Seaside Architectural Hotspot
This trip, I visited Shanwei, and my first stop was staying at the Poly Hilton DoubleTree Hotel. I chose this hotel mainly to enjoy a true seaside vacation. The hotel opens directly onto the beach, eliminating the hassle of transportation, and offers direct access to Jinting Bay, where you can take in the vast ocean views. The hotel itself is spacious and well-equipped, with comprehensive facilities and plenty of family-friendly play areas, making the entire stay comfortable and relaxing.
The location of the Poly Hilton DoubleTree Hotel is excellent, situated right at the entrance of Shanwei City, making transportation very convenient. Nearby, there are commercial areas and numerous restaurants, making it super easy to explore the local scene. The best part is stepping out of the hotel and immediately feeling the soft sand under your feet. The fine sand and clear waters, especially under the sunset, make for perfect photo opportunities that might even make your friends think you’re in Bali.
As for the hotel environment, the decor is modern and clean, providing a very comfortable stay. The beachfront design allows you to enjoy the entire beach and bay view right from the balcony. My personal favorite is the infinity pool, perfect for enjoying the sea breeze and view. There are also water play areas and craft workshops suitable for both adults and kids, making it especially ideal for family trips. Kids can have a blast with water games and bubble parties.
The facilities are truly commendable, including a gym, indoor and outdoor pools, a buffet restaurant, and even photography services. Photography enthusiasts will love the Instagram-worthy spots around the hotel, where every shot looks amazing. However, some guests have mentioned that the rooms can feel a bit damp and musty, so it’s hoped that the hotel can improve on cleanliness, especially by ensuring proper ventilation during humid weather.
Breakfast offers a mix of Chinese and Western dishes, seafood, and local Shanwei snacks. The buffet has a wide variety, and the local dishes and seafood are particularly fresh and worth the price. However, the quality of breakfast can be inconsistent, with flavors sometimes not standing out. It’s hoped that the hotel can make adjustments to improve this.
In terms of service, the front desk and housekeeping staff are polite, and check-in and check-out are efficient. Some staff even proactively contact guests in advance to explain hotel facilities and recommend nearby dining options, which is genuinely helpful and considerate. However, some guests have reported that the staff’s attitude can occasionally lack enthusiasm or empathy. Fortunately, the staff I encountered during my stay were quite attentive and detail-oriented.
Even if you’re not staying at the hotel, the nearby commercial areas make it convenient to enjoy Shanwei’s local cuisine. I spent most of my time relaxing on the beach and recommend bringing flip-flops, mosquito repellent, and perhaps some beach toys for kids to enjoy a half-day of fun. Don’t forget to try the seafood at nearby restaurants, which offer both popular and local dishes that are excellent.
Booking Tips: During peak seasons and holidays, it’s best to book rooms in advance. Seaview rooms offer better views. To avoid crowds, weekdays are relatively quieter and more comfortable. Before checking in, consider contacting the hotel staff to request a well-ventilated room. Address any issues promptly for a better experience.
Note: The temperature difference on the beach can be significant between morning and evening, so remember to bring a jacket. Some areas may have mosquitoes or damp conditions in the early morning or evening, so take precautions against mosquitoes and safeguard your personal belongings. Shanwei is generally affordable, and to fully enjoy your trip, plan for at least a 2-day, 1-night leisurely itinerary.