Waterfall Bay, Bay in Southern District, Hong Kong
Waterfall Bay is a natural coastal inlet in Hong Kong's Southern District, where a hillside waterfall drops directly into the sea. The shoreline alternates between rocky outcrops and small sandy patches, and the fresh water from the hills mixes with the salt water of the South China Sea.
Before Hong Kong became a British colony, sailors already used this bay as a freshwater stop on journeys through Asian waters. The regularity of these visits helped give the surrounding region its enduring name.
The Cantonese name for Hong Kong is widely believed to derive from this bay, where fishermen drew fresh water from the waterfall for drinking and cooking. Visitors today can still see that same waterfall reaching the sea, connecting the present landscape to the origin of the city's name.
The bay is most easily reached by green minibus 58 from Kennedy Town MTR exit A, followed by a short walk along marked trails. The paths can get slippery in wet weather, so sturdy footwear is a good idea.
Remains of World War II military structures, including a pillbox and a searchlight position, are still visible along the shore. They become easier to spot at low tide, offering an unexpected layer to what otherwise looks like a simple natural bay.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
