With international travel currently at a standstill, this is a great time to (re)discover the city beyond its concrete facade and embrace a Hong Kong that’s a little off the beaten path.

If you’re looking for something other than a five-star luxury hotel staycation, swap out city life for some tranquil greenery, quiet trails and sea views with our pick of five unique Hong Kong Airbnbs:  

Luxury farm retreat in the New Territories

Calling all green thumbs! Luxuriate in 100,000 square feet of lush, organic farmland out in the New Territories with two brightly-lit, spacious lodges with sweeping views of the surrounding greenery. Guests are encouraged to immerse themselves in the experience by roaming around and even helping out with farm work if they’re so inclined. When you’re ready for some relaxation, spend some time at the foot spa or in the hot tub – or both.

River Lodge and Mountain Lodge can sleep up to six guests each with two ensuite bedrooms plus one room for guests each.

Bookings: HK$6,820 per night on Airbnb; two-night minimum, 20 percent off for a week-long stay or 30 percent off for a month-long stay

The Lighthouse by Sai Kung Pier

Step into serenity at this Sai Kung home, where you’ll be surrounded by 10,000 square feet of greenery and floral gardens. Take in the natural beauty of Hong Kong from the private outdoor space, enjoy rooftop drinks as the sun goes down over 360-degree views of the Hebe Haven marina, then dine al fresco or barbecue with friends and family at the large communal table on the ground floor patio. Bring your pooch with you, too – it’s dog-friendly!

The Lighthouse (so named by its owner) is perfect for groups of four, as it features two ensuite bedrooms, each with their own king-size beds.

Bookings: HK$4,888 per night on Airbnb; five percent off for week-long stays and eight percent off for month-long stays.

Serene getaway on Lantau Island

Escape from the frenzy of city life at this tranquil getaway near Pui O on Lantau Island. Picture listening to birdsong all day while sitting in the garden, taking in the views of the mountains.

When you decide to get out of the house, take on one of the many nature trails surrounding it, or check out the beach at Pui O, a short seven-minute walk away. When you’ve been exhausted by all the outdoor excursions, enjoy a nice evening soak in the jacuzzi. This three-storey property accommodates up to six guests in its four bedrooms.

Bookings: HK$2,000 per night on Airbnb; one-week minimum for bookings and five percent discount for month-long stays

Cosy houseboat in Aberdeen

Feeling romantic? How about a houseboat in Aberdeen with gorgeous views of the mountains and the sea? Your cosy and undeniably unique Hong Kong staycation starts with an exciting sampan (boat taxi) ride out to the moored houseboat.

Take in the noises and smells of the sea during the day, and you might just see an elusive pink dolphin if you’re lucky. By night, unwind in the quiet of the evening with stunning views out onto the water. Great for group getaways as well, this one-bedroom houseboat accommodates up to four guests with a spare room.

Bookings: HK$1,375 per night on Airbnb; 10 percent off for week-long stays and 23 percent off for month-long stays.

Tip: Contact host Monika directly for availabilities of dates that aren’t marked as available.

Spacious houseboat in SoHo East

Located near the waterfront of Soho East at Shau Kei Wan Typhoon Shelter, this permanently moored houseboat has more than 2,000 square feet of living space spread over three floors.

Accessible only via sampan from 7am to 11pm, get there first to stake your claim on the master bedroom with a king bed. Then, take in the view from the rooftop deck and enjoy the evening at the barbecue grill and lounge. 

This houseboat accommodates up to eight guests in three bedrooms (one with a king bed and two with double beds) as well as a double sofa bed in the entertainment room.

Bookings: HK$2,500 per night on Airbnb; 15 percent off week-long stays and 25 percent off month-long stays

See also: Best Hong Kong hotel suites for your next staycation