For a taste of nature just outside the city, hiking up Wutong Mountain is a favourite among locals and visitors alike. The mountain offers a range of trails, so whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for a scenic stroll, there’s something for every fitness level. The effort is well worth it when you’re rewarded with sweeping views of Shenzhen—and on clear days, you can even catch a glimpse of Hong Kong in the distance. While the hike is the main attraction, make sure to explore the Hongfa Temple, one of the largest and most revered in Shenzhen, as well as the botanical garden nestled in the mountain’s foothills, where you can relax and immerse yourself in lush greenery.

At the theme park Window of the World, visitors get to stroll through a mini-version of the globe. In just an afternoon, you can wander among over 130 replicas of iconic landmarks from five continents: snap a selfie beneath the towering Eiffel Tower, step back in time at the pyramids of Giza, and wind along the paths of Cambodia’s Angkor Wat. The park doesn’t just recreate famous sites—it also brings them to life with events year-round. Summer’s Beer Festival and Winter’s Dance Festival fill the grounds with live music, dancing, and international flavors.

Adjacent to the Seven Mile Beach and within walking distance from Lennox Head village lies Lake Ainsworth, a fresh water lake surrounded by trees. Tea-tree tannins and oil infuse this freshwater lake for the most refreshing swim of your life. Have a picnic or a barbecue and then take off on a water adventure such as kayaking, swimming and windsurfing.