Clearwater Bay, is a picturesque area known for its beautiful beaches and hiking trails. Despite its somewhat remote location, it is well-served by a variety of public transportation options. These include the Mass Transit Railway (MTR), buses, minibuses, and taxis. With these options, an expat living in Clearwater Bay could comfortably live without a car, relying on public transportation and walking. However, owning a car could provide more convenience and flexibility, especially for those who need to commute to other parts of Hong Kong regularly.
Mass Transit Railway (MTR)
The MTR is Hong Kong’s rapid transit railway system, and it is one of the most efficient and widely used forms of public transportation in the city. However, Clearwater Bay does not have a direct MTR station. The nearest station is Hang Hau, which is about a 10-minute drive or a 30-minute walk from Clearwater Bay. From Hang Hau, you can take the Tseung Kwan O Line to reach other parts of Hong Kong. The MTR is safe to use at any time of the day, and it is commonly used by people of all ages, including children and women traveling alone. The cost of a single journey ticket can range from HK$4.5 to HK$60, depending on the distance traveled.
Buses
Buses are another common form of public transportation in Clearwater Bay. There are several bus routes that serve the area, including routes 91, 91M, 92, and 96R. These buses can take you to various destinations in Hong Kong, such as Diamond Hill, Sai Kung, and Tsim Sha Tsui. Buses in Hong Kong are generally safe and reliable, and they are equipped with air conditioning and free Wi-Fi. The fare for a bus ride can range from HK$4.2 to HK$48.6, depending on the distance traveled.
Minibuses
Minibuses, also known as public light buses, are a popular form of public transportation in Hong Kong. They are smaller than regular buses and can navigate through narrow streets and hilly areas. In Clearwater Bay, there are several minibus routes that can take you to Hang Hau MTR Station, Sai Kung, and other nearby areas. Minibuses are safe to use, but they can be a bit faster and more aggressive in their driving style compared to regular buses. The fare for a minibus ride is usually around HK$10 to HK$20.
Taxis
Taxis are readily available in Clearwater Bay, and they can provide a convenient and flexible way to get around. There are three types of taxis in Hong Kong: red taxis, green taxis, and blue taxis. Red taxis serve all areas of Hong Kong, while green taxis serve the New Territories and blue taxis serve Lantau Island. The starting fare for a taxi ride is HK$24, and the fare increases based on the distance traveled and the waiting time. Taxis in Hong Kong are generally safe and reliable, but they can be more expensive compared to other forms of public transportation.
In conclusion, while owning a car in Clearwater Bay could provide more convenience and flexibility, it is not necessary. The area is well-served by a variety of public transportation options, and these can be used to reach other parts of Hong Kong easily and efficiently. Whether you are an expat or a local, you can comfortably live in Clearwater Bay without a car.
