Sassy Mama’s Favourite Staycation Spots in Hong Kong

Put your feet up, kick back and relax with our choices of the best staycations in Hong Kong

Let’s be honest, mama, who really needs the stress of flying short or long haul with the family, battling jet lag and all the unglamorous bits of summer travel? Not us! Getting away within our bustling city sounds pretty good to us, so we’ve rounded up some of our favourite places to bring your whole family for a weekend (or weekday!) staycation.

Need a break from the city’s hustle and bustle? Auberge Discovery Bay is your place. Only 25 minutes from Central, at the Auberge you’ll be transported to an island oasis, surrounded by ocean views and complete with first-class facilities, including Spa Botanica, which offers 10 treatment rooms and over 50 treatment options, including ones for children and teens.

Get your workout done at the gym (with 360 degree views!) before chilling with a book at the poolside lounge and cooling down in the 25m outdoor swimming pool. If you’re after an active holiday, take advantage of the Activity Centre, which offers guided hiking, Discovery Bay bike tours and plenty of kids’ activities. Food-wise, you’ll be sorted at the open-plan Café bord de Mer & Lounge; complete with an outdoor terrace, this is the perfect spot for a casual breakfast, lunch or dinner with the family, or perhaps a cocktail or two. Papas can kick back with a beer at The Bounty Entertainment & Sports Bar too.

Auberge Discovery Bay Hong Kong, 88 Siena Avenue, Discovery Bay, Lantau Island, Hong Kong, 2295 8288; www.aubergediscoverybay.com

If you’re looking to fall in love with Hong Kong again, Mandarin Oriental is THE place to go. There is nothing that makes you appreciate the place you live in quite like the top quality service at this classically ‘Hong Kong’ hotel. Whilst five star hotels are easy to come across, (consistent) five star service is tricky to find. So we’ve done the not-so-hard work for you, mamas, and we can vouch for this gem.

From the receptionists and waiters, to the bathroom attendants and gym instructors, the staff here are all about making sure you’re enjoying yourself. They completely encourage you to make the most of your time  and with an irresistible spa, a (practically private) gym overlooking the harbour from the 24th floor, and a kid-friendly pool (playing movies like ‘The Little Mermaid’), you can be sure that every moment will be bringing you something new and exciting… in the most relaxing way!

Their Verandah style room is perfect to unwind for a romantic getaway, and even has plenty of place to play if the kids are coming along too. Plus, our city’s breathtaking skyline is a dream to fall asleep and wake up to. There’s something about the gorgeously draped curtains on either side of the king size bed that transforms the bright, airy room into the cosiest of cocoons. It’s a stress-free zone, which is exactly what a busy mama needs to hear!

As an added bonus, this hotel is tastebud heaven. From the rose petal jam and perfectly fluffy scones at the afternoon tea, to the Fine Dining Dim Sum Restaurant (with debatably the world’s best beef tenderloin dim sum – complete with 96 layers of heavenly pastry). Whether you’re looking for a hotel to really “WOW” visiting guests, or whether you’re a Hong Kong resident desperately in need of a break, Mandarin Oriental is the ideal place to really ignite your love of the city.

Mandarin Oriental, Connaught Road Central, Hong Kong, +852 2522 0111, www.mandarinoriental.com/hongkong

Read more: Treat yourself to a Staycation at Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong

The Hyatt Sha Tin is a 5-star family resort hotel that has everything you need for some real downtime. From a 25m outdoor swimming pool, tennis court and fitness centre (with steam and sauna), to rejuvenating treatments and meditation at the Melo Spa. Meanwhile, the kids will have a ball at Camp Hyatt, the perfect place to make new friends (four or nine hour programmes for children under 12; children 4 and under should be accompanied by a parent or authorised supervisor).

You’ll eat like kings here too, with Sha Tin 18 boasting four show kitchens and authentic Cantonese and Northern Chinese; sit back on the restaurant’s outdoor terrace for breathtaking mountain views. Have a family meal from the buffet or a la carte menu at the slick all-day dining Café, and head to the Patisserie after for a sweet treat like their signature Sha Tin Apple Pie (and a glass of wine perhaps?). Tin Tin Bar is perfect for drinks pre or post-dinner, or perhaps while the kids are at Camp Hyatt, you’d like to cool down with a cocktail with papa at the Pool Bar…

Hyatt Regency Hong Kong, Sha Tin, 18 Chak Cheung Street, Sha Tin, New Territories, Hong Kong, 3723 1234; www.hongkong.shatin.hyatt.com

Why not turn a Disneyland day trip into a novelty staycation at Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel? The kids will feel like little princes and princesses at this Victorian seaside palace, complete with live music in the 6-story lobby and a Mickey Mouse-shaped garden maze! The zero-depth entry outdoor pool is home to a twisting, 40m waterslide, and for mamas and papas, a heated whirlpool and private cabana; there’s also a Victorian-inspired indoor pool – perfect for doing laps and some peace and quiet.

Hit some balls or shoot some hoops with the kids at the tennis court or multi court before you go off to dine with Mickey and friends at the Enchanted Garden Restaurant, featuring international themed buffets for breakfast, lunch and dinner. For a mix of Asian and Western dishes, head to Walt’s Café…or for a fun family meal, check out Crystal Lotus for Disney Dim Sum! Kids will also love the Storybook Playroom, where their favourite fairytales come to life in the themed play areas and at the miniature theatre! If you’ve come without a helper and would like a date night, Babysitting Services are available, too.

Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel, Magic Road, Lantau Island, Hong Kong, 3510 6000;
www.hongkongdisneyland.com/hotels/hong-kong-disneyland-hotel

Read more: smhk.wpengine.com/10-survival-tips-for-hong-kong-disneyland

If you’re after a beachside holiday, look no further than the tropical Gold Coast Hotel, only 30 minutes from Central! You’ll have exclusive direct access to Golden Beach, and the rooms and suites offer open sea views or look out at the Gold Coast Yacht and Country Club. For something special, treat the kids to one of the kid-themed Rooms; there’s everything from a Hong Kong Tram Room, to a Princess Room and Pirate Room!

Follow a morning at the beach with an afternoon under the shade of the palm trees at the main pool. If you’re with the little ones, there’s also a smaller pool with two water slides, not to mention a water park! Children can also use up their energy in the giant Sand Pit, or at the Indoor Kids Zone (perfect for rainy days) and Kids Island Playground, while you burn off the daily buffet/poolside BBQ with a beach walk or run, or at the well-equipped gym! For some fine dining, make sure you check out the hotel’s Michelin-recommend Chinese restaurant, YUE.

Gold Coast Hotel, 1 Castle Peak Road (Castle Peak Bay), Tsuen Wan, New Territories, Hong Kong, 2452 8888; www.sino-hotels.com/hk/gold-coast

Read more: Family Staycation in the Safari Themed Rooms at Gold Coast Hotel

Here’s what Sassy Hong Kong’s Senior Editor Lauren had to say about her stay at The Island Shangri La… Sounds like the perfect place for a romantic staycation, or a mamas only getaway!

“The first real staycation I ever did was at the Island Shangri-la. I wasn’t sure what to expect, and I can honestly say that I was blown away by the experience. The hotel itself oozes glamour and old-school elegance, and if you stay in a harbour facing room like we did, you’ll be astounded by the view. The rooms are luxurious, and you’re constantly treated with little surprises like chocolates and fruits on arrival… they even decorated our room with balloons and birthday cake when I took my boyfriend a second time to celebrate!

The attention to detail is spot on and the staff are flawless. I remember how surprised I was when we went up to the Horizon Lounge to take in the view and feast on complimentary dim sum (and champagne!) and the staff, who I’d never met, knew our names. The breakfast at Petrus is out of the world – so generous and extravagant (hello Lobster Scrambled Eggs). The pool is spacious and has the Bank of China in the background, and the location is very convenient. This place is classy from top to bottom and my number one hotel in HK.”

Island Shangri-La, Pacific Place, Supreme Court Road, Central, Hong Kong, 2877 3838,
www.shangri-la.com/hongkong/islandshangrila

If you’re looking for a super quirky boutique hotel, J Plus by YOO is a hidden gem with a truly contemporary vibe. Covered in cool modern art, we love that it brings alternative elements to transform your Hong Kong experience in a fun, and youthful way.

Here’s what our Sassy Partnerships Manager, Surmayee has to say about J Plus by YOO: “In a city as busy as HK, it can be so difficult to get some quality time with your best friend, so I jumped on the chance of a staycation as soon as I could! We had an incredible two days at boutique hotel J Plus by YOO, situated conveniently in the middle of the Causeway Bay. Because we were in the heart of the city (within walking distance of trams, busses and the MTR station!), going out to shop, eat, drink or just explore was incredibly convenient. The best part is that you still feel like you’re getting out of the city thanks to the awesome suites (with a mini kitchen!) and engaging facilities within the hotel – you don’t even really need to leave if you don’t want to.

We especially loved the free flow wine served in the lobby between 6pm and 8pm, which also doubled as a way for us to make some new friends. My personal favourite part was the decor of the rooms – a great mix between homey and quirky, with a massive down comforter to indulge in right next to modern art on the brightly coloured walls. If you’re looking to get away from the city while still being surrounded by life, J Plus by YOO is definitely the place to go!”

J Plus, 1-5 Irving street, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong, +852 3196 9000, www.jplushongkong.com

The Intercontinental is famed for the best views of Hong Kong Island. The service and food is impeccable. The spa is world-class with a plethora of treatments to be tried and the gym ticks all your mainstream exercise needs. This is a great one to bring your visiting family and friends, mama! If you’re looking to truly treat yourself (and your loved one) book yourself at the spa for a four day package which includes treatments, plus access to the exclusive pool and gym!

Here’s what our Sassy Assistant Editor, Lexi has to say about her glamorous getaway: “Even though we had only been away from our flat for a night, simply having a break from the chaos of Causeway Bay meant we returned to the office come Monday morning with a spring in our step. Having been thoroughly spoilt and pampered, it was nice to return to work with a different tale to tell… So whether you’re celebrating a special occasion (this would be an awesome hen-do!) or just wanting to get away from it all with some great company, believe me when I say that the InterContinental has the whole ‘getaway’ thing sorted.”

InterContinental Hong Kong, 18 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong, 2721 1211, www.hongkong-ic.intercontinental.com

As much as we love living in Hong Kong, the confined spaces and teeny-tiny apartments can have us feeling a little overwhelmed at times – so why not book in a little change of scenery with Air BnB? With hundreds of amazing apartments to choose from, located all over the islands, filter your preferences and goggle at gorgeous rooftops before booking your favourite abode.

Super easy to use, click on an apartment to view the owner’s images and guest reviews before booking online like you would a hotel! Fully furnished, and equipped with your own kitchen to whip up your favourite meals, simply move in with your suitcase and head to the New Territories for a fresh breath of air, a swimming pool and gardens galore or find a chic city dwelling with spiral staircases and a cute terrace – perfect for BBQ’s and a bottle of bubbly. Hong Kong is your oyster, mama!

Air BnB Hong Kong, www.airbnb.com/s/Hong-Kong

The effortlessly cool kid on the block, W Hotel definitely needs no introduction. From the modern decor to the art installations, the W is perfect for a romantic staycation or a fun family getaway.

Located in West Kowloon, right above Kowloon station and Elements Mall, its convenient spot makes it popular for out of town guests to celebrities visiting HK. With panoramic views of the island, a roof top pool on the 76th floor and an award winning Bliss spa, there’s not much more we could ask for…!

The W’s signature restaurants like Kitchen and Sin Ying Cantonese dining have our mouths watering. Kitchen’s weekend buffets will not only satisfy your pickiest of eaters, you’ll be mesmerised with the spread of unique flavours and options too!

Read more: Date Night at Sin Ying Cantonese Dining

W Hotel, 1 Austin Road West, West Kowloon, Kowloon; 3717 2222

Located in the Tai Kok Tsui area, is the recently opened The Olympian hotel. Situated conveniently near the Olympic MTR and one stop away from Kowloon station (which links to the Airport Express train!), you are greeted with opulent decor and warm faces as you pull into the roundabout entrance.

Here’s what our Sassy Mama Editor, Kat has to say about her family staycation at The Olympian: “As we pulled up in our car, we were greeted with warm smiling faces and helpful staff who helped me with our overnight bags and kept my toddler occupied as another staff member took my husband to park the car. We walked into an expansive lobby with sky high ceilings that dripped with sparkling crystals on the chandelier. The whole decor oozed sophistication and modern luxe.

Our harbour view room was spacious and comfortably accommodated the four of us. There was a living room area with a pull out couch whilst the bedroom housed a gorgeous king sized bed and a baby crib. The floor to ceiling windows open out to views of the island and an inviting boardwalk below. The best part for me was the bathroom which housed a large bath (where zen is kept in my opinion!) and a rain shower.

With only 32 deluxe rooms and suites, there’s definitely a sense of exclusivity without any pretentiousness. There’s a 24 hour gym (or ask the concierge for a jogging map to explore the area!) and a private lounge that serves breakfast in the morning.With plenty to do around the neighbourhood, this was a great place to go “home” to and relax.

A lovely boutique hotel to getaway to for the weekend and perfect for out of town guests.”

The Olympian, 18 Hoi Fai Road, West Kowloon, Hong Kong; 3199 8888, www.theolympianhotel.com