Close to the beach, there is a Shek O village where most of the houses have been sewered. Consequently, the beach usually has decent water quality due to the absence of any significant inland pollution sources. However, as there are two freshwater drains/streams entering the beach, care should be taken after heavy storms, as bacteria can be brought into the beach water in a diffusive manner. Overall, salinity is found to be a reliable indicator of beach water quality at Shek O.

Monthly distribution of beach gradings at Shek O beach (2010-2014)

Aerial photo and local pollution sources

Source 1:

Storm drain carries bypass flow from pumping stations.

Source 2:

A stream entering the beach from the southern boundary.