Zhanjiang | A Hidden Gem for April-May Travel! [Travel Guide Included]

🏛️Introduction to Zhanjiang Zhanjiang, a treasure coastal city tucked away in the southwest corner of Guangdong Province, is known as the "Southern Pearl." It boasts not only stunning islands and fine sandy beaches but also rich historical and cultural heritage. It's the only city in Guangdong where you can directly face the sea. 🌸Features of April-May In April and May, Zhanjiang enjoys sunny days and pleasant weather, making it an ideal time for travel. During this period, the seawater is warm and the beaches are soft and fine, perfect for a coastal vacation. 🚌Transportation Guide • High-speed Rail: Arrive at Zhanjiang West Station or South Railway Station, then take a taxi or bus to downtown, which takes about 30 minutes. • Air: Direct flights from various cities to Wuchuan Airport. From there, take a taxi or bus to downtown, approximately a 90-minute drive. • Self-driving: Highly recommended if you're in the vicinity of Zhanjiang, allowing you to better enjoy the scenery and freedom along the way. 🗺️Three-Day Two-Night Itinerary 🌅Day 1: Chikan Old Street - Golden Beach Bay - Xiashan Seaside Promenade • Morning: After arriving in Zhanjiang, head to Chikan Old Street. This area became famous through the TV show "The Bad Kids" and was once Chikan's most prosperous commercial port. Stroll along the old street and feel the historical charm, as if traveling back in time. • Noon: Enjoy beef brisket and wonton at Jin Wei Wonton near Chikan Old Street, which is very satisfying. • Afternoon: Visit Golden Beach Bay, a free natural bathing area with beach activities, offering the best spot to view the entire bay bridge. • Evening: Take a walk along Xiashan Seaside Promenade, an excellent coastal walkway where you can see egrets flying over the sea, with Zhanjiang's blue sky, white clouds, and fishing boats complementing each other. 🌞Day 2: Huguangyan - Techeng Island • Morning: Visit Huguangyan, priced at CNY 50 per person, including boat rental for lake sightseeing. It's one of the three remaining volcanic lakes in China, with beautiful scenery where mountains and waters create a fascinating landscape. • Noon: Enjoy local cuisine at restaurants near Huguangyan. • Afternoon: Head to Techeng Island, costing about CNY 40 per person; only a 30-minute boat ride from Xiashan District. Techeng Island has beautiful natural scenery and is also known as "Red Island" due to its red soil and strange red rocks. After arriving on the island, you can rent a bicycle or electric scooter to explore freely. • Evening: Stay at a guesthouse near Techeng Island to experience local folk culture. 🌕Day 3: Donghai Island - Naozhou Island • Morning: Visit Donghai Island, known as "China's First Long Beach," with wide beaches and clear waters, an ideal vacation destination. • Noon: Enjoy seafood at restaurants near Donghai Island. • Afternoon: Head to Naozhou Island, China's largest volcanic island, where white sandy beaches contrast sharply with black volcanic rocks, perfect for photography. The island is famous for abalone, lobster, and other seafood, and has cultural relics such as an ancient lighthouse with a long history. It's recommended to visit the local seafood market and taste seafood dishes prepared by Lvjing Restaurant. • Evening: Stay at a guesthouse near Naozhou Island to experience the tranquility of the island. 📸Must-Visit Attractions • Chikan Old Street: A Republic-era old street full of historical charm, lined with antique shops, suitable for art lovers to explore. • Huguangyan: One of the three remaining volcanic lakes in China, with beautiful scenery where mountains and waters create a fascinating landscape. • Techeng Island: Beautiful natural scenery, also known as "Red Island" due to its red soil and strange red rocks. • Donghai Island: China's First Long Beach, with wide beaches and clear waters, an ideal vacation destination. • Naozhou Island: China's largest volcanic island, where white sandy beaches contrast sharply with black volcanic rocks, perfect for photography. 🏨Accommodation Recommendations • Hotels near Golden Beach Bay: Such as Sheraton Golden Beach Bay, with beautiful surroundings and views of Golden Beach Bay. • Guesthouses near Chikan Old Street: Experience local folk culture and enjoy the tranquility of the old street. • Guesthouses near Naozhou Island: Experience the tranquility of the island and enjoy the sunrise and sunset by the sea. 🍔Local Food Recommendations • Oysters: Zhanjiang oysters are cheap and delicious, a must-try. • White Cut Chicken: Zhanjiang White Cut Chicken has crispy skin and tender meat, a local specialty. • Beef Brisket Rice Noodles: Locals often have beef brisket noodles or wonton noodles for breakfast. • Seafood: Visit local seafood markets to select and purchase seafood for restaurants to cook. You can also visit well-known chain seafood restaurants or long-established restaurants. Recommended restaurants: Shao Ao Bang, August Kitchen (Zhanjiang-style Cantonese cuisine), Bo Ge Food Stall, Lao Biao Seafood Restaurant. • Snacks: Boji Chui, Millet Cake, Shrimp Cake, Glutinous Rice Chicken, Tian'ai Yi, White Sugar Cake, etc. Recommended shops: Er Sao Shrimp Cake, Long Nv Boji Chui, Si Die Boji Chui. 📌Tips • Sun Protection: Zhanjiang has plenty of sunshine, so remember to take sun protection measures. • Comfortable Clothing: Some attractions require walking, so comfortable shoes are recommended. • Respect Local Customs: In local fishing villages or islands, respect local customs and traditions. • Book in Advance: During peak tourist seasons, it's advisable to book tickets and accommodation in advance. • Beach Combing Experience: On Donghai Island or Naozhou Island, you can experience the fun of beach combing. Remember to prepare beach shoes in advance. In April and May, Zhanjiang is sunny with gentle sea breezes, making it an excellent time for travel. Come and start a romantic coastal journey here! 🌊