Double Haven

Have you ever seen a harbor so serene it’s named Double Haven? Right here, nestled amongst Double Island, Crescent Island, and Crooked Island, lies Yan Chau Tong, better known as Double Haven. This tranquil body of water in Hong Kong’s north-eastern New Territories is famed for its breathtaking beauty and peaceful waters, a haven indeed. Double Haven’s unique charm extends beyond its tranquil surface. The waters are dotted with islands like Chap Mo Chau, Fu Wong Chau, and Pak Ka Chau. The larger islands that enclose the haven, Double Island (Wong Wan Chau), Crescent Island (Ngo Mei Chau), and Crooked Island (Kat O), stand guard, creating a natural shelter from the open sea. But what truly sets Double Haven apart is the striking, deep red rocks scattered throughout the area. This vibrant hue comes from iron oxide, a natural pigment that paints the landscape in rich, earthy tones. Adding to the haven’s allure are the villages that dot its shores. Lai Chi Wo, Sam A Tsuen, and Kat O offer glimpses into traditional life, adding a touch of human history to this natural wonderland. Beyond its scenic beauty, Double Haven holds ecological significance. It is partially encompassed by the Yan Chau Tong Marine Park, created to protect the diverse marine life thriving in these waters. Double Haven is also a key part of the Plover Cove (Extension) Country Park and the Hong Kong Global Geopark, Northeast New Territories Sedimentary Rock Region. This protected status safeguards vital mangrove forests and seagrass beds, crucial nurseries for countless marine species. Adding another layer of protection, the Double Haven Special Area encompasses several smaller islets, preserving the unique geological formations of Jurassic and Cretaceous sedimentary rocks. If you visit on a Sunday or public holiday, consider taking the ferry from Ma Liu Shui Pier, sailing across Double Haven itself. Or perhaps you prefer a hike? A scenic trail from Wu Kau Tang to Lai Chi Wo offers stunning views overlooking the haven. Double Haven, a place where natural beauty and ecological richness intertwine, leaving a lasting memory of serenity.