Weekend Escape Plan from Guangdong to Dongshan Island

Looking for a spontaneous weekend getaway near Guangdong? Dongshan Island is the perfect choice! With its azure seas and charming fishing village life, it's an ideal retreat from city hustle to relax and unwind 🌊 Below is a super-detailed weekend travel guide for Dongshan Island 👇 ### Must-Visit Attractions 🌅 **Nanmen Bay** This is one of the filming locations for the movie *The Left Ear* and one of Dongshan Island's most iconic spots. Stroll along the coastline, admire the blue sea and white houses, and feel the ocean breeze—it’s like stepping into a movie scene. At dusk, you can also enjoy a stunning sunset, making it incredibly romantic. **Sufeng Mountain Ring Road** Dubbed the "most beautiful coastal road," this route offers breathtaking views of the azure sea on one side and lush green mountains on the other. Rent an e-bike or bicycle to ride along the ring road, embrace the sea breeze, and take in the scenic beauty. There are plenty of viewpoints along the way to stop and snap photos. **Fishbone Sandbar** A magical place that only emerges during low tide, forming a sandbar shaped like a fishbone. The surrounding waters are crystal clear, and the sand is fine—perfect for photos and beachcombing. Take a local fisherman’s boat to the sandbar, where you can play, take pictures, and marvel at nature’s wonders. **Tongling Ancient Town** Steeped in history, this ancient town boasts rich cultural heritage. It features charming old buildings like the Guan Di Temple and Wengong Ancestral Hall, along with snack stalls and handicraft shops where you can sample local delicacies and buy unique souvenirs. Here, you’ll immerse in the town’s historical charm and folk culture. ### Local Delicacies 🍤 **Seafood Feast** As an island, Dongshan is famous for its seafood. Visit the local seafood market to pick fresh catches, then have them cooked at nearby restaurants for an authentic seafood feast. Options include crab, shrimp, fish, shellfish—all incredibly fresh and delicious. **Oyster Omelette** A popular Taiwanese snack that’s also a hit in Dongshan. Made with fresh oysters, eggs, flour, and veggies, it’s crispy on the outside, tender inside, and served with a sweet-and-sour sauce for a flavorful bite. **Cat’s Porridge** A traditional Dongshan dish, this rice porridge is cooked with small shrimp, crab, squid, and shredded meat. It’s savory, nutritious, and a local breakfast favorite. **Four-Ice Dessert** A refreshing summer treat made with mung beans, red beans, barley, grass jelly, and topped with fruit or ice cream in sweet syrup. It’s rich in texture, sweet but not cloying—perfect for cooling down on hot days. ### Accommodation Recommendations 🏠 • **Seaside B&Bs**: For stunning ocean views, opt for a seaside B&B. These are beautifully decorated with full amenities, often offering free breakfast and bike rentals. Falling asleep to the sound of waves is pure bliss. • **Ancient Town Inns**: To soak up local history, stay at an inn in Tongling Ancient Town. These inns feature traditional architecture and unique interiors, transporting you back in time. Plus, they’re surrounded by snack shops and handicraft stores for convenience. ### Itinerary 🗺️ • **Saturday Morning**: Depart from Guangdong by train or bus to Dongshan Island. Check in, drop your bags, then head to the beach for a stroll and ocean views. • **Saturday Afternoon**: Visit Nanmen Bay, the *Left Ear* filming site, and walk along the coast. At dusk, enjoy the romantic sunset. • **Saturday Evening**: Dine in Tongling Ancient Town on local specialties like seafood, oyster omelette, and cat’s porridge. Afterward, explore the town and shop for souvenirs. • **Sunday Morning**: Rise early for a bike or e-bike ride along Sufeng Mountain Ring Road, stopping at viewpoints for photos. • **Sunday Afternoon**: Head to Fishbone Sandbar by boat, play and take photos, then pack up for your return trip. ### Pro Tips 💡 • Check weather and ferry schedules in advance to avoid disruptions. • The island has strong UV rays—pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats. • Public transport is limited (buses are infrequent, taxis pricey), so consider carpooling with other travelers to save costs. • Book accommodations early, especially during peak season, to secure your stay. Don’t wait—embark on a romantic island getaway to Dongshan this weekend! 🌴