Shek O Coastal Walk
Getting away from the hustle-bustle of the city, we decided to explore the beautiful southeastern corner of Hong Kong Island - Shek O. Strolling through Shek O village, make your way to Shek O headland road leading to the coastal walk - Tai Tau Chau. Tai Tau Chau is connected to Shek O by the blue bridge popularly known as Lovers’ Bridge. You can easily combine this coastal walk with your day trip to Shek O beach.
Shek O is one of our favourite spots in Hong Kong to watch the big waves crashing into the rocks. It makes up for a perfect day trip where we would usually start early and stroll through the colourful houses in the village and head to the coastal walk. On our way back to Shek O, we like to spend some time near the rocks at Lovers’ bridge watching the waves. Before heading to the beach, grab a bite at one of the restaurants and head to the Shek O beach (depending on the pandemic situation - if they are open.)
Aerial shot of Tai Tau Chau pavillion and coastal trail
|
Elevation 44 meters |
Distance 2.5 kilometers |
Time Taken 45 minutes |
Difficulty Rating Easy |
Highlights of the hike
Walk along the rocky coastline
Listen to the sound of waves
Paved walk
Suitable for all ages and pets (difficult with strollers)
Rock climbing
Lovers’ Bridge (blue bridge)
Rock climbing
Here is a short video of this coastal walk
Getting Here
From Shau Kei Wan Station, take bus 9 and get off at the last stop - Shek O bus terminus.
Walkthrough the village via Shek O Village Road, leading uphill to Shek O Headland Road. At the end of this road, take the stairs downhill that connect to a footpath that heads out onto Tai Tai Chau via the Lovers’ Bridge.
Return Trip - Shek O Bus Terminus to Shau Kei Wan or Central Ferry
While returning, follow the same route, back to Shau Kei Wan or Central Ferry (X9 bus runs only on weekends and public holidays in the evening from Shek O between 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm, every 30 mins tentatively - check the timings here)
Shek O Bus Terminus
Walking through the Shek O village, you will see a few colourful houses and an old Tin Hau temple built-in 1891. The temple’s building is a Grade III historic building in Hong Kong. Due to the pandemic, this temple was closed when we visited, but we could look at the paintings on the walls and closed doors, which were equally beautiful.
Heading to Tai Tau Chau - Coastal Walk
Follow the road and pass the blue building on the corner. The shop next to it is your last chance to buy some snacks and drinks before heading to Tai Tau Chau. After this spot, there are no shops.
This shop is your last chance to buy any snacks or drinks
Pass the above shop and follow the main road. Watch out for vehicles on the corner. Walk uphill towards the Shek O Headland road. At the end of the road, take the stairs going downhill, and voila - you will be looking at the stunning view of Lovers’ bridge that connects Shek O and Tai Tau Chau (大頭洲), known as Urn Island.
Lovers’ Bridge
This bright blue walkway is known as Lovers’ Bridge because it is wide enough for two people to walk side by side, also the blue colour seems to be romantic. It is famous for wedding shoots due to its blue colour. In 2018 during the typhoon Mangkhut in Hong Kong, this bridge was destroyed. People couldn’t access the Tai Tau Chau coastal walk. By January 2021, this bridge was restored and reconstructed.
Restaurants at Shek O
Here are a few restaurants you can try at Shek O
If you are looking for some Thai food, this place has it all. Good options for vegetarians too.
G/F, 303 Shek O Village, Shek O
It’s French Mediterranean cuisine, a beach restaurant. Their lunch reservations are between 11 am and 6 pm and they also offer a Beach Breakfast from 8:30 am.
G/F, Shek O Beach Building, Shek O Beach
This is a small place and easier if you order takeaway from here as during busy weekends the waiting time to dine in is a lot more.
G/F, 401 Shek O Village Road, Shek O
Useful tips
As this is mostly an unshaded walk, carry your caps, umbrellas, and sunscreen
This walk starts with a gradual incline
Carry enough water, fruit, and snacks, as there are no shops along the way
On a clear day, you can also spot adventure sports enthusiasts paragliding and soaking in this beautiful view
Photo Gallery
Cinematic 4K Drone Video
If you would like to view just the drone shots, here is another video of just the drone shots of Shek O. Hope you enjoy it. Do share it with your friends and family and make a perfect day trip away from the busy city life.
