MacLehose Trail (Section 2: Tai Long Wan beaches)
Section 2 of the MacLehose Trail takes you from the parkland around Pak Tam Chung down to the spectacular Tai Long Wan (Big Wave Bay) — a remote stretch of golden sand and clear water on the Sai Kung peninsula. The route combines coastal ridgelines, wooded slopes, panoramic sea views and a rewarding descent to multiple sheltered beaches (Sai Wan, Ham Tin, and Tai Long Wan). It’s one of Hong Kong’s most scenic day-hike destinations and popular for swimming, surfing, and camping.
Location
Tai Long Wan (Sai Wan, Ham Tin, Tai Long Wan beaches), MacLehose Trail Section 2, Sai Kung (New Territories), Hong Kong
Duration
Typical one-way hike from Pak Tam Chung to Tai Long Wan: 3–4 hours. Return round-trip (same trail and beach time): 6–8 hours. If combining with a boat transfer one-way: 3–5 hours total (depending on beach time and connections).
Best Time to Visit
October–April for cooler, drier weather and clearer seas. Early mornings and weekdays reduce crowds. Avoid summer afternoons (heat, strong sun) and the typhoon season (May–September) when seas are rough and some boat services may be suspended.
Pricing
Free to enter the country park. Optional costs: kaito (small ferry) from Sai Kung to Tai Long Wan or return — typically HKD 20–60 per person depending on route and season; private boat taxis are more expensive (HKD 200–700 depending on group size and destination). Food/drinks at beach-side stalls or village houses: HKD 50–200 depending on choices.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Multiple sheltered white-sand beaches: Sai Wan, Ham Tin, and Tai Long Wan (great for swimming and photography).
Panoramic coastal ridgeline views along the MacLehose Trail with frequent sea and headland vistas.
Rocky bays, clear turquoise water, and tidal rock pools.
Opportunities for wild camping (at designated sites), beach barbecues, and surfing at Ham Tin (when swells permit).
Traditional village houses and simple seaside eateries in Ham Tin/Sai Wan serving fresh seafood on busy weekends.
Wildlife and flora: butterflies, shorebirds, coastal plants and occasional reef sightings in good conditions.
Itinerary
Arrive at Pak Tam Chung (trailhead) via bus/taxi from Sai Kung town or public transport. Register at the country park information board if required.
Start early (before 09:00) to avoid midday heat and to secure transport/carry less crowd.
Follow MacLehose Trail Section 2 along the ridgeline. Enjoy lookout points with views across Port Shelter and Sai Kung East coastline.
Trail includes steep ascents and descents; wear good footwear and carry water. Several shaded sections but also exposed sun.
Descend to Sai Wan beach (first major beach) and explore the sand and rock pools. Continue along the coastal path to Ham Tin and Tai Long Wan beaches if time permits.
Be mindful of tides when exploring rock platforms. Swimming is popular but there are no lifeguards in most seasons — swim with caution.
Relax on the beach, swim, picnic, or set up camp at designated camping areas (if staying overnight). Sample local seafood at village huts on busy days.
If returning by trail, allow time for the uphill return. Alternatively, take a kaito back to Sai Kung (check timetables).
Return to Pak Tam Chung via the same trail or take a boat back to Sai Kung town (kaito/private boat).
Boat services run mainly on weekends/public holidays; confirm schedule or pre-book private boat for reliable return.
Safety Requirements
Good hiking footwear, hat, sun protection and plenty of water (minimum 2–3 litres per person depending on season).
Check weather and sea conditions before setting out — avoid hiking or boating during/after heavy rain or typhoon warnings (slippery trails, landslips, and strong currents).
Basic first-aid kit, mobile phone and power bank; signal may be limited in some sections.
Do not swim alone; be cautious of currents and hidden rocks. There are usually no lifeguards outside peak weekend hours.
Inform someone of your route and expected return time; avoid hiking alone at night.
If camping, use designated campsites and follow AFCD (Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department) country park rules — pack out all rubbish.
Tips
Start early to avoid heat and secure transport — buses from Sai Kung to Pak Tam Chung finish in the early evening.
Carry cash (small notes) for kaito boats, food stalls and village shop purchases; many places do not accept cards.
Bring a lightweight dry bag for valuables and a towel; fresh water is limited so refill where possible or pack enough.
Wear reef shoes if you plan to explore rocky shorelines; tide tables can affect access between beaches.
Consider a one-way hike combined with a kaito back to Sai Kung to save time and energy on the return ascent.
Practice Leave No Trace: take all litter back, avoid building fires on beaches, and respect local residents and campers.
If you plan to surf or camp overnight, check local conditions and permissions ahead of time and bring appropriate gear.
