Kayaking Tour Crossing through Tunnel Cave in Hong Kong Geopark

Exploring Hong Kong’s Geopark from the Water: A Detailed Review of the Kayaking Tour Crossing through Tunnel Cave

If you’re looking for a unique way to experience Hong Kong’s stunning natural landscapes, this kayaking adventure through the Hong Kong Geopark might just be your perfect match. It combines a blend of adventure, scenic beauty, and geological wonders—all wrapped into a manageable 6-hour trip. From paddling through the iconic “Three Dragon” sea tunnel to exploring mesmerizing sea caves and standing on volcanic rocks, this tour promises an up-close encounter with some of Hong Kong’s most extraordinary scenery.

What we particularly love about this experience is how it offers a mix of guided instruction and free exploration, making it accessible for beginners yet exciting for more seasoned paddlers. Plus, the chance to see the moon rising over the sea at sunset adds a magical touch. However, a consideration is the physical activity involved—it’s a full day of kayaking and boat transfers, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with moderate outdoor activity. This tour is well-suited for adventure lovers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone eager to see Hong Kong from a fresh perspective—by water, with plenty of jaw-dropping views.

Key Points

Stunning geological formations: You’ll paddle past hexagonal volcanic rocks and sea arches that are unlike anything else.

Expert guidance: The tour includes a kayaking instructor to teach basic skills and ensure safety, making it beginner-friendly.

Varied scenery: From sea caves to lighthouse views and volcanic terrains, the route offers a rich variety of sights.

Comfortable logistics: The trip includes speedboat transfers to and from North Ninepin Island, saving you from a long paddle at the start.

Authentic experience: Exploring less touristy spots like the Ninepin Islands provides an intimate encounter with Hong Kong’s natural beauty.

Value for money: At $154.08, the tour covers gear, instruction, boat transfers, and access to some of the most scenic spots in the Hong Kong Geopark.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point: Clear Water Bay Second Beach

Our adventure kicks off at Clear Water Bay Second Beach, a spot known for its clean sands and facilities, including toilets, showers, and lockers. This makes it easy to change into your gear and prepare for a day on the water. The meeting point’s proximity to public transportation means you can arrive without much hassle—ideal for those staying in Hong Kong city or nearby areas.

Here, you’ll meet your guide and coach, who will give a quick briefing about the Ninepin Group Kayaking Tour. They’ll cover the route, difficulty level, and what you should expect, along with basic kayaking skills training. This step reassures first-timers and ensures everyone feels confident before hitting the water.

Speedboat Transfer to North Ninepin Island

Unlike typical kayaking trips that start with a long paddle, this tour’s innovative setup involves a speedboat transfer. The boat whisks you across the water to North Ninepin Island in about 20 minutes, towing your kayaks along. This approach is practical because it saves energy for the main activity and maximizes your time on the scenic spots.

From the boat, you get your first glimpse of the rugged coastline and volcanic formations that make this area special. Many reviewers appreciate this part, describing it as smooth and comfortable. One noted, “The boat ride was quick and scenic, setting the tone for an adventurous day.”

Kayaking Around North Ninepin Island: Exploring Sea Caves and Landmarks

Once on North Ninepin Island, the guide provides a more detailed tutorial. The highlight here is exploring the sea caves and rock formations, including sites like the Big Stove Arch and Ngan Peng Cave. You’ll paddle through narrow tunnels, marvel at the hexagonal columnar volcanic rocks, and snap photos of the striking landscape.

A reviewer mentioned feeling like they were “paddling through a natural sculpture park,” emphasizing how surreal and photogenic the scenery is. The route here is designed for about an hour of exploration, giving enough time to appreciate these geological marvels up close.

Crossing to South Ninepin Island

After spending time on North Ninepin, you’ll paddle roughly 20 minutes to South Ninepin Island. The short journey offers a break and a change of scenery, with different caves and rock formations to explore. The ease of this paddle makes it accessible even to less experienced kayakers.

Many travelers note the distinctive landscape of South Ninepin Island, describing it as equally captivating. One said, “The view of the sea arch from the kayak was unforgettable, especially with the sunlight filtering through.”

Second Sea Caves Exploration

On South Ninepin Island, the guide takes you on a route around Kwo Chau Wan and multiple caves, including the Backwash and Jacob’s Ladder caves. These formations are quite intricate, with natural staircases and Y-shaped caves. Expect about two hours of paddling here, which allows plenty of time for photos and soaking in the serene yet dramatic environment.

One reviewer pointed out that “the caves have a mysterious aura, and exploring them felt like discovering secret passages.”

Return to Po Toi O and End of Tour

After a full day of paddling and sightseeing, the tour concludes by returning to Po Toi O. It’s a short 20-minute paddle from South Ninepin, giving you a moment to reflect on the day’s adventure. The tour ends back at the starting point, with the option to relax or explore nearby.

What’s Included & What To Prepare

The package covers all necessary gear—kayaks, paddles, life jackets—and the guidance of an experienced kayak coach. The speedboat transfer to and from the islands is also included, which is a major convenience. Notably, lunch and aquashoes are not included, so bringing your own footwear and snacks is recommended. Make sure to bring at least 2 liters of water to stay hydrated.

Real Traveler Insights and Practical Tips

From reviews, it’s clear that the scenery is the standout feature—“The views of the volcanic rocks and sea caves are truly breathtaking,” one traveler said. Many appreciated the balance of guided instruction and free exploration, making it suitable for a variety of skill levels.

Some noted that the kayaking can be physically demanding, especially if the weather is windy, so participants should be comfortable with moderate activity. The tour’s timing, about 6 hours including transfers, suits those who want a full-day adventure but still want to return to the city by late afternoon.

Reviewers also mention that the small group size (up to 20 travelers) makes the experience intimate and manageable. Plus, with the guide’s insights, you’ll learn fascinating facts about the volcanic origins of the landscape, adding educational value to the fun.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

This kayaking trip offers an authentic way to explore Hong Kong’s lesser-known natural treasures. The combination of geological wonders, sea caves, and scenic ocean views makes it a standout activity beyond the typical city sightseeing. It’s particularly appealing for those who enjoy outdoor adventures and want to see the city’s natural beauty from a different angle.

The overall value is high considering the included gear, instruction, boat transfers, and access to remote islands. At just over $150 per person, it’s a good investment for a full-day experience filled with unique sights and memorable moments.

If you’re someone who loves outdoor activities, isn’t afraid of a bit of paddling, and appreciates natural scenery, this tour will satisfy your craving for adventure and awe. However, if you prefer more relaxed, less physically demanding excursions, it’s worth considering your comfort level with kayaking and outdoor conditions.

The Sum Up

This kayaking tour crossing through Tunnel Cave in Hong Kong Geopark is a compelling choice for travelers eager to explore Hong Kong’s natural geological marvels in an active and engaging way. The combination of guided instruction, scenic sea caves, and iconic volcanic formations creates a truly memorable experience. It’s best suited for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and those looking to escape the urban rush for a day.

The logistical setup—speedboat transfers and small group sizes—adds to the comfort and intimacy of the experience. While it demands some physical effort, the stunning views and unique geological features make it well worth the effort. Whether you’re paddling through the sea tunnels or snapping photos of the white lighthouse against the setting sun, this tour promises a genuine and awe-inspiring encounter with Hong Kong’s wild side.

For a day filled with adventure, awe-inspiring scenery, and a touch of geological wonder, this kayaking trip is a strong recommendation. Prepare your gear, bring plenty of water, and get ready to see Hong Kong from a perspective few travelers ever experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour includes a kayaking coach who will teach basic skills, making it accessible for those new to kayaking. The route is designed to be manageable, with guided support.

What should I bring?
Bring your own aquashoes to protect your feet, at least 2 liters of water to stay hydrated, and possibly a snack or light lunch since food isn’t included.

How long is the kayaking portion?
The kayaking exploration lasts about 4 hours in total, split across different scenic spots and caves, with some paddling between islands and cave exploration.

What facilities are available at the meeting point?
Clear Water Bay Second Beach offers parking, toilets, showers, and lockers, making it convenient to prepare and store belongings.

Are the transfers included?
Yes, the trip includes a speedboat transfer to North Ninepin Island and from South Ninepin back to Po Toi O, streamlining the journey and maximizing your time on the water.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 20 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience with plenty of attention from guides.

Can service animals participate?
Yes, service animals are permitted on this tour.

What is the best time of year to do this tour?
The tour runs from April to June 2026, with daylight hours from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, making spring and early summer ideal times for pleasant weather.

Is this tour weather-dependent?
Yes, kayaking activities are weather-dependent. Strong winds or storms may lead to rescheduling or cancellation for safety reasons.

How do I cancel or reschedule?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund via the booking provider.

This detailed review should give you a comprehensive idea of what to expect from this exciting Hong Kong Geopark kayaking adventure. Whether it’s your first time paddling or you’re an experienced kayaker, the blend of scenic beauty and geological marvels makes this tour a truly memorable choice.