Big Wave Bay Beach Hong Kong
Hong Kong's premier surfing beach, offering beautiful sands and waves, with a unique 'no surfing' sign that adds to its charm.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better waves
Big Wave Bay Beach Hong Kong
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better waves
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hong Kong's premier surfing beach, offering beautiful sands and waves, with a unique 'no surfing' sign that adds to its charm.
"Big Wave Bay is awesome, my favorite beach in Hong Kong. "
🏄♀️ Surf's Up (Technically)
Surfing is technically banned but widely practiced. Rental shops are open.
🏖️ Less Crowded Alternative
Often quieter than Shek O, perfect for a peaceful beach day.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Surf Spot
Big Wave Bay Beach
Hong Kong's premier surfing destination, offering consistent waves for all levels.
Relaxing Sandy Shores
Big Wave Bay Beach
Enjoy the beautiful sand and clear waters, a perfect spot for a leisurely day.
Scenic Coastal Views
Eastern end of Hong Kong Island
Experience a less crowded, picturesque beach on the eastern side of Hong Kong Island.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Surf's Up (or Not?)
Beyond the Waves
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🏄♀️ Surf's Up (Technically)
Surfing is technically banned but widely practiced. Rental shops are open. +1
🏖️ Less Crowded Alternative
Often quieter than Shek O, perfect for a peaceful beach day.
🚗 Getting There
Accessible by bus, but can be a bit of a journey.
💰 Board Rentals Available
Surfboard rentals are readily available from shops on the beach.
Tips
from all over the internet
🏄♀️ Surf's Up (Technically)
Surfing is technically banned but widely practiced. Rental shops are open. +1
🏖️ Less Crowded Alternative
Often quieter than Shek O, perfect for a peaceful beach day.
🚗 Getting There
Accessible by bus, but can be a bit of a journey.
💰 Board Rentals Available
Surfboard rentals are readily available from shops on the beach.
🚫 No Camping Allowed
Camping on the beach is illegal in Hong Kong.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Big Wave Bay Beach is cherished for its beautiful sandy shores and consistent surf, offering a refreshing escape from the urban hustle. While the 'No Surfing' sign causes confusion, the beach remains a popular spot for wave riders, with rental shops readily available. Visitors appreciate its scenic beauty and often find it less crowded than nearby alternatives, making it a great spot for relaxation and water sports.
"Big Wave Bay
This is at the very Eastern end of the HK island. It faces the Tathong Point on a small isolated island called Tung Lun Island.
It is a popular swimming beach during summer and has designated areas for picnic and barbecue.
Many parking places are available.
The most attractive part for me is the sunrise and sunset scenes.
Pictures will be shown as attached.
Written on April 21st, 2025."
kam-ling CHIU
"Cozy beach, small but well equipped with changing rooms, showers and toilets"
Anna Wilhelm
"Reached on saturday at 1130am, the ending point of my dragon back hike from To Te Wan. 3 hours hike.
Accessible by bus 9 from mtr.
There are free showers, toilets.
Also, food and drinks stalls.
If I had known, I would have packed my swimming attire to go for a dip after the hike."
Z H
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
To reach Big Wave Bay Beach, you can take a bus from various points in Hong Kong. For example, from Shau Kei Wan MTR station, you can catch bus number 9 to Shek O village, and then it's a short walk to Big Wave Bay. Some travelers mention it can be a bit of a journey, so factor in travel time.
Big Wave Bay Beach is not directly accessible by MTR. The closest MTR station is Shau Kei Wan, from where you'll need to transfer to a bus (like bus 9) to get closer to the beach.
For surfers, taking public transport like the bus is common. Some may opt for taxis for convenience, especially with gear, but this can be more expensive. Plan your route in advance to ensure a smooth trip.
Parking at Big Wave Bay Beach can be limited, especially on weekends and holidays. It's generally recommended to use public transport to avoid parking hassles.
The travel time from Tsim Sha Tsui to Big Wave Bay can vary significantly depending on traffic and your chosen mode of transport. Expect at least an hour to an hour and a half by public transport, including the bus journey.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entrance fee to access Big Wave Bay Beach. It is a public beach and free to enter for everyone.
Big Wave Bay Beach is open 24 hours a day, as it is a public beach. However, facilities like restrooms and shops may have specific operating hours.
You do not need to book tickets in advance for Big Wave Bay Beach as there is no admission fee. It's a public space.
While there's a sign indicating 'No Surfing,' it's widely ignored, and surfing is common. Rental shops operate, suggesting it's generally permitted in practice, though technically banned. +1
The main restriction to be aware of is that camping on the beach is illegal in Hong Kong. Otherwise, it's a public beach with general rules of conduct.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Yes, you can rent surfboards at Big Wave Bay Beach. There are several shops on the beach that offer rentals, and they were operating even before Covid.
The water quality at Big Wave Bay is generally considered good, with clear waters suitable for swimming and surfing.
Lifeguards are typically on duty at Big Wave Bay Beach during peak seasons and hours. It's always advisable to swim in designated areas and be aware of any safety warnings.
Facilities at Big Wave Bay Beach usually include public restrooms, changing rooms, and several surf shops that also rent equipment and offer lessons.
Yes, Big Wave Bay can be suitable for families, especially if they enjoy the beach atmosphere. While it's known for surfing, the sandy area is good for relaxing, and the water can be enjoyed by swimmers.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are usually a few small restaurants and food stalls located near Big Wave Bay Beach, offering local snacks and meals.
You can typically find casual dining options like seafood, local Hong Kong snacks, and refreshing drinks at the eateries near the beach.
Absolutely! Bringing your own picnic is a great option for Big Wave Bay, allowing you to save money and enjoy your preferred food while relaxing on the sand.
Options might be limited at the small beachside eateries. It's advisable to check with the vendors directly or bring your own vegetarian/vegan-friendly snacks if you have specific dietary needs.
Prices at the beachside eateries can be slightly higher due to the location. Bringing your own food is the most budget-friendly option.
📸 📸 Photography
The golden hours around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for photography at Big Wave Bay. Midday can be harsh, but good for capturing the action of surfers.
You can capture stunning shots of surfers catching waves, the scenic coastline, relaxing beachgoers, and the unique 'No Surfing' sign for a bit of irony.
Drone usage regulations can be strict in Hong Kong. It's best to check the latest local regulations before flying a drone at Big Wave Bay to avoid any issues.
A telephoto lens is recommended to capture surfers from a distance. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the overall beach landscape and atmosphere.
The main beach area offers great views of the surfing action. For wider coastal shots, consider exploring the paths leading away from the main beach.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing beach toys and snacks, as amenities are limited. The journey via bus might be an adventure for children, and the relatively less crowded nature compared to other beaches can make it more manageable for families. Just be mindful of the surfers if your children are playing near the water's edge.
🏄♀️ Surfers Seeking Waves
While intermediate surfers from places like New Zealand might find the waves a bit easy compared to home, it's still a great place to catch some rides and enjoy the surf culture.
🚶♀️ Day-Trippers & Relaxers
It's often less crowded than its neighbor, Shek O, providing a more tranquil experience. Pack a picnic, enjoy the coastal scenery, and perhaps try a beginner surf lesson if you're feeling adventurous. It's a refreshing escape that showcases a different facet of Hong Kong.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Surfing Paradox: Big Wave Bay's 'No Surfing' Sign
Despite the official ban, surfing is a common sight at Big Wave Bay. Numerous surf shops operate on the beach, renting out boards and offering lessons, indicating a tacit acceptance or lax enforcement of the rule.
While technically illegal, the practice continues. Visitors looking to surf should be aware of the official stance but can generally expect to find opportunities to do so. It's a unique aspect of Big Wave Bay that adds to its character, reflecting a common scenario where local practice sometimes diverges from official regulations.
Big Wave Bay vs. Shek O Beach: A Local's Choice
One of the main reasons for this preference is that Big Wave Bay is often perceived as being less crowded than Shek O, offering a more relaxed atmosphere.
While Shek O might be more developed with more amenities, Big Wave Bay offers a more laid-back vibe that appeals to those who appreciate its natural beauty and slightly more secluded feel. It's a great choice for a peaceful day by the sea, whether you're a surfer or just looking to unwind.
Getting to Big Wave Bay: A Journey Worth Taking
While not as straightforward as reaching some other Hong Kong attractions, the journey is part of the experience, offering glimpses of the island's scenic landscapes.
Parking can be a challenge at Big Wave Bay, particularly on weekends, making public transport the preferred and most practical option for most visitors.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit