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Secret Sai Kung Town: 5 Family-Friendly Finds In My Neighborhood (Shea Stanley)
Secret Beach Escapes by Boat, Sourdough That Rocks, And The Best Latte With A Sai Kung Local Mom
As a mom who frequents Sai Kung weekly with 2 kids at Hong Kong Academy and living in Clearwater Bay, Shea Stanley is always on the lookout for effortless family adventures right in her own backyard. Sai Kung’s laid-back fishing village charm, crystal-clear waters, and welcoming neighbourhood spots make it Hong Kong’s ultimate family escape — perfect for stroller-friendly strolls, little explorers who love sand and sea, and parents craving fresh air without the Central crowds.
These five secret finds deliver the perfect mix of nature, fresh eats, and creative discovery that Shea and her family return to again and again. From slow-fermented sourdough that her kids devour, to quick boat rides to hidden beaches where toddlers can splash safely, waterfront seafood feasts with live tanks for curious eyes, and a candle shop that turns into a mini art session — Sai Kung shines for families because everything is walkable, affordable, and genuinely kid-approved. Calm shallow waters for first swims, shaded terraces, and locals who smile at little ones make every outing feel special.
Whether you live here or are visiting for the day, these spots turn ordinary neighbourhood days into memorable mini-vacations filled with giggles and zero stress.
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DINE: Little Cove Espresso – The Best Latte And Brunch In Sai Kung
Little Cove Espresso is Shea's go-to morning spot in Sai Kung. Its bright, airy terrace near the harbour welcomes strollers and high chairs, serving exceptional coffee and wholesome eats that even picky eaters love. The kids devour fresh pastries and acai bowls while parents enjoy quality lattes in the relaxed Scandinavian-inspired space with indoor-outdoor seating.
The Scoop – What to Expect:
- Family-friendly terrace with beautiful harbour views for relaxed brunches.
- Healthy, organic options including vegan dishes suitable for toddlers and teens.
- Walk-in only — ideal for spontaneous neighbourhood mornings. Weekends can be rammed, so prep for that wait time if coming on Saturday or Sunday.
Why Little Steps Loves It: Little Cove is a treat (like a day at the spa!). The healthy menu, fresh vibes, and amazing coffee... You will see Shea here nearly every week.
Who It’s Perfect For: Families with children of all ages seeking a chill café stop before beach days. There is also a playground in the square nearby. Kids can also bring their scooters and cruise outside the restaurant, since there are no cars allowed. And...it's pet friendly!
Little Cove Espresso Shop 1+2, G/F, Block A, Siu Yat Building, Hoi Pong Square, Sai Kung, Hong Kong +852 6397 0875 www.littlecoveespresso.com (Open daily ~7:30am–6pm). No reservations - all walk-in.
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SHOP: CUÍT – Artisan Sourdough Bakery And Cafe In Sai Kung
CUÍT is the neighbourhood sourdough haven that Shea’s family loves, founded by Le Cordon Bleu-trained local sisters. Their slow-fermented loaves with crackling crusts and creative flavours (caramelised onion or apricot walnut are family favorites) make every bite special. The cosy eatery near Tin Hau Temple doubles as a shop and café where kids happily point at fresh pastries and sandwiches.
The Scoop – What to Expect:
- Exclusive breads, market-fish sandwiches, and comforting café dishes.
- Pet- and family-friendly space with simple, delicious bites for all ages.
- Open Wed-Sun for fresh-baked goodness.
Why Little Steps Loves It: CUÍT brings craft, care, and neighbourhood warmth — perfect for families craving authentic, high-quality local eats.
Who It’s Perfect For: Families seeking unique bakery experiences or quick, wholesome lunches with kids. Shea pops by here weekly to grab fresh sourdough for her home. Her favorite is the cheese and potato sourdough - yum!
Where To Find It: CUÍT G/F 3A Po Tung Road, Sai Kung, Hong Kong +852 9849 8067 www.cuit-hk.com. Open Wednesday - Sunday.
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PLAY: Boat To Secret Sai Kung Beaches – Family-Friendly Island Escapes
Nothing beats hopping on a sampan or speedboat from Sai Kung Pier with the kids, one of Shea’s family favorites for a quick, affordable boat adventure to hidden gems like Sharp Island, Hap Mun Bay, or Trio Beach. Further destinations include Tai Long Wan and Ham Tin. Shea usually makes no plans in advance, heads to Sai Kung Pier...and jumps on an adventure. Her favorite is taking the speedboat to Sai Wan, spending the day with the kids, then taking the boat back (book your return once you get on your boat to the destination). They also offer nightly squid fishing, which looks really fun!
The Scoop – What to Expect:
- Safe swimming, snorkelling, and exploration without long hikes.
- No reservation required, but for bigger groups, you can check this guide on sampans and boats in Sai Kung.
- Combine with Klook tours for guided family geopark experiences.
- Hungry? Bring a picnic, or you can eat on the beach in Ham Tin and Sai Wan. Many restaurants take PayMe and WeChat, but we always bring cash just in case.
Why Little Steps Loves It: These boat trips deliver exciting “secret island” thrills while remaining totally doable with kids of any age.
Who It’s Perfect For: Families craving nature adventures — toddlers to teens.
Sai Kung Public Pier (sampans daily), Sai Kung, Hong Kong. Bring cash for boats.
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DINE: Seafood By The Sea At Chuen Kee – Waterfront Family Feasts In Sai Kung
Chuen Kee Seafood Restaurant is Shea’s classic “seafood by the sea” favorite right on the Sai Kung waterfront promenade. The kids love pointing at the live tanks (some with monster-sized fish) before chefs prepare fresh Cantonese favorites like steamed fish, garlic prawns, and crab. Spacious seating with harbour views creates a lively yet welcoming family atmosphere.
The Scoop – What to Expect:
- Fresh-from-the-boat seafood at reasonable prices with set menus.
- Prime location for people- and boat-watching while dining.
- Welcoming to families — book ahead on weekends.
- Cheung Kee also offers Dim Sum on the weekends.
Why Little Steps Loves It: Chuen Kee captures authentic Sai Kung seafood joy in a relaxed, scenic setting ideal for multi-generational meals.
Who It’s Perfect For: Families who enjoy interactive dining and fresh seafood adventures.
Chuen Kee Seafood Restaurant 87-93 Man Nin Street, Sai Kung, Hong Kong +852 2791 1195 / +852 2792 6938. Open daily from 7am–11pm. Call in advance, especially if a big group. Ask for a seaside table.
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DISCOVERY: BeCandle – Artisan Scented Candles And Creative Fun In Sai Kung
BeCandle’s charming shop on Man Nin Street is one of Shea Stanley’s favorite discoveries. They create handcrafted soy candles with unique Hong Kong-inspired scents and adorable dim sum-shaped designs that kids adore. Families can browse, explore fragrances, and pick souvenirs that bring Sai Kung memories home. What is especially unique is that the refill candles too. If you have a candle you love but the wax is gone...take it here! You can re-create it in the scent you love.
The Scoop – What to Expect:
- Artisan candles, home fragrances, and collectible local collaborations.
- Refill your favorite candles!
- Support #local!
Why Little Steps Loves It: BeCandle turns a simple shop into a sensory, creative family highlight that feels uniquely Sai Kung.
Who It’s Perfect For: Families seeking low-key artistic discoveries and thoughtful gifts.
BeCandle G/F, 102 Man Nin Street, Sai Kung, Hong Kong www.becandle.com.hk
Shea Stanley
Originally from Texas, Shea’s travel and lifestyle media career has taken her around the globe to over 50 countries where she has worked on a variety of TV, print, and digital projects. When she was pregnant with her first child, Shea longed for a resource offering fun finds and insider tips for parents in Asia. In 2008, she founded Little Steps Asia! Mom of 2 active teens + 4 steps kids, Shea lives in Clearwater Bay and enjoys hiking, yoga, travel, photography, and of course – exploring the city with her clan!
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