Photo: Atlasmotor / CC BY-SA 3.0
Hoi Ha Wan Marine Park is a sheltered bay on the Sai Kung Peninsula, renowned for its exceptional marine biodiversity and pristine coral communities. This protected area offers some of Hong Kong's best snorkeling and diving, with clear waters and vibrant underwater life that rivals many tropical destinations. The park is also a haven for hikers, with trails that wind through lush hillsides and offer stunning coastal views.
Highlights & What to See
- Snorkeling and Diving: Explore the coral-rich waters of the bay, home to over 60 species of hard corals and a dazzling array of fish, sea stars, and nudibranchs. The best visibility is during the cooler months from October to April.
- Coral Beach: A small, sandy beach that provides easy access to the snorkeling sites. It's a great spot for a picnic or to simply relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.
- Hoi Ha Village: A traditional fishing village with a few rustic seafood restaurants. Sample freshly caught squid, prawns, and fish while soaking up the local atmosphere.
- Hoi Ha Nature Trail: A short, easy walk that leads through secondary forest and mangroves, with interpretive signs about the local ecology. Keep an eye out for fiddler crabs and mudskippers along the boardwalk.
- WWF Hoi Ha Marine Life Centre: An educational facility run by the World Wide Fund for Nature, offering exhibits on marine conservation and guided snorkeling tours (advance booking recommended).
Suggested Time to Spend
Most visitors spend a half day to a full day at Hoi Ha Wan. Arrive early to secure parking and enjoy the calm morning waters for snorkeling. Combine a morning of underwater exploration with a leisurely seafood lunch at the village, then hike the nature trail in the afternoon. If you're a keen diver, consider booking a full-day dive trip to explore the outer reef areas.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Sai Kung Town: A bustling waterfront town known for its seafood restaurants, hiking trails, and boat trips to nearby islands. It's the main gateway to the Sai Kung Peninsula.
- Tai Long Wan (Big Wave Bay): One of Hong Kong's most beautiful beaches, accessible via a scenic hike from Sai Kung. It's a great spot for surfing and camping.
- Sharp Island: A small island connected to the mainland by a tombolo at low tide, featuring a geopark with volcanic rock formations and a marine park with snorkeling opportunities.
- Kiu Tsui Country Trail: A coastal hiking trail that offers panoramic views of the Sai Kung coastline and passes through a series of secluded beaches.
- Pak Tam Chung Nature Trail: A family-friendly walk through woodland and along a stream, part of the Sai Kung Country Park.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.