Sai Kung has long been known as "Hong Kong's backyard garden," but what many don't know is that from the Sai Kung ferry pier, just a 20-minute boat ride away, you can reach several small islands that retain their original character. These islands have no expensive shops or crowded tourist attractions, but what they do have are well-preserved Hakka villages, spectacular sea-erosion landforms, and a laid-back atmosphere that makes you want to slow down. For travelers looking to escape the city's hustle and experience the authentic side of Hong Kong's island life, these small islands around Sai Kung present a rare and gentle facet of the city.
Unlike well-developed popular destinations like Lantau and Cheung Chau, most islands in the Sai Kung district maintain a relatively low level of commercialization. According to tourism industry observations, an increasing number of international travelers have begun exploring these "non-mainstream" islands in recent years, seeking more authentic local experiences rather than just photo opportunities. This trend also reflects the preferences of local Hong Kong tourism — more and more Hong Kong people are choosing to spend weekends on Sai Kung islands for day trips or camping experiences, escaping the bustle of Victoria Harbour.
Yim Tin Tsai: If you're a culture and history enthusiast, Yim Tin Tsai is the top choice for your island journey. This is a small Hakka island with just over a hundred residents and over three hundred years of history. The Yim Tin Tsai Village on the island preserves a complete traditional Hakka architectural complex — stone houses, ancestral halls, and ancient wells are all visible. There's also St. Joseph's Chapel, a Catholic church with over three hundred years of history. Island residents still salt-dry using traditional methods, and visitors can tour the salt fields and experience this rare salt-making culture. The island is small; a complete circuit takes about an hour, making it ideal for travelers who enjoy in-depth cultural exploration. There are no restaurants on the island, only a small tea room offering simple Hakka rice cakes. We recommend bringing your own snacks.
Kiu Tsui Island: Geology enthusiasts and photography lovers must not miss Kiu Tsui Island. The island's most famous feature is the "Kiu Tsui Bridge" — a natural sandbar that connects Kiu Tsui to Sai Kung Inner Harbour during low tide, resembling an ancient bridge and giving it its name. The rocks here display unique hexagonal columnar jointing, a rare volcanic rock landform in Hong Kong. Standing on the bridge, the spectacular vista of sea meeting sky makes it a favorite spot for photographers. The island has a barbecue area that attracts many families on weekends. Note that the Kiu Tsui Bridge is not always accessible; we recommend checking the day's tidal schedule before departure.
Kau Kong Chau: The top secret spot for canoeing enthusiasts. Kau Kong Chau is the southernmost island in Sai Kung, famous for its steep cliffs and natural caves formed by sea erosion. Its most renowned feature is "Goldfish Dance" — a natural stone arch formed by sea erosion, where you can paddle a canoe through the arch during low tide for an extremely thrilling experience. The island has no official pier; landing requires wading or paddling, which speaks to its pristine nature. This location is suitable for travelers with kayaking experience; those without the skills can join guided tours organized by local rowing companies. Remember to bring sufficient drinking water and sun protection, as there is absolutely no shade on the island.
Leung Sheung Chau: A little-known hidden gem. Leung Sheung Chau is located in the northeastern part of Sai Kung waters, an almost entirely unvisited desolate island. The island's greatest feature is the "Tin Hau Temple" — a small temple built during the Qing Dynasty, said to have been visited by fishermen for blessings before going to sea. The surrounding waters are crystal clear, making it an excellent spot for snorkeling. Being completely undeveloped, there are absolutely no facilities on the island; you must bring all supplies. Getting to Leung Sheung Chau is only possible by chartering a boat at Sai Kung Pier or joining a local tour. The higher access barrier is precisely what has preserved its most pristine island scenery.
Practical Information
The departure point for Sai Kung islands is the Sai Kung Ferry Pier. You can take the MTR to Choi Hung Station, then transfer to minibus 1A directly to Sai Kung town center, or take minibus 101M from Tseung Kwan O MTR Station. From Sai Kung Pier, most islands can be reached by kaitak (local ferry), though service is not frequent. We recommend checking ferry schedules at the pier in advance. Kaitak fares vary by destination, approximately HK$40-80 for a one-way trip; chartering a boat costs approximately HK$300-600, accommodating 6-8 people.
To reach Yim Tin Tsai, take the kaitak from Sai Kung Pier; the ferry takes about 20 minutes, fare approximately HK$50. Kiu Tsui Island has the shortest kaitak journey at just 15 minutes, fare approximately HK$40. For Kau Kong Chau and Leung Sheung Chau, chartering a boat is recommended; depending on the number of passengers and distance, prices range approximately HK$500-800.
There is no admission fee for any of the islands themselves, though donations may be suggested for visiting St. Joseph's Chapel on Yim Tin Tsai. Most islands have no regular restaurants or shops; we strongly recommend bringing your own food and drinking water. Kiu Tsui Island has a public barbecue area; one-time use costs approximately HK$200 and requires advance reservation.
Kaitak services from Sai Kung Pier typically operate from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with sparse departures that may be adjusted due to weather. Weekends and public holidays see heavier crowds, and waiting times may be longer. If planning to kayak at Kau Kong Chau, we recommend joining group activities led by licensed guides to ensure safety.
Travel Tips
The golden seasons for visiting Sai Kung islands are spring and autumn; summer weather is hot with occasional typhoons, while winter brings fierce sea winds. Island weather changes quickly; be sure to check the Observatory's forecast before departure. Tidal timing is a key factor affecting your itinerary — to walk the Kiu Tsui Bridge or paddle through the Kau Kong Chau stone arch, you must align with low tide periods. We recommend downloading the Hong Kong Observatory's tide forecast app for convenient planning.
Ecological protection is an important issue in Sai Kung island travel. Please do not touch or collect corals and marine life on the islands, and all garbage must be taken away with you. In recent years, with rising environmental awareness, some islands have implemented "take your own trash" regulations. Bringing your own reusable water bottles and shopping bags is both eco-friendly and convenient.
If time permits, we recommend reserving half a day at the Sai Kung Pier to enjoy the local seafood here. The Sai Kung waterfront promenade has several seafood restaurants with reasonable quality and pricing — a perfect ending to your journey.
Hong Kong City Data
- Tourism Scale: According to the Hong Kong Tourism Board, Hong Kong received 34 million visitors in 2024, with total tourism revenue exceeding HK$100 billion.
- Dining Density: Hong Kong has over 15,000 licensed food establishments citywide, with per capita restaurant density ranking among the highest globally, and over 70 Michelin-starred restaurants.
- Cultural Status: Hong Kong is a major international metropolis in Asia, ranking fourth globally in the 2024 Global Financial Centres Index, attracting enterprises from over 90 countries to establish Asia-Pacific headquarters.
