Tucked away in the centre of the Sai Kung Peninsula in Hong Kong, Long Ke Wan Beach is a hidden gem that provides a peaceful diversion from the busy city life. This remote beach, well-known for its immaculate white sands, glistening waters, and stunning vistas, is a haven for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and anyone else seeking to unwind in a tranquil setting. In spite of its outlying location, Long Ke Wan Beach has been increasingly well-liked by both residents and visitors, making it a must-see location for travellers looking for something different in Hong Kong.
Sai Kung East Country Park, a protected area renowned for its varied ecosystems and natural beauty, includes Long Ke Wan Beach. The beach is situated facing the South China Sea on the Sai Kung Peninsula's eastern coast. Volcanic activity sculpted the region for millions of years, leaving behind the distinctive scenery visitors see today. Fine quartz grains that were originally deposited by ancient rivers and later polished by the sea make up the beach's white sand.
In the past, Long Ke Wan was a remote location that could only be reached by boat or by difficult hiking. The beach was virtually undiscovered until recently, when adventurers looking for a more private and unspoiled beach experience in Hong Kong became more interested in eco-tourism and outdoor recreation.
The pristine natural beauty of Long Ke Wan Beach is among its most striking features. With no hotels, restaurants, or shops right on the beach, Long Ke Wan is still relatively undeveloped in comparison to many of Hong Kong's more popular beaches. Because of this, it has a distinct, unspoiled feel, which makes it the perfect place for people who value the unadulterated beauty of nature. The beach's fine white sand is perfect for lounging and sunbathing, and its crystal-clear waters are great for swimming and snorkelling.
The surrounding scenery of Long Ke Wan is another distinctive feature. The sea's vivid blue hue is dramatically contrasted with the beach's lush green hills and cliffs. The region is a well-liked location for birdwatching and nature photography because it is also home to a wide range of wildlife, including rare birds and marine species.
Visitors can engage in a variety of activities at Long Ke Wan Beach. It's the ideal place for swimming, snorkelling, and kayaking because of the clear, calm waters. Because of its isolated location, the beach is an excellent place to camp. Many guests decide to set up a tent and spend the night outside, taking in the tranquil sounds of the waves and the surrounding landscape.
The trails that lead to Long Ke Wan are among the most picturesque in Hong Kong for hikers. One of the most well-known hiking trails in Hong Kong, the MacLehose Trail, passes close to the beach and provides breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and coastline. The region is also great for rock climbing and exploring neighbouring caves, offering lots of exciting opportunities for adventure.
Although there aren't any restaurants directly on Long Ke Wan Beach, guests shouldn't miss the assortment of regional specialties that the neighbouring town of Sai Kung town has to offer. Sai Kung is well-known for its seafood, and guests can savour in-season fare like steamed fish, garlic prawns, and spicy crab at any of the numerous restaurants along the waterfront. Try some of the town's street food options, like fish balls, grilled squid, and egg waffles, for a more relaxed dining experience. For the ideal day spent in nature, visitors can also bring a picnic to eat on the beach.
Apart from relishing the beach, there are multiple neighbouring points of interest that are well worth seeing. Sightseeing is popular at the High Island Reservoir, which is only a short hike from Long Ke Wan. Magnificent geological formations, such as hexagon-shaped rock columns created by long-gone volcanic activity, envelop the reservoir. Wandering along the dam of the reservoir allows visitors to take in expansive views of the surroundings.
The Sai Kung GeoPark, a UNESCO Global Geopark that highlights the area's distinctive geological legacy, is another neighbouring attraction. Along with a multitude of geological wonders like sea arches, caverns, and rock formations, the park is home to hiking trails that provide breathtaking views of the coastline.
It takes some work to get to Long Ke Wan Beach, but getting there is half the fun. Hiking is the most popular way to get to the beach. From Sai Kung town, visitors can take a bus or taxi to the beginning of MacLehose Trail Section 2, which leads to the beach. The hike is rated as moderately difficult, taking 1.5 to 2 hours, with some steep and uneven terrain. But the breathtaking vistas along the route make the effort worthwhile.
As an alternative, travellers can go straight to the beach by renting a boat from Sai Kung town. For those who would rather not hike, this more costly option provides a quicker and more comfortable means to get to the beach.
As Long Ke Wan Beach is so remote and secluded, planning ahead is essential when visiting Hong Kong. Hiking is required to reach this hidden gem, so it's important to wear supportive shoes for navigating the occasionally difficult and uneven terrain. Even though the trail to the beach has breathtaking views, it can be difficult, especially for people who are not experienced hikers, so go slowly and be aware of your surroundings.
Given the beach's remote location, it is imperative to pack necessities as there are no nearby shops or facilities. It can be exhausting to hike in the heat, especially in the warmer months, so make sure you pack plenty of water to stay hydrated. You should also bring snacks or a packed lunch because there won't be any vendors there when you get there. Since there isn't much natural shade on the beach itself, protect yourself from the sun by bringing sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. You should also think about bringing an umbrella or a beach tent.
Another important item to pack is a portable first aid kit, since minor injuries like cuts and scrapes can happen at the beach or on the hike. Given Long Ke Wan's remote location and patchy cell service, it's crucial to let someone know about your travel schedule, including your anticipated arrival and departure times. Thanks to this, someone will know where you are in an emergency.
Check the weather forecast before you leave. You should try to avoid getting caught in a sudden downpour in Hong Kong, especially if you're hiking to or from the beach. Finally, it's critical to honor Long Ke Wan's natural beauty. The beach is immaculate, and its unspoiled state is one of its many unique qualities. Make sure you dispose of all your trash, and if you see trash that someone else has left behind, think about picking it up to keep the beach looking beautiful. By following these safety measures, you can visit Long Ke Wan Beach in a safe, fun, and environmentally conscious manner.