Tai Long Au

🏞️ 【Tai Long Au (大浪坳, The Gateway to Sai Kung’s Mountains and Seas)】 is a mountain pass located inside East Country Park in the New Territories, Hong Kong. Standing at an elevation of approximately 160 meters, it serves as a critical junction leading to Sharp Peak and . As a major landmark along the middle section of MacLehose Trail • Section 2, it functions not only as a mid-way rest stop for hikers but also as a gateway to some of Hong Kong’s most breathtaking natural landscapes. —

📌 Geographical & Historical Background

Item Details
⛰️ Name Origin “Tai Long Au” means the mountain pass situated above Tai Long Wan, representing the highest point hikers cross after traversing the four beaches
🕒 Former Name Tai Long Wan was historically known as “Fung Wan” (Phoenix Bay)
🗺️ Location Eastern part of the Sai Kung Peninsula, New Territories, within East Country Park
📍 Elevation Approximately 160 meters
🧭 Connecting Trails Traversed via MacLehose Trail • Section 2; serves as the intersection for Sharp Peak, Ham Tin Wan, Sai Wan, Tung Wan, and Tai Wan
🏞️ Scenic Features Offers a panoramic, wide-open view of the spectacular “One Peak, Four Beaches” coastline
🚶‍♂️ Hiking Purpose A mandatory pass for heading to Sharp Peak and Tai Long Wan; accessible by setting off from Pak Tam Au along MacLehose Trail • Section 2

— is far more than a mere trail intersection; it boasts an exceptional vantage point, allowing visitors to simultaneously look down at the crescent sands of Ham Tin Wan and gaze up at the rugged, imposing ridge of Sharp Peak. The geology here consists primarily of volcanic rocks, where the reddish-brown soil formed by weathering creates a striking contrast with the surrounding lush vegetation. Acting as the core node of the Tai Long Wan hiking loop, it serves both as a quick evacuation route back down to Chek Keng and a crucial resting spot to adjust stamina before tackling Sharp Peak. Its strategic location and pristine vistas make it one of Hong Kong’s most iconic mountain passes.—

🏕️ Surrounding Highlights

Sharp Peak

  • Elevation: 468 meters
  • Features: A sharp, iconic peak offering magnificent views but highly rugged paths, suitable only for experienced hikers.
  • Trailhead: Accessed via a side path right next to Tai Long Au.

Tai Long Village

  • History: A traditional Hakka village, now consisting mostly of abandoned structures.
  • Architecture: Home to the Immaculate Conception Chapel, a Grade 3 Historic Building.
  • Supplies: Local village stores (stores/cafes) remain open, providing simple meals and refreshments.

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🥾 Hiking Routes

1. Pak Tam Au → Tai Long Au

  • Starting Point: Pak Tam Au
  • Route: Walk in reverse along MacLehose Trail • Section 2, passing through Chek Keng before heading uphill to Tai Long Au
  • Duration: Approx. 1.5 hours
  • Difficulty: Moderate, suitable for general hikers

2. Tai Long Au → Sharp Peak

  • Elevation: 468 meters
  • Trail Conditions: The path becomes exceptionally steep starting from , requiring scrambling over loose rock faces and crags
  • Warnings: Warning signs are posted along the way to highlight the treacherous and hazardous nature of the trail
  • Advice: Excellent physical fitness and scrambling experience are required; never attempt under adverse weather conditions
  • Difficulty: Advanced (⚠️ High physical fitness and technical hiking experience required)
  • Scenery: Sweeping panoramic views overlooking the magnificent “One Peak, Four Beaches” coastline

3. Tai Long Au → Tai Long Wan

  • Beaches: Sai Wan, Ham Tin Wan, Tung Wan, and Tai Wan (Tai Long Wan Beach)
  • Activities: Camping, surfing, and photography
  • Supply Points: Local stores are available at Ham Tin Wan and Sai Wan for stocking up on water and hot food
  • Difficulty: Moderate, suitable for general hikers

4. Sai Wan Pavilion → Sai Wan → Ham Tin Wan → Tai Long Au

  • Starting Point: Sai Wan Pavilion
  • Passing Through: Sai Wan and Ham Tin Wan
  • Activities: Camping, surfing, and photography
  • Features: Traverses right along the coastline, offering stunning and captivating beach scenery
  • Difficulty: Moderate, suitable for general hikers

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📍 Section Overview

Location English Name Key Features
Pak Tam Au Pak Tam Au The end point/start point of MacLehose Trail • Section 2 with convenient public transport
Chek Keng Chek Keng A coastal hamlet offering kaito ferry service to Wong Shek Pier
大浪坳 Tai Long Au A strategic mountain pass leading directly to Sharp Peak and Tai Long Wan
Sharp Peak Sharp Peak Standing at 468 meters, it is one of Hong Kong’s most challenging and sharpest peaks
大浪灣 Tai Long Wan A stunning bay consisting of four sweeping pristine sandy beaches

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⚠️ Hiking Safety & Precautions

Item Recommendations
Gear Sturdy hiking shoes with good grip, sun protection, adequate water, and snacks
Weather Avoid hiking on rainy or overcast days; trails become treacherous and slippery
Terrain The paths leading up to Sharp Peak are extremely steep and require hand-scrambling over rock faces
Signal Mobile coverage is weak or unavailable in certain valleys; hiking in groups is highly advised
Emergency Take note of the nearest emergency distance posts and planned retreat/evacuation routes

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🚍 Transportation

To Starting Point: Sai Wan Pavilion

  • 🚌 Village Bus NR29: Sai Kung Town Centre → Sai Wan Pavilion
  • 🚕 Taxi: From Sai Kung Pier, approx. HK$120–130

To Starting Point: Pak Tam Au

  • 🚌 Bus: 94 (Daily), 96R (Diamond Hill) / 289R (Sha Tin Central – Holiday Limited) → Pak Tam Au

From End Point: Wong Shek Pier

  • 慢 ⛴️ Kaito Ferry: Chek Keng Pier → Wong Shek Pier (subject to tidal and schedule variations)
  • 🚌 Bus: 94 (Daily), 96R / 289R (Holidays) → Diamond Hill / Sha Tin Central

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🔺 Safety & Environmental Guidelines

  • 🌊 Undertow Warning: Sai Wan and Ham Tin Wan are classified among Hong Kong’s “Five Most Dangerous Beaches.” They feature heavy undertows and unpredictable swells; they are not official swimming beaches and have no lifeguard services.
  • 🧴 Gear Advice: Proper trekking shoes, sun block, plenty of drinking water, and reliable rain gear are essentials.
  • 🗑️ Leave No Trace: Please pack out whatever garbage you bring in to protect and preserve our natural wilderness.

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  • Tai Long Au