Elements of the marine resource which have recreational value include marine parks and reserves, fish stocks and habitats such as corals. Hong Kong has an extensive coastline and a long historical association with the sea, and marine-related recreation is particularly significant. Rare species such as the Chinese White Dolphin form a particular focus for both research and interested visitors with boat trips to their natural habitat north of Lantau affording an opportunity for conservation education and recreation to be combined.

Use of the marine environment for other recreational pursuits is also popular in Hong Kong. There are many sandy beaches in the territory (see Paragraph 5.2.1.26 - 5.2.1.30, Marine Water Assimilative Capacity for a discussion on beach water quality) which are managed to provide facilities for visitors such as shark prevention nets to facilitate swimming. Diving appears to be increasing in popularity in areas where waters are clearer and less polluted, and recreational fishing also has a significant active membership. A survey undertaken by Scuba Network on Hong Kong divers in 1996 (http://www.scuba.net.hk, downloaded February 2000) estimated there were over 20,000 local divers with around 3,000 of them qualified as instructors.

Although recreation is strictly controlled in the marine reserve at Cape D'Aguilar (which is designated for conservation and education only), recreational activities such as sailing, windsurfing and diving are permitted in other areas including the Marine Parks.

Many of Hong Kong's Declared Monuments are open to the public and form an interesting recreational resource as well as having importance for educational purposes. A number of monuments and other heritage resources are located within or close to urban areas and walking tours have been designed and promoted by a number of organisations including the AAB and AMO.