Island Hopping in Hong Kong's Oldest Rock Region and Red Coast

Hong Kong, known for its vibrant cityscape, also boasts a rich geological heritage that is often overlooked by visitors. The Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark offers a unique opportunity to explore this natural beauty, particularly through island-hopping tours that visit Bluff Head and Port Island. These two sites are not only stunning but also steeped in geological history, making them must-visit destinations for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

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Bluff Head: Hong Kong's Oldest Rock Region

Located in the northeastern New Territories, Bluff Head is renowned for being the oldest rock region in Hong Kong, with sedimentary rocks dating back an astonishing 400 million years to the Devonian period. This area is part of the Bluff Head Formation, characterized by pale grey to reddish-brown sandstones and siltstones, along with quartz-pebble conglomerates. The rocks here have been shaped by millions of years of weathering and erosion, creating dramatic formations such as the "Devil's Fist" and "Bacon Rock".

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Port Island: The Red Coast Marvel

Port Island, also known as Chek Chau or "Red Island," is famous for its striking reddish sedimentary rocks, which are part of the Late Jurassic to Early Cretaceous period. The island's landscape is dotted with unique formations like Red Beach, Red Ridge, Sheep's Horn Rock, and Cobra Rock, each offering breathtaking views and insights into the region's prehistoric past4. Recently, Port Island gained fame as "Dinosaur Island" following the discovery of Hong Kong's first dinosaur fossils, adding an exciting layer of historical significance to visits.

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Island Hopping Tour: Combining Bluff Head and Port Island

The Geopark Flaming Red Coast Island Hopping Tour by Splitdyboat offers an exhilarating journey through these natural wonders. Here's what you can expect from this tour:

Meeting Point: Wong Shek Pier

Tour Price: HKD $480 per person, including guided tour, photography, and boat transfer

Duration: Approximately 2.5 hours

Difficulty: Easy, but requires walking 30 meters along uneven shoreline

Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for optimal lighting conditions

Best Months to Visit: Between March to October

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Highlights of the Tour

Bluff Head: 

✅ Explore the "Devil's Fist" and "Bacon Rock," iconic sandstone formations shaped by weathering and erosion.

✅ Discover mysterious sea caves carved out by the relentless sea.

Port Island:

✅ Visit Red Beach, famous for its striking reddish-hued pebbles and crystal-clear waters.

✅ Hike to Red Ridge, a geological marvel where crimson peaks meet the sea.

✅ Marvel at Sheep's Horn Rock and Cobra Rock, whimsical formations that showcase the island's unique geology.

Conclusion

Island hopping in Hong Kong's oldest rock region and red coast is an unforgettable experience that combines stunning natural beauty with fascinating geological history. The tour to Bluff Head and Port Island offers a unique opportunity to explore Hong Kong's lesser-known treasures, making it a must-do for anyone interested in nature, geology, or history. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or just looking for a new adventure, this tour promises to leave you with unforgettable memories of Hong Kong's natural wonders.