From stunning beaches to islands filled with local charm, here’s the most comprehensive local guide to Sai Kung, Hong Kong.
Dubbed the “Back Garden of Hong Kong,” Sai Kung is a nature lover’s dream. Growing up in the nearby Tseung Kwan O, this neighbourhood is always my go-to for a relaxing weekend getaway, whether I’m in the mood for a hike or simply chilling at a cafe. Getting there might be a bit of a trek, but trust me when I say the trip is well worth it for Sai Kung’s tranquil beaches, laid-back eateries, cultural scenes, and other hidden gems. So, follow me and venture into Hong Kong’s serene countryside with this ultimate guide to Sai Kung.
A local’s guide to Sai Kung
How to get to Sai Kung
Reaching Sai Kung on public transport is relatively convenient and easy. From Hong Kong Island, hop on the Island Line towards Sau Kei Wan, and change for the Tseung Kwan O Line at North Point. Alight at Hang Hau Station and take Exit A for the Hang Hau Bus Terminus, where Minibus 101M takes you straight to Sai Kung Town.
If you’re coming from Kowloon, take the Kwun Tong Line towards Tiu King Leng and hop off at Choi Hung Station. From there, you’ll find Minibus 1A or Bus 92, both offering a direct route to the Sai Kung waterfront and pier.
Things to do in Sai Kung
1. Sai Kung beaches: The Tai Long Wan cluster
Tai Long Wan might be one of Hong Kong’s worst kept secrets. This cluster of sandy shores – Sai Wan, Ham Tin, Tai Wan, and Tung Wan – has earned their popularity with powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters. While Sai Wan and Ham Tin are conveniently located close to restaurants and other facilities, if, like me, you prefer staying away from the crowds, the more secluded Tai Wan and Tung Wan are well worth the hike.
A word of caution – the beaches of Tai Long Wan are not suitable for swimming or watersports due to strong rip-currents all-year-round. There are no lifeguards or shark nets in place, so be careful if you choose to take a dip.
How to get there: Hike the second section of the Maclehose Trail to get to Tai Long Wan
Address: Tai Long Wan, Sai Kung, Hong Kong
2. Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark
The breathtaking sights of the Hong Kong Geopark are a major reason why Sai Kung is considered as one of the most beautiful areas in the city. Here, you can marvel at volcanic rock formations and rolling hills that slope elegantly down to serene beaches. The highlight is the Sai Kung Volcanic Rock Region – a geological wonder over 100 million years in the making. These hexagonal columnar rock formations are rare phenomena said to have been formed after the High Island Supervolcano erupted 140 million years ago.
Also within the Geopark lies the picturesque High Island Reservoir. With no buildings in sight, just the vast expanse of the sky, sea, and mountains, you might just forget you’re still in Hong Kong! I’d recommend visiting the East Dam, which offers panoramic scenic views and is home to some of the most iconic volcanic rock formations.
How to get there: Hail a cab straight there or hop on Minibus 9A at Pak Tam Chung, alight at the High Island Reservoir East Dam, and walk
Address: Hong Kong Geopark, Sai Kung Country Park, Sai Kung, Hong Kong
3. Go island hopping around the Sai Kung volcanic cluster
Fancy a day of island hopping around Sai Kung? Make your way to the Old and New Sai Kung Ferry Piers and take your pick from the ferry services on offer! Many companies display their routes by destination, with popular choices being Sharp Island, Hap Mun Bay, and Tai Long Wan. However, if you have a specific island in mind, you can also ask to see if their sampan or kaito can take you there.
For first-timers, Sharp Island is an ideal destination where you can walk across a natural tomnolo between two islands during low tide! What’s more, fellow cultural enthusiasts should consider visiting Kau Sai Chau and Leung Shun Wan for their annual Hung Shing and Tin Hau Festivals. Just remember to load up on sunscreen before you set out!
How to get there: Flexible rides to Sharp Island, Hap Mun Bay, and Tai Long Wan; weekend services to Kau Sai Chau and Leung Shun Wan
Address: Sai Kung Public Pier, Sai Kung, Hong Kong
4. Sai Wan Stargazing Site
Removed from the city’s bright lights, Sai Kung is one of the best places for stargazing in Hong Kong. Personally, I’m not keen on overnight camping, so I like to visit the government’s Sai Wan Stargazing Site for a comfortable time under the stars. This curved wooden structure is designed for 360-degree stargazing, ensuring a prime spot to admire the skies above, wherever you choose to lay your head.
How to get there: Hike Maclehose Trail Section 2 and head towards Sai Wan Beach, the Stargazing Site is nearby
Address: Sai Wan Stargazing Site, Maclehose Trail Section 2, Sai Kung, Hong Kong
5. Sai Kung Rock Pools
If you want to take a dip in a breathtaking natural pool, I can attest to the beauty of four consecutive pools and water falls along Sheung Luk Stream – a tranquil scene that more than makes up for the trek to reach it. While I’m all for cooling off in the pool after a strenuous hike, I strongly advise against diving from the eight-metre drop at the end of the stream as it is extremely dangerous and has resulted in fatalities in the past. So, remember safety first!
How to get there: Hike along Maclehose Trail Section 2, Sheung Luk Stream flows inland from Sai Wan
Address: Sai Kung Rock Pools, Maclehose Trail Section 2, Sai Kung, Hong Kong
6. Explore abandoned Hakka villages: Yim Tin Tsai and Sheung Yiu
While Sai Kung is home to many historical Hakka settlements, Yim Tin Tsai and Sheung Yiu are two main cultural destinations. Yim Tin Tsai, meaning “Little Salt Field” in Cantonese, is a small island connected to Kau Sai Chau by a breakwater. Once a hub for salt production, you can learn about the island’s history today at the Yim Tin Tsai Heritage Exhibition Centre and the St. Joseph’s Chapel, before embarking on an island-wide hike.
Located east of Yim Tin Tsai is Sheung Yiu, another preserved Hakka village from the 19th century that’s been transformed into a cultural attraction since being declared a monument in the 1980s. Now, you can take a leisurely stroll through the revitalised compound complete with whitewashed homes, lime kilns, and a watch tower that faces out to sea.
How to get to Yim Tin Tsai: Take a ferry from Sai Kung New Public Pier to Yim Tin Tsai, the earliest ride leaves at 10am, the last ride back to Sai Kung leaves at 5pm; ferries run from Tuesdays to Sundays
How to get to Sheung Yiu: Take Bus 94, Minibus 7 or 9 and alight at Sheung Yiu Station, pass through Pak Tam Bridge and walk along the Pak Tam Chung Nature Trail for around 15 minutes
Opening hours: 10am – 6pm (Mar – Sep), 10am – 5pm (Oct – Feb) for Sheung Yiu Folk Museum
Address: Yim Tin Tsai, Sai Kung, Hong Kong; Sheung Yiu Folk Museum, Pak Tam Chung Nature Trail, Sai Kung, Hong Kong
Sai Kung cafe and bakery
7. Cuit
Since transitioning from an online bakery to a physical store in scenic Sai Kung, Cuit has garnered a loyal following with its exceptional baked goods and brews. I particularly enjoyed the laid-back vibe of the cafe, which makes its Market Fish Karaage Sando and indulgent French Toast that much more enjoyable. Highly recommend to book your table in advance or avoid peak hours when you visit.
Must-try items: Banana Bread, Caviar & Egg Sando, Peanut Sandy
Opening hours: 10am – 6pm (Wed – Sun)
Expect to spend: $50 – 100
Address: Cuit, G/F, 3A Po Tung Road, Sai Kung, Hong Kong
8. Little Cove Espresso
Little Cove needs no introduction. The Sai Kung branch of this popular cafe is consistently busy, with lines snaking around the front during lunch time. If you’re planning to sample the popular Breakfast Bowl, flavourful Shakshuka, and refreshing Red Dragon smoothie bowl, a weekday trip is your best bet to skip the queue! And if you decide to brave the weekend crowd, Little Cove’s relaxed interior and delectable bites promise to rejuvenate you after the long wait.
Must-try items: Pulled Pork Eggs Benedict, French Toast, Smoked Salmon on Sourdough Rye
Opening hours: 7:30am – 6pm
Expect to spend: $100 – 200
Address: Little Cove Espresso, Shop 1 – 2, G/F, Siu Yat Building, Sai Kung Hoi Pong Square, Sai Kung, Hong Kong
9. Law of Yogurt
Another Sai Kung favourite, Law of Yogurt sees a queue from opening to closing time. The highlight is undoubtedly their frozen yoghurt, available in cups, cones, with chia seeds and two toppings, and in shakes. This is my go-to for a summer treat in Sai Kung – nothing is as refreshing as its Passion Fruit Yoghurt Soy Shake after a day spent in the sun!
Must-try items: Winter Melon Lemonade, Greek Yoghurt with Chia Seeds, Yoghurt Shake
Opening hours: 1 – 8pm (Mon – Fri, Sun), 1 – 10pm (Sat)
Expect to spend: Under $50
Address: Law of Yogurt, Shop 3, G/F, Ko Fu Building, 58 Fuk Man Road, Sai Kung, Hong Kong
10. Sai Kung Cafe & Bakery
I’m particular about my buns, and Sai Kung Cafe & Bakery has just what I need to satisfy my pineapple bun cravings. The bakery also stocks a variety of classic baked goods, including Cocktail Buns, Mexico Buns, and more! Whether you’re in need of a morning pick me up or quick refuel after hiking one of the MacLehose sections, this bakery is here to give you a tasty and authentic sugar fix.
Must-try items: Pineapple Bun, Portuguese Egg Tart, Milk Tart
Opening hours: 7am – 9:30pm everyday
Expect to spend: Under $50
Address: Sai Kung Cafe & Bakery, Shop 6-7, G/F, Kam Po Court, 2 Sai Kung Hoi Pong Square, Sai Kung, Hong Kong
11. Cafe Pawsitive
Desperate for a mid-day bite after a morning of island hopping in Sai Kung? This cafe is here to keep things pawsitive. While this is no cat cafe, Cafe Pawsitive is still one of my favourite cafes in Hong Kong. Its laid-back vibe alone is enough to energise you after some intense grass touching in the Sai Kung wilderness, not to mention its delicious and diverse menu. I’m a big fan of its coffees and tea lattes, and you can’t go wrong with any of its handcrafted pastas.
Must-try items: Hojicha Latte, Carbonara with Japanese Soft Boiled Egg, Banh Mi with Smoked Salmon, Salmon Roe, and Cream Cheese
Opening hours: 11am – 7pm (Mon, Wed – Fri), 11am – 8pm (Sat – Sun, public holidays)
Expect to spend: $100 – 200
Address: Cafe Pawsitive, G/F, Kat Cheung Building, 41 – 42 Sai Kung Tai Street, Sai Kung, Hong Kong
Sai Kung restaurants
12. The Conservatory
I’ve found my new happy hour spot in Sai Kung – it’s The Conservatory! This restaurant serves a delightful range of European dishes, from Spanish to French to Italian. The buy-one-get-one-free HH deal is what drew me in during my last visit. You can choose from a decent selection of house wine and bubbles, and I was pleasantly surprised (and later, buzzed) by its rose and champagne options, which pair exceptionally well with the Patatas Bravas with Garlic Aioli and Crispy Serrano Ham and Fried Squid with Lemon and Harissa Aioli. Be sure to grab a seat at the alfresco area, which is decorated like a conservatory with lush greenery and elegant fixtures.
Must-try items: Margherita, Black Truffle Fries, Rioja Slow-braised Lamb Shoulder
Opening hours: 9am – 11pm everyday
Expect to spend: $100 – 200
Address: The Conservatory, G/F, 26 Wan King Path, Sai Kung, Hong Kong
The Conservatory website The Conservatory menu
13. Sing Kee Seafood Restaurant
When in Sai Kung, dining at a seafood restaurant is a must, and Sing Kee is one of the best in the neighbourhood. Far from the tourist-centric establishments along Seafood Street, this restaurant prides itself on serving authentic and reasonably priced fresh catches of the day. I recommend giving the Oyster Fried Rice and Rice Vermicelli Steamed Scallops a try.
Must-try items: Pepper Salt Abalone, Steamed Whole Garouper, Lobster E-fu Noodles
Opening hours: 11:30am – 10pm everyday
Expect to spend: $400 – 800
Address: Sing Kee Seafood Restaurant, G/F, 33 – 39 Sai Kung Tai Street, Sai Kung, Hong Kong
14. One Thirty One
I consider this restaurant to be one of the best kept secrets of Sai Kung. Tucked away in Tseng Tau Village in Shap Sze Heung, One-Thirty-One occupies an expansive space spanning a multi-storied village house, outdoor areas on the lawns, as well as a forested strip that surrounds the property. Inside, you can expect exceptional European fare served in a sophisticated setting. And when the weather isn’t scorching, I opt for one of the tables out back that overlooks Three Fathoms Cove. The restaurant serves a seasonally rotating tasting menu of European classics, so you’ll get a fresh dining experience on each visit.
Must-try items: Pan Seared Hokkaido Scallop, A4 Beef Striploin, Black Truffle Ice Cream
Opening hours: 3 – 11pm (Tue – Fri), 12– 11pm (Sat – Sun, public holidays)
Expect to spend: $400 – 800
Address: One-Thirty-One, G/F, 131 Tseng Tau Village, Shap Sze Heung, Sai Kung
One-Thirty-One website One-Thirty-One menu
15. Loaf On
Another hidden gem in Sai Kung, Loaf On is a down-to-earth Chinese restaurant serving star-worthy plates. There’s history in its humble tea house interior, where the decor and fixtures boast a dated charm. I recommend visiting with a large group so you can enjoy a wider selection from Loaf On’s extensive menu of fresh seafood, Sai Kung classics, and Cantonese staples.
Must-try items: Sai Kung Fish Broth, Salt and Pepper Tofu, Sai Kung Boat Claypot Rice
Opening hours: 11am – 10:30pm everyday
Expect to spend: $400 – 800
Address: Loaf On, G/F, 49 See Cheung Street, Sai Kung, Hong Kong
What neighbourhood should I hop to next? DM @honeycombershk on Instagram or drop me an email at celia.lee@thehoneycombers.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some must-try dining experiences in Sai Kung?
There are a wide range of dining options in Sai Kung. Some must-try experiences include seafood restaurants along the waterfront, casual cafes perfect for brunch, coffee, and light bites, and food stalls dotted along Hoi Pong Street.
What are the top things to do and see in Sai Kung beyond eating?
Sai Kung is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The top things to do include hiking the MacLehose Trail, island hopping, relaxing on beaches, and wandering through the charming streets of Sai Kung Town for local shops and restaurants.
How easy is it to get to Sai Kung from other parts of Hong Kong?
Sai Kung is well-connected to other parts of Hong Kong by public transport. Make your way to Choi Hung Station on the Kwun Tong Line or Hang Hau Station on the Tseung Kwan O Line and transfer to a bus or minibus. Minibus 1A or Bus 92 from Choi Hung and Minibus 101M from Hang Hau takes you straight to Sai Kung Town. You can also take a taxi.
