From gorgeous beaches to a ghost island, here's a guide to things to do in Sai Kung.
One of the best parts of living in Hong Kong is that there always something new to explore. We’ve spent many a weekend enjoying a day of cycling, hiking up mountains, and shopping at local markets. If you haven’t been out to Sai Kung yet, you should put it on your agenda for your next adventure. Getting there is a bit of a trek but, trust us, the trip is well worth it for Sai Kung’s tranquil beaches, unique dining spots, and other hidden gems. Pack a backpack as we’ve found a list of fun things to do in Sai Kung.
Fun things to do in Sai Kung
1. Tai Long Wan
One of the worst kept secrets in Hong Kong, Tai Long Wan has four beaches: Sai Wan, Ham Tin, Tai Wan and Tung Wan. They’re considered some of the finest in the territory with their powdery white sand and crystal-clear water. Sai Wan and Ham Tin are popular with those who prefer to be close to restaurants and other facilities. If you want a break from the crowd, hike further down to Tai Wan and Tung Wan. Secluded and remote, they’re perfect for a solo surf day or an overnight camping trip with friends.
Learn more about the best beaches in Hong Kong.
Tai Long Wan, Sai Kung, Hong Kong
2. Sai Wan Stargazing Site
Away from the bright lights of the city, Sai Kung boasts some bright lights of its own! Free of light pollution, a sky full of stars emerges come nightfall. You can get a comfortable stargazing experience courtesy of the government’s Sai Wan Stargazing Site. Close by Sai Wan Beach along the Maclehose Trail Section 2, the curved structure is ergonomically designed for comfortable 360-degree stargazing. So, how about adding this to your date night itinerary?
Sai Wan Stargazing Site, Maclehose Trail Section 2, Sai Kung, Hong Kong
3. Sai Kung Volcanic Rock Region
As one of the most beautiful areas of Hong Kong, Sai Kung is home to a bucket list of natural attractions you need to explore. At the top of our list is the Sai Kung Volcanic Rock Region – a stunning phenomenon over 100 million years in the making. These hexagonal columnar rock formations are rare geological wonders, scattered around the Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark in Sai Kung. Said to have been formed after volcanic eruptions 140 million years ago, these weathered rocks can be admired from afar – just hop on one of the several boat tours in the area!
Hong Kong Geopark, Sai Kung, Hong Kong, p. 2394 1538
4. High Island Reservoir
Also part of the Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark, the High Island Reservoir is a stunning attraction in Sai Kung. With no buildings in sight, just the sun, sea, and mountains, you might just forget you’re in Hong Kong! Wondering how to get to the High Island Reservoir? There are two roads leading to the reservoir that connect the East Dam and the West Dam – you can either hop on a bus and then walk, or go straight there by hailing a cab. The East Dam is more picturesque and is home to some of the famous Sai Kung volcanic rock formations we mentioned above. Don’t miss out!
High Island Reservoir, Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark, Sai Kung, Hong Kong
5. Sai Kung Rock Pools
If you want to take a dip in a breathtaking natural pool, you have four chances to do so in Sai Kung, as there are four consecutive pools and falls along the Sheung Luk Stream. Getting there requires a hike, but a dip and a scenic picnic will make the trek more than worth it. However, here’s a word of warning: the eight-metre drop at the end may seem like the perfect Instagram challenge for the daredevils, but diving there is extremely dangerous and has resulted in fatalities. So, stay safe in groups and take extra caution when you visit!
Check out Hong Kong’s best waterfalls.
6. Splash Hong Kong
Have you ever dreamed of exotic underwater vacations, but don’t want to spend your holidays learning to dive? You can learn to dive on the weekends at Splash! The dive shop is PADI-certified and offers a wide range of classes to suit your needs. It also hosts weekend dive excursions around Hong Kong, as well as longer trips to the Philippines, Malaysia, and other exciting destinations.
Splash Hong Kong, 1/F, 10C Po Tung Road, Sai Kung, Hong Kong, p. 2792 4495
7. Yim Tin Tsai Village
A 15-minute boat ride away from the Sai Kung Pier is Yim Tin Tsai, an abandoned village on a small offshore island. In its heyday, the island had over a thousand inhabitants, but since the decline of the salt industry, people moved away. Now, it’s a fascinating place to visit for the nerd inside everyone, as you can roam around the 0.24sq-km ghost island steeped in history. While you’re exploring, be sure to snap a pic of the spooky homes.
Yim Tin Tsai Village, Sai Kung, Hong Kong
8. Go island hopping
There are plenty of islands you can get to from Sai Kung Ferry Pier – just hire a sampan! Whether you want to venture to Sharp Island, Hap Mun Bay, or Tai Long Wan, you’re in for a scenic treat with pristine beaches you’re not likely to find anywhere else in Hong Kong. For starters, you can literally cross the sea from one island to another at Sharp Island by walking on a rock path on low tide. Just load up on sunscreen (very important).
9. Wild Hong Kong
Feeling uneasy about exploring the great outdoors? Don’t worry! Wild Hong Kong is here to make sure you’re in safe hands by operating guided nature and adventure tours across the 852. With several tours available in Sai Kung, you can go on a hiking tour through amazing deserted beaches, or go kayaking in Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark. Who says nature newbies need to sacrifice their adventuring spirit?
Learn more about Wild Hong Kong online.
10. The Jockey Club Kau Sai Chau Public Golf Course
A public golf course is a rare commodity anywhere, let alone Hong Kong – so naturally one has to take advantage of it when in Sai Kung! Having said that, the slots are often fully booked in advance, so you may encounter some crowds. There are three sections, with the North Course being the largest. But all three golf courses have 18 holes and lush views of the Sai Kung Peninsula. Accessible by ferry from Sai Kung Ferry Pier, the golf course charges a more affordable entrance fee compared to those of pricey private golf courses, making golfing one of the best things to do in Sai Kung.
The Jockey Club Kau Sai Chau Public Golf Course, Sai Kung, Hong Kong, p. 2791 3380
11. Chuen Kee Seafood Restaurant
This family-run, Michelin-recommended restaurant is not to be missed when you’re in Sai Kung. Overlooking the Sai Kung Harbour, Chuen Kee Seafood Restaurant is serious about serving you the freshest seafood you can find in town. In fact, you can nab a fresh catch from the junks in the water, then bring it over to Chuen Kee Seafood Restaurant and tell them how you want it cooked. Alternatively, you can take your pick from the massive tanks at the restaurant that house everything from crabs to shrimps. Be sure to get a taste of the dim sum here as well – no-frills classics that are just as popular with diners as the seafood.
Chuen Kee Seafood Restaurant, 53 Sai Kung Hoi Pong Street, Sai Kung, Hong Kong, p. 2791 1195
12. Little Cove Espresso
One of the most popular cafes in Hong Kong, Little Cove Espresso is known for its delicious and healthy brunch food. This Insta-worthy hotspot may require a bit of a wait at peak hours, but a sit-down meal is definitely worth it. The sun-drenched cafe is the great stop to refuel after a long day exploring Sai Kung. On a clear day, park at an outdoor table and order a Red Dragon Smoothie Bowl and Smashed Avocado Toast – and you have yourself the perfect afternoon.
Little Cove Espresso (Sai Kung), Shop 1 and 2, G/F, Block A, Siu Yat Building, Sai Kung Hoi Pong Square, Sai Kung, Hong Kong, p. 6397 0875
[This article was originally published in March 2020 and updated in 2024 by Min Ji Park.]
