Sometimes, the best adventures are the ones decided at the last minute. Just like that, I found myself agreeing to an impromptu climb up Sharp Peak in Sai Kung East Country Park with a friend who called me the night before.
The call caught me off guard, but the allure of an unplanned adventure was too tempting to resist. The spontaneity of it all was invigorating. With no time to overthink or plan meticulously, I packed my essentials, set my alarm for the crack of dawn, and went to bed with excitement bubbling inside.
Sai Kung East Country Park is a gem in Hong Kong’s New Territories. Since it opened in 1978, this park has been a top spot for nature lovers, covering over 4,500 hectares. It’s famous for its rocky landscape, beautiful beaches, and wildlife. There are loads of hiking trails, but Sharp Peak is a standout for its tough climb and stunning views from the top.
Getting to Sai Kung East Country Park
The next morning, the air was crisp and fresh, a perfect backdrop for our spontaneous journey. We opted for a different approach to the hike, choosing to start our adventure with a scenic ferry ride from Ma Liu Shui to Chek Keng. Unlike the usual route from Pak Tam Au, this was a refreshing change. The ferry ride itself was a highlight, gliding through calm waters and making picturesque stops along the coastline of Sai Kung East Country Park.
Notes for the ferry ride: They only accept Octopus Card or cash (No auxiliary for change)
We watched the cityscape dissolve into natural beauty, the hustle and bustle giving way to serene waters and lush green hills. This approach shaved off some hiking time, but more importantly, it set a relaxed and scenic tone for the rest of the day. The journey by sea was a peaceful prelude, allowing us to soak in the stunning vistas before we even set foot on the trail.
As we disembarked and began our hike, the tranquility of the boat ride stayed with us, making the climb feel less daunting and more like an exciting exploration. The decision to take the ferry was a game-changer, transforming what could have been a routine hike into a memorable adventure.
Youth Hostel at Chek Keng
Instead of camping, another great option for staying inside the country park is the hostel near Chek Keng Pier. It’s super comfy and affordable, so you don’t need to lug around a tent or any camping gear. This place is a year-round hotspot for outdoor enthusiasts. You can fish from the pier in spring, and dive into all sorts of water sports at the water sports center under the summer sun, and what could be better than hiking in the cooler months of autumn and winter?
Plus, you can stroll along the Maclehose Trail to Tai Long Au, check out the mangroves at To Kwa Peng, or even take on the challenge of summiting Sharp Peak—the highest point in Sai Kung East Country Park.
The Hike
The entire hike spans approximately 11 kilometers, with Sharp Peak standing as the highest point at 468 meters. We reached the summit of Sharp Peak in under two hours. From there, it was another two-hour trek to our exit point at Pak Tam Au.
This route, although challenging, offers a rewarding experience with breathtaking views and diverse landscapes. The initial ascent to Sharp Peak is very steep, demanding a good level of fitness and determination. However, the panoramic views from the summit make every step worthwhile. Standing at 468 meters, Sharp Peak provides a stunning vantage point, with sweeping vistas of the surrounding hills, coastline, and distant islands.
The Sharp Peak
Sharp Peak, also known as Nam She Tsim, is one of Hong Kong’s most thrilling hiking destinations. But beware—this hike is not for the faint-hearted! Sharp Peak is famous for its rugged terrain and steep ascents (and descents), which means you need to be well-prepared.
Wear good hiking shoes with a solid grip, carry plenty of water, and make sure your phone is fully charged. The path can be slippery, especially after rain, so take your time and watch your step. If you’re new to hiking, it’s a good idea to go with someone experienced or in a group.
Given the challenging nature of the hike, accidents can happen. There have been instances where hikers have sprained ankles, slipped, or even had to be rescued. Always inform someone of your plans and expected return time. Bring a first aid kit and a map of the trail. And, remember, if the weather looks bad, it’s better to postpone your hike.
Once you reach the summit, all your hard work pays off. The views from the top of Sharp Peak are simply stunning. You’ll get a panoramic view of Tai Long Wan, with its beautiful beaches and clear blue waters. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the distant islands. It’s a perfect spot for those Instagram-worthy photos!
After taking in the views and snapping some photos at the peak, we began our descent. The trail continued to offer beautiful scenery, leading us through lush greenery and serene landscapes. The final stretch to Pak Tam Au was a bit tedious, featuring an uphill climb with little to no scenery to enjoy.
Route Plan from Sharp Peak to Pak Tam Au, the exit point. Around 7km.
Exit at Pak Tam Au
If you’re planning to continue your adventure or embark on a multi-day trek from Sai Kung East to West (or vice versa), Pak Tam Au is a key spot to keep in mind. It’s the perfect place to recharge, with plenty of water and vending machines for a much-needed sugar boost.
Not only is it a great rest stop, but Pak Tam Au also serves as a precautionary evacuation checkpoint. It’s a good place to take a break, stock up on essentials, and assess your next steps. Whether you’re heading deeper into the park or wrapping up your journey, this checkpoint provides a safe spot to regroup.
To Conclude
This last-minute decision to tackle Sharp Peak was an absolute winner! The mix of spontaneous excitement and stunning natural beauty made it an adventure to remember. There’s something incredibly satisfying about those unplanned trips—they often turn out to be the most memorable.
Opting for the ferry from Ma Liu Shui to Chek Keng was a game-changer. Instead of the usual monotonous trek from Pak Tam Au, we kicked off our journey with a serene and scenic ferry ride. Gliding through the calm waters, and making picturesque stops along the coastline of Sai Kung East Country Park, was a delightful experience. The ferry ride set a relaxed and scenic tone for the day.
This climb up Sharp Peak was the perfect example of how sometimes, the best moments happen when you just go with the flow and let the journey unfold. So, if you ever get that spur-of-the-moment call to explore, my advice is to say yes and embrace the adventure. You never know what amazing experiences await you!
Eco Adventure Hong Kong 