Scattered along the boulder strewn coastline of Hong Kong, groups of ancient rock carvings are found. Their patterns are basically geometric with hints here and there of human or animal images. It is difficult to establish when, why, how and by whom the carvings were made. However, their state of weathering tells us that they must have had a long history.
Big Wave Bay Rock Carving was first reported in 1970 by a police officer. The design shows very dynamic geometric and animal patterns with a worked surface measuring 90cm x 180cm. Like most other carvings, apart from those at Shek Pik and Wong Chuk Hang, it is situated on a headland embracing the beautiful bay. There is some evidence that early inhabitants who created these carvings depended on the sea for their livelihood. The carvings might have been intended to propitiate the power of the sea and to protect its sea-faring population.
Rock Carving at Big Wave Bay was declared a monument in 1978.