Sharp Island (Kiu Tsui), Hong Kong - Sea/Blue/Island
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Sharp Island Hong Kong

4.3
·142 reviews·, Hong Kong

A charming island escape in Hong Kong, famed for its unique tombolo, volcanic rocks, and scenic beach.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more serene

CrowdLow
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Sharp Island (Kiu Tsui), Hong Kong - Sea/Blue/Island

Sharp Island Hong Kong

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more serene

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A charming island escape in Hong Kong, famed for its unique tombolo, volcanic rocks, and scenic beach.

4.3
(142 reviews)

"A delightful half-day trip with a unique tombolo and a nice beach!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Ferry from Sai Kung Pier

Take the ferry from Sai Kung Pier for direct access. Check schedules as they can vary. :ferry:

Pack for a Half-Day

It's a great half-day trip. Bring snacks, water, and swimwear for the beach. :beachwithumbrella:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sharp Island Beach

Sharp Island Beach

Kiu Tsui Beach

A small, charming bay beach perfect for a relaxing dip or sunbathing with picturesque views.

Volcanic Rock Trail

Volcanic Rock Trail

Island summit

Hike to the summit for stunning panoramic views of the surrounding islands and coastline.

Tombolo Formation

Tombolo Formation

Between Sharp Island and mainland

Witness this unique natural sandbar that emerges at low tide, connecting the island to the shore.

Planning Your Visit

Weekend Crowds & Half-Day Charm

Sharp Island is a delightful half-day escape, but weekends can get busy. Consider a weekday visit if you prefer fewer people. The ferry ride itself is part of the experience, offering scenic views before you even reach the island's charming beach and hiking trails.

Ferry Access & Island Exploration

Reaching Sharp Island is typically via ferry from Sai Kung Pier. While some tour boats go to nearby islands, a dedicated ferry service is the most direct route. Plan for a few hours to enjoy the beach and a short hike, making it perfect for a relaxed outing.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more serene
Crowd
Low
When
Low tide
Why
See the unique tombolo
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Is Sharp Island worth visiting on a weekend?

Ferry from Sai Kung Pier

Take the ferry from Sai Kung Pier for direct access. Check schedules as they can vary. :ferry:

Pack for a Half-Day

It's a great half-day trip. Bring snacks, water, and swimwear for the beach. :beachwithumbrella:

reddit.com

Kiu Tsui Chau, Sharp Island (Photo by Sunny Leung via G+)

reddit.com

How to visit

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Good for the short hike to the summit for amazing views. :athletic_shoe:

Check Tide Times

To see the unique tombolo connecting the island to the mainland. :ocean:

Tips

from all over the internet

Ferry from Sai Kung Pier

Take the ferry from Sai Kung Pier for direct access. Check schedules as they can vary. :ferry:

Pack for a Half-Day

It's a great half-day trip. Bring snacks, water, and swimwear for the beach. :beachwithumbrella:

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Good for the short hike to the summit for amazing views. :athletic_shoe:

Check Tide Times

To see the unique tombolo connecting the island to the mainland. :ocean:

What Travellers Say

4.3
(142 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find Sharp Island to be a charming and worthwhile half-day escape, particularly praised for its unique tombolo and pleasant beach. While the ferry ride is straightforward, some note that weekends can attract crowds. The island offers a peaceful natural retreat with scenic views, making it a popular choice for a relaxed outing.

"Low tide in the morning . You can see Pineapple bun like rocks .

The installations from the art fest was a nice touch to the island . It wasn’t very crowded.

Getting there - You can take the boat from Sai Kung pier to sharp island and hike / walk to hap mun bay .

Going back - If you wanna take the boat from hap mun bay back to sai Kung, just add $10hkd to the boat ticket you have . It comes every hour. Or backtrack to sharp island pier .

There’s also BBQ area and campgrounds close to hap mun bay."

Monica M

"Sharp Island is a wonderful getaway from the city! I was lucky to visit during low tide, which allowed me to explore the beautiful beach. It’s a peaceful spot with stunning views."

X

"A visit to Sharp Island will fulfill a few wishes for nature lovers. There is the fun walk out to the Kiu Tau Islet on the tombolo at low tides, close to the Sharp Island Pier. At the Sharp Island beach area you will observe some interesting rock formations. Then one can head over to a short hiking trail with a reasonable altitude. Along the trail you will see wonderful sea views of Sai Kung’s eastern waters. If you want to swim, the waters of Hap Moon Bay (Halfmoon Bay) is pristine. On a sunny day, the Sharp Island offers an exceptional selection of outdoor activities. Its proximity to Sai Kung also makes it an easy outing."

Helen Yu (Chestnut Journal)

What People Like

Unique tombolo formation
Pleasant beach
Scenic hiking views

What People Dislike

Weekend crowds

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most common way to reach Sharp Island is by taking a ferry from Sai Kung Pier. Look for public ferries or smaller tour boats that service the island. It's a scenic ride, offering glimpses of the surrounding islands. Reddit

Yes, there is a ferry service from Sai Kung Pier to Sharp Island. It's advisable to check the latest schedules as they can be seasonal or subject to weather conditions. Reddit

Ferry prices can vary, but historically, it's been around HK$20 per person for a round trip from Sai Kung Pier. Confirm the exact fare with the ferry operator before boarding. Reddit

While Sai Kung Pier is the primary departure point, some tour boats might offer routes to nearby islands. For direct access, Sai Kung is your best bet. Reddit

No, Sharp Island is primarily accessible by ferry. There are no bridges or other public transport links connecting it to the mainland.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets for the ferry to Sharp Island are typically purchased directly at the pier before boarding. It's not usually necessary to book in advance, especially for public ferries. Reddit

Sharp Island is a natural attraction and generally does not have an entrance fee. The cost is primarily for the ferry transportation to get there. Reddit

Sharp Island is an open natural area, so there are no set opening or closing hours. However, ferry services operate during daylight hours. Reddit

Absolutely! Sharp Island is perfect for a half-day or a relaxed full-day trip, offering a beach, hiking, and unique geological features. Reddit

Camping is generally not permitted on Sharp Island. It's best enjoyed as a day-use destination.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can relax on the beach, swim, hike to the summit for panoramic views, and explore the unique tombolo (sandbar) that appears at low tide. Reddit

Yes, Sharp Island features a pleasant bay beach, Kiu Tsui Beach, which is ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Reddit

The hike to the summit is relatively short and not overly strenuous, making it accessible for most visitors. It offers rewarding views. Reddit

The tombolo is a natural sandbar that connects Sharp Island to the mainland at low tide, creating a unique walking path. It's a fascinating geological feature to witness. Reddit

Facilities on Sharp Island are minimal. It's advisable to bring your own food, water, and any other necessities as there are no shops or extensive facilities. Restrooms might be basic. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The tombolo formation, the panoramic views from the summit, and the charming beach are all excellent photo opportunities. Capture the unique geological features and coastal scenery. Reddit

Early morning or late afternoon often provide softer light for photography. The tombolo is best photographed during low tide. Reddit

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check local guidelines and be mindful of other visitors and the natural environment before flying a drone.

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the coastal landscapes and the tombolo. A standard zoom lens is versatile for general shots. Don't forget a waterproof bag for beach activities. :camerawithflash:

The most iconic shot is undoubtedly the tombolo, especially when it's fully exposed. The view from the summit looking out over the archipelago is also a classic. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Sharp Island is a fantastic destination for families looking for a relaxed day out. The Kiu Tsui Beach is shallow and safe for children to play in the water. The short hike to the summit is manageable for most kids, offering a sense of accomplishment and stunning views. The unique tombolo is also a fascinating natural phenomenon that can capture children's imaginations.

It's crucial to pack plenty of snacks, drinks, and sun protection as facilities are very limited. Consider bringing sand toys for the beach. The ferry ride itself can be an exciting part of the adventure for younger ones. Plan for a half-day trip to avoid overtiring the children, ensuring a pleasant experience for everyone. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Nature & Geology Enthusiasts

For those fascinated by natural wonders, Sharp Island is a must-visit. Its volcanic rock formations and the iconic tombolo are highlights of Hong Kong's UNESCO Global Geopark. The island offers a chance to explore unique geological features shaped by ancient volcanic activity and coastal erosion.

The hiking trails provide excellent opportunities to observe these formations up close and enjoy the rugged coastal landscape. The island's relatively undeveloped nature allows for an immersive experience in its natural environment. Remember to check tide tables to witness the tombolo at its most impressive. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Unique Geology of Sharp Island

Sharp Island, or Kiu Tsui Chau, is a geological marvel in Hong Kong's UNESCO Global Geopark. Its most striking feature is the tombolo, a natural sandbar that emerges at low tide, connecting the island to the mainland. This phenomenon is a result of coastal processes and is a must-see for any visitor. The island itself is composed of volcanic rocks, evidence of ancient eruptions that shaped the landscape. Hiking trails allow you to explore these formations and enjoy the rugged beauty.

Visitors often rave about the chance to walk across the tombolo, a truly unique experience. It's a reminder of the powerful natural forces at play. The island's geology contributes to its distinct visual appeal, making it a popular spot for nature lovers and photographers alike. Remember to check tide times to witness this natural wonder at its best. Reddit

Beyond the tombolo, the island's volcanic origins are visible in its rock formations and the overall topography. The coastal views are spectacular, offering a different perspective of Hong Kong's natural beauty away from the urban sprawl. The island's charm lies in its simplicity and its remarkable geological features.

Getting to and Enjoying Sharp Island

The journey to Sharp Island is an integral part of the experience. The most common and recommended method is by ferry from Sai Kung Pier. This short boat ride offers scenic views of the coastline and the numerous islands scattered across Sai Kung's waters. While some tour boats might pass by, a dedicated ferry service ensures a direct and convenient trip. It's wise to confirm ferry schedules, especially on weekends or public holidays, as they can be subject to change based on demand and weather conditions. Reddit

Upon arrival, Sharp Island offers a relaxed atmosphere. The Kiu Tsui Beach is a lovely spot to unwind, swim, or simply enjoy the sun. For those seeking a bit more activity, a short hike leads to the island's summit. This trail is not overly challenging and rewards hikers with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding seascape and islands. It's a perfect way to appreciate the island's natural beauty from a higher vantage point. Reddit

Remember that Sharp Island is a natural attraction with limited facilities. It's essential to come prepared with essentials like water, snacks, sunscreen, and insect repellent. There are no shops or restaurants on the island, so packing a picnic is a great idea. This ensures you can fully enjoy your visit without any inconvenience. Reddit

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