Embracing the Wild Side of Sai Kung: A Nature Lover's Paradise

A world away from Hong Kong's urban jungle

The moment I stepped off the bus at Sai Kung Pier, I felt like I'd been transported to another world entirely. Just an hour from Hong Kong's concrete jungle, Sai Kung unfolds as a verdant paradise that seems almost impossible to believe exists so close to one of the world's most densely populated cities.

If you're planning to explore the stunning MacLehose Trail, I'd recommend arriving before 9 AM to beat both the heat and crowds. The trail is well-marked with distance posts every 500 meters, making it easy to track your progress as you wind through some of Hong Kong's most spectacular scenery[4]. On weekends, the minibuses from Choi Hung MTR fill up quickly, so consider taking the 92 bus which might be less crowded but takes about 15 minutes longer.

My first impression was a sensory delight – the salty sea breeze mixing with the aroma of fresh seafood from the waterfront restaurants, and the surprising quiet compared to Kowloon or Central. The entrance to Sai Kung East Country Park doesn't require any admission fee, making it an accessible adventure for budget travelers.

Island hopping and beach discoveries

After a morning hike, I headed to the public pier where small boats wait to ferry adventurers to Sharp Island. The boatmen typically charge around HK$40 per person for a round trip, but don't be afraid to negotiate if you're in a group. Cash is king here – most boat operators don't accept cards, so come prepared with small bills.

The real magic of Sai Kung lies in its pristine beaches. Tai Long Wan, with its quartet of stunning beaches – Sai Wan, Ham Tin, Tai Wan, and Tung Wan – offers some of the clearest waters I've seen anywhere in Asia. What makes these beaches special isn't just their beauty but the journey to reach them. You can either hike in (about 2 hours from the nearest road) or take a speedboat from Sai Kung Town. If you're photographing these beaches, the light is most magical in the late afternoon when the sun casts a golden glow across the sand and water.

During summer weekends, expect a lively atmosphere with both locals and tourists enjoying the beaches. If you prefer solitude, Long Ke Wan Beach offers similar beauty with fewer crowds. I noticed many locals bringing their own snorkeling gear – a smart move as rental options are limited and often overpriced for tourists.

Beyond the beaches: Geological wonders await

As the summer heat intensified, I decided to explore the High Island Geo-Trail, a one-hour scenic walk around the reservoir that showcases some of Hong Kong's most fascinating geological formations. If you're visiting between November and February, you'll enjoy much more comfortable hiking temperatures and clearer skies – perfect for photographing the hexagonal rock columns that make this area famous.

The Sai Kung Astropark offers a completely different experience once the sun sets. Located near the High Island Reservoir, this stargazing spot is one of the few places in Hong Kong where light pollution is minimal enough to see the Milky Way on clear nights. I'd recommend bringing a jacket even in summer – the temperature drops surprisingly quickly after sunset, especially if there's a sea breeze.

For those seeking hidden details that most tourists miss, look for the small shrines nestled along the hiking trails. These colorful little structures honor local deities and offer a glimpse into the spiritual traditions that still thrive in this otherwise modern region. During my visit in early summer, I was lucky enough to witness a small local festival near one of these shrines, with offerings of fruit and incense creating a sensory experience I won't soon forget.

After exploring Sai Kung's natural wonders for three days, I found myself reluctant to return to the city. There's something magical about falling asleep to the sound of waves rather than traffic, and waking to birdsong instead of construction. If you're seeking an escape from Hong Kong's urban intensity, Sai Kung offers not just a day trip but a complete reset for your senses. Shall we try together? The wild side of Hong Kong is waiting, just a bus ride away.