Beaches, rock pools and waterfalls

July 26, 2013 - Hong Kong - no comments

I’m lucky to live relatively near one of the best and cleanest beaches in Hong Kong. I say relatively near because it takes a good hour or more to get there. It is not easily accessible and getting there involves first getting to Sai Kung in the New Territories, then taking either a taxi, bus or boat, and finally hiking over a hill and down to the beach. The only other alternative is to go directly to the beach by boat, but that still takes time (and money!). It is called Tai Long Wan (litterally Big Wave Bay) and is actually comprised of two close, but separate bays, Sai Wan and Ham Tin.

Now for us, our house is on the road to the starting point of the hike, so it is actually pretty easy for us to get there. We usually take a taxi then walk down. We went there with friends at the start of July. We got there early (to avoid the crowds and also to beat the rush out at the end of the day). After a hot walk, the nearly empty beach was just wonderfully relaxing and although it was not living up to its name (no waves at all) we still had a lovely time bobbing about in the sea, chatting and cooling down.

Sai Wan beach at 9am

After a dip, we headed over to the rock pools and waterfalls. The walk up is not particularly tricky, though I’m not a fan of rock climbing so it took me a while to get there! But, it was totally worth the break out of my comfort zone. The pool we went too is deep enough to swim in and jump into from high above, which many people, including young children were doing. It also has handy rock platforms for lounging.

view of the rock pools and waterfall

swimming in the pool

chilling with friends in the fresh water

chilling and swimming

Me feeling proud that I made it up (and down)!

walking back down

view of the beach from the rock pool

After walking back to the beach we had a much deserved lunch at one of the cafe/restaurants in the village. They have beach views, hearty noodles and cold drinks!