Sai Kung Town,Hong Kong
Sai Kung Town is the principal town and service hub for the Sai Kung Peninsula in Hong Kong’s New Territories. Historically a small fishing village and market town, it developed into a gateway for boaters, hikers and nature lovers exploring the surrounding country parks and islands. The area is notable for its strong fishing and seafaring heritage, traditional temples (notably Tin Hau temples), and as the access point to parts of the Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark.
Places to visit
- Sai Kung Waterfront and Main Pier
- Sai Kung Seafood Restaurants and Market
- Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark (High Island, Sharp Island/Kiu Tsui)
- Tai Long Wan (famous beaches: Sai Wan, Ham Tin, Long Ke, Tai Long Wan)
- High Island Reservoir and East Dam (hexagonal rock columns)
- Sai Kung Country Park and Kiu Tsui Country Park
- Sharp Island (tombolo sandbar and snorkeling)
- Local temples (Tin Hau Temple and neighborhood shrines)
- Sai Kung promenade and local markets
Unique Aspects
- Spectacular hexagonal volcanic rock columns at High Island East Dam and surrounding Geopark formations
- Tombolo (sandbar) connecting Sharp Island at low tide
- Clear water bays and surf-less beaches suitable for swimming, snorkeling and kayaking
- A mix of rural village scenery, coastal cliffs and lush country-park trails within short distance of the town
Things to do
- Boat trips and island-hopping to Tai Long Wan, Sharp Island and remote beaches
- Seafood dining and visiting the waterfront restaurants and market
- Hiking trails through Sai Kung Country Park (including routes to Tai Long Wan and sections of the MacLehose Trail)
- Kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding and snorkeling
- Swimming on white-sand beaches (seasonal)
- Photography of geopark rock formations and coastal scenery
- Visiting local temples and strolling the promenade
Festivals & Events
- Tin Hau Festival (local celebrations and offerings to the sea goddess)
- Seasonal seafood and local food events (pop-up markets and waterfront promotions)
- Dragon Boat Festival activities in nearby communities (regional rather than Sai Kung-specific)
Best Time to Visit
October to December for cool, dry weather and clear skies; March to May for mild spring conditions. Avoid the peak typhoon and hottest months (June–September) if you want calm seas and reliable hiking weather.
Weather Conditions
Humid subtropical climate: hot, humid summers with heavy rain and occasional typhoons; mild, drier winters. Coastal breezes moderate temperatures but expect sudden showers in summer.
Accessibility
Sai Kung Town is reachable by public buses and green minibuses from the urban areas and from the Tseung Kwan O MTR line (transfer to local bus/minibus or taxi). Driving or taking a taxi is straightforward from Kowloon and eastern New Territories (travel time depends on traffic, typically 25–45 minutes from Tseung Kwan O / 40–60 minutes from central urban areas). Boat services run from the Sai Kung Public Pier to nearby islands and beaches—check operators’ schedules in advance.
Recommended Duration
1–3 days: A day-trip covers the town, a short boat ride and a beach stop; 2–3 days let you explore more remote beaches (Tai Long Wan), do longer hikes, and enjoy relaxed seafood meals.
Clothing & Gear Tips
Light, breathable clothing for summer; sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses); a light jacket for cooler months. For hiking: sturdy trail shoes, a daypack, water, and rain gear in summer. For water activities: swimwear, quick-dry towel, water shoes and waterproof bag.
Local Food & Souvenirs
Fresh seafood (steamed fish, crab, clams and shellfish), local fish-ball and noodle snacks, and seaside cafes. Souvenirs include dried seafood products, locally made sauces and preserves, and small handicrafts from nearby villages.