Clubs and societies in Hong Kong are extremely popular with expats, and many are centuries-old institutions.

For expats, these clubs often become a home away from home. They typically have bars, restaurants, gyms, and swimming pools, and many run a regular calendar of social events. Joining one is an excellent way to meet like-minded expats and make friends in Hong Kong.

Club membership in Hong Kong

There are two broad tiers of club membership in Hong Kong. The most exclusive clubs operate waiting lists, and membership depends on being nominated and seconded by existing members. The monthly or annual fees at these clubs can be pricey, and some run a debenture system where the sums can be substantial. Membership can sometimes be passed on to friends or family. Some companies negotiate fast-track membership for relocating staff as an added employment perk.

At the other end, a few sporting and social clubs have far more affordable packages and more relaxed membership policies. For most expats, a club makes more sense as a family investment than a solo one, since much of the value lies in the pools, sports facilities, dining, and children’s activities.

Clubs in Hong Kong

Golf club by Jopwell from Unsplash

The Aberdeen Marina Club

This invitation-only club has several restaurants, a private marina, sports and leisure facilities, and a full programme of member activities.

The American Club Hong Kong

Expats meet for business and social occasions at the American Club, which runs both a Town Club in Central and a Country Club at Tai Tam. The club keeps a distinctly American atmosphere, and membership is open to all nationalities.

The Clearwater Bay Golf and Country Club

The Clearwater Bay Golf and Country Club has a wide range of facilities, from golf, tennis, squash, and swimming to dining and shopping, and sporty expats are spoilt for choice.

The Foreign Correspondents’ Club

Founded in 1943 and housed in a historic former dairy depot in Central, the Foreign Correspondents’ Club is one of the most famous press clubs in the world. Its members come from the media, business, the diplomatic community, and the wider professional community, and it is a good venue for meetups.

Gold Coast Yacht & Country Club

On the Castle Peak Bay waterfront, the Gold Coast Yacht and Country Club has a full range of social programmes and dining venues. The clubhouse is built in a Mediterranean style and has sea views.

The Hong Kong Cricket Club

Founded in 1851, the Hong Kong Cricket Club is the oldest cricket club in East Asia. Members have access to a wide range of sporting facilities, although the focus is naturally on cricket. The club also runs junior cricket and community programmes that are open to non-members.

Hong Kong Football Club

Founded in 1886 and set beside the Happy Valley Racecourse, the Hong Kong Football Club is about far more than football. Members play a wide range of competitive and recreational sports, from rugby and hockey to squash, tennis, and lawn bowls.

Ladies’ Recreation Club

One of Hong Kong’s most family-friendly clubs, the Ladies’ Recreation Club started life in 1883 as a women-only institution and now welcomes men and children of all nationalities too. It has 10 tennis courts, indoor and outdoor pools, squash and badminton courts, a gym, and a spa.

What do expats say about meeting people and making friends in Hong Kong?

"The easiest way [to make friends] is to join some associations or attend gatherings or meetings organised by consulates or other groups to widen the network."

French expat Edouard gives some tips on meeting people and making friends in his expat interview about living in Hong Kong.

 "Hong Kong has an abundance of social clubs and expat forums to join activities like wine nights, sporting groups, book clubs… You name it."

Read more about Kate’s time and how she made friends in her expat interview on Hong Kong.

Further reading

►See Banking, Money and Taxes in Hong Kong for information about the currency and banking system

Are you an expat living in Hong Kong?

Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Hong Kong. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute, or fill in our expat interview form to be featured.