Residents thrilled as new East Coast Boardwalk section opens with glass observatory deck

Many residents flocked to the newly opened section of the East Coast Boardwalk linking Hong Kong Island’s 13-kilometer promenade on Monday, with some praising the wide pathways and comfortable environments. 

A glass observatory deck is among the features of the new 1.1-kilometer eastern section that extends the boardwalk from North Point Promenade to Hoi Yu Street in Quarry Bay. 

Visitors can wear shoe covers provided on site to step onto the corridor and enjoy views of Victoria Harbour. It is open from 10am to 6pm and will close during adverse weather. 

The boardwalk serves as a shared space for pedestrians, runners and cyclists, with a speed monitor in the eastern section reminding cyclists to stay below 15 kilometers per hour. 

A pet-friendly zone near Tin Chiu Street includes upcoming kiosks and multipurpose spaces expected in the first quarter of next year.

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Tam, who works nearby and visited to try the new path, said that today’s run from Java Road to the end of the eastern section was about 1.5 kilometers. 

Despite the large crowd on the first day of opening, he found the experience enjoyable and looks forward to using the space for long-distance training, allowing for a total run of about 26 kilometers. 

He appreciated the path’s spaciousness and smooth conditions, noting that GPS tracking worked seamlessly during his run. 

“Now that it’s open, it’s very convenient. I can complete my run and still make it to work,” he said. 

Cheung, who visited the boardwalk with his son and mini shepherd, Taki, said that they usually hang out at the Kai Tak Cruise Terminal, Central Harbourfront, and other pet-friendly shopping malls. 

Learning of the boardwalk’s opening, they quickly ventured there to experience the new path. 

He said this new section feels cleaner compared to the western section that opened earlier this year. 

“The overall atmosphere is quite pleasant. It might get crowded soon, so I hope pet owners will keep the area clean,” he said. 

Ng came specifically from Yuen Long to try the glass observatory deck. 

He said that the platform was not too high and found the experience refreshing and enjoyable, with beautiful sea views. 

But he wished the glass area could be longer for an even more memorable experience. 

The boardwalk also attracted many fishing enthusiasts, including Liu from Beijing. 

He began fishing around 9am and caught about half a bag of fish after an hour. 

He praised the excellent water quality and abundance of fish in Victoria Harbour. 

Ivan Ho Man-yiu, chairman of the Harbourfront Commission, noted unexpected early crowds from 6am and plans to discuss staffing for flow management based on western section feedback. 

He highlighted the wider eastern design for future events and ideal sunrise or sunset views. 

Regarding the short glass deck, Ho called it the city's first and promised evaluations for potential improvements.