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When it comes to beautiful beaches, Ham Tin Beach holds a special place in my heart. You see, Hong Kong boasts a collection of stunning sandy stretches, but none come close to Ham Tin Beach.
Nestled in the scenic Sai Kung East Country Park, Ham Tin Beach stands out with its pristine waters, breathtaking views, and peaceful atmosphere. In this article, I’ll tell you why it’s my favourite beach, how to get there, and things to do at the beach.
1 Why Ham Tin is My Favourite Beach
1. Serene Escape from City Life
As a bustling metropolis, Hong Kong can be exhilarating but also overwhelming. However, just a short distance away from the urban hustle and bustle lies Ham Tin Beach – an oasis of serenity. Getting there requires a pleasant hike along the MacLehose Trail within Sai Kung, which adds to the adventure.
Thanks to its remote location, the beach ends up having a peaceful and quiet ambience that sets it apart from other crowded tourist destinations in Hong Kong. The tranquillity of Ham Tin Beach creates an inviting atmosphere for those seeking a more intimate and peaceful beach experience in the bustling city of Hong Kong.
2. Pristine Natural Beauty
Ham Tin’s beauty is simply awe-inspiring. The beach is fringed by lush green hills on one side and the sparkling South China Sea on the other. The fine, golden sand is soft and warm, encouraging visitors to stroll barefoot. The beach remains well-preserved, as local authorities have been proactive in maintaining its natural splendour, protecting the area from excessive commercial development.
3. Crystal Clear Waters
The sea at Ham Tin boasts unparalleled clarity, inviting swimmers, snorkelers, and water enthusiasts to explore its depths. The calm waters are ideal for swimming, especially during the warmer months. Snorkelling at Ham Tin provides an opportunity to witness an array of marine life that makes the experience even more enchanting.
4. Hiker’s Paradise
Aside from the beach itself, Ham Tin offers an array of hiking opportunities. As mentioned earlier, the MacLehose Trail is a popular route that leads to the beach. Hikers can embark on further explorations along various scenic trails, unveiling captivating landscapes and hidden gems. For adventure seekers, scaling nearby hills and cliffs offers panoramic views of the coastline, rewarding trekkers with unforgettable vistas.
5. Picturesque Sunsets
As the day draws to a close, Ham Tin treats its visitors to mesmerizing sunsets. The sky is painted with hues of orange, pink, and purple, creating a stunning backdrop against the serene waters. Watching the sun dip below the horizon at Ham Tin is an unforgettable experience that adds an extra touch of magic to this already enchanting beach.
2 How to Get to Ham Tin Beach?
To reach Ham Tin Beach, start by taking public transportation to Sai Kung Town Hall. From there, you’ve got two options: Hiking or Taking the speedboat.
Note that hiking still has a cost associated as you will have to take either the village bus to the starting point at Sai Wan Pavilion, or a taxi.
Hiking | Speedboat | |
---|---|---|
Time required | 1.5 hrs | 25 – 30 mins |
Cost per person | ~ $20 | ~ $160 |
Starting location | Sai Wan Pavilion | Sai Kung Public Pier |
1. Catch the 29R village bus or take a taxi to Sai Wan Pavilion
To get to Ham Tin, take the 29R village bus to Sai Wan Pavilion to begin your hike (details below). Alternatively, you can take a taxi to Sai Wan Pavilion and do the same hike ($150 per taxi).
Journey Time: 120 minutes
Head towards the 29R bus stop
If you got off at the Sai Kung Town Hall bus stop above, walk towards the McDonald’s and Fusion sign.
Pay the fare via Octopus Card
The bus stop is opposite McDonald’s near Sai Kung Garden Block 1. There are no bus signs there, but you should see some people lining up if the bus hasn’t already arrived. It’s typically early but departs exactly on time.
29R village bus details:
– Boarding location: Chan Man Street, Sai Kung
– Journey Time: approx. 20 mins
– Departure Times & FareGet off at Sai Wan Pavilion
The bus takes you directly to Sai Wan Pavilion with no stops in between. When you get off the bus you will be at the starting point of the hike.
2. Start the hike at Sai Wan Pavilion
From Sai Wan Pavilion, begin the hike towards Sai Wan Village. The route is mostly downhill so it’s not too difficult. However, make sure to wear a cap or bring an umbrella if you’re going during summer as there is not much shade.
For detailed instructions on getting to Sai Wan Beach, check out this guide:
Tai Long Wan Ultimate Hiking Guide
Embark on a thrilling hike from Sai Wan Pavilion to Ham Tin Beach in Tai Long Wan, uncovering the Sai Kung Rock Pools and stunning landscapes.
Read more3. Head to the Sai Kung Rock Pools
The Sai Kung Rock Pools is without a doubt a must-see detour on your way to Ham Tin Beach. These rock pools have naturally occurred over the Sheung Luk Stream and are a popular swimming spot.
For detailed instructions on getting to the Sai Kung Rock Pools, check out this guide:
Exploring the Enchanting Sai Kung Rock Pools: A Guide to Getting There
Discover the enchanting Sai Kung Rock Pools - a natural wonder in Hong Kong's coastal beauty. Find routes and plan your adventure now!
Read more4. Continue Your Journey to Ham Tin Beach
Once you’re done with your swim at the Sai Kung Rock Pools, continue hiking towards Ham Tin Beach. You should come across the Sai Kung Stargazing Site along the way.
This curved bench is made up of more than 600 glass-reinforced panels that are ergonomically designed for visitors to stargaze. Since we’re hiking in the day, it makes for an ideal place to take a break and relax.
Simply follow the trail, and before you know it, you’ll be at the beach.
3 Summary
Ham Tin Beach in Hong Kong is a captivating blend of nature’s wonders, adventure, and tranquillity. Its unique combination of serenity, natural beauty, and opportunities for exploration make it an irresistible destination for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. As I escape the city’s fast pace and immerse myself in the peaceful embrace of Ham Tin, I find solace and rejuvenation, time and time again. Whether you’re a resident of Hong Kong or a visitor, a day spent at Ham Tin is sure to leave you with cherished memories and a longing to return to this enchanting paradise.
4 FAQs
Is Ham Tin Beach suitable for families with children?
Yes, Ham Tin is family-friendly. The calm waters and soft sandy shoreline make it safe for children to swim and play. Additionally, the surrounding nature and hiking opportunities offer a fun adventure for the whole family.
Can I camp at Ham Tin Beach?
Yes, camping is allowed at Ham Tin Beach. Many visitors choose to spend the night in tents or hammocks, enjoying the tranquillity and stargazing. Remember to follow Leave No Trace principles and dispose of trash responsibly.