Sai Kung Rock Pools
Discover Hong Kong's hidden gem: Sai Kung Rock Pools, a stunning natural oasis with waterfalls and clear pools, perfect for a refreshing dip and adven...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Sai Kung Rock Pools
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Hong Kong's hidden gem: Sai Kung Rock Pools, a stunning natural oasis with waterfalls and clear pools, perfect for a refreshing dip and adventure.
"It was quite a journey to get there - but definitely worth the nice swim."
👟 Wear Grippy Shoes
Essential for climbing rocks and navigating slippery trails. Water shoes are also a good idea!
🗺️ Get Trail Directions
Signage to the waterfall can be scarce; ask locals or use a map.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sai Kung Rock Pools
Near Sai Wan Beach
Cascading waterfalls and natural pools perfect for a refreshing dip and stunning photos.
Sai Wan Beach
End of the hike
A beautiful beach offering a relaxing contrast to the adventurous hike.
Tai Long Wan Views
Along the hiking trails
Majestic vistas of Tai Long Wan, a stunning bay known for its natural beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
The Journey is Part of the Adventure
Embrace the Elements
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Grippy Shoes
Essential for climbing rocks and navigating slippery trails. Water shoes are also a good idea! +1
🗺️ Get Trail Directions
Signage to the waterfall can be scarce; ask locals or use a map.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
The hike can be hot and humid, so stay hydrated.
📸 Camera Ready!
The rock pools offer incredible photo opportunities.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Grippy Shoes
Essential for climbing rocks and navigating slippery trails. Water shoes are also a good idea! +1
🗺️ Get Trail Directions
Signage to the waterfall can be scarce; ask locals or use a map.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
The hike can be hot and humid, so stay hydrated.
📸 Camera Ready!
The rock pools offer incredible photo opportunities.
🗑️ Pack Out Trash
Help keep this beautiful spot clean by taking all your rubbish with you.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Sai Kung Rock Pools a rewarding destination, praising the beautiful natural scenery and refreshing swimming opportunities after a hike. However, the journey can be challenging, with slippery rocks and occasional litter, and the area can get crowded, particularly with expats and travelers.
"It was quite a journey to get there - but definitely worth the nice swim. We took a cab till the Sai Wan Pavilion and from there hiked around 45 min till the Sai Wan Beach. There’s two or three trails, we have taken two different ones to try (one to go and one to go back). At the Sai Wan Pavilion there’s a map so you can choose, one is easier and therefore longer than the other one, either way is double and one is all paved. After getting to the Sai Wan Beach, you’ll see some restaurants that look currently abandoned, we found one open (maybe because is low season). Anyways then, there’s no signs to go to the waterfall, we found out because my bf speaks Cantonese so the restaurant staff were kind in sharing the direction. Basically, after the beach, you need to keep on the left side, follow the sweet water, don’t cross the bridge and in about 10min you’ll find it, there’s a vegetable garden on the way, and it’s handy to have water shoes. Also be aware that there’s some trash on the way to get there, especially around the beach, unfortunately. The waterfall is clean though. I hope the map’s screenshot helps. Enjoy! 😊"
Carolina V
"Very dangerous to go there. Full of expats. You will have to climb the cliff without any proper trail up to the rock pools. Very dangerous but many still do it. It is also very crowded with expats and travellers. You won’t see locals there."
Seah Jia Hui
"A little off the hiking path. The pools make for great photos but the rocks make for tricky walking. The hike there can get really hot and humid"
Eric Tang
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common route is to take a taxi to Sai Wan Pavilion, then hike for about 45 minutes to Sai Wan Beach. From there, follow the stream on the left side, avoiding the bridge, for about 10 minutes to reach the rock pools. Some trails are paved, while others are more direct but challenging.
While there isn't direct public transport to the trailhead, you can take public buses or MTR to Sai Kung town and then a taxi or a local minibus (like minibus 29R) to Sai Wan Pavilion.
The hike from Sai Wan Pavilion to Sai Wan Beach typically takes around 45 minutes. The final stretch to the rock pools is shorter, about 10 minutes from the beach area.
Yes, there are usually two or three trail options from Sai Wan Pavilion. One is generally easier and longer, while another is more direct but potentially more challenging.
Having a map is helpful, and some visitors recommend asking locals for directions, especially as signage to the waterfall can be minimal.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no entrance fees for Sai Kung Rock Pools or the surrounding country park. It's a natural attraction.
As a natural attraction, the rock pools are accessible at any time. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
No, the hiking trails within the Sai Kung Country Park are free to access.
Yes, swimming and wading in the rock pools are popular activities. Be cautious of slippery rocks.
There are no specific entry restrictions, but visitors are encouraged to practice Leave No Trace principles and be mindful of the natural environment.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Wear comfortable hiking attire and sturdy shoes with good grip. Water shoes are highly recommended for navigating the pools and slippery rocks. +1
The area can get crowded, especially on weekends and holidays, with many expats and travelers visiting. Visiting on weekdays can offer a less crowded experience.
Basic facilities might be available near Sai Wan Beach, including some restaurants. However, dedicated restrooms or changing rooms at the rock pools themselves are limited.
Climbing on the rocks around the falls can be dangerous due to slipperiness. Exercise extreme caution and assess the risks before attempting. +1
The waterfall itself is generally clean, though some areas around the beach might unfortunately have trash.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The natural pools and cascading waterfalls provide numerous picturesque angles. Experiment with different viewpoints around the falls and the surrounding lush greenery.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light and fewer crowds, enhancing the photographic potential.
A smartphone camera is usually sufficient for capturing the beauty of the rock pools. However, a wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the scale of the waterfalls and landscape.
Be mindful of your surroundings and avoid placing yourself in precarious positions for a photo, especially on slippery rocks. +1
Many visitors capture shots of themselves swimming in the pools, the waterfalls, and the scenic hike leading up to the destination. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Hikers and Adventure Seekers
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Sai Kung Hike: A Journey Through Nature
It's crucial to be prepared for the hike. The Hong Kong climate can be hot and humid, making hydration paramount.
Experiencing the Rock Pools: Refreshment and Adventure
However, the beauty of the rock pools comes with a need for caution. The rocks surrounding the pools and along the waterfall edges can be extremely slippery and treacherous.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit