Sai Wan, Sai Kung, Remote fishing village and bay in Sai Kung East Country Park, Hong Kong
Sai Wan is a small settlement with a white sand beach stretching along a sheltered bay on the Sai Kung Peninsula. The area sits within Sai Kung East Country Park and features a flat shoreline backed by low hills and sparse vegetation.
The settlement traces back to a Li family community in the 15th century, which also served as a typhoon refuge for local fishermen. The area declined after construction of the High Island Reservoir diverted resources and people from the region.
The Star of the Sea chapel has served the local community since 1953 and was recently restored. It sits quietly near the school, reflecting how faith remains woven into daily life here.
Access is by either a roughly 45-minute walk from Sai Wan Pavilion or by speedboat from Sai Kung Town pier. The beach is approachable for most visitors, but wear sturdy shoes and bring enough water for the hike.
The waters here are shaped by strong rip currents throughout the year, which led to the Cantonese name Tai Long Wan. This literally translates to Big Wave Bay and reflects the powerful conditions sailors and swimmers encounter.
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