One of Hong Kong’s most popular beaches was closed to the public today following an oil spill.

The oil spillages were washed up on the shore of Cheung Chau Tung Wan Beach and the slick itself stretched over 100 metres, according to Apple Daily.

The Leisure and Cultural Services Department have advised the public against visiting the beach and swimming in the sea near the island until further notice.

Oil spill
Oil spills at Cheung Chau.

Gallons of oil were washed up on the shore, covering nearly half the beach.

Oil beach
Gallons of oil washed up ashore.

Authorities are still trying to trace the source of the oil slick.

The spill occurred along the island’s popular beach, known as a prime location for windsurfing and where Olympic gold medalist Lee Lai-shan grew up.

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Paul Benedict Lee is an undergraduate law student at the Chinese University of Hong Kong. Paul has previously contributed to HK Magazine and Radio Television Hong Kong, covering issues ranging from local heritage conservation to arts features. He has also worked as a legal intern at local human rights firm Daly & Associates.