Rising dramatically from the coast is Shek Toi a rocky headland. The name Shek O literally means “rocky bay”. It is the perfect descriptor for this area.
Shek Toi is part of the southeastern Hong Kong Island. It is a peninsula facing the South China Sea. Imagine the wind and waves crashing against these rocks. They have shaped this coastline for centuries.
Shek O’s history stretches back 200 years. It was once a small fishing village. Clans like the Chan, Yip, Li, and Lau called this place home. Lobster was once a local specialty. Most villagers were forced to relocate to give way to the Shek O Country Club.
The Shek O Country Club is a private golf club. It was established in 1919. Construction of its Clubhouse was completed in 1925.
Let’s talk about Shek O Village. It is more than just a collection of houses. The Tin Hau Temple stands as a testament to the village’s history. It was built in 1891. The Chinese Temples Committee manages it today. The memorial archway bears the calligraphy of R.C. Lee. He was a prominent figure in Hong Kong.
The Shek O Bus Terminus is also a historical landmark. It was constructed in 1955. Hsin Yieh Architects designed it. Su Gin Djih founded the company. Interestingly, bus service to Shek O started in the 1920s. The Hong Kong and Shanghai Hotels Limited ran the route. It connected the Hong Kong Hotel to Big Wave Bay.
Shek O Beach offers sandy shores. Its water quality is fair. It is a popular spot on weekends and holidays. There is a public barbecue area. Restaurants offer diverse culinary delights. The cliffs are great for sports climbing.
North of Shek O Beach is Big Wave Bay. It is known for its waves. Surfers love this spot. You can find windsurfers here. Dragon’s Back is above Shek O. It is Hong Kong Island’s only paragliding site. Paragliders often land at Rocky Bay. Big Wave Bay Beach features prehistoric rock carvings. They are similar to those on Cheung Chau Island.
Shek O has basic bars and restaurants. They rent out equipment like body boards. Shek O Beach has a small golf course.
Shek O maintains a rustic and quiet environment. This is one of its main draws.
Shek O has become a backdrop for pop culture. Numerous Cantopop music videos have been filmed here. Stephen Chow’s 1999 film King of Comedy was also shot in Shek O.
Shek O celebrates the Tai Peng Ching Chiu Festival every ten years. It is a Taoist ritual seeking peace. Villagers gather to “pacify the dragon.” They bury grains in an urn behind the ancestral shrine. This asks for blessings of health and safety.
The scenery and community make Shek O a unique place. It is a blend of history, nature, and culture. Its residents are proud of their home. They welcome visitors to experience its charm.
Enjoy the views of Shek Toi. Take in the unique atmosphere of Shek O. Remember the stories of the past. They have shaped this remarkable place.