Where to Stay in Hong Kong: Kowloon Waterfront, Central, Wan Chai and the Southside

For the view and the first visit: the Kowloon waterfront

Tsim Sha Tsui faces the island across the harbour, and its hotels have the strongest views of the skyline. It suits first-time visitors, travellers who want museums and shopping on the doorstep, and anyone who prefers a more energetic neighbourhood to Central’s polish.

The Peninsula Hong Kong, opened in 1928, remains the grande dame of the waterfront, while Rosewood Hong Kong at Victoria Dockside is the modern flagship, with interiors that are deliberately theatrical.

Regent Hong Kong was redesigned by Chi Wing Lo and keeps a calm, nostalgic character, and Mondrian Hong Kong is the playful, younger alternative.

For restaurants, bars and business: Central and Admiralty

Central is polished, vertical and busy, with skyscrapers, high-end dining and nightlife in Lan Kwai Fong, and it is the base for travellers whose days are spent in meetings or restaurants. Admiralty, next door, is calmer and more spread out.

Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong is a harbourfront hotel linked to the IFC complex. Mandarin Oriental, The Landmark reopened on 1 June 2026 after a redesign by Joyce Wang.

For calm in the middle of the city, The Murray sits beside Hong Kong Park in a converted 1969 tower, and The Upper House rises above Pacific Place in Admiralty.

For a local feel: Wan Chai and Causeway Bay

Wan Chai is older and more lived-in than Central, with markets, cafés, cocktail bars and trams, and it is one stop from Central on the MTR. Causeway Bay is busier and more commercial, with large malls and food streets. The St. Regis Hong Kong, a curated mansion by André Fu, and The Hari Hong Kong, with interiors by Tara Bernerd, are the best addresses here.

For families and space: the Southside

The south of the island is greener and quieter, with a different pace from the harbour. The Fullerton Ocean Park Hotel is a resort-style hotel with a long infinity pool, suited to families who want the beach and the park rather than the skyline.

Two crossings worth planning around

Whichever side you choose, cross Victoria Harbour on the Star Ferry and ride the Peak Tram.

For a design-led reading of the hotels, see Hong Kong Design Hotels.

Sources: China Highlights: top areas to stay in Hong Kong; Travels with Elle: where to stay in Hong Kong. Check the official websites for current information.