A Seaside Resort Far from the Hustle and Bustle of the City - Dong Ao Island

Dong Ao Island in Zhuhai is a beautiful tourist destination with a tropical island atmosphere, known for its clear waters, fine sandy beaches, and abundant seafood. Here's a detailed travel guide to help you plan your trip. --- ### 1. Transportation Guide - **By Ferry**: - **Xiangzhou Port Ferry Terminal**: 2 ferries daily (9:10 am, 2:40 pm), approx. 50 mins, CNY 56. - **Hengqin Port Ferry Terminal**: Approx. 35 mins, CNY 46, direct to Nansha Bay Wharf, suitable for visitors going directly to the beach. - **Visitors from Hong Kong and Macau**: Ferries available from Zhuhai Xiangzhou Port or Macau Taipa Ferry Terminal. - **By Car**: Arrive in Zhuhai via the Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macau Bridge, then take a ferry to the island. - **Suggestion**: Book tickets in advance on the ferry terminal's official WeChat account. Tickets are in high demand during peak season. Remember to bring your ID card. --- ### 2. Must-See Attractions - **Nansha Bay Diamond Beach**: Known as the "Diamond Beach" for its fine sand, perfect for swimming, diving, jet skiing, and other water activities. - **Dong Ao Fort**: Ruins of a Qing Dynasty fort, ideal for history buffs. - **Honeymoon Pavilion & Windmill Mountain**: Climb to the top for stunning panoramic views of the island, especially at sunrise and sunset. - **Romantic Flower Path & Wedding Chapel**: Picturesque spots perfect for romantic photos. - **King’s Birthday Celebration (Folklore Event)**: Held on March 22, featuring lion dances, the intangible cultural heritage of "Da Tie Hua" (iron flower hitting), and a grand banquet for thousands. --- ### 3. Food Recommendations - **Seafood Feast**: - Must-try dishes: **Oyster and Chicken Casserole**, **Three Ways of Conch**, **Stir-fried Crab with Ginger and Scallions**. - Recommended restaurants: **Dong Fa Seafood Restaurant** (Salt and Pepper Nine-Belly Fish), **Shi Dan Seafood Restaurant**. - **Island Treasures**: Sea urchin, limpets, and goose barnacles. - **Seafood Market at the Wharf**: Buy fresh seafood and have it cooked at a restaurant for a more affordable price. --- ### 4. Accommodation Recommendations - **Luxury Resorts**: Gree Dong Ao Hotel (oceanfront views), Alila Island Cliff Hotel (newly opened, offers a variety of activities). - **Budget-friendly Options**: Keyu Holiday Resort, Yuexin Inn (around CNY 100 per person). - **Camping**: Tent rentals available at Nansha Bay Beach (approx. CNY 100/tent). --- ### 5. Travel Tips - **Best Time to Visit**: May–October is ideal for swimming; November–April is the off-season with lower accommodation prices. - **Sun Protection**: The island has strong UV rays, so bring sunscreen and a hat. - **Environmental Protection**: Do not litter and help protect the island's environment. - **Safety Precautions**: Swim within the designated areas supervised by lifeguards and avoid entering military restricted zones. --- ### 6. Recommended Itinerary (2 Days, 1 Night) - **Day 1**: Arrive by ferry → Nansha Bay Beach → Water activities → Dong Ao Fort → Seafood dinner → Overnight stay at a beachfront hotel. - **Day 2**: Watch the sunrise at Honeymoon Pavilion → Windmill Mountain → King’s Birthday Celebration (if applicable) → Return trip. Dong Ao Island offers both natural beauty and historical culture, making it a perfect destination for family trips, romantic getaways, or team-building activities!