Island Shangri-La Hong Kong Review: Expert Advice & How to Book VIP

Ask anyone about their favorite luxury hotel in Hong Kong, and Island Shangri-La will likely top the list.

I frequently book it for clients, stay here, and have dined in the restaurants more times than I can count when I lived in HK. It’s comfortable, glamorous, a local icon, and a pillar of stability in an ever-changing city.

Guests are also drawn to its convenient location adjacent to Pacific Place mall, Hong Kong Park, and Admiralty MTR station, as well as its Horizon Club and plentiful options for families including connecting rooms and themed suites.

In this Island Shangri-La review, I’ll share everything you need to know about the hotel, including the best way to book with VIP perks through Virtuoso or Shangri-La Luxury Circle that I can secure for you.

Two Ways to Book VIP: Shangri-La Luxury Circle or Virtuoso

Whether you’re on a staycation or vacation, you’ll want my perks. At no additional cost, you can:

• Upgrade at the time of booking (subject to availability)
• Enjoy daily breakfast for two
• Receive a USD 100 hotel credit for rooms
• And so much more.

Which program you choose depends on the amenities you need. The full details of both are below. Kids 12 and older pay the adult rate.

Jump to VIP Reservation Info

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Pacific Place, Supreme Court Road, Central Hong Kong

+852 2877 3838

shangri-la.com

My Advice for Choosing Rooms and Suites

I know a lot about this hotel because part of my job is helping people decide which rooms to book.

The 56-story building has 544 rooms and suites that blend classic European charm with Asian-inspired décor. These are some of the largest accommodations in Hong Kong

What You’ll Find in Every Accommodation

• Connectivity: Complimentary Wi-Fi
• Bath & Personal Care: Pillow menu, premium toiletries, twice-daily housekeeping, and large marble bathrooms with a separate shower and soaking tub.
• Media & Entertainment: Flat-screen television, in-house movie channels
• Office & Convenience: Bedside lighting controls, executive desk, in-room safe, International Direct Dial telephone, voice mail
• Refreshments: Coffee and tea-making facilities, Nespresso coffee machine with capsules, water dispenser
• An Austrian crystal chandelier in every room!

Island Shangri-La offers over 200 connecting room options.

• A king room can connect to a twin room if both are in the same view category.
• An Executive View Suite can connect to a Horizon Club Harbour View room as well. (Speaking of the Horizon Club, please consider it.)

Island Shangri-La Hong Kong Rooms & Suites Comparison Charts

The most important thing to pay attention to is how many people are allowed in each room and whether it’s renovated.

All Room Types

The gallery below shows a version of every available room type, from the unrenovated Deluxe rooms to the renovated Horizon Harbour View rooms.

I think the photos help tremendously in understanding the decor and the views.

Luxury Suites

We also have some photos of a few of the luxury suites to give you a feel for their views and interiors.

Family Themed Rooms and Suites

A majority of people we work with who choose Island Shangri-La are families looking for guaranteed connecting rooms, but now there’s another option.

My favorite addition from the recent renovation is Island Shangri-La’s Family-Themed Rooms and suites. Their immersive designs, interactive play areas, and enchanting details bring stories to life.

It’s nice that there’s an entire floor (45th) dedicated to families with exclusive access to “The Pantry” with laundry and kid essentials and “The Hangout,” comfort and fun go hand in hand.

• The Pantry: This dedicated area on the 45th floor is stocked with childcare essentials, including baby-friendly food options, washing machines, and dryers for added convenience.
• The Hangout: This vibrant play space, located on the 45th floor, is filled with board games, books, and interactive play areas for kids of all ages.
• Workshops & Activities: A rotating schedule of arts, crafts, storytelling, and cultural experiences designed to engage young guests.

Common Family-Friendly Amenities

• Bath & Personal Care: Kids’ bathroom amenities, Dyson hairdryer, bathrobes, slippers, floor heating in family bathrooms
• Media & Entertainment: 65-inch & 75-inch flat-screen televisions, internet protocol TV with mirroring, access to “The Hangout” for workshops and games, theme play items in kids’ bedrooms
• Office & Convenience: Bedside lighting and curtain controls, wireless charging device, USB plug-in, in-room safe, International Direct Dial telephone
• Refreshments: In-room pantry with amenities, filtered hot and cold water taps, guest fridge, coffee and tea-making facilities, Nespresso coffee machine, TEA CHÂTEAU machine, water dispenser

Family Themed Rooms & Suites Overview

What’s Included with Horizon Club Lounge Access

The exact offerings at Horizon Club have varied slightly over the last few years because the hotel has been renovating. This means it’s important to check offerings during your stay.

Our clients who choose it are thrilled. One reported that the evening appetizers included roasted meats from Yat Lok, one of my favorite BBQ places in Hong Kong.

Horizon Club guests receive an elevated level of service and exclusive experiences. These include:

• Check-in and check-out in the club lounge
• A dedicated Club Concierge who takes care of itinerary and transportation needs
• Tea, coffee or another hot beverage of your choice delivered to your room with a wake-up call
• A variety of magazines, newspapers and board games
• Fresh fruit and newspaper delivered daily to your room or suite
• One complimentary suit pressing per day
• A portable Wi-Fi device for staying connected outside the hotel

Inside the Horizon Club Lounge, guests enjoy:

• Continental buffet breakfast (with some hot options) in the Club Lounge (can take away) or breakfast at Petrus <- I personally think the buffet at cafe TOO is better, but it’s nice to have options.
• Evening cocktails with free-flowing Champagne and canapés
• All-day beverages, including sparkling water, soda, juice, gourmet coffee drinks, and tea
• Wi-Fi and broadband internet access
• Wide selection of newspapers, magazines, and board games
• Use of meeting room facilities for two hours per day
• Adjoining, outdoor landscaped roof garden with Victoria Peak views

(During my stay, wine and beer were offered throughout the day in addition to delicious pastries and cookies in the afternoon. It’s adults-only after 7 p.m.)

Island Shangri-La Hong Kong Restaurants

I’ve been to Island Shangri-La more times than I can count because locals love the nine restaurants and bars.

This is high praise in a city full of competition when it comes to food and beverage. Guests enjoy Hong Kong food, but international cuisines as well.

Cafe Too

cafe TOO is the family-friendly buffet restaurant at Island Shangri-La. Bring your appetite to enjoy presentations at the ten chef stations and multiple food displays in between. Elaborate buffets are served at breakfast, lunch, weekend afternoon tea, and dinner.

Options embrace multiple cuisines from noodle soups and dim sum to wagyu beef cutting stations and Boston lobster (offerings depend on the time of day). Just bring your appetite. I think the breakfast buffet here is way better than the one in the Horizon Club.

Summer Palace

Go to Michelin-starred Summer Palace for Cantonese favorites including dim sum lunch. Signature dishes include Baked King Prawn in Truffle Pesto Sauce, Pan-fried Beef Ribs with Goose Liver Paste and Chilled Sago Cream with Mango Juice and Pomelo. Do make a reservation well in advance.

Petrus

My husband used to entertain clients quite a bit at Petrus, which is famous for its massive wine cellar filled with prime vintages from renowned French vineyards. Besides, the spectacular views of Victoria Harbour are not outweighed by the delicious modern French cuisine.

Petrus houses one of the largest collections of wine in Asia at over 12,000 bottles that Master Sommelier Yohann Jousselin helps curate. Make a reservation. It’s one of the best restaurants in all of Hong Kong.

Nadaman

When you crave Japanese food, head to Nadaman, another local institution. You can find sushi and a teppanyaki bar there, but the highlight is kaiseki, a multicourse dinner with outstanding taste and presentation.

The original Nadaman was founded in 1830 in Osaka and has since expanded into many other locations. The location at Island Shangri-La was the first Nadaman established outside of Japan.

Lobster Bar and Grill

With its long mahogany bar area and a 90-seat dining room, Lobster Bar and Grill is an intimate space for artisanal cocktails, fresh seafood, and a spectacular weekend brunch with free-flowing Champagne and wines.

Don’t skip the signature Lobster Bisque. Enjoy live jazz performances Monday to Saturday from 8 p.m.

Lobby Lounge

As the name implies, the Lobby Lounge is next to the main lobby and an easy place to meet for a drink or afternoon tea. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the space with light and provide guests with a view of the 140-year-old Banyan tree that is painstakingly cared for.

Island Gourmet

I’m a huge fan of grab-and-go outlets at luxury hotels. Island Gourmet gives you this choice in addition to dine-in menu featuring a la carte items and an afternoon tea set. The patisserie is perfect for picking up cakes or desserts to take to your room or to enjoy outside of the hotel, at Hong Kong Park or elsewhere.

Ming Pavilion

The newest addition to Island Shangri-La’s dining scene, Ming Pavilion specializes in authentic regional Chinese cuisine, blending traditional flavors with contemporary presentations.

Known for its handcrafted dim sum, signature clay pot dishes, and premium seafood, this restaurant offers a sophisticated yet welcoming ambiance.

In-Room Dining

Of course, the hotel offers delicious in-room dining 24 hours a day.

If you book using Shangri-La Luxury Circle, you’ll have in-room dining as an option for your included breakfast. You choose a full breakfast set: Chinese, American, Continental, Japanese, or Healthy. The cost of your breakfast set is deducted from your bill, and, trust me, it is a lot of food.

I have the current in-room dining breakfast menu.

Wellness Experiences and Activities

The high-rise Hong Kong luxury hotel has some other resort-like amenities.

An Outdoor Hong Kong Hotel Pool

This is a lovely outdoor pool deck with water heated during winter months (trust me, you won’t need a heated pool in summer). Notice the view of famous skyscrapers in the background, like the Bank of China building. The depth ranges from about 3-6 feet (1-2 meters). Swim for exercise or recreational purposes.

An outdoor Jacuzzi awaits next to the pool near the lawn area. Locals can buy memberships to Island Shangri-La’s health and fitness facilities so that the pool deck can be busy on weekends with good weather.

Spa & Wellness

Unwind, recharge, and rejuvenate with Island Shangri-La’s premium wellness offerings.

• Spa: Indulge in a luxurious spa treatment featuring holistic therapies, signature massages, and rejuvenating facials.
• Group Classes: You can participate in a variety of fitness sessions, from yoga and pilates to high-intensity training and meditation.
• Membership Plan: Exclusive access to wellness benefits, spa discounts, and priority bookings for hotel guests and members.

Health Club Facilities

The fitness center has plenty of equipment to work off dim sum, including free weights, cardio equipment, and more, with trained staff to help.

The health club also has a nice indoor Jacuzzi to soothe tired muscles, five massage treatment rooms, a steam room, a sauna, a tanning solarium, and a refreshment bar.

Unique Art and Decor Around the Hotel

Not to be missed is the 16-story The Great Motherland of China, which spans floors 41-56. It’s the world’s largest indoor Chinese silk mural, featuring over 250 Chinese silk panels hand-painted by over 40 artisans over six months.

When you see it, look for landmarks like the Great Wall and Huangguoshu Waterfalls. The painting represents the great landscape of China, from Qinghai and Tibet to Shangdong Province on the Yellow Sea and from Beijing to Guilin.

Over 900 pieces of Chinese are scattered throughout the hotel.

You’ll never forget what day it is,, as the elevator carpets are changed out daily to remind you. Kids will enjoy these elevators, which are bubble lifts, so they can see how high or low they’re going.

You’ve probably noticed the Austrian crystal chandeliers in some of these photos. The three in the lobby weigh three tons each. Housekeeping staff meticulously hand-clean the crystals every three months.

What I Love About the Admiralty Neighborhood

When we first moved to Hong Kong, we lived in the Admiralty neighborhood for about a year. I liked this location.

Admiralty is adjacent to the Central business district on Hong Kong Island. I would often walk between the two (ask for directions, as there are some turns to take). Admiralty hotels can price ever so slightly lower than the luxury hotels in Central, which is a perk.

Perks of Pacific Place Mall and Hong Kong Park Location

Island Shangri-La hotel is adjacent to Pacific Place mall and Hong Kong Park. It’s also a neighbor to the Conrad, Upper House, and JW Marriott hotels, which means their restaurants are also a short walk away.

Inside the mall, you’ll find some shops (including many designer brands), a Lane Crawford department store, GREAT food hall and gourmet grocery store, a movie theater, a chemist, and multiple dining outlets.

The other benefit of being attached to a shopping mall is that you’ll always have something nearby to do in inclement weather and don’t have to go outside in humid summer weather for essentials.

Families and fitness enthusiasts will like being next to Hong Kong Park. There’s a playground (about 10 minutes walk from the hotel), little ponds with turtles and koi fish, a teaware museum, a giant waterfall to walk behind, a small seasonal butterfly garden, and more.

I mention fitness because my boot camp used to run through here. It’s hilly terrain with steps in parts and a nice place for a walk or jog, weather permitting.

Admiralty MTR Station

The MTR station is Admiralty, one stop on the South Island Line to Ocean Park. In the other directions, it’s one stop to Central and one stop to Kowloon.

You will use the MTR, especially when in Hong Kong with kids, as aside from the mall, Hong Kong Park, and Peak Tram, other popular Hong Kong attractions like Tai Kwun, Man Mo Temple, Mid Levels escalator, Soho, etc., are a further walk away.

Getting to the Hotel From Hong Kong International Airport

There are a few ways to get to Island Shangri-La Hong Kong from Hong Kong International Airport.

Private Transfer

Island Shangri-La will arrange a private airport transfer. A Shangri-La representative will meet you in the arrivals hall right after baggage claim and escort you to the transfer.

It’s rather easy. The hotel’s fleet of limousines includes a Rolls-Royce Phantom, luxury six-seater vans, and Mercedes-Benz S-class sedans, and it offers complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi.

Airport Express

Many travelers and residents opt for the Airport Express train. It takes 24 easy minutes from Hong Kong International Airport to reach Central station. Right after you exit the train and its turnstiles, walk straight, and you’ll see taxi queues.

From here, hop into a taxi for the approximately (depending on traffic) 10-minute ride to Island Shangri-La. 

Families will need to consider taxi size. Most Hong Kong taxis comfortably seat no more than four passengers outside of the driver and probably have room for two large and one or two small suitcases in the trunk. Many families with a lot of luggage take two taxis.

Getting Back to the Airport

Getting to the airport is even easier. Take a taxi to the Airport Express station in Central, where most airlines have check-in desks.

You’ll then board the train with airline tickets in hand and your luggage already checked through to your destination. After arriving at the airport, you’ll proceed straight to security and customs with only your carry-on bags.

Which method you choose depends on how many people are traveling with you, how much luggage you have, whether you’d be traveling during rush hour, and how much you value the convenience of a driver.

Final Thoughts

Island Shangri-La Hong Kong continues to uphold its reputation as one of the city’s finest luxury hotels. With elegant accommodations, world-class dining, a prime location, and exceptional service, it’s easy to see why so many guests return time and time again.

Whether you’re a business traveler, a family, or a couple, Island Shangri-La Hong Kong delivers an unforgettable experience with refined hospitality.