Stanley Guide: Best Places to Explore in the Coastal Hong Kong Neighbourhood

Hong Kong has an eclectic blend of modern structures and high-end restaurants, it’s also a city that boasts natural sceneries. Moving away from its postcard image of a modern metropolis, Hong Kong has its fair share of coastal neighbourhoods. One of the most well-known destinations is Stanley, the go-to for many daytrippers and tourists alike for Stanley Market and Murray House. So, read our Stanley Hong Kong neighbourhood guide to find out where to eat, drink, and shop plus the most exciting things to do.

Stanley is popular for its beaches and market on top of the refuge it provides from the hustle and bustle of city life. During summer, the area is packed with beachgoers and water sports lovers. In winter, dazzling lights and amazing installations envelop the streets, creating a holiday atmosphere like no other. No matter when you visit, this beautiful town has plenty to offer. Bookmark our Stanley Hong Kong guide to find out all the best restaurants, bars, shops, and things to do.

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Your ultimate guide to exploring Stanley, Hong Kong

Everything you need to know about Stanley in Hong Kong

A quick history lesson on Stanley. It is named after Edward George Geoffrey Smith-Stanley or simply, Lord Stanley, the 14th Earl of Derby. He was a prominent British politician during the 19th century. Later, he became Prime Minister of the UK not once but three times. 

Before this, the village was known by its local name ‘chek chue’ which means “red pillar”, a nod to the red flowers that flourished in the area. Or it could also refer to the large cotton tree that was once there. However, some believe that the name translates to “bandit’s post” given its history as a hideout to the infamous pirate, Cheung Po Tsai. Stanley was a fishing village and is one of the earliest settlements on Hong Kong Island. It also served as a military base for the British garrison in 1842. 

In the 1940s, the area became one of the fighting grounds for the British and Japanese. Finally, in the 1970s, it became a typhoon shelther. Later, the government started selling land which paved the way for development. While traces of its past can still be seen today like the Murray House, this coastal neighbourhood has transformed into a popular day trip destination filled with restaurants, bars, and shops.

How to get to Stanley in Hong Kong?

There are different ways to get to Stanley depending on where you’re coming from. The easiest way is to start your journey in Central. From there, take bus 6, 6A, or 6X. Or you can also catch any of the buses from Admiralty or Wan Chai. You can also start from Tsim Sha Tsui East Bus Terminus and take bus 973 to Stanley.

Top-rated restaurants and bars in Stanley, Hong Kong

Where to eat?

 

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OpenRice lists only about 50 restaurants in Stanley so you can easily find your way through the options available. But in our Stanley guide, we give our tried and tested recommendations starting with local food. Si Yik is a hidden gem in this coastal neighbourhood. Their Hong Kong-style French toast is among the best in the city—and that’s saying a lot considering how you can’t really get the delicious snack wrong. Plus, this hole-in-the-wall cha chaan teng also serves amazing milk tea. Another local restaurant we love is The Hunger for its fuss-free menu. You can get affordable lunch sets as low as HKD 48! Or come for a mid-day snack and enjoy their afternoon tea offering.

Craving for some carbs? Hong Kong staple and burger favourite Beef & Liberty is here to the rescue. Take your pick from over ten burgers ranging from Impossible Meat to classic cheeseburger. Don’t forget to get some Mac N’ Cheese with that and wash it all down with some delicious Banoffee Pie. If you want something more flavourful, head over to Baby Elephant Thai Chicken. Sample lip-smacking Thai dishes such as Lamb Satay in Mussaman Curry to classic pad Thai. Our go-to spot for soul-comforting food is Viet Bu Tong Kitchen & Bar. The pho here is like a warm blanket on a cold summer’s day.

For pizza, Dough Bros is the place to be. It’s not a restaurant though but you can always get a takeaway and have them on the beach. Besides the pizza, we also recommend getting the doughnuts here. On the line of pizza, we also love Mamie Yvonne. Locals swear by the crispy and cheesy pizza here on top of the savoury crepes. You can even pick from various flavour combinations! Another all-day Western spot we love is Bessy Bay. They have pasta, risotto, pizza, burgers, steak, salad, and more. Oh, they’re Pet-friendly too so bring your pup along.

 

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No visit to Stanley is complete without dropping by Pane e Latte. Or if you have room for more, make sure to come for a full meal. This whimsical bakery-cafe-restaurant offers a range of baked goods and dishes that will surely delight your tastebuds. Taste the freshly baked options from the signature bombolini to the focaccia sandwiches and pizzas. Those with dietary restrictions, don’t fret. Classified will be your favourite dining spot for their plant-based options. Yes, you can have meat-free nachos, hotdogs, and pizzettes here. Plus, you get to indulge in other Italian snacks and even gelatos on the weekends. Make sure to snap a picture of the interiors because they’re really Instagrammable

Got a sweet tooth? Then you’re in for a treat because Stanley has great dessert options. There’s Gino’s Gelato to cool off during the summer or Waffleman for waffles with ice cream. Choose from different flavours or make your own combinations. Don’t forget cult-favourite Bakehouse for their sourdough egg tarts and a whole range of other pastries.

Where to drink?

Bubbles & Wine is perfect for wine lovers given that they have a selection of over 90 wines. They range from brands coming from small boutique wineries to limited-edition labels. Head over to King Ludwig Beerhall for a drink or two with a view. This German restaurant inside Murray House offers authentic German fare including drinks, complete with a stunning seaside view.

Spiaggia is a Stanley mainstay known for its extensive menu. Order a drink to go with the scrumptious treats. Just a stone’s throw away from the Stanley Waterfront is Zola, an affordable option for some booze and food. It’s a casual joint perfect for a buzzy Friday night gathering. Meanwhile, Surf & Turf Grill and Bar allows for a more intimate affair. Go for dinner, order some drinks, and enjoy the night away.

 

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The best places to shop at Stanley, Hong Kong

Where to shop in the area: Stanley Market and more

If you’re seeking a shopping spree in Hong Kong’s Stanley, there are only two main options for you: Stanley Market and Stanley Plaza. Besides the gorgeous beaches, Stanley Market is probably the next big attraction in the neighbourhood. Here, you’ll find affordable souvenirs and projects like the ones in Ladies Market or Temple Street minus the crowd – except on weekends. Still, this is where a lot of daytrippers shop when they’re out for a beach day in Stanley.

Another option is Stanley Plaza, a shopping centre that is home to various shops and restaurants. Residents also shop here for essentials like groceries, Pet care, and even Health care. This is a great pit stop before making your way to Murray House which is just a stone’s throw away.

Things to do and best places to visit in Stanley, Hong Kong

What to do in the neighbourhood?

Take a trip down memory lane at Murray House, a historical structure built in 1846. This impressive landmark is one of the city’s oldest colonial-style buildings complete with magnificent stonework and ornate designs. While it was initially destroyed in 1982, it was eventually restored in 2001 and is one of Stanley’s most popular attractions. It was once officers’ quarters but is now a hotel with restaurants.

Are you really in Stanley when you didn’t visit the promenade? This boardwalk is not easy to miss since it’s right by the waterfront. You’ll see plenty of restaurants, bars, and souvenir shops in the area and it serves as a great sunset viewing spot. If you’re looking to explore the great outdoors even more, then challenge yourself to hike Violet Hill and Twin Peaks. While this easy-sounding hike is only five kilometres, it’s one of the most difficult ones on Hong Kong Island because you’ll be ascending and descending two hills—Violet Hill and Twin Peaks respectively. But the reward is lush green mountains and a majestic ocean view so… it’s worth it, right?

 

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Stanley Main Beach is the most popular attraction in the neighbourhood. You’ll find beachgoers, families, and friends getting sunkissed. There are also plenty of water Sports to do in the area. However, if you prefer some peace and quiet, then we recommend St Stephen’s Beach. It doesn’t only have fewer crowds but the water is also cleaner and in our opinion, a much better view too. And yes, water Sports are available too. A guide to Stanley must include these famous beaches, otherwise did you really go?

The Blake Pier might not sound like much but this photogenic spot has probably been featured in hundreds of wedding photoshoots. The pier is named after Henry Arthur Blake, who was the 12th governor of Hong Kong. Pose for some photos, especially during sunset, before going on your way. For some relaxation, why not book a stay at the Stanley Oriental Hotel? You’ll get to experience the seaside escape of your dreams. The boutique hotel has a spa-like bathroom, spacious bedrooms, and of course, scenic views of the sea.

Cultural buffs in Hong Kong, there’s also something for you at Stanley. Just next to Murray House is Pak Tai Temple. It was built around 1805 when Stanley was a fishing village so it quite literally, stood the test of time. While it’s not on most people’s go-to list of museums, you can still visit Hong Kong Museum of Correctional Services when you’re in the area. There are ten galleries to explore which highlight what life is like inside prisons. Plus, it even has mock gallows and jail cells to learn more about the city’s penal system.

We hope our Stanley guide comes in handy for your next visit to Hong Kong.

(Hero and featured image credit: Johnny Wong/Unsplash)

This story first appeared on Lifestyle Asia Hong Kong.