Plover Cove Reservoir
Reservoir Reservoir in Hong Kong with surrounding country park
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Plover Cove Reservoir is a freshwater reservoir in the northeastern New Territories of Hong Kong, within Tai Po District. It was created by enclosing a coastal cove and is notable as an early large-scale coastal reservoir project constructed in the 1960s.
The reservoir and its surrounding country park provide a network of walking and cycling routes, picnic sites and wildlife-watching opportunities; parts of established long-distance trails run around and through the park. The setting combines open water with wooded hills and shoreline tracks that are popular with local hikers and birdwatchers.
The project was carried out by the Hong Kong government in the 1960s to increase freshwater storage capacity for the territory. Over time the area has been managed for both water supply and public recreation, with facilities to support day visitors.
Located in Tai Po District in the northeastern New Territories, the reservoir lies inland from Tolo Harbour and is accessible from Tai Po and nearby towns by road and local public transport.
- Construction era: Formed by damming a coastal inlet, it was constructed during the 1960s as a major addition to Hong Kong's water supply infrastructure.
- Recreation and viewpoints: Sections of long-distance hiking routes pass through the area and several designated picnic and viewpoint sites offer clear reservoir views at sunrise and early morning.
What to See #
- Plover Cove Country Park: Surrounds the reservoir and offers marked hiking trails, picnic areas and viewpoints that look over the water and surrounding hills.
How to Get to Plover Cove Reservoir #
Plover Cove Reservoir is in Hong Kong’s Tai Po District. By car, follow Tolo Highway (Route 9) and turn onto Plover Cove Road to reach the reservoir area and the car parks near the dam; the reservoir roads and parking give direct access to walking trails. By public transport, take the MTR East Rail Line to Tai Po Market or Tai Wo and change to local buses or green minibuses serving the Plover Cove / Shuen Wan area (services and stops vary); expect a short walk from the nearest bus/minibus stop to the reservoir trails and dam.
Tips for Visiting Plover Cove Reservoir #
- Start from the Tai Mei Tuk area to access the reservoir's popular promenade, bike rentals and the dam viewpoint-this is the main and most convenient entry point.
- Early morning or late afternoon gives the best light and fewer people; weekends and public holidays draw large picnic and cycling crowds, so choose weekdays to avoid them.
- Many visitors stick to the picnic areas-continue around the reservoir by bike or on foot to find quieter shoreline views and small inlets that most day‑trippers miss.
Best Time to Visit Plover Cove Reservoir #
Early autumn (October-December) is generally the best time to visit for pleasant, drier conditions and good hiking.
Weather & Climate near Plover Cove Reservoir #
Subtropical climate with hot summers (peaking in July) and cool winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 12°C to 31°C. Heavy rainfall (2043 mm/year), wettest in August with a pronounced dry season.
January
January is the coolest month with highs of 18°C and lows of 12°C. The driest month with just 25 mm and partly cloudy skies.
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February
February is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 12°C. Moderate rainfall (48 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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March
March is mild with highs of 21°C and lows of 16°C. Moderate rainfall (74 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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April
April is mild with highs of 25°C and lows of 19°C. Significant rainfall (163 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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May
May is warm with muggy conditions (dew point 23°C). Heavy rain (288 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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June
June is hot, feeling like 31°C with oppressive humidity. Heavy rain (333 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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July
July is the hottest month, feeling like 34°C with oppressive humidity. Heavy rain (324 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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August
August is hot, feeling like 33°C with oppressive humidity. The wettest month with heavy rain (363 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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September
September is hot, feeling like 30°C with oppressive humidity. Heavy rain (250 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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October
October is warm with highs of 28°C and lows of 22°C. Significant rainfall (110 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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November
November is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 17°C. Moderate rainfall (35 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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December
December is cool with highs of 20°C and lows of 13°C. Moderate rainfall (30 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
