Middle Bay

Gazing across Middle Bay, can you sense the echoes of laughter and splashing? This seemingly tranquil haven, nestled between Repulse Bay and South Bay, holds a vibrant history. Middle Bay Beach, a popular spot on Hong Kong Island’s southern coast, has seen its share of transformation. Once dotted with colorful bathing sheds belonging to various swimming associations, the beach now boasts modern facilities. Imagine the scene in 1957, when the Hong Kong University Alumni Association proudly opened its swimming pavilion here at Middle Bay. Just a few years later, in 1962, nearly fifty such huts lined the shore, rented out annually through a public lottery. The beach’s carefree atmosphere was tragically disrupted one Sunday afternoon in July 1983. A red speedboat recklessly tore through the designated swimming area at Middle Bay, injuring three swimmers before speeding off towards Deep Water Bay. The hit-and-run, a chilling reminder of the need for safety, remains unsolved. One victim, 24-year-old Alun Chan Hon-wah, suffered a life-altering injury, losing part of his leg. This tragic event spurred increased patrols and new alarm systems at Middle Bay and other beaches. Today, Middle Bay Beach offers modern changing rooms, showers, BBQ pits, a tuck shop, and even a raft for swimmers to enjoy. It’s a place where you can relax, soak up the sun, and perhaps reflect on the stories etched into its sands. Though the bathing sheds are gone, their memory lingers, a reminder of Middle Bay’s evolution from a collection of private escapes to a public playground.