Rocky Bay calls to us. That is what “Shek O” literally means. Shek O Beach is more than just a picturesque bay. It is a place steeped in history and embraced by stunning natural beauty.
Shek O Beach is located on the southeastern part of Hong Kong Island. The entire area is a peninsula facing the South China Sea. Imagine a place surrounded by Shek O Country Park. Big Wave Bay and Cape D’Aguilar are nearby. This is Shek O.
Shek O Village boasts a history spanning around 200 years. Fishermen from the Chan, Yip, Li and Lau clans established it. Once, this village was famous for its lobster. Most villagers lived where the Shek O Country Club now stands. Sadly they were forcibly removed. Back in 1841, Shek O Village had a population of about 200. Hok Tsui Village and Tai Long Wan Village were included.
The Tin Hau Temple in Shek O Village was built in 1891. It stands as a Grade III historic building. The Chinese Temples Committee has entrusted its management to the Shek O Residents Association. Notice the memorial archway near the main entrance road. It bears the calligraphy of R.C. Lee.
Consider the modernist Shek O Bus Terminus. Hsin Yieh Architects designed it in 1955. Su Gin Djih founded this architectural firm. Bus service began in the 1920s. The Hong Kong and Shanghai Hotels Limited ran a route. It went between the Hong Kong Hotel and Big Wave Bay in Shek O.
Shek O Beach itself is a sandy public beach. Its water quality is considered fair. It has been graded Grade 2. Weekends and holidays see crowds flocking here. A public barbecue area awaits. Many restaurants cater to visitors. Rocky cliffs offer spots for sports climbing.
A mile north of Shek O Beach lies Big Wave Bay. You’ll pass the Shek O Country Club on the way. Big waves roll onto the beach propelled by the wind. Surfers love this spot. Windsurfers also frequent the seas off Big Wave Bay and Shek O beaches. Above Shek O is the Dragon’s Back. It is home to Hong Kong Island’s only paragliding site. Look up. You might see paragliders landing near Rocky Bay. Big Wave Bay Beach features prehistoric rock carvings. These are similar to those found on Cheung Chau Island.
Both beaches offer bars and restaurants. Equipment rentals are available. Body boards and lilos can be hired. Shek O Beach includes a small golf course.
The environment near Shek O Beach remains rustic and quiet. This isolation is one of its main draws. The Shek O Country Club centers around a par 65 private golf course. Its origins trace back to 1919. The Clubhouse construction finished in 1925.
Stephen Chow’s 1999 film “King of Comedy” was shot at Shek O.
To reach Shek O, take bus route 9 or red minibuses from Shau Kei Wan. Be aware that parking near the beach is limited.
Remember to bring a cloth or mat. Sit comfortably. Seek shade. Hong Kong summers can be scorching. Sunscreen is essential. Drink plenty of water. Shek O is a place to relax. Enjoy the beach. Savor the food. Embrace the tranquility. Cherish the escape.