A filter-free sea, Nan'ao Island

Nan'ao Island is located in Shantou, Guangdong Province. It is China's only island-wide national 4A-level tourist attraction, known for its blue sea and sky, quaint fishing villages, historical sites, and delicious seafood. The following is a detailed travel guide: --- ### **I. Best Time to Travel** - **Recommended Seasons**: Spring and autumn (April–June, September–November), with a pleasant climate, are the best times to escape the summer heat. - **Summer** (July–August) is suitable for swimming, but sun protection is necessary. Be aware of typhoons. Winter has fewer people and is suitable for a quiet vacation. --- ### **II. Transportation** **1. How to Get There** - **Plane**: The nearest airport is Jieyang Chaoshan International Airport. Transfer to the Nan'ao Island by airport bus or car rental (approx. 1.5 hours). - **High-speed train**: Arrive at Shantou Station, then take a taxi or bus (No. 161) to the island via the Nan'ao Bridge. - **Self-driving**: Navigate to "Nan'ao Island". The bridge toll is CNY 96 (free during holidays). **2. Island Transportation** - **Rent an electric bike**: Approx. CNY 50–100/day for flexible island riding. - **Chartered car/self-driving**: The attractions are scattered, suitable for family trips. - **Bus**: 601/602 island loop line, but with fewer departures. --- ### **III. Must-Visit Attractions** **1. Natural Scenery** - **Qing'ao Bay**: The best beach on the island, with clear water and fine sand, where you can watch the sunrise (the Tropic of Cancer landmark tower is located here). - **Jin'yin Island**: Legend says it is a pirate treasure site, with rocky landscapes suitable for photography. - **Huanghuashan Forest Park**: Climb Dajian Mountain to overlook the entire island. Admission is CNY 20. - **Qi Zai Peng Wind Turbine Cluster**: The No. 46 wind turbine viewing platform has an excellent view, perfect for sunsets. **2. Cultural History** - **Nan'ao General Office**: Ming and Qing Dynasty coastal defense site. Admission is CNY 13. - **Song Well**: An ancient well from the Song Dynasty. Although it is close to the sea, it gushes fresh water. Admission is CNY 16. - **Yunao Fishing Port**: Experience fishing village life and watch the fishing boats return in the evening. --- ### **IV. Food Recommendations** - **Seafood stalls**: Recommended are "Xu Dajie's Dishes" (Qing'ao Bay) and "Xianyan · Seafood Private Kitchen". Must-order dishes include seaweed fried rice, oysters, and squid. - **Special snacks**: Sea Stone Flower (a refreshing dessert), oyster omelet, and fish ball soup. - **Night snack**: Barbecue stalls on Binhai Road, Houzhai Town, grilled squid with beer. --- ### **V. Accommodation Suggestions** - **Qing'ao Bay**: The preferred area, with many sea view rooms. Recommended are B&Bs (such as "Li Tian Ju") or hotels (such as "Peninsula Holiday"). - **Houzhai Town**: Convenient for living, cost-effective, and suitable for tourists with limited budgets. - **Yunao Town**: Fishing village style, suitable for experiencing local life. --- ### **VI. Itinerary (2–3 Days)** **Day 1: East Island Loop** - Morning: Changshanwei Lighthouse (Qihang Square) → Qian'ao Bay Lighthouse. - Afternoon: Yunao Fishing Port → San Cuo Ya Lighthouse → Swimming in Qing'ao Bay. - Evening: Watch the sunset at the Qi Zai Peng Wind Turbine Cluster. **Day 2: Culture and Nature** - Morning: Song Well → Nan'ao General Office. - Afternoon: Jin'yin Island → Huanghuashan Forest Park. - Evening: Have a late-night snack in Houzhai Town. --- ### **VII. Precautions** 1. **Sun and mosquito protection**: The island has strong ultraviolet rays, so prepare sunscreen and a hat; there are many mosquitoes in the jungle area. 2. **Seafood prices**: In the peak season, inquire about prices before consuming to avoid being ripped off. 3. **Typhoon season**: Pay attention to the weather forecast from July to September. Ferry services may be suspended. 4. **Environmental protection**: Protect the beach and do not litter. --- Nan'ao Island is suitable for slow travel. Ride a small electric bike to blow the sea breeze, eat seafood, take beautiful photos, and enjoy a leisurely island time! For other needs (such as clamming, snorkeling, and other niche activities), you can consult local fishermen or travel agencies.