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Relax on the sandy shores of Caoyu Beach, enjoy swimming or sunbathing, and take a boat ride on the nearby waters. The beach is perfect for leisurely walks, and you can explore the surrounding natural beauty. If you're into water sports, you can try jet-skiing or beach volleyball.
The Caoyutan Scenic Area, located in the upper reaches of the Qingyi River in Hongya County, covers an area of 18 square kilometers. Within the area, ancient Alsophila spinulosa trees cast shadows against the emerald waters. The scenic beauty and rich cultural history complement each other, creating a unique river gorge landscape renowned both domestically and internationally.
Mid-subtropical humid climate
Suitable for summer travel
The famous scenic spots in Caoyutan include Yunyu Tower, Cape Pavilion, Ruilian Pavilion, Baipo Pavilion, Beiting, Baoyue Pavilion, Kuaiyu Pavilion, Shisu Pavilion, Jingsu Tower, Luzhou Pavilion, Bantan Qiushui Yifangshan, Caihua Boat, Nantang, Shuzhu Pavilion, Lujun Pavilion, and West Gate.
free
All day
Caoyu Beach is a scenic area in Meishan, known for its tranquil environment and natural beauty. The beach has become increasingly popular among tourists who enjoy its peaceful atmosphere and activities like swimming, boating, and relaxation in a pristine natural setting.
Caoyu Beach is located in Meishan, Sichuan. The best way to get there from Chengdu is by car or taxi, which takes around 2-3 hours. Public transport options like buses may be available but are less frequent. Walking is not recommended due to the distance from the city center.
Caoyu Beach is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities. Summer can get crowded, and winter may be too cold for beach activities.
There is no entrance fee to visit Caoyu Beach. It is free for public access. However, some activities like boating or renting beach equipment may have separate charges. These can be paid on-site.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for visiting the beach. However, for specific activities such as boat rentals or special events, it is advisable to book a day or two in advance during the high season.
You can fully explore Caoyu Beach in 2-3 hours. This includes time for walking along the shore, enjoying the water, and taking in the surrounding views. If you plan to engage in water sports or have a meal at the beach, allow extra time.
The must-see highlights include the beach itself with its clear waters and soft sands, the nearby nature trails, and the peaceful surrounding area ideal for relaxation and photography.
Guided tours are not commonly offered at Caoyu Beach. However, if you require specific information, you may find local guides who can offer informal tours in Mandarin. Audio guides are not available.
The best viewpoints are from the elevated spots near the shoreline and at the far end of the beach, where you can capture panoramic views of the coast and surrounding hills. Early morning and late afternoon light offer great opportunities for photography.
Start at the main entrance of the beach and take a leisurely stroll along the shore. Explore the quieter areas towards the far end, enjoy some time relaxing by the water, and then head to a nearby café or restaurant for a meal. If you’re interested in water activities, rent equipment at the beachside.
Night visits and light shows are not typically available at Caoyu Beach. However, the beach is a serene place for evening walks, and some local events may take place during special holidays or festivals.
The beach can get crowded on weekends and during public holidays, particularly in the summer. The least crowded times are weekday mornings and afternoons, especially outside of peak tourist season (spring and autumn).
Facilities at Caoyu Beach include toilets, rest areas, and a few local food stalls or cafés. You can find small shops offering snacks and beach essentials. There are no major commercial establishments directly on the beach.
The beach is relatively accessible for elderly visitors and children, though the path to the shoreline may be uneven in some spots. It may not be fully accessible for disabled visitors, as there are no specific facilities like ramps.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are commonly used in the area. Credit cards may not be accepted at small shops or food stalls.
There are a few local restaurants near the beach serving traditional Sichuanese dishes, including seafood and noodles. Additionally, you can find some cafés offering tea and snacks with beach views.
Vegetarian options, such as stir-fried vegetables and tofu, are available in most local restaurants. Vegan options can be found at some places, while halal food may be less common but can be found in larger towns nearby.
There are a few guesthouses and mid-range hotels near Caoyu Beach. For a broader selection of accommodations, you can stay in Meishan city, around 30 minutes away by car.
Nearby attractions include the famous Leshan Giant Buddha and Mount Emei, both of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites and can be easily reached by car within a couple of hours.
Souvenir shops near the beach sell items like local handicrafts, souvenirs made from seashells, and regional snacks. You can also buy small souvenirs related to the Sichuan culture and beach-themed memorabilia.
After visiting Caoyu Beach, you can continue your trip by taking a taxi or private car to Meishan city or Chengdu. Bus services may also be available for longer trips, and local taxis can help you get to nearby tourist attractions.
