Zhanjiang Travel

Zhanjiang — the southernmost coastal city on mainland China, home to China's longest beach and the world's largest Maar Lake. It blends Leizhou culture with oceanic charm, shining as a bright pearl along the South China Sea.

2000+
Years of History
1
5A Scenic Area
382
Meters Highest Altitude (Shuangfeng Peak)
7M+
Resident Population

Zhanjiang City Districts & Counties

Zhanjiang 3-Day 2-Night Coastal Culture Tour

Explore Maar Lake wonders, visit volcanic islands, and taste seafood feasts

Duration
3 Days 2 Nights
Main Destinations
Huguangyan, Naozhou Island, Chikan Old Street, Jinshawan Bay, Pineapple Sea
Best For
Coastal lovers, geology explorers, foodies, photographers
Budget Per Person
¥1200–¥2500
01
Geological Wonders
Full-Day Exploration of Huguangyan
Highlights

Visit Huguangyan, the world's largest Maar Lake, in the morning to explore volcanic geological relics. In the afternoon, experience the ecological oxygen bar at Sanlingshan National Forest Park, then stroll along Xiashan Seaside Promenade in the evening.

Attractions
Huguangyan
A world geopark featuring China's only and the world's largest Maar Lake. With unique volcanic landforms and crystal-clear water, it holds high scientific research and tourism value.
Sanlingshan National Forest Park
The largest green barrier in Zhanjiang urban area, rich in subtropical plant resources and ecological landscapes, ideal for leisure hiking.
Practical Info
Accommodation
  • Hotels in Xiashan District
  • Homestays near Huguangyan
  • Zhanjiang Seaside Hotel
Food
  • Zhanjiang White Cut Chicken
  • Razor Clam Congee
  • Charcoal-Grilled Oysters
  • Muyejia (Leaf-Wrapped Cake)
Tips
  • Cycling is recommended around Huguangyan (bike rentals available)
  • Apply sunscreen
  • Water temperature is low; enter with caution
  • Swimming is prohibited inside the scenic area
02
Island Charm
Naozhou Island Day Tour
Highlights

Take a ferry to Naozhou Island in the morning, visit Naozhou Lighthouse and volcanic rock relics. In the afternoon, play at Nayan Sea Stone Beach, experience fisherman life, and enjoy the sunset over the sea.

Attractions
Naozhou Island
China's largest volcanic island, featuring unique volcanic landforms, clear seawater, and abundant marine resources. It is Zhanjiang's most distinctive island tourism destination.
Naozhou Lighthouse
One of only two crystal mirror lighthouses in the world, built in 1899 and still in use today. It is a national cultural relic protection unit.
Practical Info
Transport
  • Ferry from Dongnan Pier to Naozhou Island (~30 mins)
  • Round-trip ferry: ~¥50
  • Electric bike rental recommended on the island (¥50/day)
Tickets
  • Naozhou Island: Free entry
  • Naozhou Lighthouse: ¥10
  • Nayan Sea Stone Beach: ¥20
Experiences
  • Sea fishing experience
  • Stay in fisherman's cottages
  • Buy seafood at the pier market
  • Watch sunrise over volcanic rock coast
03
Culture & Coastline
Chikan Old Street + Jinshawan Bay
Highlights

Stroll through Chikan Old Street in the morning, explore arcade architecture and historical stories, and taste authentic snacks. In the afternoon, visit Jinshawan Seaside Promenade for coastal leisure, then return in the evening.

Attractions
Chikan Old Street
One of Zhanjiang's oldest neighborhoods, preserving a large number of Republic-era arcade buildings. It was a filming location for the drama *The Bad Kids*, full of retro charm.
Jinshawan Seaside Promenade
Zhanjiang's most beautiful coastal landscape belt, featuring white sandy beaches, emerald-green seawater, and a modern city skyline — perfect for leisure vacations.
Practical Info
Return Tips
  • ~30 minutes from Jinshawan to Zhanjiang Airport
  • ~20 minutes to Zhanjiang Railway Station
  • Recommended departure before 4:00 PM
Food Map
  • Shuijingtou Rice Noodle Rolls
  • Laochai Charcoal-Roasted Pork Leg
  • Fried Shrimp Cakes
  • Coconut Sago Drink
Souvenirs
  • Zhanjiang Dried Sandworms
  • Xuwen Pineapple
  • Leizhou Dried Beef
  • Mangrove Sea Duck Eggs

Must-Try Foods in Zhanjiang

Zhanjiang White Cut Chicken

Zhanjiang's signature dish, made with locally raised Sanhuang chickens slowly immersed in boiling water until cooked. With yellow skin, tender meat, and dipped in ginger-soy sauce, it is original, fresh, and delicious.

Charcoal-Grilled Oysters

A Zhanjiang specialty seafood BBQ dish. Fresh oysters are grilled over charcoal with garlic, chili, and other seasonings. Juicy, aromatic, and a favorite among seafood lovers.

Muyejia (Leaf-Wrapped Cake)

A traditional Zhanjiang snack made with glutinous rice flour skin wrapped around peanut and coconut fillings, then steamed wrapped in jackfruit leaves. Fragrant, soft, and a festive must-have.

Xuwen Pineapple

A specialty fruit from Xuwen County, Zhanjiang, known as the "Pineapple Sea" due to its vast planting area. Sweet, juicy, and rich in vitamin C, it is one of Lingnan's most famous fruits.

Zhanjiang Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
  • October–April: Mild climate, ideal for coastal activities
  • May–September: Typhoon season; check weather forecasts before traveling
  • March–April: Best viewing period for Xuwen Pineapple Sea
Must-Do Experiences
  • Cycle around Huguangyan Lake
  • Sea fishing at Naozhou Island
  • Food hunting in Chikan Old Street
  • Seaside stroll at Jinshawan Bay
  • Fishing boat experience
Budget Reference
  • Tickets: Huguangyan ¥50 + Naozhou Lighthouse ¥10 ≈ ¥60
  • Accommodation: ¥400–1000/night
  • Food: ¥300–500/day (mainly seafood)
  • Transport: ~¥200 (including ferry)
  • Total: ¥1200–2500
FAQ
  • Where is the most authentic seafood in Zhanjiang? → Dongfeng Market, Xiashan Aquatic Products Wholesale Market
  • What to prepare for island tours? → Sunscreen, motion sickness medicine, change of clothes
  • What are the characteristics of Leizhou culture? → Leizhou Opera, Nuo Dance, Stone Dog Culture
  • Is transport convenient in Zhanjiang? → Has airport and high-speed rail station; self-driving recommended within the city