I'm back from Yangma Island and just want to share some honest truths...

**1. Why Visit Yangma Island?** - **Crystal-clear waters**: Known as the "Little Maldives of the North," with glass-like seas and jellyfish-like waters. - **Free admission**: No entrance fees, only some activities require payment. - **Natural scenery**: Rocky beaches, wooden boardwalks, and a cross-sea bridge make it perfect for photos. - **Qin Shi Huang history**: Legend says it was where the First Emperor kept his horses, featuring cultural elements like the Heavenly Horse statue. --- **2. Transportation Guide** **How to Get There?** 1. **By plane/train**: - Fly to Yantai Penglai International Airport, then take an airport shuttle or taxi (about 1.5 hours). - Take a high-speed train to Muping Station (closest) or Yantai South Station, then a 20-minute taxi ride. 2. **By car**: - Navigate to "Yangma Island" via the cross-sea bridge. Free parking is available on the island. 3. **By bus**: - Take bus 617 from downtown Yantai to "Longhai Hotel Station," then walk onto the island. **Getting Around the Island** - **Rent an e-bike**: The best option! Stop and explore at will (about ¥30-50/hour). - **Drive**: Traffic can be heavy in peak season, and some roads are narrow. - **Walk**: Only suitable for short distances; the 18km loop is not recommended on foot. --- **3. Must-Visit Spots (Counterclockwise Route)** 1. **Heavenly Horse Square** (starting point) - Iconic square with statues of Qin Shi Huang and the Heavenly Horse, offering insights into the island's history. 2. **Seawater Bathing Beach** (east side) - Sandy shores and shallow waters, ideal for swimming and sand play (open in summer). 3. **Zhang Island Scenic Area** (highlight) - **Red wooden boardwalk**: Winds over the sea, perfect for photos. - **Island Diary**: A café with white walls and blue windows, boasting a fresh Instagram vibe. - **Abandoned attic** (opposite "Dongdao Fisherman Seafood Restaurant"): Climb for panoramic sea views. 4. **Yubi Garden (Back Sea)** - Rocky caves and "photo frame" spots, best at low tide. 5. **Qinfeng Cliff** - White horse sculptures, stunning at sunset. 6. **Lotus Sunset** (west end) - Viral cave photo spot (navigate to "Lotus Sunset" and follow the path to the beach). --- **4. Food Recommendations** - **Seafood**: - Island fishermen's restaurants: Focus on shellfish, shrimp, and crab (¥80-120/person). Try spicy clams and oyster tofu soup. - Tip: Avoid overpriced fish; confirm prices beforehand. - **Muping BBQ** (must-try off the island): - Specialties: Charcoal-grilled leg meat and sea intestine rice. Recommended spots: Tongyu BBQ, Baisheng BBQ. --- **5. Accommodation Tips** - **On the island**: Fishermen's homestays (budget-friendly, ~¥200/night) offer sea views but basic facilities. - **Off the island**: Hotels in Muping (better quality) or return to downtown Yantai (more options). --- **6. Itinerary Ideas** **One-Day Highlights** Heavenly Horse Square → Rent a bike → Seawater Bathing Beach (1 hour) → Zhang Island Boardwalk (2 hours) → Island Diary Café → Lunch at a fishermen's restaurant → Qinfeng Cliff (sunset) → Lotus Sunset Cave → Off-island Muping BBQ. **Two-Day Deep Dive** - **Day 1**: Island loop + sunset photography; stay overnight. - **Day 2**: Tide-pooling (check tide tables), diving/sailing (summer), exploring hidden rocky beaches. --- **7. Pro Tips** 1. **Weather**: Waters are clearest on sunny days; overcast skies dull the experience. Check forecasts! 2. **Tides**: Visit caves only at low tide (check Yantai tide tables). 3. **Sun protection**: Strong UV rays—bring hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen. 4. **Outfits**: Light-colored dresses and straw hats photograph well; pack sandals for wading. 5. **Avoid crowds**: Weekends/holidays get packed; weekdays are quieter. Yangma Island's charm lies in its untouched coastal vibe and clear waters. Don’t overplan—rent an e-bike, feel the sea breeze, and stop wherever you please. That’s the best way to experience it! Wishing you amazing photos and unforgettable memories! 📸🌊