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Waglan Lighthouse
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tower
Perched on the rugged Waglan Island at the southeastern extremity of Hong Kong's waters, the Waglan Lighthouse has been a silent sentinel for over a century. Built in 1893, it was designed to guide international vessels through the treacherous channels of the South China Sea toward the growing port of Hong Kong. The structure's resilience is legendary, having survived severe typhoons and the heavy shelling of World War II, which necessitated extensive post-war reconstruction. In 2000, it was rightfully designated as a statutory monument, honoring its architectural and maritime significance. The lighthouse features a sophisticated rotating beacon and was historically one of the most powerful in the region. Although the island is remote and generally inaccessible to the public, the lighthouse remains a crucial operational asset for modern navigation, symbolizing the city's long-standing status as a global maritime hub.
- Location: Hong Kong SAR China
- Nearby: Shek O (6 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 | 18 | 19 | 21 | 23 | 26 | 28 | 29 | 29 | 28 | 26 | 23 | 19 |
| Rain mm | 40 | 30 | 78 | 106 | 239 | 308 | 216 | 260 | 206 | 65 | 35 | 31 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Waglan Lighthouse on a remote island is not open to the public as it is still operational. However, you can see it from a boat or join organized tours that pass by the island.
Typical hours
The lighthouse itself has no opening hours. Boat tours that visit the island usually depart on weekends or by arrangement; advance booking is required.
Photography
Photographing the lighthouse from the boat is possible and has nice angles. Use a telephoto lens to capture details, as you cannot go ashore.
Time needed
A boat tour that includes Waglan Lighthouse usually takes half a day (about 4-5 hours). The actual viewing time on site is just a few minutes from the boat.
Combine with
Combine the lighthouse viewing with a trip to nearby Po Toi Island, known for its rock formations. Many tours offer both destinations.
Getting there
Waglan Lighthouse is only accessible by boat. Organized tours often depart from Aberdeen Pier or Sai Kung; inquire with local tour operators.
Insider tip
Book a tour with an experienced captain as the waters can be rough. Bring binoculars to better see the lighthouse and the surrounding birds.
Geography
Facts
- Commissioned in 1893.
- Height of 12 meters.
- Fresnel lens installed in 1893.
- Light range of 20 nautical miles.
- Automated in 1989.
- Located on a 1,500 sq m island.
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Notable places around
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Sights in the town Waglan Lighthouse (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Waglan Lighthouse located?
It is located on the remote Waglan Island in the far southeastern part of Hong Kong.
Can you visit Waglan Island?
No, the island is a restricted area and not accessible to tourists.
When did the lighthouse begin operation?
The lighthouse began operations in 1893.
What is unique about this lighthouse?
It was one of the first lighthouses in the region to be equipped with a modern rotating lens.
Are there weather stations there?
Yes, an important weather station of the Hong Kong Observatory is located on Waglan Island.
Waglan Lighthouse: where is it located?
Waglan Lighthouse is located in Hong Kong SAR China.
Waglan Lighthouse: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Nov, Dec.
Waglan Lighthouse: why is it worth visiting?
Perched on the rugged Waglan Island at the southeastern extremity of Hong Kong's waters, the Waglan Lighthouse has been a silent sentinel for over a century.
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