Yung Shue Wan Harbour panorama

For any one suffering a hectic or busy lifestyle, Lamma Island is the ultimate chill out vacation. You can escape your busy routine and relax on one of the white sandy beaches or admire stunning natural landscapes which will take your breath away.

Lamma Island's relaxed and peaceful setting has proved irresistible for Hong Kong’s busy residents as well as tourists. If you are visiting from the USA or Europe then you have probably spent a lot of money on this trip, from paying out for flights, a car ticket and a week's worth of accommodation and food. But luckily for you there are plenty of inexpensive things to do in Lamma Island.

Why not visit the beautiful bay of Sham Wan? This historic coastal line is one of the five most important archaeological sites in Hong Kong. The bay marks the site of an important Bronze Age settlement which was actually only discovered by archaeologists in the 1970s. The evidence found suggested that people lived on the island as far back as 3000 BC.

If you are an animal lover then this is also the perfect place to spot Green Sea Turtles. This particular species are the only type of turtle which breeds in Hong Kong. Sham Wan is restricted from June 1 to October 31 to allow the turtles to breed.

The Tin Hau temples are the perfect place to visit if you want to admire stunning architecture and see typical places of worship in Hong Kong. The temples have been named after Tin Hau who is believed to be the goddess of the sea and of fishermen. Legend has it that she protects the fisherman and makes sure they catch full nets.

Depending on when you plan to visit Lamma Island, you might be there during one of their extravagant festivals. One of Lamma Island's greatest festivals is the Chinese New Year; at the stroke of midnight, fireworks are set off which the the people believe frightens away evil spirits.

(Updated: February 25, 2015)