In the summer months, even thinking about hiking makes one sweat. So, people looking for a way to cool off while still enjoying the wonderful nature Hong Kong has to offer opt for water sports. One of the most popular water sports is wakesurfing. Aboard a flat board, you will be pulled by a rope attached to a speedboat until you’ve built up enough momentum to surf the waves created by the boat’s wake. So if you’re ready for a fun way to spend an afternoon or morning enjoying the sea and sun, read on below about where to go wakesurfing in Hong Kong!
What is wakesurfing?
Wakesurfing basically involves a surfer riding a board behind a boat. This is different from wakeboarding, which entails the rider’s feet being strapped onto the board and having to hold onto the rope to stay upright. Wakesurfing starts with the surfer in the water, with their feet on the board and holding a rope, which then tightens as the boat starts moving. Once the person gets themselves upright on the board, the boat speeds up to 14 km/h to 17 km/h, at which point the surfer can let go of the rope and ride the waves!
Where can I go wakesurfing in Hong Kong?
Sai Kung
One of the most popular spots for wakesurfing, among other water sports, is Sai Kung. With beautiful blue waters and scenic views of the various islands, you will not only enjoy the wakesurfing experience, but also the scenic surroundings. But do be careful — due to the area’s popularity, the Sai Kung seas can be a bit choppy, making it harder for beginners to learn on them.
You have many options in Sai Kung to learn wakesurfing. You can hire the wake competition champions of Wake2Chill to train you to surf. Depending on the boat, the hourly charges range from HK$1,000 on weekdays to HK$1,200 on weekends. If you want to get guidance from a coach, it’s HK1,500. Sai Kung Boating also provides wakesurfing options ranging from HK$1,300-HK$1,500, depending on whether you head there on a weekday, weekend, or public holiday. Absolute beginners can check out what Goofy Waves Watersports Club & Academy has to offer. Drop them a WhatsApp message at 9248 8000 to find out about their one-on-one sessions, group classes, and summer camps.
Tai Po
Another stunning, although harder to reach, location is Tai Po/Science Park. If you venture out to Tai Po Market MTR Station, and hop on minibus number 20K, you will reach Yu On Street and Sam Mun Tsai. Alternatively, you can take a car or taxi to Pak Shek Kok Landing, Science Park. There, you can ride the relatively calmer waves while taking in the beauty of the New Territories. You might be able to spot the Guan Yin Statue, an incredible 76-metre tall white statue of the Buddhist bodhisattva of compassion at the Tsz Shan Monastery.
A great option is Hong Kong Wakeschool (they also have operations in Ap Lei Chau), which owns six different boats with prices ranging from HK$700-HK$1,500 per hour. Boat-hire company IM Wake includes wakesurfing among their offerings, and you can rent one of their speedboats (from HK$1,100 per hour on weekdays) for private classes or their regular workshops.
Tung Chung
For those who either live in or love Lantau, you can also check out wakesurfing on the largest of Hong Kong’s outlying islands. This spot is right next to the airport, so you can spot the planes as you surf! The Tung Chung Bay almost gives you a lake-like feel, which offers the best water conditions to practise in. You will have two options to hop on the boat: from Tung Chung New Development Pier, which is a 10-minute walk from Tung Chung MTR station, or from Ma Wan Chung Pier, which has public car parks available.
Learn from one of the founders of the Hong Kong Wakeboarding Association himself, Leo To, who founded wakesurfing school Wakeaholic in 1998. All coaches can teach in English, Mandarin, and Cantonese, so you will not have any issues! Hourly prices are between HK$1,000–HK$1,600, depending on day of the week, boat, and time of the year. Be sure to reserve a spot as soon as possible because they book up fast!
Tai Tam
For an option closer to Hong Kong Island, you can check out Tai Tam, which is not only much quieter than some of the other locations, but it also offers a green mountainous surrounding, giving you a holiday feel. Plus, it is only 30 minutes by car from Central and there is free parking. The wakesurfing spot is just 3 minutes away from the boarding pier, so you don’t waste any time and can quickly get your surf on!
Wakesurf Hong Kong will be your best bet in Tai Tam. The school has four coaches: Bosco, Steve, Jeffery, and Ting Ting, teaching a range of levels and styles. WhatsApp 6650 0900 to find out rates and availability. The coaches at Wakeboard Hong Kong will teach you the tricks of the trade when it comes to wakesurfing — all while you take in the lush surroundings of Tai Tam Hills. Reserve one of their MasterCraft boats for your wakesurf experience (from HK$1,800 per hour) or book longer group sessions for a fun family and friends outing, corporate catch-up or school trip.
Repulse Bay
This is one of the most popular beach destinations in the Hong Kong, and it’s a great hub for wakesurfing as well! Repulse Bay easily accessible by car or taxi, which we’d recommend if you don’t plan on travelling light. Otherwise, you can catch a bus from Central Exchange Square (Citybus 6, 6A, 6X or 260) or Causeway Bay (minibus number 40 from Jardine’s Bazaar).
Once you’re at Repulse Bay beach, head to the Repulse Bay Pier where the Wakesurf Players crew will guide you through your experience for HK$1,500-HK$1,800 per hour, depending on whether you’re with them on weekdays or weekends. They also offer half-day and full-day party packages for a maximum of 6 people at beaches from Aberdeen to Tai Tam. If you want to enrol your kids in an adventure camp for the holidays in this neighbourhood, look up the Las Wakegers social media pages for updates on their seasonal camps.
FAQ about wakesurfing
What is the difference between wakesurfing and wakeboarding?
The biggest difference between wakesurfing and boarding is the boards themselves. Wakeboards have places to strap your feet into, and therefore allow for greater tricks and jumps, whereas skim boards (boards used for wakesurfing) don’t. Wakesurfing is considered easier for beginners as you are usually going at a slower speed, and it doesn’t require perfect ocean conditions.
When is the best time to go wakesurfing?
Summer is definitely the most popular, but wakesurfing happens all year around. What’s more important is to look out for the weather; if it’s raining or the sea is turbulent, you will be required to cancel the booking. Most coaches offer to reschedule, but be sure to check before booking.
Is it safe to wakesurf if I’ve never done it before?
Absolutely! Most coaches have extensive experience working with first-timers and provide training as well as pointers as you learn. As there are life jackets provided, even those who do not know how to swim can wakesurf.
Is it safe to go wakesurfing with kids?
Yes — usually children need to be about 5 years old before they can safely wakesurf.
What should I wear to wakesurf?
Prepare for a day at the beach! You should ideally wear swimwear and carry towels, sunscreen, sunglasses, and of course, a camera or phone to catch you in action! Life jackets and wakesurf boards are provided.
Header image credits: Caitlyn Roberts via Unsplash
