Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark

Stretching across the eastern reaches of the New Territories and outlying islands, Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark is a dramatic landscape of volcanic rock columns, sea arches, and rugged coastlines that feels a world away from the city's skyscrapers. This geopark showcases 400 million years of geological history, with hexagonal rock columns formed by volcanic eruptions 140 million years ago—some of the best-preserved on the planet. Whether you're kayaking among sea caves, hiking along coastal trails, or exploring traditional Hakka villages, this geopark offers a raw, natural side of Hong Kong that most visitors never see.

Highlights & What to See

• Sai Kung Volcanic Rock Region – Marvel at the towering hexagonal columns of the High Island Reservoir East Dam, a World Heritage-class geological wonder.
• Sharp Island – Walk across a tombolo at low tide to this island, where you can see pineapple-shaped boulders and fossilized coral.
• Kat O (Crooked Island) – Explore a fishing village with a temple dedicated to the Earth God, set against a backdrop of weathered rock formations.
• Wong Chuk Kok Tsui – Kayak or hike to this peninsula for panoramic views of the sea and the dramatic sea arch called “God’s Fist”.
• Lai Chi Wo – A 300-year-old Hakka walled village with a fung shui wood and wetlands, offering a cultural counterpoint to the geology.
• Double Haven – Paddle through tranquil waters dotted with red sandstone islands and sea caves, best explored by kayak.

Suggested Time to Spend

To appreciate the geopark’s highlights, plan at least two full days. Spend one day in the Sai Kung area, hiking from the High Island Reservoir to the coast, and another day exploring the northeastern islands like Kat O and Double Haven. If you’re short on time, a guided kayak tour from Sai Kung can cover Sharp Island and the volcanic columns in a single day. The geopark is best visited between October and April when the weather is cooler and drier; summer can be hot and humid with a risk of typhoons.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Sai Kung Town – A laid-back seaside town with seafood restaurants, a lively waterfront, and access to hiking trails and boat tours.
• Plover Cove Country Park – Offers the scenic Bride's Pool and a long-distance trail along the reservoir, ideal for hiking enthusiasts.
• Tai Mei Tuk – A popular spot for water sports like windsurfing and kayaking, with a pleasant promenade and bike paths.
• Hong Kong Global Geopark – Northeast New Territories Sedimentary Rock Region – A separate section of the geopark featuring red sandstone formations and dinosaur-era fossils near Lai Chi Wo.
• Ma On Shan Country Park – Hike to the summit of Ma On Shan for sweeping views of the geopark and Tolo Harbour.

Please check official sources for current details.