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Located northeast of Qinghai Lake, Qinghai Lake Sand Island is a vast sand dune area extending into the lake. This vast expanse of sand offers a unique and magnificent view of a desert landscape, with the vast blue expanse of Qinghai Lake at its end. The island boasts two small freshwater lakes and reed wetlands, creating a beautiful environment. Guests can enjoy a variety of recreational activities, including sandboarding and sand scooters, as well as viewing magnificent giant sand sculptures.
The entrance to the Sand Island scenic area is located on the northeast side of the road. The distance from the entrance to the lake is approximately 7.6 kilometers, making it a considerable distance. The shuttle bus stops at both the center and the lakeside. The center stop is adjacent to two smaller lakes, Crescent Lake and Sun Lake, as well as the Reed Lake wetland, offering stunning views. The lakeside area is home to many recreational activities. The International Sand Sculpture Festival is held here every July. If you visit during July and August, walk north from the lakeside to see a spectacular display of giant sand sculptures. A typical visit to Sand Island takes about 2-4 hours.
As soon as you enter the scenic area, you'll see a railway stretching out before you. This is the famous Qinghai-Tibet Railway, and you can sometimes see trains bound for Tibet passing through here. After boarding a sightseeing bus, you'll head into the scenic area, where you'll first reach the small lake area. Crescent Lake and Sun Lake are freshwater lakes, named for their moon-like and sun-like shapes. The clear waters of these two small lakes, nestled against the golden sandy beach, are truly stunning. The Reed Lake wetlands to the south of the lake are even more picturesque, with vast expanses of reeds swaying amidst the desert, creating a picturesque scene.
Plateau continental climate; Qinghai Lake Sand Island is one of the components of Qinghai Lake, a national key scenic spot. It has rich and colorful natural landscapes, and each attraction has distinctive characteristics, different shapes, and natural interest. It is suitable for travel in all seasons.
Sand Island Lake, Moon Lake, Sun Lake, Xiang Lake, Xiangnaoer Wetland, Silver Sand Bay, etc.
It is recommended to play for 2-4 hours
Peak season (April-October): 70 yuan/person
Off-season (October-April): 35 yuan/person
Inter-city ticket: 30 yuan/person
Business is temporarily suspended, opening hours are to be determined. Please refer to the scenic spot’s announcement for details or call the scenic spot for consultation.
Original opening hours: 08:00-18:00
Qinghai Lake Sand Island is a natural scenic area within Qinghai Lake, China’s largest inland lake. The island is known for its pristine sand dunes, grasslands, and ecological significance, serving as a habitat for migratory birds and a symbol of Qinghai’s natural beauty.
Located in Haibei Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Qinghai Province. Visitors typically reach Qinghai Lake by car or tour bus from Xining. From the lake area, taxis or local shuttle services can take you to Sand Island. Walking is recommended once on the island to explore its dunes and beaches.
Open year-round, usually from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. The best time to visit is from May to September when weather is mild and wildlife is active.
Entrance fee is approximately 60–80 RMB per person. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or through local travel agencies online.
Booking in advance is recommended during peak summer months and public holidays, ideally 2–3 days ahead.
2–4 hours to walk around the main parts of Sand Island, enjoy the dunes, lake views, and photography spots.
Guided tours are sometimes available in Chinese. English or other language guides are rare, so self-guided tours are common.
Start at the main entrance, walk along the sandy beaches to the dunes, climb a few viewpoints, visit birdwatching areas, then return along the lake’s shoreline for scenic photography.
Night visits are not common, and there are no regular light shows. Special cultural or ecological tours may occur occasionally during festivals.
Moderately crowded in summer; weekdays and early mornings are less crowded and offer a more tranquil experience.
Basic facilities include toilets and a few rest areas. Small snack stalls may be present, but bringing water and snacks is recommended.
Accessible for most visitors, but walking on sand dunes may be challenging for the elderly or disabled. Children can enjoy open spaces and gentle dunes.
Both cash and mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) are usually accepted at the entrance and nearby facilities.
Nearby lakeside restaurants serve local Qinghai cuisine, including yak meat and fish dishes. Small cafes and snack stalls are available in the visitor area.
Vegetarian options are limited; halal options may be available in local Tibetan or Muslim-owned eateries around Qinghai Lake.
Hotels, guesthouses, and lodges are available around Qinghai Lake, ranging from budget to mid-range. Booking in advance is recommended during peak season.
Souvenir shops sell local handicrafts, Tibetan-style items, yak products, postcards, and lake-themed gifts.
Private cars, taxis, or tour buses are the best options to travel to nearby attractions or return to Xining.
