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Big Wave Bay Rock Carvings
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The Big Wave Bay Rock Carvings are a significant archaeological site located on the eastern coast of Hong Kong Island. Discovered in 1970 by a police officer, these ancient petroglyphs are estimated to be around 3,000 years old, dating back to the Bronze Age. The carvings feature intricate, curvilinear designs that resemble stylized animals or mythical dragons, likely created by early maritime inhabitants to appease the sea spirits. Situated on a vertical rock face just above the shoreline, the site is now protected by a glass enclosure to safeguard it from the elements. The carvings were declared a statutory monument in 1978 and are a popular stop for hikers traversing the scenic coastal trail between Big Wave Bay and Shek O. They provide a rare and tangible link to the pre-colonial history of Hong Kong, reflecting the artistic skill and spiritual beliefs of the region's earliest settlers long before the modern metropolis emerged.
- Location: Hong Kong SAR China
- Top sights: Pottinger Peak · rock carving at Cape Collinson · Ngan Wan
- Nearby: Stanley (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Nov, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 17 | 18 | 20 | 23 | 26 | 28 | 29 | 29 | 28 | 26 | 23 | 19 |
| Rain mm | 40 | 31 | 85 | 112 | 247 | 294 | 216 | 253 | 195 | 69 | 32 | 26 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The rock carvings at Big Wave Bay are outdoors on a cliff above the sea. Access is free and possible at any time, but the path is not wheelchair-friendly.
Typical hours
As it is a free open-air site, there are no fixed opening hours. However, access may be difficult at high tide or in bad weather - best visited at low tide.
Photography
Photography is unrestricted, but the carvings are protected by fences - so telephoto shots are recommended. The combination of rocks and sea also features great landscape photos.
Time needed
The walk from Big Wave Bay to the parking area and the rock carvings takes about 30 minutes round trip. For a thorough viewing and photography, allow one hour.
Combine with
A visit to the rock carvings can be combined with a beach day at Big Wave Bay. Nearby Cape D'Aguilar with its lighthouse and nature reserve is also worth a detour.
Getting there
Big Wave Bay is reachable by bus from Shau Kei Wan or by taxi. From the bus terminus, it's about a 15-minute walk to the beach and onwards to the rock carvings.
Insider tip
Visit the rock carvings early in the morning when the sun optimally lights up the patterns. Wear sturdy footwear as the path goes over rocky terrain.
Geography
Facts
- Accidentally discovered by a policeman in 1970
- Date back to the Bronze Age (c. 1000 BC)
- Depict stylised monster or animal motifs
- Located at the eastern end of Hong Kong Island
- Declared a statutory monument in 1978
- The carved area measures roughly 90 by 180 cm
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
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Sights in the town Big Wave Bay Rock Carvings (6)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What do the carvings depict?
They depict abstract geometric patterns and animal motifs from the Bronze Age.
How old are the rock carvings?
The carvings are approximately 3,000 years old.
Is there an admission fee?
No, access to the Big Wave Bay carvings is free.
Are they easy to find?
Yes, they are located at the end of a short, marked path on the beach.
Are you allowed to touch the carvings?
No, they are behind a glass barrier or fence for protection.
Big Wave Bay Rock Carvings: where is it located?
Big Wave Bay Rock Carvings is located in Hong Kong SAR China.
Big Wave Bay Rock Carvings: what is there to see?
Highlights include Pottinger Peak, rock carving at Cape Collinson, Ngan Wan.
Big Wave Bay Rock Carvings: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Nov, Dec.
Big Wave Bay Rock Carvings: why is it worth visiting?
The Big Wave Bay Rock Carvings are a significant archaeological site located on the eastern coast of Hong Kong Island.
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