Hike D'Aguilar Peak

This hike is a great option for those looking for a quick, but challenging off the beaten-path adventure with stunning views. You can start from either two places: Shek O Beach or the city bus 9 stop on Cape D'Aguilar Road.

The trail starts on the southwest corner of Shek O Beach, behind what Google maps calls the "Lam Au BBQ Store." There is a small stream coming out from the forest, flowing in front of the store, and running down the beach to the ocean. Follow the bank of this stream on the true right (going along the store wall) until you get around the wall and see some old, concrete stairs heading up into the forest. This is your starting point. There will be red/yellow/pink ribbons hanging from branches marking the spot. It's literally right behind the store. 

It's all fun from here! The steps soon give away to granite rock slopes (very slippery when wet) and small, single track earthen trails. The trail is extremely overgrown in many parts and most of the time you won't be able to see your feet as you force your way through the bushes - but it's still a trail and always marked by red/pink ribbons along the way. Wearing pants is highly recommended to prevent your legs from being scraped to pieces by the brush - if you can bear the heat (I couldn't and went for it in shorts).

Follow the path along the ridge in and out of exposed scrub and thick forest until you get to the radio station (the big satellite dishes). The true peak is here and will be just  off the trail to the left, marked by a short, concrete pillar. It's about 1.5 hr hike from the beach to this point. From the radio station follow the access road down the mountain back to Cape D'Aguilar Rd. and walk along it to the bus stop.

Notes:

• You can do this route either way, but a swim at Shek O before or after would be a great idea.
• Sunset from the radio station is spectacular, you can see all the way to the majestic Lantau (934m) and Sunset (869m) peaks.
• At the radio station there is a sign saying "do not trespass" and a gate (unlocked) on the access road. Take this as you will, but that's where the trail leads and it's clear people often do it.
• There are venomous snakes in Hong Kong, be careful.
• A final great idea would be to walk down to the Cape D'Aguilar Lighthouse once you get to the road. Or, if you're feeling really ambitious, watch the sunrise at the lighthouse, then climb up the peak and get to Shek O Beach by mid morning.