Are you looking for a getaway from the hustle and bustle of Hong Kong? Do you want to experience the natural and cultural wonders of this vibrant city? If yes, then you should head to Sai Kung, a hidden gem in Hong Kong’s back garden. Sai Kung is a district in the eastern part of the New Territories, known for its stunning scenery, diverse heritage, and leisure activities. Whether you are a nature lover, a foodie, or a thrill-seeker, Sai Kung has something for everyone.
In this article, we will guide you through the best ways to get to Sai Kung, what to see and do there, where to stay, and more. Read on to discover why Sai Kung is a must-visit destination for your next trip to Hong Kong.
How to Get to Sai Kung
Getting to Sai Kung from other parts of Hong Kong is easy and convenient. You have several options to choose from, depending on your budget, time, and preference. Here are some of the best ways to travel to Sai Kung:
By bus:
Taking a bus is the cheapest and most eco-friendly way to get to Sai Kung. There are several bus routes that connect Sai Kung with other areas, such as Kowloon, Hong Kong Island, and the airport. You can use the Citybus or KMB websites to check the bus schedules, fares, and routes. The bus journey usually takes around an hour, depending on the traffic and the destination.
By minibus:
Taking a minibus is another affordable and convenient way to get to Sai Kung. Minibuses are smaller and faster than buses, and they can take you to more remote places in Sai Kung. You can find minibuses at various locations, such as Mong Kok, Choi Hung, Hang Hau, and Diamond Hill. You can use the 16seats website to check the minibus routes and fares. The minibus journey usually takes around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the traffic and the destination.
By taxi:
Taking a taxi is the most comfortable and flexible way to get to Sai Kung. Taxis are available 24/7, and they can take you to any place in Sai Kung. You can hail a taxi on the street, or use the HK Taxi app to book one online. The taxi fare depends on the distance, time, and tolls, but it usually ranges from 150 to 300 HKD. The taxi journey usually takes around 30 to 40 minutes, depending on the traffic and the destination.
By car:
Driving a car is the most adventurous and independent way to get to Sai Kung. You can rent a car from various providers, such as Avis, Hertz, or EasyRentCars. You can use the Google Maps app to navigate your way to Sai Kung. The driving time and cost depend on the traffic, the route, and the parking fees, but it usually takes around 30 to 40 minutes, and costs around 100 to 200 HKD. Driving a car gives you the freedom to explore Sai Kung at your own pace, but you should also be aware of the road conditions, the traffic rules, and the parking availability.
What to See and Do in Sai Kung
Sai Kung is a paradise for nature lovers, foodies, and thrill-seekers. There are so many things to see and do in Sai Kung, that you will never get bored. Here are some of the best attractions and activities in Sai Kung, divided into categories:
Beaches
Sai Kung has some of the most beautiful and pristine beaches in Hong Kong. You can relax on the soft sand, swim in the clear water, or enjoy the scenic views. Some of the best beaches in Sai Kung are:
Tai Long Wan: Tai Long Wan is a stunning bay with four beaches: Sai Wan, Ham Tin, Tai Wan, and Tung Wan. It is one of the most popular and scenic spots in Sai Kung, and it is also a great place for surfing, camping, and hiking. You can get to Tai Long Wan by taking a boat from Sai Kung town, or by hiking from Pak Tam Au or Sai Wan Pavilion.
Long Ke Wan: Long Ke Wan is a secluded and tranquil beach with white sand and turquoise water. It is a perfect place for relaxing, swimming, and snorkeling. You can get to Long Ke Wan by taking a boat from Sai Kung town, or by hiking from the East Dam of High Island Reservoir.
Hap Mun Bay: Hap Mun Bay is a small and charming beach with golden sand and calm water. It is a family-friendly and accessible place, with facilities such as changing rooms, showers, toilets, and barbecue pits. You can get to Hap Mun Bay by taking a boat from Sai Kung town, or by hiking from Chek Keng.
Islands
Sai Kung has over 260 islands, ranging from tiny rocks to large landmasses. You can explore the islands by taking a boat, kayaking, or hiking. Some of the best islands in Sai Kung are:
Sharp Island: Sharp Island is a large and diverse island, with features such as volcanic rocks, sandy beaches, coral reefs, and mangroves. It is a great place for hiking, swimming, fishing, and picnicking. You can get to Sharp Island by taking a boat from Sai Kung town, or by walking across the tombolo at low tide.
Yim Tin Tsai: Yim Tin Tsai is a small and historic island, with a rich cultural heritage. It is famous for its salt pans, which were once the main source of income for the islanders. It is also home to the St. Joseph’s Chapel, a Catholic church that was built in 1890 and restored in 2004. You can get to Yim Tin Tsai by taking a boat from Sai Kung town, or by kayaking from Sharp Island.
Kiu Tsui Chau: Kiu Tsui Chau is a scenic and adventurous island, with attractions such as hexagonal rock columns, sea caves, and arches. It is a popular place for rock climbing, coasteering, and geotourism. You can get to Kiu Tsui Chau by taking a boat from Sai Kung town, or by kayaking from Sharp Island.
Geopark
Sai Kung is part of the Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark, a network of sites that showcase the geological diversity and history of Hong Kong. You can learn about the geopark by visiting the visitor centres, taking a guided tour, or joining a geo-trail. Some of the best geopark sites in Sai Kung are:
High Island Reservoir: High Island Reservoir is a man-made reservoir that was built in 1978 by damming the Kwun Mun Channel. It is one of the largest reservoirs in Hong Kong, and it is also a geopark site, with features such as hexagonal rock columns, sea caves, and sea stacks. You can get to High Island Reservoir by taking a bus or a taxi to the East Dam, or by hiking from Pak Tam Chung or Sai Wan Pavilion.
Ninepin Group: Ninepin Group is a group of islands that are named after their shapes, such as Kwo Chau, Cham Chau, and Tai Chau. They are geopark sites, with features such as volcanic rocks, sea arches, and sea stacks. You can get to Ninepin Group by taking a boat from Sai Kung town, or by joining a guided tour.
Port Island: Port Island is a small and remote island that is a geopark site, with features such as rhyolitic rocks, pillow lavas, and breccias. It is a place for geology enthusiasts, who can appreciate the rare and ancient rocks. You can get to Port Island by taking a boat from Sai Kung town, or by joining a guided tour.
Hiking
Sai Kung is a paradise for hikers, with trails that suit all levels of difficulty and fitness. You can hike through the country parks, the coastlines, the hills, and the islands, and enjoy the views, the wildlife, and the fresh air. Some of the best hiking trails in Sai Kung are:
MacLehose Trail Section 2: MacLehose Trail Section 2 is a challenging and rewarding trail that runs from Long Ke to Pak Tam Au. It is about 13.5 km long, and it takes about 5 hours to complete. It passes through the High Island Reservoir, the Sai Kung East Country Park, and the Tai Long Wan beaches. It offers stunning views of the sea, the islands, and the mountains.
Sai Kung Peninsula Circular Walk: Sai Kung Peninsula Circular Walk is a moderate and enjoyable trail that runs from Pak Tam Chung to Sai Kung town. It is about 12 km long, and it takes about 4 hours to complete. It passes through the Sai Kung West Country Park, the Sheung Yiu Folk Museum, the Sharp Island Pier, and the Sai Kung Promenade. It offers views of the countryside, the villages, and the harbour.
Sharp Peak: Sharp Peak is a difficult and rewarding trail that runs from Pak Tam Au to Tai Long Au. It is about 9 km long, and it takes about 5 hours to complete. It passes through the Nam She Tsim, the Sharp Peak, and the Tai Long Wan beaches. It offers views of the peaks, the valleys, and the sea. It is one of the most challenging and rewarding hikes in Hong Kong, but it is also one of the most dangerous and steep. It is only recommended for experienced and fit hikers.
Water Sports
Sai Kung is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts, with activities that suit all levels of skill and thrill. You can enjoy the water by kayaking, sailing, windsurfing, stand-up paddle boarding, or diving. Some of the best places for water sports in Sai Kung are:
Sai Kung Water Sports Centre: Sai Kung Water Sports Centre is a public facility that offers various water sports courses and equipment rentals. You can learn and practice kayaking, sailing, windsurfing, and stand-up paddle boarding at the centre, with qualified instructors and safety equipment. You can also rent the equipment and explore the nearby islands and beaches on your own. You can get to Sai Kung Water Sports Centre by taking a bus or a taxi to Sha Ha Road, or by walking from Sai Kung town.
Hoi Ha Wan Marine Park: Hoi Ha Wan Marine Park is a protected area that hosts a rich and diverse marine life. You can enjoy the marine park by kayaking, snorkeling, or diving, and see the coral reefs, the fish, and the sea turtles. You can also visit the Hoi Ha Visitor Centre, which provides information and exhibits on the marine park. You can get to Hoi Ha Wan Marine Park by taking a bus or a taxi to Hoi Ha Village, or by hiking from Pak Tam Chung or Sai Wan Pavilion.
Clearwater Bay: Clearwater Bay is a beautiful and popular area that offers stunning views of the sea and the islands. You can enjoy the clear water by kayaking, sailing, windsurfing, or stand-up paddle boarding, and see the rock formations, the caves, and the beaches. You can also visit the Clearwater Bay Country Park, which provides trails and picnic areas. You can get to Clearwater Bay by taking a bus or a taxi to Clearwater Bay Road, or by driving a car.
Where to Stay in Sai Kung
Sai Kung has a range of accommodation options, from hotels and guesthouses to campsites and homestays. You can choose the option that suits your budget, preference, and style. Here are some of the best accommodation options in Sai Kung:
Concerto Inn:
Concerto Inn is a cozy and comfortable hotel that is located on the Hung Shing Yeh Beach in Lamma Island. It offers rooms and suites with sea views, balconies, and free Wi-Fi. It also has a restaurant, a bar, and a garden. It is a perfect place for relaxing, enjoying the beach, and exploring the island. You can get to Concerto Inn by taking a ferry from Central to Yung Shue Wan, and then walking for 20 minutes along the Family Trail.
Sai Kung Garden Inn:
Sai Kung Garden Inn is a charming and friendly guesthouse that is located in the Sai Kung town centre. It offers rooms with air-conditioning, TV, and free Wi-Fi. It also has a common area, a kitchen, and a rooftop terrace. It is a convenient place for accessing the shops, restaurants, and transport in Sai Kung. You can get to Sai Kung Garden Inn by taking a bus, a minibus, a taxi, or a car to Sai Kung town.
Sai Yuen Farm:
Sai Yuen Farm is a fun and adventurous campsite that is located on the Cheung Chau Island. It offers various types of tents, such as Mongolian yurts, African safari tents, and Native American teepees. It also has facilities such as showers, toilets, barbecue pits, and a playground. It is a great place for experiencing the nature, culture, and activities of Cheung Chau. You can get to Sai Yuen Farm by taking a ferry from Central to Cheung Chau, and then walking for 15 minutes along the Sai Yuen Road.
Sai Kung is a hidden gem in Hong Kong’s back garden, that offers a variety of attractions and activities for all kinds of travellers. You can enjoy the natural beauty, the cultural diversity, and the leisure activities of Sai Kung, and have a memorable and enjoyable trip. Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway, a thrilling adventure, or a cultural exploration, Sai Kung has something for you.
So, what are you waiting for? Plan your trip to Sai Kung today, and discover why it is one of the best places to visit in Hong Kong.
