Exploring the Charm of Western Guangdong – Encounter Mangroves and Sunset Beaches

🔥🔥The sea of Maoming boasts both the grandeur of azure waves and silver sands, and the poetic charm of fishing boats returning at dusk. — Discover the fishing village culture of Western Guangdong and encounter mangroves and sunset beaches🌊 📍 **Key Attractions Explained** 1. **Xige Mangrove Wetland** - **Highlights**: Maoming's largest contiguous mangrove forest, where you can observe egrets, mudskippers, and other wildlife. During low tide, explore the tidal flats (bring rain boots and a small bucket). - **Admission**: Free (wooden boardwalk under maintenance until June 2025; wear anti-slip shoes). 2. **Xige Fishing Port** - **Activities**: Visit the fish market at 5:00 AM for lively trading, or buy fresh seafood at the pier around 4:00 PM (recommendations: flower crabs and mantis shrimp, 30% cheaper than in the city). 📅 **Suggested Itinerary (1-2 Days)** **Day 1: Nature & Fishing Village Culture** - **Morning**: Stroll through **Xige Mangrove Wetland** (best birdwatching time: 6:00-8:00 AM), and take a boat to explore the "sea forest." - **Noon**: Feast at **Xige Fishing Port seafood stalls** (must-tries: charcoal-grilled oysters, sandworm congee, steamed yellowfin bream). - **Afternoon**: Visit **Xige Ancient Salt Fields** (1,000-year-old salt-making techniques) and try handcrafted salt drying. - **Evening**: Watch the sunset at **Xige Beach** and capture silhouettes of the windmill array. **Day 2: In-Depth Experience (Optional)** - **Early Morning**: Join local fishermen for a fishing trip (advance booking required, ~¥150/person). - **Noon**: Cook your own seafood lunch (fishing homestays offer processing services). - **Afternoon**: Cycle along **Xige Greenway** (passing coconut groves and shrimp ponds) or hike up **Yanjing Ridge** for a panoramic view of the South China Sea. 🚗 **Transport Guide** - **Self-drive**: From downtown Maoming → National Highway 228 → Xige Village (~1 hour, free parking). - **Public Transit**: Take bus K9 from Maoming Bus Station to "Xige Intersection," then transfer by motorbike taxi (¥10) to the attractions. 🏨 **Hotel Recommendation**: Victoria International Hotel on Xinhu 2nd Road 🏨