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Sai Kung East Country Park

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Sai Kung East Country Park (Hong Kong SAR China)

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Sai Kung East Country Park is widely regarded as the scenic crown jewel of Hong Kong, encompassing 4,477 hectares of rugged coastline and pristine wilderness. Established in 1978, the park is globally recognized for its unique geological heritage, specifically the massive hexagonal volcanic rock columns at High Island, which are a key feature of the UNESCO Global Geopark. The park's terrain is defined by the sharp profile of Sharp Peak, a challenging climb that rewards hikers with unparalleled views of the South China Sea. Among its most cherished treasures are the secluded beaches of Tai Long Wan, where turquoise waters meet white sands far from the city's skyscrapers. The park also includes the High Island Reservoir, a massive water storage facility with a scenic dam that serves as a popular starting point for geological tours. Biodiversity flourishes here, providing a habitat for diverse birdlife, butterflies, and wild cattle that roam the coastal trails. For those seeking outdoor adventure, Sai Kung East has world-class hiking, camping, and kayaking, standing as a testament to Hong Kong's commitment to preserving its spectacular natural landscapes against the backdrop of rapid urbanization.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Mar, Nov.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C161820232628292828252217
Rain mm362972104210282185218161493025

📋 Practical info

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Getting there
The starting point for excursions into this natural paradise is usually Sai Kung town center. From there, green minibuses run to the East Dam of the High Island Reservoir or boats to the secluded beaches.
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Best season
To enjoy the turquoise water and light sand, late spring days or early autumn are well-suited. In the high summer heat, there is almost no shade along the coastal paths and beaches.
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Terrain & paths
In addition to relaxing shore walks on the fine sandy beaches, hilly paths often lined with bushes wait inland. The paths vary greatly from paved promenades to rocky natural stairs.
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What to bring
Swimwear for a detour into the sea should be packed as well as plenty of drinking water, as there are hardly any kiosks in the area. Light trekking shoes are the best choice for coastal hikes.
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Parking
Parking facilities in the center of Sai Kung are chronically overloaded, and private cars are not allowed to use many roads in the park. Traveling by public bus from Kowloon is strongly recommended.
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Safety
Pay attention to local currents when swimming in the sea, as secluded beaches are generally not supervised by lifeguards. Wild camping is only permitted in designated, official campsites.
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Time needed
Visitors can easily spend a full day in this scenic coastal park, be it on the beach or on the trails. The hike to the famous Tai Long Wan bay alone takes over two hours each way.

Geography

Coordinates
22.39400, 114.37300

Facts

  • Area: 4,470 hectares
  • Established in 1978
  • Sharp Peak: 468 m
  • Tsing Yi rock formations
  • Over 60 orchid species
  • Geotourism hotspot

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Notable places around

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Sai Kung East Country Park (6)

Fan Tsang Chau📍 landmark

Fan Tsang Chau is a maritime lighthouse tower guiding sea traffic near the coast.

Long Ke Wan📍 landmark

Long Ke Wan is a scenic coastal bay framed by natural shorelines.

Sai Wan Shan🌿 nature

Sai Wan Shan is an elevated natural mountain peak rising above the Sai Kung peninsula.

Sai Wan📍 landmark

Sai Wan is a scenic bay forming part of the renowned Tai Long Wan coastal inlet.

Long Ke Chai🎡 recreation

Long Ke Chai is a tranquil sandy shore offering a quiet coastal retreat.

Star Of The Sea Mass Centre⛪ religious

The Star Of The Sea Mass Centre is a local Christian church serving as a place of coastal worship.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Which is the most beautiful beach there?
Tai Long Wan is considered one of Hong Kong's most beautiful white-sand beaches.
How to get to Tai Long Wan?
You must either hike (approx. 90 mins) or take a speedboat if the sea is calm.
What is High Island Reservoir?
It is a massive freshwater reservoir known for its hexagonal rock columns.
Are there any shops there?
Only in small villages like Ham Tin are there simple restaurants; bring water.
Is it safe to swim in the park?
Beware of strong undercurrents at unpatrolled beaches like Tai Long Wan.
Sai Kung East Country Park: where is it located?
Sai Kung East Country Park is located in Hong Kong SAR China.
Sai Kung East Country Park: what is there to see?
Highlights include Fan Tsang Chau, Long Ke Wan, Sai Wan Shan.
Sai Kung East Country Park: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Mar, Nov.
Sai Kung East Country Park: why is it worth visiting?
Sai Kung East Country Park is widely regarded as the scenic crown jewel of Hong Kong, encompassing 4,477 hectares of rugged coastline and pristine wilderness.
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