Sai Kung island-hopping and beaches (Sharp Island/High Island)
Explore clear waters, volcanic rock formations and sandy tombolos on a half- or full-day island-hopping trip from Sai Kung. Visit Sharp Island (Kiu Tsui Chau) for swimming, snorkeling and the seasonal sand tombolo; then head to High Island East for the dramatic hexagonal columnar jointing and Geopark scenery. Suitable for families, snorkelers and geology enthusiasts.
Location
Sharp Island (Kiu Tsui Chau) & High Island (Leung Shuen Wan) — Sai Kung, Sai Kung, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR
Duration
Half-day (3–4 hours) to Full-day (6–8 hours)
Best Time to Visit
October to April (cooler, clearer water and less rain). Avoid typhoon season / heavy summer thunderstorms (June–September). Early morning or late afternoon visits are cooler and less crowded.
Pricing
Public kai-to (shared boats) from Sai Kung Pier to Sharp Island: ~HKD 15–30 one-way. Private boat hire or guided tours: ~HKD 400–1,200 per hour (varies by season and group size). Bus/taxi to High Island East Dam (land access) is inexpensive (bus fares HKD 10–30 depending on route). Park entry is free; equipment rental (snorkel/kayak) extra (~HKD 100–300).
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Kiu Tsui Beach (Sharp Island) — swimming, snorkeling and picnic spots
Seasonal tombolo / sandbar on Sharp Island that appears at low tide (check tide times)
Hexagonal columnar jointing at High Island — UNESCO Global Geopark site
Scenic coastal views, rock formations and sea caves
Clear water for snorkeling and small reef systems near Sharp Island
Easy island walking trails and lookout points
Itinerary
Arrive at Sai Kung Pier / gather at meeting point
Buy kai-to tickets or meet your private boat operator; small shops/cafés near the pier for last-minute supplies.
Boat to Sharp Island (10–20 minutes)
Short ride — keep cameras ready for coastal scenery.
Explore Sharp Island: swim, snorkel, walk the family trail and visit the tombolo (at low tide)
Swim at lifeguarded sections when available; wear water shoes for rocky areas and reefs.
Lunch in Sai Kung Town or packed picnic on the beach
Sai Kung town has seafood restaurants and cafés; bring cash and sun protection.
High Island East Dam & Geo Area visit
View the columnar-jointed rocks, short walks and photo stops. Access by road (bus/taxi) or boat depending on your plan.
Optional snorkeling/kayaking or relax at a nearby beach
Guided snorkeling/kayak operators may be available from Sai Kung; pre-book in peak season.
Return to Sai Kung Pier / end of tour
Check last kai-to times and boat operator return schedule to avoid being stranded.
Safety Requirements
Check weather and tide forecasts before departure (tombolo exposure depends on low tide)
Swim only at lifeguarded beach sections and avoid strong currents; wear a lifejacket for boat transfers and water activities
Use reef-safe sunscreen and water shoes to protect feet on rocky shores
Watch for jellyfish in summer months and seek medical help for stings
Bring a charged phone, basic first-aid kit and sufficient drinking water
Tips
Consult tide tables if you want to walk the Sharp Island tombolo — it can disappear at high tide. Low-tide windows vary daily.
Bring cash (small shops, kai-to tickets and some rentals may not accept cards).
Wear sun protection (hat, long-sleeve rashguard) and pack a dry bag for valuables.
If you prefer fewer crowds, visit on weekdays and arrive early (before 10:00).
Public transport: take a bus or minibus to Sai Kung Town (no direct MTR). From Sai Kung Pier you can catch kai-to boats; taxis are available for High Island East Dam access.
For geology enthusiasts, combine High Island with other Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark sites (e.g., eastern Sai Kung coast).
Book private boats or guided water-activity operators in advance on weekends and public holidays.
