Sha Tau Kok Public Pier

“Is that a boat to Kat O?” a child’s voice broke the salty air at Sha Tau Kok Public Pier. The Sha Tau Kok Public Pier stretches an impressive 280 meters into Starling Inlet. It’s the longest pier in Hong Kong, a concrete arm reaching out to embrace the deeper waters. This allows larger vessels to dock, bringing life and trade to this historically closed town of Sha Tau Kok. The pier isn’t just a grey concrete slab. Colourful murals painted by local primary school students adorn the walls, adding a touch of youthful vibrancy to the otherwise utilitarian structure. There are benches too, offering a place to rest and gaze out at the sea, perhaps contemplating the pier’s journey through time. Originally built in the 1960s, Sha Tau Kok Public Pier underwent a significant renovation between 2004 and 2007, ensuring its continued service to the community. For many years, the pier served as a vital link for kaitos, traditional local boats, ferrying goods and people between Sha Tau Kok and nearby islands like Kat O, Sam A, and Ap Chau. Until recently, this access was restricted. Non-residents needed special permits to enter the closed area, making a simple island hop a bureaucratic hurdle. Tourists wishing to explore Mirs Bay had to embark on a much longer journey from Ma Liu Shui pier, bypassing the convenience of Sha Tau Kok. As part of the Northern Metropolis development strategy, the government finally opened the Sha Tau Kok Public Pier to tour groups in mid-2022. Now, visitors can easily experience the beauty of the surrounding islands, a mere 20 to 30-minute boat ride away. The pier is a symbol of connection. It connects Sha Tau Kok to the wider world, bringing in trade and tourism. It connects the past to the present, from its initial construction to its modern renovation. And now, it connects visitors to the unique charm of Hong Kong’s northeastern islands, creating memories that will last long after they’ve stepped back onto solid ground.