Dalian Boxia Bay Park: A Hidden Rainbow and Sunset Secret by the Bohai Sea

As a travel blogger based in Dalian year-round, I have seen countless coastal sceneries, but Boxia Bay Park’s romance struck me deeply—unlike the bustling crowds at Xinghai Square, here lies Dalian’s most healing "Orange Sea" and fairy-tale coastline. It’s free to enter and offers free parking, making it the ultimate cost-effective destination. The soul of Boxia Bay is the 3,000-meter-long Rainbow Road, where red, yellow, and blue lines replace the usual double yellow lines, winding toward the sea. Walking on it feels like stepping on a painter’s palette; looking down reveals the colorful pavement, while looking up shows the endless blue sea. Every snapshot is a naturally healing masterpiece without filters. For convenience, navigate to "Boxia Bay Seaview Camp" to reach the core area directly and avoid a long walk; hiking enthusiasts are recommended to enter from the south entrance, leisurely stroll the Rainbow Road, and discover many small daisies hidden in the grass along the way, creating a full atmosphere. The 15-meter-high "Love Tower" lighthouse is the absolute centerpiece landmark, with a white tower body and red tip, and colorful patterns hidden at the base. Its homophone meaning "love him/her" makes it a popular spot for couples. Sunset is the lighthouse’s most beautiful moment, as the setting sun gilds the tower’s edges, contrasting with the orange-red sea surface. The stunning scene once featured on CCTV’s "News Broadcast" is truly realized here. On the left side of the lighthouse, a whale sculpture is a hidden gem; capturing its silhouette at sunset with the waves as a backdrop is perfectly romantic. The sunset here is arguably the pinnacle of Dalian’s northern coastline. Around 6 p.m. in summer, the sun divides the sea into three gradient layers: shallow orange near the shore, grapefruit red in the middle, and pink-purple blending with the sky in the distance. When the wind blows, the flowing "Orange Sea" looks like spilled jam. Wangxia Platform is the best spot to watch the sunset; the circular viewing platform’s railing frames a perfect composition, capturing the sunset, fishing boats, and lighthouse in one shot. After 8 p.m., the lighthouse lights up, its warm glow piercing the dusk and blending with the starry sky, creating another dreamy scene. Besides sightseeing, the leisure experience here is rich. The Azure Coast area east of the lighthouse has added sun umbrellas and a camping zone. At low tide, you can explore the mudflats and catch small crabs in glass jars—taking photos against the sunset is full of childlike fun. Water sports enthusiasts might catch kiteboarding competitions, watching boards glide dynamically across the sea. However, the surrounding commercial facilities are underdeveloped, so it’s recommended to bring your own snacks and drinks. Afterward, you can head to the city’s "Golden Splendor Seafood BBQ" to satisfy your cravings; the freshly grilled scallops and oysters perfectly conclude the trip. Practical tips to keep in mind: driving is preferred, with free parking lots at both south and north entrances; public transport users can take Metro Line 2 to Houge Station, then a 10-minute taxi ride to the park, but book your return ride in advance. Prepare sun protection in summer and bring a jacket for the evening wind. For empty shots, arrive before 2 p.m. on weekday afternoons to avoid the sunset peak. If you want a place to slow down and watch the sea, Boxia Bay is perfect. Here, Rainbow Road leads to romance, the lighthouse watches over the sunset, and the sea breeze carries healing power—every scene is the gentlest footnote to Dalian’s coastline.