Make the most of what Sai Kung has to offer and explore where to eat, drink and shop in this beautiful little town…
The past 20 years have seen quaint little Sai Kung transform into a vibrant, bustling area. With some of Hong Kong’s most beautiful hikes, restaurants from across the globe, an abundance of fun activities and the occasional herd of buffaloes — it’s a bit of a trek from the island but we dare you not to fall head-over-heels for this little town. Here’s what to eat, drink and do while you’re there.
Read More: Your Guide To Tai O Fishing Village
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How To Get To Sai Kung
Where To Eat In Sai Kung
Where To Drink In Sai Kung
Where To Shop In Sai Kung
What To Do In Sai Kung
How To Get To Sai Kung Town
The easiest way to get the whole family to Sai Kung is by taxi or Uber. It will take around 40 to 60 minutes from the areas around Central, depending on what time and day you are visiting (expect lots of traffic on sunny weekends and public holidays!). Expect to pay around $300 each way.
If you’d prefer to take public transport, your best bets are the following options:
- Take the MTR to Choi Hung (Kwun Tong Line), and head for Exit C1, then take the green minibus 1A to Sai Kung Town (about 40 minutes).
- Take the MTR to Hang Hau (Tseung Kwan O Line), and head to Exit B, then take the green minibus 101M to Sai Kung Town.
- Take the red minibus from Dundas Street in Mong Kok to Sai Kung Town directly (about 30 minutes).
Where To Eat: Sai Kung Restaurants & Cafes
Cafe Pawsitive
Looking to spend a fun day exploring Sai Kung with your pup in tow? No better place to start than Cafe Pawsitive (it also makes a great spot for refuelling later in the day!). This pet-friendly cafe serves up dishes that combine Western and tropical flavours, perfectly suited to the laid-back Sai Kung neighbourhood. While the Cloud Egg on Charcoal Toast and Pandan Flavour Egg Waffle are popular picks, you’d be remiss to pass up a plate of handmade pasta with options like Squid Ink Pasta, Clams with Laksa Sauce and Four Shrimps Delight. Bone appetito!
Cafe Pawsitive, G/F, Kat Cheung Building, 41-42 Sai Kung Tai Street, Sai Kung, New Territories, Hong Kong, 5286 5995, www.instagram.com/cafepawsitive
Chuen Kee Seafood Restaurant
Looking for a breakfast spot to ease a hangover? If you’re after dim sum, then you’re in luck as Sai Kung gives you quite a few options. If it’s not too busy, head down to local fave Chuen Kee — a dependable spot situated right by the waterfront.
Chuen Kee Seafood Restaurant, G/F, 87-93 Man Nin Street, Sai Kung, New Territories, Hong Kong, 2792 6938, www.facebook.com/ChuenKee.main
The Conservatory
The Conservatory is great at any time of day but there’s something about the tropical decor, friendly staff and delicious menu that makes it the perfect spot for breakfast. Order the skillet for $118 and you’ll get everything you need served in one big, hot pan.
The Conservatory, G/F, 26 Wan King Path, Sai Kung, New Territories, Hong Kong, 2792 1105, www.enotecagroup.com/conservatory
Read More: Your Ultimate Guide To Breakfast In Hong Kong
Little Cove Espresso
If you’re craving an exceptional flat white and mouth-watering, healthy, not to mention seriously Insta-worthy food (hello chia bowls!), check out this peaceful little oasis in Sai Kung’s old town. Little Cove Espresso is the perfect place to fuel up before a day of exploring.
Little Cove Espresso, G/F, Shop 1 & 2, Siu Yau Building, Sai Kung, New Territories, Hong Kong, 6397 0875, www.facebook.com/littlecoveespresso
Ali Oli Bakery Café
Craving a coffee and something sweet? Pop by Ali Oli for freshly baked bread, pastries, cakes, cookies, homemade jams and more. This is a great spot to take in the hustle and bustle of the famous Sai Kung Square (and pet passing dogs!). Oh, and we hear the breakfast baps are top-notch.
Ali Oli Bakery Café, G/F, 11 Sha Tsui Path, Sai Kung, New Territories, Hong Kong, 2792 2655, alioli.com.hk
Read More: The Best Bakeries In Hong Kong
Turtle by the Sea
This resort-like haven is the place to sit back, relax and soak up seaside living. Turtle by the Sea is divided into two wings: a restaurant slash bar for those wanting to tuck into some hearty homemade dishes or small bites and a drink, and a cafe for all-day breakfast and coffee by the water.
Turtle by the Sea, Waterfront Park, 1 Wai Man Road, Sai Kung, New Territories, Hong Kong, 2886 2468, www.turtle.hk
Bakso
Named after the popular Indonesian street food, Bakso brings tropical beach vibes to Sai Kung with dishes inspired by the owner’s memories of surfing in Bali. Dive into its signature Indonesian Beef Ball Noodle Soup or cool off with an icy Smoothie Bowl.
Bakso, 9 Wan King Path, Sai Kung, New Territories, Hong Kong, 2720 3168, www.facebook.com/baksohk
Camden Town
Do you ever get an irresistible craving for plain ol’ fish and chips and cracking open a cold one? Trust us when we say this is the place to go — hitting the spot, with fish that’s flaky on the inside and crispy batter on the outside,with tangy tartar sauce and hot fries.
Camden Town, 49 Sai Kung Hoi Pong Street, Sai Kung, New Territories, Hong Kong, 9279 3839
Read More: Where To Get The Best Fish And Chips In Hong Kong
Padstow Restaurant & Bar
Spread over three floors, this British-inspired waterfront restaurant caters to every occasion. Set up camp on its ground floor for casual beach club vibes, complete with big screens for sports, or make your way to the first floor for something more formal. The roof terrace is perfect for those who wish to indulge in an alfresco feast.
Padstow Restaurant & Bar, 112 Pak Sha Wan, Sai Kung, New Territories, Hong Kong, www.padstow.hk
Read More: The Best Al Fresco Restaurants In Hong Kong
Loaf On
This humble local seafood spot located just a few metres from the sea holds the honour of being Sai Kung’s first Michelin-starred restaurant. Bring along your own fresh seafood and leave it to the chef to create your menu. Don’t miss the restaurant’s signature chilli pepper crispy skin chicken, which needs to be pre-ordered ahead of time.
Loaf On, G/F, 49 See Cheung Street, Sai Kung, New Territories, Hong Kong, 2792 9966, www.facebook.com/Loaf-On-Cuisine
Read More: Michelin Guide 2023 – Hong Kong Restaurants Awarded Michelin Stars
2084 (Twenty Eighty-Four)
Head to this plant-powered resto-bar for its take on the future of food. 2084’s tapas menu covers a range of international cuisines, with Momos, Peking Taco, Laab Wraps, Falafel and Omnimeat Katsu Burgers. It also serves a tasty selection of curries which you can wash down with a drink from the bar. Enjoy two for $55 on its Italian house wines and Bavarian lager during happy hour.
2048 (Twenty Eighty-Four), 5 Sha Tsui Path, Sai Kung, New Territories, Hong Kong, WhatsApp: 6420 8456, www.facebook.com/CASA2084
Read More: Your Guide To Vegan & Vegetarian Restaurants In Hong Kong
Zeugma
Serving up fresh and tasty kebabs, salads, hummus and whole roast chicken, Zeugma is our go-to for a quick a seriously satisfying bite. Have a chat with the lovely owners and enjoy the outdoor tables at golden hour.
Zeugma, Shop A, 74 Fuk Man Road, Sai Kung, New Territories, Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 2706 0622, www.facebook.com/ZeugmaHK
More Sai Kung Restaurants & Cafes
- Sai Kung Cafe & Bakery — Freshly baked goods and local snacks. www.facebook.com
- The Picture House — Formerly known as Steamers, this British-style gastropub is named for its 1950s cinema-themed decor. www.enotecagroup.com/thepicturehouse
- Sawaddee Thailand — A relaxed family-run Thai restaurant behind the taxi stand by the pier. www.facebook.com/Sawaddee-Thailand
- Man Nin Wah Roasted Meat Restaurant — Legendary roasted meat spot that’s been around since the 70s. www.openrice.com/en/hongkong/r-man-nin-wah-roasted-meat-restaurant
- Saigon Pho — Cheap and cheerful Vietnamese restaurant with vegetarian options. www.facebook.com/canadapho
- Villavilla Gourmet — Hunan-style stir-fry dishes. www.facebook.com
Sassy Tip: Whilst not a Sai Kung restaurant or café, Red Ant Food Delivery is also worth a special mention. It delivers food from most of your favourite Sai Kung restaurants with a set delivery charge depending on your location in Sai Kung or Clearwater Bay. The food is the same price as you would find at the restaurant and we love that 100% of the delivery fee goes directly to the rider. The English website and ordering are a bit clunky, so this one is best if you know the dishes that you want rather than needing to browse. Customer service via WhatsApp is excellent and delivery is consistent.
Where To Drink: Sai Kung Coffee Shops & Bars
Momentai
This large, open-air bar and restaurant is a popular hangout spot for everyone from locals to weekend tourists. There’s a pool table, lots of comfy seating, a huge selection of craft beers, and best of all, a stunning view of the ocean.
Momentai, G/F, 43-45 Hoi Pong Street, Sai Kung, New Territories, Hong Kong, 6154 4350, www.facebook.com/momentaila
No Nationality
No Nationality offers locally sourced brew alongside a produce-driven menu featuring American and Australian-style brunch items, handmade pasta and freshly baked desserts.
No Nationality, G/F, 47 See Cheung Street, Sai Kung, New Territories, Hong Kong, 6771 7355, www.instagram.com/nncoffeehk
Read More: The Best Brunch Places In Hong Kong
Cozy Coffee
Perch on one of the bar stools outside this two-storey cafe with your pooch or settle yourself in the cosy library-themed space on the second floor. If you’re working remotely, there isn’t a better space to get inspired.
Cozy Coffee, G/F & 1/F, 72-74 Po Tung Road, Sai Kung, New Territories, Hong Kong, 6511 8718, www.cozycoffeeclub.com
Read More: The Best Dog-Friendly Restaurants, Cafes & Bars In Hong Kong
Where To Shop In Sai Kung
Le Magasin
If you’re a fiend for fromage, make your way down the winding alleyways of the old town and visit Le Magasin. Stocking everything from delicious wines to jams, soaps, beautiful tableware and, of course, cheese, this is a great spot to stop by before heading to a dinner party.
Le Magasin, G/F, 12 Hoi Pong Street, Sai Kung, New Territories, Hong Kong, 2791 0292, www.facebook.com/LEMAGASIN21
Read More: The Best Cheese Shops In Hong Kong
BeCandle
Founded by Sai Kung resident Xavier Tang, this homegrown brand’s candles are created with a blend of vegetal and soy wax and essential oils from Europe, and housed in hand-blown glass vessels.
BeCandle Shop, 18b Sai Kung Tai Street, Sai Kung, New Territories, Hong Kong
Read More: Where To Buy Diffusers, Room Sprays & Candles In Hong Kong
Live Zero Bulk Foods
Zero waste and packaging-free grocery store Live Zero stocks a huge array of organic products including pantry staples, beauty and home essentials. Forget your container? Use one of the many reusable Tupperware and glass jars donated by the community! Nestled within the store, you’ll also find a range of home and lifestyle products from Thorn & Burrow.
Live Zero Bulk Foods, 1/F, 22 Yi Chun Street, Sai Kung, New Territories, Hong Kong, WhatsApp: 9842 7858, www.livezero.hk
Seed
Seed gives us zero excuses not to live a more waste and plastic-free lifestyle, providing everything you need to keep the kitchen well-stocked (think spices, cupboard staples like pasta, dried nuts, fruit and legumes). You’ll also find a range of eco-friendly household cleaning products, beauty, personal items and more.
Seed, 29 Yee Kuk Street, Sai Kung, New Territories, Hong Kong, 5703 2223, www.facebook.com/weareseedhongkong
Read More: Your Guide To Zero Waste & Bulk Food Stores In Hong Kong
Shun Kee City Houseware
Whether you need dim sum baskets, a tent, super glue, a teapot, power tools, an ironing board, inflatables or seasonal decorations, there’s really only one place to go. Affectionately nicknamed Harrods, this shop literally has everything, including super helpful staff.
Shun Kee City Houseware, 66 Yi Chun Street, Sai Kung, New Territories, Hong Kong, 2792 9850
Winerack
Rushing to a party and need to pick up a last-minute gift? Everyone’s favourite wine shop’s knowledgeable (and lovely!) staff has got you covered. Between the prices, the selection and the al fresco picnic benches outside (if you just can’t wait to pop the cork), it’s no wonder we love this little store.
Winerack, Shop 1, Sha Tsui Path, Man Nin Street, Sai Kung, New Territories, Hong Kong, 2253 6929, www.winerack.com.hk
Read More: Top Wine Shops & Liquor Stores That Deliver To Hong Kong
Things To Do In Sai Kung: Hikes, Beaches & More
Sai Kung Waterfront
On a weekend, the Sai Kung waterfront is a lively stretch where teams of dragon boaters do their warm-ups, groups of friends wait (im)patiently for the inevitable stragglers delaying highly anticipated junk trips, and every single dog owner is showing off their pooch. It’s busy, it’s loud, it’s entertaining. If you’re lucky, you’ll catch a glimpse of the two famous poodles riding their own electric car (we’re not kidding).
Ah Kwok Water Sport Centre
Watersports is one of Sai Kung’s specialities and Ah Kwok Water Sport Centre covers the bases with kayaks, canoes, windsurfing, SUPs and even wakeboarding. Rental prices vary by length of time and sport.
Ah Kwok Water Sport Centre, Sha Ha Beach, 743-751 Tai Mong Tsai Road, Sai Kung, New Territories, Hong Kong, WhatsApp: 5702 8636, www.facebook.com/AhKwokWaterSportCenter
Read More: 10 Watersports To Try In Hong Kong
Rent A Sampan
Junk trips, while one of the most popular Hong Kong summer activities, can get expensive. Why not try a budget-friendlier alternative and rent a sampan instead? Yes, they’re a little noisier and no, you can’t get drinks included, but these little boats will happily take you to a peaceful spot just outside of Sai Kung.
Hire a sampan from any of the little stands next to Sai Kung Pier
Read More: Your Ultimate Hong Kong Junk Boat Guide
Sai Kung Hoi Arts Festival
Curated by One Bite Studio and supported by the Hong Kong Geopark, the Sai Kung Hoi Arts Festival has expanded its reach from two islands to four this year — namely Sharp Island, Yim Tin Tsai, Kau Sai Chau and High Island. The anticipated second edition, themed “Joy Again, Stories”, features a total of 18 artworks including 10 new installations inspired by conversations, stories and materials derived from the Sai Kung islands.
Sassy Tip: Free guided tours and public programmes will be running until 14 January, 2024 (excluding Mondays, which are “self-exploration days”), as part of the festival. Find out more here.
Read More: Must-See Hong Kong Art Exhibitions
Camping In Sai Kung: Tai Long Wan, Sai Wan, Ham Tin
Sai Kung is arguably the best place to sleep under the stars. For those who don’t like the sand, find a private spot among Tai Long Wan’s grassy dunes, and if you can’t be bothered carrying food, you can grab some of the delicious, crispy fried squid offered at Ham Tin’s restaurant.
To get to Tai Long Wan, Sai Wan, and Ham Tim, we suggest grabbing a green taxi to the Sai Wan Pavilion in the Sai Kung Country Park, hiking from there and then getting a boat back. For a longer hike, take the 94 bus to Pak Tam Au and start from there. Read our Tai Long Wan guide for more details.
Read More: Where To Go Camping In Hong Kong
Lions Nature Education Centre
A tranquil spot of green, the Lions Nature Education Centre is the perfect place to take your dogs on a walk, explore the many different veggies grown there and marvel at the butterflies.
Lions Nature Education Centre, Tsiu Hang Special Area, Sai Kung, New Territories, Hong Kong (get off any bus coming into Sai Kung from the Pak Sha Wan side at Pak Kong bus stop)
Read More: The Best Dog-Friendly Beaches, Hikes & Parks In Hong Kong
Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark: Sharp Island/Hap Mun Bay
Nestled in Hong Kong’s UNESCO Global Geopark, Sharp Island is home to two stunning beaches that are well worth your while. We recommend taking a boat (about $30 to $40 for a round trip) from Sai Kung Pier to the first beach, Kiu Tsui. From there, you can see the Tombolo land bridge connecting Sharp Island to Kiu Tau. Take a walk across this very Instagrammable natural wonder at low tide for a short outing. If you have more time, hike the 1.7km over to Hap Mun Bay beach and take a boat back from the pier there.
Kitty’s Boat Service: 9357 5698 or 9033 1083
Sai Wan Stargazing Site
Did you know Sai Kung is a hotspot for stargazing? So much so that the government has constructed a stargazing facility between Sai Wan and Ham Tin Wan where visitors can comfortably lie down and gaze up at the twinkling constellations above.
Sai Wan Stargazing Site, walk uphill from Sai Wan along the MacLehose Trail Section 2 for about 10 minutes
Sai Kung Hike To Ma On Shan
Lace up your hiking boots and make your way up Ma On Shan. This trail not only offers breathtaking views of Sai Kung and Shelter Cove, but culminates in a gorgeous plateau from which you can watch the paragliders take off. From there, keep hiking for a tougher workout, or make your way down Po Lo Che Road to Sai Kung.
Read More: The Best Beach Hikes In Hong Kong
Sai Kung Stray Friends
What better way to spend your day than with a pack of furry friends? The Sai Kung shelter could always use a helping hand with walking and washing the dogs and just showing them some love. Looking to adopt? There are plenty of pups here waiting for their forever homes.
Sai Kung Stray Friends, 151 Tai Lam Wu Road, Sai Kung, New Territories, Hong Kong, 9199 2340, saikungstrayfriends.com
Sai Kung Scuba Diving
Feeling adventurous? Sign up for a fun dive with Sai Kung Scuba or Splash Hong Kong, or take a course to get certified. You’ll be surprised to find what weird and wonderful creatures inhabit the depths of the Sai Kung seas.
Sai Kung Scuba, 9 Tak Lung Front Street, Sai Kung, Hong Kong, 4647 7670, www.saikungscuba.com
Splash Hong Kong, Unit 5, 1/F, Ko Fu House, 58-72 Fuk Man Road, Sai Kung, New Territories, Hong Kong, 2792 4495, www.splashhk.com
Sheung Luk Stream
Hop on a minibus or grab a taxi from Sai Kung Town to take you out to Sai Wan Pavillion (roughly 20 minutes), and find yourself on the cusp of the great outdoors. We like the relatively easy trail that leads down to Ham Tin Beach, which will also take you to the beautiful Sheung Luk Stream and waterfall. From the start point at Sai Wan Pavillion, the walk should take you about 40 minutes, and then a further 15-20 minutes to reach the waterfall.
Sheung Luk Stream, Sai Kung, New Territories, Hong Kong
Read More: The Best Waterfall Hikes In Hong Kong
Wild Hong Kong
Enlist Rory Mackay from Wild Hong Kong to take you on an eco-adventure tour on his home turf! On land or sea, Sai Kung’s very own wild Scotsman will take you on a trip you’re not likely to forget. Whether you choose to go kayaking from Pak Lap Wan or hiking to Sai Kung via Ngong Ping, this is one of our top ways to take in the beauty of the area.
Wild Hong Kong, 6087 1439, www.wildhongkong.com
Read More: The Best Places To Kayak In Hong Kong
Trio Beach
A firm favourite, this little beach lies at the end of a 10-minute, $10 sampan trip from Pak Sha Wan pier. It’s a great place to go for a swim and have a BBQ at one of the many pits available.
Trio Beach, Sampan from Pak Sha Wan pier, Sai Kung, New Territories, Hong Kong
Read More: The Best Beaches In Hong Kong
Editor’s Note: “Your Neighbourhood Guide To Sai Kung: What To Eat, See & Do” was most recently updated by Nicole Moraleda in August 2023. With thanks to Melissa Albarus for her contribution.
Main image courtesy of Marc Ng via Unsplash, image 1 courtesy of Joel Lee via Unsplash, image 2 courtesy of Cafe Pawsitive, image 3 courtesy of Little Cove Espresso via Instagram, image 4 courtesy of Turtle by the Sea via Instagram, image 5 courtesy of Padstow Restaurant & Bar via Instagram, image 6 courtesy of 2084 via Instagram, image 7 courtesy of Momentai via Instagram, image 8 courtesy of Cozy Coffee via Instagram, image 9 courtesy of Le Magasin via Instagram, image 10 courtesy of Live Zero Bulk Foods via Instagram, image 11 courtesy of Beaumont Yun via Unsplash, image 12 courtesy of Joy Lee for Sassy Media Group, image 13 and 14 courtesy of Daisy Dudley for Sassy Media Group, image 15 courtesy of Wild Hong Kong via Instagram.