Tap Mun Island

Admission: Free (ferry fares apply)

Tap Mun, commonly called Grass Island, is a small island in Hong Kong’s northeastern New Territories administered as part of Tai Po District. It is best known as a low-lying, rural island used for day trips and overnight camping.

The island offers broad grassy slopes, coastal walking, and sea views across Mirs Bay and toward the Plover Cove area. A handful of simple seafood restaurants and village shops sit beside the main pier; short walks from the pier lead to the island’s headlands and viewpoints.

Tap Mun retains a traditional village character with a small Tin Hau temple and scattered houses rather than dense development. A government-managed public campsite provides basic facilities for overnight stays and is popular on weekends and public holidays.

Geographically it lies off the northeastern coast of the New Territories in Hong Kong, within Tai Po District and visible from parts of Tolo Harbour and nearby Sai Kung waters.

• Ferry access: Kai-to ferry services link the island with the New Territories; services are infrequent compared with urban ferries so check timetables before travelling.
• Local name: The island is known locally as “Grass Island” because of its open grassy slopes that contrast with built-up Hong Kong.

What to See#

• Main village and pier: Small traditional village clustered around the ferry pier with a handful of shops and seafood restaurants serving day-trippers and fishermen.
• Public campsite: A waterfront campsite run by the Hong Kong government offering basic facilities and marked pitches close to the village.
• Tin Hau Temple: A simple Tin Hau temple on the island that serves the local fishing community and visiting worshippers.
• Northern headland viewpoints: Open grassy headlands and low coastal trails that provide panoramic views across Mirs Bay and toward the Plover Cove area.

Regular ferries run to Tap Mun (Grass Island) from Ma Liu Shui (near the Chinese University/Tolo Harbour area) and from Wong Shek Pier (Siu Sai Wan/Tai Po bus and minibus connections). Ferry operators and timetables vary by season, so check the ferry schedule in advance.

• Catch the morning ferry from Ma Liu Shui to avoid the afternoon sea breeze and crowds.
• Rent a bicycle on arrival - the island is small and cycling is the easiest way to see the villages and coastline.
• Try the local grilled squid and fresh corn at the market near the pier - simple food, bright flavors.