Ap Lei Chau / Aberdeen
Ap Lei Chau Neighbourhood Guide: Where Maritime Heritage Meets Waterfront Bargains in Hong Kong’s Southern Island Escape
Ap Lei Chau, a densely vibrant island linked seamlessly to Aberdeen and fully walkable, blends time-honoured fishing village roots with a surge of modern residential and retail energy. Its sheltered bays host traditional sampans and seafood wholesalers, while sleek promenades, outlet malls, and high-rise estates signal a neighbourhood of accessible sophistication. Ap Lei Chau appeals to growing families, young professionals, and lifestyle seekers who value coastal tranquility with effortless urban links.
Getting There & Around
Two MTR stations now serve the island directly on the South Island Line:
– Lei Tung Station – Exit A connects to Ap Lei Chau Main Street, while Exit B leads to the waterfront.
– South Horizons Station – located at the heart of the South Horizons estate, ideal for the western half of the island and Marina South / Larvotto residents.
Minibuses and buses (e.g., 90B, 95, 97A, 98) link directly to Aberdeen, Wong Chuk Hang, Causeway Bay, and Central. Taxis are plentiful, and walking or cycling along the flat, compact island paths remains the best way to explore.
History & Culture
Ap Lei Chau embodies old Hong Kong’s seafaring charm. Shaped like a duck’s tongue—hence its name—it was once a thriving fishing and shipbuilding hub, serving as a typhoon shelter since the 19th century with post-war roots in boat yards and markets.
Key cultural landmarks:
- Hung Shing Temple (Hung Shing Street): A serene 1773 Taoist shrine dedicated to the sea god, reflecting the island’s maritime legacy.
- Ap Lei Chau Wind Tower Park (Ap Lei Chau Praya Road): A scenic green space with historic wind towers, playgrounds, and harbour vistas.
- Seafood markets along Main Street: Traditional stalls offering fresh catches, echoing the area’s fishing village heritage.
For deeper insights, explore the island’s revitalized typhoon shelters and preserved shophouses.
Things to Do
- Ap Lei Chau Waterfront Promenade: Stroll with panoramic Aberdeen Harbour views, picnic areas, and sunset spots.
- Horizon Plaza (Lee Nam Road): Hunt for designer bargains in this 28-floor outlet mall featuring furniture, fashion, and homeware brands.
- Sampan tours from Aberdeen: Hop aboard for boat rides through the typhoon shelter, spotting floating homes and jumbo seafood restaurants.
- Hiking nearby: Access trails to Mount Johnston for WWII ruins, bunkers, and sweeping Southside panoramas.
- Family parks: Relax at Ap Lei Chau Park with playgrounds, sports courts, and shaded benches ideal for picnics or quiet afternoons.
Housing & Accommodation
Ap Lei Chau offers a diverse residential mix, from high-density estates to waterfront luxury towers, ideal for families and professionals. Rental yields remain strong due to proximity to Aberdeen and growing retail appeal.
Residential Highlights
- Main Street & Ap Lei Chau Drive: Practical mid-rise apartments with harbour charm. 1-bedrooms from HK$18,000/month; 2-bedrooms from HK$25,000/month.
- Newer developments:
- Larvotto (南灣): Spacious family units with clubhouse facilities, pools, and expansive sea views.
- South Horizons (海怡半島): Premium residences featuring concierge, gym, and panoramic Lantau vistas.
- Marina South (南區左岸): Boutique-style living with contemporary finishes and easy access to promenades.
- Sham Wan Towers (深灣軒): Upscale apartments offering luxury amenities and vibrant waterfront living.
- Yue On Court (漁安苑): Value-driven options with efficient layouts and community conveniences.
Sale prices average HK$14,000–20,000 per sq ft in prime blocks. Jade Land Properties offers exclusive listings in spacious, light-filled executive residences with premium finishes and panoramic views.
School Network
Ap Lei Chau falls under School Net 18 (Southern District), a competitive net with strong local options and elite international schools on-site or nearby.
Local Schools
- Aplichau Kaifong Primary School: Solid foundation with community focus; short walk.
- St. Peter’s Catholic Primary School: Reputable Catholic primary feeding into Band 1 secondaries.
- Aberdeen Technical School: Vocational secondary with strong practical programs.
International Schools (within 15-min commute)
- The Harbour School (Ap Lei Chau Bridge Road): Progressive American curriculum from primary to high school; on-island campuses.
- Canadian International School (Nam Long Shan Road, Aberdeen): Through-train IB program; 5-minute bridge crossing.
- Singapore International School (Nam Long Shan Road, Aberdeen): Singaporean curriculum with bilingual emphasis; convenient bus.
- Hong Kong International School (Repulse Bay): Prestigious American-style education; 10-minute drive.
Residents also benefit from proximity to The University of Hong Kong (HKU), a world-leading university just 15–20 minutes away by MTR or bus, ideal for families with tertiary-bound children.
Many families in Ap Lei Chau choose the area for its balance of school access and coastal convenience.
Ap Lei Chau captures Hong Kong’s soul—heritage, affordability, and connectivity in one vibrant island district. Whether seeking a character-filled flat, a modern executive residence, or a cultural base, it delivers.
Contact Jade Land Properties for personalized property viewings or investment advice.
