Tap Mun Grass Island
A tranquil island escape known for its rolling green hills, wild cows, and historic temple, perfect for day trips and camping.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Catch the ferry before it fills up
Tap Mun Grass Island
Best Time
Catch the ferry before it fills up
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil island escape known for its rolling green hills, wild cows, and historic temple, perfect for day trips and camping.
"Underrated day trip with beautiful views, wild cows, and a peaceful vibe."
🚢 Ferry Logistics
Check ferry schedules from Ma Liu Shui or Wong Shek Pier beforehand. Arrive early for popular weekend departures!
🎒 Pack Essentials
Bring water, snacks, and sun protection. Limited food options on the island.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Rolling Green Hills
Island-wide
Vast, lush green meadows reminiscent of New Zealand, perfect for picnics and relaxation.
Feral Cows
Island-wide
Encounter friendly, free-roaming cattle adding a unique charm to the island's natural landscape.
Tin Hau Temple
Old Fisherman's Village
A historic 400-year-old temple offering a glimpse into the island's rich cultural heritage.
Balanced Rock
Boulder and pebble beach
An intriguing geological formation perched precariously, a testament to nature's artistry.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Ferry Schedules are Key
Pack Smart for Island Life
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚢 Ferry Logistics
Check ferry schedules from Ma Liu Shui or Wong Shek Pier beforehand. Arrive early for popular weekend departures!
🎒 Pack Essentials
Bring water, snacks, and sun protection. Limited food options on the island.
🐄 Respect Wildlife
Observe the wild cows from a distance and do not feed them. Keep the island clean.
🥾 Comfortable Footwear
Wear sturdy shoes for walking and exploring the hilly terrain.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚢 Ferry Logistics
Check ferry schedules from Ma Liu Shui or Wong Shek Pier beforehand. Arrive early for popular weekend departures!
🎒 Pack Essentials
Bring water, snacks, and sun protection. Limited food options on the island.
🐄 Respect Wildlife
Observe the wild cows from a distance and do not feed them. Keep the island clean.
🥾 Comfortable Footwear
Wear sturdy shoes for walking and exploring the hilly terrain.
🏕️ Camping Prep
If camping, bring all necessary gear and be mindful of designated areas.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Tap Mun Grass Island is praised as an underrated gem offering a peaceful escape with beautiful green hills and unique wildlife like wild cows. Visitors appreciate its natural beauty, historic temple, and suitability for camping. However, some reviews note concerns about litter and the impact of visitor numbers on the environment.
"Let’s protect 塔門。Underrated day trip. Be sure to be wary and respectful of the environment. So many fun things to see, Tin Hau temple, wild cows, beautiful views, local folklore, and pretty walkable. Distant from the main island, more peaceful."
Jen
"Very nice and great outdoors to enjoy. You can have very good camping experience. All you need to good arrangement and other all in this Grass Island. Come and enjoy 😊"
Suresh CL
"Tap Mun (Grass Island) is an island located just north of the Sai Kung West Country Park that makes for a popular day trip and overnight wild camping location for Hongkongers. It is relatively small at 1.7 square kilometres and is known for its grassy hilltop (hence the name) and numerous ferrel cows that share the island with visitors and those who reside here.
Historically, the island has been habited since at least the mid 16th century. At its height there were likely 2000 residents, mostly tanka fisherfolks. Like most remote villages on the outlying islands of Hong Kong, those numbers dwindled to a spartan few towards the end of the 20th century, as youth opted to move to the city or abroad in search of better living conditions. Today it is estimated that around 100 people continue to reside here at Tap Mun.
To visit Tap Mun, most take daily ferries from the Ma Liu Shui ferry terminus at Science Park (1.5 hour one way) or the nearby Wong Shek Pier (15 minutes one way). Check the schedule online for exact sailing times before setting off to visit Tap Mun.
Upon arrival at the main ferry pier at Tap Mun, visitors will find public toilets and a few casual eateries and restaurants at the Old Fisherman's Village. Just to the south is a New Fisherman's Village where there are a few more places to eat. Otherwise, few options for food and drink provisions on Tap Mun so best to pack what you need prior to making your trip to the island.
Sightseeing around Tap Mun includes a roughly 1 hour long loop trail which circles the southern tip of the island. It passes by the 400 year old Tin Hau Temple at the Old Fisherman's Village, the grassy hilltops and gentle sloops that overlook the the western and southern coast. This is a very popular area for wild camping, particularly on weekends and public holidays.
There are a few pavilion rest stops along or near the main trail as well as a few interesting geological features for visitors to enjoy. These include the Balanced Rock and the Tap Mun Cave both accessible along the boulder and pebble beach just below the main trail.
Another popular geological land formation to find is Long Keng Kan (Neck of the Dragon) found at the end of the informal trail north of the Hilltop Pavilion. This beautiful natural landmark is accessible by way of rope repelling down the step wooded hillside. There are rewarding views of the sea and other outlying islands to the north and east from this location and along the trail. They rival the very good views found along the main loop trail to the south.
Overall, Tap Mun is a neat place to visit if you've done the rounds of island trips around Hong Kong and are looking for somewhere different to spend half a day. There is a nice mix of heritage, history, geology and natural beauty to enjoy and while time consuming to visit from the city, everything is pretty straightforward and easy to experience once you are there."
Brad
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common ways to reach Tap Mun involve taking a ferry. You can depart from Ma Liu Shui Pier (near Science Park) or Wong Shek Pier. From MTR University Station Exit B, you can walk about 15 minutes to Ma Liu Shui Pier or take a taxi. Alternatively, from Diamond Hill MTR Exit C, take bus 96R to Wong Shek Pier. Ferry schedules vary, so check online before your trip.
University Station (East Rail Line) is the closest MTR station to Ma Liu Shui Pier. From Exit B, you can walk or take a short taxi ride. +1
The ferry journey duration varies depending on your departure point. From Ma Liu Shui, it's about 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes. From Wong Shek Pier, it's a much shorter trip of around 35 minutes.
Yes, you can take a taxi to both Ma Liu Shui Pier and Wong Shek Pier. It's advisable to tell the driver your destination clearly, such as 'Ma Liu Shui Pier' or 'Wong Shek Pier'.
While ferries are the primary mode of transport, some private boat services might be available. However, the public ferry is the most reliable and cost-effective option.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ferry fares are generally affordable. From Ma Liu Shui, it's around $30 HKD for a round trip. From Wong Shek Pier, it's approximately $16 HKD. Prices can vary slightly, so it's good to have cash on hand.
It's not typically necessary to book ferry tickets in advance, but on weekends and public holidays, ferries can fill up quickly. Arriving early at the pier is recommended to secure a spot.
No, there is no entrance fee to visit Tap Mun Grass Island itself. The main cost associated with visiting is the ferry fare.
Ferry schedules are limited and can change. The first ferry from Ma Liu Shui is usually around 8:30 AM, with another around 12:30 PM. The last ferry back is typically in the late afternoon. Always check the latest schedule online before your visit.
It's best to carry cash for ferry tickets, as many smaller piers and services on the islands may not accept credit cards.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Tap Mun is famous for its beautiful grassy hills, wild cows, the historic Tin Hau Temple, and unique geological formations like the Balanced Rock and Tap Mun Cave. It's also a popular spot for camping. +1
Yes, there's a pleasant loop trail around the southern tip of the island, offering scenic views. The terrain is generally gentle, making it suitable for most fitness levels.
Yes, public restrooms are available near the main ferry pier at the Old Fisherman's Village.
Tap Mun is a very popular wild camping location, especially on weekends. Be sure to bring all your camping gear and be respectful of the environment.
Walking is the best way to explore Tap Mun. The island is small enough to cover on foot, and the trails are well-marked.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are a few casual eateries and restaurants located in the Old Fisherman's Village and the New Fisherman's Village, offering local seafood and dishes.
You can find local Hong Kong-style seafood dishes and other simple fare at the island's restaurants.
While there are dining options, they can be limited, especially outside peak hours. Packing some snacks and drinks is a good idea, particularly if you plan to hike or camp.
Options for cafes and convenience stores are very limited. It's best to come prepared with your own provisions.
Prices for food on Tap Mun are generally reasonable, reflecting the local island dining experience.
📸 📸 Photography
The rolling green hills, the wild cows grazing, the coastline views, the Balanced Rock, and the Tin Hau Temple are all fantastic photo opportunities. The island offers a serene, natural beauty.
Golden hour, during sunrise and sunset, offers the most beautiful light for photography. Midday can be harsh, but the lush greenery still looks great.
While drone usage might be possible, be mindful of local regulations and respect the environment and other visitors. Always check for any restrictions before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for photographing the cows from a safe distance.
The juxtaposition of the wild cows against the green hills, the ancient temple, and the dramatic coastal rock formations make for unique photographic subjects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The ferry ride itself can be an exciting part of the journey for children. While there are no specific playgrounds, the natural environment provides ample space for imaginative play. Remember to supervise children closely, especially near the water and when observing the cows. The island's relatively peaceful atmosphere makes it a great escape from the city bustle for a family picnic.
🏕️ Campers and Nature Lovers
Nature lovers will be captivated by the island's lush landscapes, diverse coastal views, and the unique geological formations. The loop trail provides a pleasant way to explore the island's natural beauty. Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles to help preserve this beautiful environment for everyone.
🚶 Day-Trippers
Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the beautiful scenery, or try some local seafood at one of the island's eateries. Wear comfortable walking shoes as you'll be doing a lot of exploring on foot. The island is small enough to cover at a relaxed pace, making it perfect for a leisurely day out. Remember to check the ferry schedule to plan your return trip effectively and avoid missing the last boat.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating to Tap Mun: Ferry Routes and Tips
+2Alternatively, departing from Wong Shek Pier, which can be reached by bus 94 from Sai Kung Bus Terminus or bus 96R from Diamond Hill MTR (last stop), offers a significantly shorter ferry journey of about 35 minutes. This route is ideal if you're closer to Sai Kung or prefer a quicker sea crossing.
+1 It's crucial to check the ferry schedules online before you go, as they are not very frequent and can change. Arriving at the pier well in advance, especially on weekends, is highly recommended as ferries can fill up quickly. Pro-tip: Have cash ready for ferry tickets, as card payments are not always accepted. The cost is generally affordable, around $16-$30 HKD for a round trip, depending on the pier.
This planning ensures you won't miss the last ferry back to the mainland, which is essential for a stress-free island visit. Exploring Tap Mun: What to See and Do
Adding to the island's charm are the feral cows that roam freely. These gentle creatures are a common sight and a highlight for many visitors, offering great opportunities for observation and photography from a respectful distance.
Tap Mun is also a popular destination for wild camping, especially on weekends. Visitors can enjoy the serene atmosphere and starry skies. Remember to pack all necessary camping gear and adhere to responsible camping practices. The island is best explored on foot, with a pleasant loop trail offering scenic coastal views.
Island Etiquette: Protecting Tap Mun's Environment
When encountering the wild cows, maintain a safe distance and refrain from feeding them. These are wild animals, and human interaction can disrupt their natural behavior and health. Observing them from afar allows for a more authentic and respectful experience.
By following these simple guidelines, you contribute to maintaining Tap Mun's charm and ensuring it remains a beautiful destination for everyone to enjoy. This includes being mindful of noise levels, especially if camping, and respecting the natural habitats of the island's flora and fauna.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit