
Tap Mun is an island located in Hong Kong between Tai Tan Hoi, Tai Chek Mun and Mirs Bay. It is geographically close to Sai Kung East Country Park and administratively belongs to Tai Po District.
Surrounded by the sea, Tap Mun Island boasts picturesque scenery and fresh air, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and fishing areas. It's a safe and convenient place for camping year-round, perfect for families or friends to relax and unwind together on holiday. It's also a great place for nature enthusiasts and photography lovers to capture the natural beauty.
Suitable for all seasons, best in summer
Among the natural landscapes, the most famous are Dieshi, Tamen Cave and Longjingjin.
Dieshi: Also known as Lvzi Dieshi, it is about six meters high and is made of two large stones stacked in the shape of a Lv. A giant cave five meters high
Tamen Cave: According to legend, the cave leads directly to the altar in the Tin Hau Temple, so the sound of the shore can also be heard from the altar.
Dragon's Neck Muscle: Located in Chewan in the north of the island, it is a giant rock, more than ten meters high, and is very imposing even when viewed from above or up close.
Recommended play time: 1-2 days
free
All day
Tap Mun Island, also known as Grass Island, is a small, tranquil island in Hong Kong's northeastern waters. It is historically significant as a fishing village and a place of cultural importance, with the Tin Hau Temple dedicated to the sea goddess, reflecting the island's maritime history.
Tap Mun Island is located in the northeastern part of Hong Kong. To reach the island, take a ferry from Wong Shek Pier or from Ma Liu Shui Pier in Sha Tin. The ferry ride typically takes around 30 minutes. Public buses and taxis can be used to reach the pier from central Hong Kong.
Tap Mun Island is open year-round, with no specific closing hours. The best times to visit are during spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant, and the island is less crowded. Weekdays are generally less busy than weekends.
There is no entrance fee for visiting Tap Mun Island, but ferry tickets to the island must be purchased. Tickets can be bought at the pier either offline at the ticket counter or online through some ferry operators.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary, but it is recommended during the busy weekends or holidays. For weekdays, tickets are generally available on-site without any issues.
A visit to Tap Mun Island can be comfortably explored in about 4-5 hours. This includes walking around the island, visiting the Tin Hau Temple, and enjoying the beaches. For a more leisurely visit, you may want to spend the entire day there.
Guided tours are available on request, typically in Cantonese and English. It’s recommended to check with local tour agencies or ferry operators in advance for availability. Audio guides are not commonly provided.
A recommended route is to start by visiting the Tin Hau Temple, then hike along the coastal paths to the northern part of the island. Enjoy the beaches, and finish by heading to a viewpoint for sunset. This route gives a complete experience of the island's highlights.
Night visits are not typically available, as the ferry services stop in the late afternoon. There are no light shows, but the island is perfect for stargazing due to its relatively low light pollution.
Tap Mun Island can be crowded on weekends and public holidays, especially during the summer months. The least crowded times to visit are on weekdays, especially during off-peak seasons (fall and winter).
Basic facilities such as public toilets are available on the island. There are small food stalls selling snacks and drinks, but there are no large restaurants or shops. It’s advisable to bring your own water and food if you plan on staying for an extended period.
The island is generally accessible, but some areas have uneven paths, so elderly or disabled visitors may find it challenging to navigate certain parts. It is advisable to check with local operators for assistance or to avoid more rugged trails.
Cash is commonly used on the island, but many of the food stalls may also accept mobile payment options like Alipay and WeChat Pay. Cards are not widely accepted, so it’s best to carry cash.
There are a few small local eateries and food stalls offering simple seafood dishes and snacks, but dining options are limited. For more choices, visit nearby Sai Kung or Ma Liu Shui in Sha Tin.
Vegetarian options are available, especially in the form of local vegetable dishes. However, vegan and halal food options may be limited, so it’s recommended to bring your own food if you have specific dietary needs.
There are no hotels on Tap Mun Island itself, but accommodations are available in nearby Sai Kung or Ma Liu Shui in Sha Tin. These areas offer a variety of options ranging from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels.
Souvenir shops on Tap Mun Island are limited, but you can find small items such as handcrafted goods, local snacks, and souvenirs related to the island’s maritime culture.
After visiting Tap Mun Island, you can take the ferry back to Ma Liu Shui or Wong Shek Pier. From there, buses or taxis are available to continue your trip to other parts of Hong Kong. Alternatively, you can explore Sai Kung Town, which is a short ferry ride away.