, grilled octopus on potato confit with ginger soy, or the delicious yaki udon with snow crab and crab miso butter.

Little Bao – “Bao Burgers” are legendary throughout Hong Kong, if not the whole world. They range from the Belly Pork Bao to ice cream burgers, which shouldn’t work but somehow do. These delicious creations are the brainchild of Asia’s best female chef, May Chow, who is openly LGBTQ+. Little Bao is located in Causeway Bay and is an essential stop on any trip to Hong Kong.

Tsim Chai Kee Noodle Shop – This Michelin-starred restaurant is where you’ll find the best noodles in Hong Kong. Located on Wellington Street near the Central-Mid-Level Escalators, there’s always a queue outside—a testament to how delicious the food is. Like much of central Hong Kong, it has a fast-paced “eat then go” vibe, but the Michelin-quality food, including their huge fish balls, makes it worth the rush.

Vivere – The rather trendy Causeway Bay is home to many hidden restaurants and bars for those in the know and with cash to splash. Vivere is one of the best, located within Sugar+, a complex on Sugar Street. The venue is owned by Mocha Diva, a famous drag queen from Drag Race Thailand, and boasts open views of Victoria Harbour and Victoria Park. Enjoy delicious Italian food with an Asian twist while taking in the scenery. What’s more, stick around on weekend nights when the venue transforms into a popular nightclub with cocktail specials. On the first Sunday of every month, they also host a drag brunch, making Vivere the full package.

Hong Kong Gay Bars and Clubs

FLM – Some of the gay bars in Hong Kong are very much for locals into other locals, not the case in FLM. Head to this bar on Jervois Street for a good time on the dance floor for all, Monday to Saturday. Go early for happy hour from 7 to 9 p.m., offering 2-for-1 drinks every night. Stay late for the boys and DJs.

Wink – A sleek bar attracting guys in their 20s and 30s, along with some girls. Enjoy exclusive cocktails in a chic setting. It gets quite crowded on weekends and is open until 2 a.m.

Linq – A gay-friendly, bohemian bar in Lan Kwai Fong popular with the party crowd. Meet locals, expats, and international travelers. Enjoy the DJ’s music inside or relax on the outdoor terrace.

Boo Bar – A favorite spot for bears and their friends, this popular gay karaoke bar in Kowloon offers a lively atmosphere. Don’t miss their talented customers and daily happy hour. They also host a DJ dance party on the last Saturday of every month.

T:me – A cute little gay bar perfect for that neighborhood vibe, while still being friendly to tourists and expats. They serve great cocktails and have a terrace where you can chat and relax.

Bing Bing – High on the “places to be seen” list of the Hong Kong gay scene, this chic bar fills with attractive men pretty much any night of the week. Located on the 22nd floor of the Oliv building in Causeway Bay, it attracts a younger crowd compared to the more central venues. The windows offer a great view—if you can squeeze close enough to enjoy it. In the same building, you’ll also find Sing Sing, their partnered karaoke bar.

Host (@Mihn Club) – Arguably the queerest of Hong Kong’s parties, this monthly event brings together people from all letters of the LGBTQ+ community. The party features great local DJs playing house music and offers varied entertainment. Body positivity is encouraged, so clothing tends to become an optional commodity as the night goes on.

Gay Saunas & Cruising Bars in Hong Kong

Soda -A sauna boasting “the biggest dark room in Hong Kong.” It’s a popular spot and also features a steam room, sauna, fetish area, and cabins. Located in the Overseas Building in Causeway Bay.

Hu Tong – Another popular sauna in Hong Kong that attracts a young crowd. It includes a sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi, dark room, and cabins. A standout feature is the color-coded keyring system to indicate sexual preferences—a handy touch!

Gay Beaches in Hong Kong

Middle Bay Beach – While not officially a gay beach, this is the most popular spot for gay sunbathers – the northern side especially. Technically nude sunbathing isn't allowed, but that doesn't stop some people.  To get there, take a taxi or walk from Repulse Bay.

South Bay Beach – A smaller, seclude and less crowded beach than Middle Bay. The gay-friendly section is on the left side of the beach. There's a café nearby for a snack…or liquid snack.

Cheung Sha Beach – A longer and more scenic beach on the south side of Lantau Island. Gay beachgoers tend to gather near the rocky terrain that divides the beach into two areas.

Gay Events in Hong Kong

Hong Kong Carnival – The Lan Kwai Fong area is already known for its vibrant bar and restaurant scene, and the Carnival event allows you to experience many of its establishments with special street-vendor-style menus. Add colorful decorations, Brazilian dancers, performers, games, and a parade, and you’ve got a can’t-miss event every November.

Hong Kong Pride – The Hong Kong Pride Parade has taken place annually since October 2004. Now held in November, the parade route runs from Victoria Park to Edinburgh Place, where attendees enjoy live performances, booths, and entertainment. Each year has a theme with a dress code, the most recent being “Pride Rainbow.”

Pink Dot Hong Kong – This annual event began in 2009 in Singapore to support the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer community. In Hong Kong, attendees gather at West Kowloon Art Park wearing pink to form a “pink dot,” symbolizing support for inclusiveness and diversity. The event also features a variety of performances.

Floatilla Hong Kong – On the second Saturday of October every year, Haus of Circuit hosts a massive gay event on the water near Lamma Island. Essentially, a collection of boats filled with hot, dancing men and DJs gather by South Bay to party throughout the day. The event is free, but you’ll need to either rent a boat yourself or register on an existing one.

Day Trips from Hong Kong

Macau – A former Portuguese territory known for its casinos. Beyond gambling, visit the Ruins of St. Paul’s Church, A-Ma Temple, Guia Hill, Taipa Food Street, and Coloane village at the southern tip of the peninsula. Don’t miss the unique cuisine, such as Macau’s famous Portuguese egg tarts. Book tour →

Cheung Chau – A vehicle-free island just 40 minutes away by ferry from Central. Enjoy open-air seafood restaurants, visit Taoist temples, walk along the Mini Great Wall, or explore Cheung Po Tsai Cave. Book tour →

Sai Kung – A town famous for hiking, fishermen’s villages, fresh seafood, stunning beaches, and a floating seafood market. It’s a 30- to 45-minute minibus ride from Hang Hau or Choi Hung Station, or a one-hour minibus ride from Mong Kok. Book tour →

Shenzhen – Visit this city to shop for knock-offs or unwind at an affordable day spa. Explore the Shenzhen Museum of History and Folk Center or shop at Dongmen Pedestrian Street. Book tour →

Tai O – Many locations around the world have been dubbed “The Venice of…” and this fishing village is no exception—it’s the “Venice of Hong Kong.” Located on the northern tip of Lantau Island, it is known for its seafood and picturesque beauty. Take a motorboat ride to see the famous stilt houses. Book tour →

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