Ap Lei Pai

Across the shimmering waters, Ap Lei Pai beckons. Ap Lei Pai is a small, uninhabited island, tethered to Ap Lei Chau by a slender sandbar. This sandbar creates the illusion of a journey to a far-flung corner of Hong Kong. The allure of Ap Lei Pai isn’t just its azure waters and breathtaking vistas. It’s the thrill of the journey itself. Whether you prefer a leisurely hike or an adrenaline-pumping scramble, Ap Lei Pai offers an adventure tailored to your spirit. At the southern end of Ap Lei Pai stands the Mount Johnston Lighthouse. The hike to the lighthouse is generally considered moderate, taking roughly two hours with generous photo stops. But don’t let the duration fool you. The ascent to Mount Johnston (Yuk Kwai Shan) is steep and demanding, and the coastal scramble to the lighthouse adds an exhilarating challenge. Ensure you have sturdy hiking shoes. The journey to Ap Lei Pai begins near Lei Tung Station. From Exit B, find the Lei Tung Bus Terminal. The trailhead is tucked between two yellow structures, a secret entrance to an unforgettable adventure. Climb over the barrier, follow the pipes, ascend the stairs, and turn left at the top. Follow the fence until you encounter a sign. At the sign, you choose your path. Straight ahead lies a short, steep climb to Mount Johnston, aided by ropes along the challenging sections. Alternatively, turning left offers a gentler, zigzagging ascent, sacrificing speed for a less strenuous climb. Once atop Mount Johnston, a stunning panorama unfolds. Lamma Island and Ap Lei Chau stretch out before you, with Horizon Plaza nestled in the distance. This vantage point is also a prime location for sunset viewing, with unobstructed views across the horizon. A rock monument on the summit commemorates a World War II event, a silent testament to history amidst the breathtaking scenery. The descent to the sandbar connecting Ap Lei Pai is relatively easy, with one section requiring a rope. The sandbar itself is a photographer’s dream, surrounded by the sea on both sides. This is where Ap Lei Chau and Ap Lei Pai meet, a narrow strip of land bridging two worlds. If the hike feels too daunting, you can even call a boat from the sandbar to whisk you back to Aberdeen. But the true adventure lies beyond the sandbar. The coastal scramble to the lighthouse begins on the right. The initial section requires careful footing and the occasional use of both hands. Later, a more challenging section involves navigating a high cliff without safety ropes. It is a thrill for experienced hikers but may be daunting for beginners. Finally, you reach the Ap Lei Pai Lighthouse. If time allows, linger until sunset. The changing colors paint the landscape in a romantic glow, an unforgettable end to your Ap Lei Pai adventure. For the return journey, you can retrace your steps, take a boat, or explore alternative trails, one leading to Horizon Plaza and another behind the Larvotto high-rises. But these are tales for another time.