How to hike from Sai Kung Country Park to Yau Ley Seafood Restaurant

For those local to Sai Kung, you’ll be well aware of the hidden gem that exists deep inside Sai Kung Country Park. Yau Ley (High Island) is one of Hong Kong’s least accessible seafood restaurants, but it’s well worth the trip. Although a seafood restaurant, there’s a decent selection of vegan and vegetarian dishes too. Kids can enjoy the beach and some time in the ocean. The family-owned restaurant is most commonly reached by boat, but there’s a lesser-known route to this much-loved eatery by foot. Head on a leisurely hike through Sai Kung Country Park to the seafood eatery and explore a little of Hong Kong’s history while you’re at it.

Read more: Your guide to hiking Ma On Shan at sunrise

Getting there

Grab the number 94 bus or a taxi to the entrance of Sai Kung Country Park. For those wanting less of a hike, you can continue the taxi ride through the gate to Pak A, a short distance past the west (first) dam of the reservoir.

Route

Start from the entrance of Sai Kung Country Park. Stick to Sai Kung Man Yee Road (also part of the Maclehose Trail Section 1) which takes you around the west of High Island Reservoir.

Skirting the reservoir takes around two hours before you reach a sign pointing to Pak A Village that leads you right, off the road and down a footpath.

Continuing on the downhill path for around 15 minutes takes you to a pagoda next to the ocean. Take the left-side path along the coast. You’ll pass some old, abandoned village houses, a basketball court and school. At the next fork in the path, turn right and you’ll soon end up at Leung Sheun Wan Tin Hau Temple.

Pass a sea urchin restaurant (one for trying next time) before passing another large abandoned building. ooking across the water you’ll catch sight of Sha Kiu Pier, your destination. Follow the last bit of coast around the small beach cove, and you’ll soon arrive there.

Getting home

Once you’ve taken in the views, vibes, bites and beers you can either trek back the way you came (not so easy with a full belly) or jump on a speedboat which conveniently takes you back to Sai Kung Pier. The boat itself is around $900 for up to 10 passengers.

Feature image courtesy of Yau Ley Seafood Restaurant.