In summer in Hong Kong, besides air-conditioned rooms, what else can help you completely relax and enjoy the sunshine and sea breeze? The answer is: Saigon Canoe! For those new to water sports, canoeing not only has a low entry barrier, but also allows you to explore the hidden beauty of Saigon from a unique perspective. Imagine paddling a canoe through the crystal clear “glass water”, visiting the mysterious Green Egg Island, and feeling the gentle sea breeze. This is definitely the best way to discharge your energy on the weekend!
Beginner’s introduction to canoeing in Sai Kung: 3 must-try routes recommended
Sai Kung has a rich coastline and diverse landforms. From the calm inner bay to the challenging outer sea, there is always a canoeing route suitable for you. Here are 3 popular routes selected for beginners:
| route name | difficulty | Featured Highlights | Suitable for the crowd | Estimated time (round trip) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sha Ha Wan → Yangzhou → Baishazhou | ★☆☆☆☆ (Super novice) | The inner bay is calm, the water is shallow and easy to paddle, and the scenery is beautiful | Family, beginners | 2-3 hours |
| Xiangsiwan → Green Egg Island | ★★☆☆☆ (novice advanced) | Known as “Glass Water”, it is a snorkeling resort with magnificent scenery. | People with basic physical strength and punch-in enthusiasts | 1.5-2 hours |
| Hoi Ha Wan Marine Park | ★★☆☆☆ (Ecological Exploration) | The water quality is clear, the marine ecology is rich, and corals can be viewed | Ecological enthusiasts and those who want in-depth experience | 3-4 hours |
Route 1: Shaxia Bay → Yangzhou → Baishazhou (first choice for parents and children, calm sea)
This route starts from Sha Ha in Sai Kung and is recognized as a “beginner-friendly” route. The current in the bay is smooth, making it easy for even first-time canoers to get started. Along the way, you can enjoy the natural scenery of Yangzhou and Baishazhou, which is suitable for families or friends to enjoy together. Many rental shops are equipped with complete dressing facilities and large parking lots, which is very convenient.
Recommended rental locations:[Sha Ha Road, Sai Kung] Single/double canoe/stand-up board rental
Route 2: Xiangsi Bay → Green Egg Island (Internet celebrity check-in hotspot, glass water snorkeling)
If you want to take a challenge and take “beautiful photos of life”, then setting off from Xiangsi Bay to Green Egg Island is definitely your best choice. Green Egg Island is famous for its crystal clear “glass water” and is Hong Kong’s snorkeling paradise. One-way canoeing to Green Egg Island takes about 45 minutes to an hour. The scenery along the way is endless and definitely worth the price. Remember to bring your snorkeling gear and explore the underwater world!
Recommended rental locations:【Sai Kung Sheung Sze Wan】Single/double canoe/stand-up board rental
Route 3: Hoi Ha Wan Marine Park (rich in ecology, best water quality)
Hoi Ha Wan is one of the first marine parks in Hong Kong and is famous for its rich marine ecology and clear water quality. Canoeing here, you can observe various corals and tropical fish up close. Since Hoi Ha Wan is a restricted area, there are relatively few people and you can enjoy the tranquility of nature. Some rental stores provide restricted area paper agency services for the convenience of self-drivers.
Recommended rental locations:【Hoi Ha Wan, Sai Kung】Single/double canoe/stand-up board rental
A checklist of essential equipment for beginners to canoeing (with clothing suggestions)
When you go kayaking for the first time, besides being excited, don’t forget to be prepared! Here is a list of equipment prepared for you to have fun and be safe:
- ✅ Sun protective clothing: It is strongly recommended to wear long-sleeved rash guard and long pants to avoid sunburn caused by prolonged exposure and to prevent scratches from rocks or jellyfish.
- ✅ Covered water sports shoes: Avoid wearing slippers or sandals and choose water sports shoes that cover your toes to prevent cuts from sharp objects on the shore or in shallow water.
- ✅ Waterproof bag (10-20L): Used to store personal items such as mobile phones, wallets, keys, etc. to ensure the safety of electronic products.
- ✅ Mobile phone waterproof bag: Convenient to take pictures on the water while protecting your phone.
- ✅ Adequate drinking water and light food: Water activities consume physical energy, so be sure to replenish water and energy.
- ✅ Hats, sunglasses: Effective sun protection and eye protection.
- ✅ Sunscreen lotion: Choose waterproof sunscreen and reapply regularly.
- ✅ Change of clothing: You can change into dry clothes after the activity.
- ✅ Personal Medication: Please bring it with you if necessary.
Further reading
- 2024 Canoe Route Guide | 8 Hidden and Beautiful Routes, including how to rent a canoe, as low as $100/day
- A good place for parents and children | Recommendation of 36 indoor playgrounds in Hong Kong, Kowloon and the New Territories + entertainment spots for parents and children
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Do novice canoeists need to be able to swim?
Although life jackets are provided during canoeing activities, it is recommended that novices have basic swimming skills. Even if the boat accidentally capsizes, you can stay calm and handle it yourself. If you don’t know how to swim at all, it is recommended to choose an experience group accompanied by a coach.
Q2: Which is more suitable for novices, canoe or stand-up board?
A canoe is generally easier to get started than a stand-up board because the canoe has a seat and a lower center of gravity for greater stability. An upright board requires a better sense of balance, but offers a wider field of vision for standing paddling. Both are great fun and newbies can choose based on personal preference.
Q3: How much is the price for canoe rental in Sai Kung?
Saigon canoe rental prices vary depending on location, time of day (weekdays/weekends) and length of rental. A single canoe costs about HK$80-150 on weekdays and HK$100-200 on weekends. Upright boards are similarly priced. It is recommended to book in advance on the Holimood platform, as there are usually better prices.
Q4: What are the safety precautions for canoeing?
Always check that your life jacket is worn correctly before canoeing, and pay attention to the weather forecast and tide times. Never go to unfamiliar waters alone, it is recommended to go with others. In the event of an emergency, remain calm and seek help from a nearby vessel or shore. Follow the rental shop’s safety guidelines and refer to the Hong Kong Observatory’s marine weather information.
Are you ready for a sunny and energetic early summer? Go now Holimood Book your Saigon canoe or SUP experience and start your adventure on the water!
This post is also available in:
繁體中文 
简体中文
