Geology of Sharp Island: Relics of a SuperVolcano
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The photo shows High Island in Sai Kung, Hong Kong, identified by geologists as the actual site of a supervolcano that erupted around 143 million years ago. This ancient SuperVolcano shaped the Sai Kung’s unique hexagonal rock columns, which is largest in the world and volcanic landscape, now part of the Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark.
Volcanic Rock from 140 million Years Ago
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Pineapple Bun Rock
The Pineapple Bun Rock on Sharp Island, Sai Kung, is a weathered quartz monzonite boulder formed from underground magma that cooled and solidified about 140 million years ago during volcanic activity in the area. Over time, sea erosion and weathering created its distinctive cracked surface, resembling Hong Kong’s famous pineapple bun pastry.
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Volcanic Breccia
Volcanic Breccia on Sharp Island, Sai Kung, is a rock composed of angular volcanic fragments cemented together by finer materials. Formed during explosive volcanic eruptions around 140 million years ago, it reflects violent volcanic activity nearby and rapid cooling, preserving the island’s dynamic geological history within Hong Kong’s UNESCO Global Geopark.
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Rhyolite
Rhyolite on Sharp Island, Sai Kung, is a fine-grained volcanic rock formed about 140 million years ago during the final phase of volcanic activity in Hong Kong. Characterized by flow banding and high silica content, it originated from viscous lava extruded from nearby vents, contributing to the island’s dramatic geological landscape.
The Angel's Path - Tombolo
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High Tide
At high tide, Sharp Island’s tombolo is completely submerged underwater, making the natural sand and pebble causeway inaccessible. The rising sea covers the 200-meter-long land bridge, separating Sharp Island from Kiu Tau Islet until the tide recedes again.
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Low Tide
Low tide at Sharp Island’s tombolo reveals a 200-meter natural sand and pebble causeway connecting Sharp Island to the islet Kiu Tau. This unique land bridge, formed by sediments deposited by wind and waves, appears only when the tidal level is below 1.4 meters, allowing visitors to walk across safely.
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Drone Shot
This drone shot captures the stunning tombolo at Sharp Island, showcasing the natural sand and pebble causeway connecting islands during low tide, framed by crystal-clear waters and rugged volcanic landscapes from a breathtaking aerial perspective.
