
The Lion Island coastline, located on the Huidong Peninsula, begins at the Pinghai Power Plant in Xunliao Bay and ends at Lion Island in Shuangyue Bay, covering a total distance of 12 kilometers. This brand-new route, devoid of the bustling conveniences of Xunliao Bay and Shuangyue Bay, lacks the bustling food markets and expensive resorts. Instead, it boasts six beautiful, virtually undeveloped beaches. The nearly 20-kilometer route, traversing beaches, reefs, and village roads, involves mountain climbs and jungle traversal. This is the Pinghai Power Plant to Lion Island Ocean Line.
The entire journey took over seven hours, and we successfully completed it. The main scenery was the beach, the coast, the reefs, the jungle, and the U-shaped slope. Laughter, mutual assistance, health, happiness, and exhaustion were the main themes of the activity. In the past, I had only seen the endless sea, but this time, I saw the endless beach.
Climate: Subtropical marine monsoon climate
Best time to travel: All seasons
Recommended play time: 4-5 hours
free
All day
Lion Island, located in Huizhou City, Guangdong, is named after the distinctive lion-shaped rock formations found on the island. It has historical significance as a popular destination for visitors seeking natural beauty and tranquil surroundings. The island is often visited by nature enthusiasts and those interested in its unique geography.
Lion Island is located off the coast of Huizhou City in Guangdong Province. You can reach the island by taking a ferry from the nearby mainland docks. Taxi or private car options are available for traveling to the docks, but there is no metro service to the island itself.
Lion Island is accessible year-round, but the best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is pleasant. It is open daily from sunrise to sunset, with the ferry services typically running from 7 AM to 5 PM.
The entrance fee to Lion Island is generally affordable, with tickets available for purchase at the ferry terminal. You can buy tickets on-site, but it is advisable to check with local operators in case of online booking options for the ferry ride or guided tours.
It is not mandatory to book tickets in advance, but it is recommended during peak tourist seasons (especially public holidays or weekends). Booking 1-2 days in advance is advisable for ferry tickets and guided tours.
You can explore the island in approximately 4-6 hours, especially if you want to hike and take in the scenery. For a more relaxed experience, spending a full day allows you to enjoy the beaches and the surrounding nature fully.
Guided tours are available, usually in Mandarin. English-speaking guides may be available upon request, though it is advisable to arrange them in advance if required.
Start with a boat ride around the island for scenic views. Hike to the top of Lion Rock for panoramic views, then relax at one of the beaches. If time allows, explore the forest trails for a deeper connection to nature.
There are no special light shows or night visits available on Lion Island. The island is typically visited during the day to enjoy the natural surroundings and daylight views.
Lion Island can get crowded on weekends and public holidays. The best times to visit are on weekdays or during the off-season (late autumn or winter). Early mornings tend to be less crowded, especially during weekdays.
Basic facilities like toilets and rest areas are available on the island. There are a few small food stalls offering snacks and drinks, but more extensive food options are available at the ferry terminal on the mainland.
Some areas of the island, especially the hiking trails, may not be suitable for elderly or disabled visitors. However, the beaches and ferry services are accessible for most visitors, including families with children.
Cash is commonly accepted for small purchases on the island, but mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used. It is always advisable to carry some cash for smaller transactions.
Vegetarian options are available at local restaurants, but vegan and halal food may be limited. It is advisable to check with the restaurant staff for specific dietary requirements.
There are souvenir shops selling local crafts, shells, and beachwear. Typical souvenirs include handmade jewelry, traditional arts and crafts, and local snacks.