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Sanmen Island (also known as Tuoning Island), located in Daya Bay District, Huizhou City, Guangdong Province, lies at the confluence of Dapeng Bay and Daya Bay. It is one of China's best-preserved natural islands. Home to 485 plant species, over 100 bird species, and over 400 fish species, the island is rich in needleless squid, swimming crabs, sea urchins, groupers, lobsters, and abalone. It is a designated aquatic resource conservation area in Guangdong Province. Sanmen Island is home to over 100 mountain eagles and dozens of wild sheep and rabbits.
Sanmen Island boasts five bays with a radius exceeding 300 meters and two beaches. Its water visibility is 10-12 meters, meeting national Class I water quality standards. It is a renowned diving destination in China and boasts the richest freshwater resources in Daya Bay.
Sanmen Island has a subtropical island climate, with an average temperature of 17 degrees Celsius in January and 27.6 degrees Celsius in July. From April to November, the weather is warm and the water temperature is comfortable, making swimming a popular activity for most tourists.
Volcanic rocks and colorful pebble beaches
Sanmen Island, formed by a volcanic eruption 140 million years ago, boasts a colorful beach strewn with volcanic rocks of diverse colors and unique shapes. The massive, fiery red volcanic rock walls inspire awe at the wonders of nature. Furthermore, the sea cliffs and caves, formed by eons of wave action, are rarely seen elsewhere.
Climb the main peak of the island
Sanmen Island boasts five peaks exceeding 200 meters in elevation, with the main peak, "Sea Oath Mountain Alliance," at 298 meters, offering the highest viewing point in Daya Bay. Visitors familiar with Sanmen Island often enjoy ascending the island's 298-meter-high peak, offering breathtaking views of the mountains and sea, soaring sea eagles, and the vast expanse of sea and sky. From this vantage point, visitors can take in the breathtaking beauty of Daya Bay.
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Sanmen Island is known for its natural beauty and rich historical significance. The island is home to ancient temples and has been a place of cultural and spiritual importance for centuries. It is also famous for its beautiful coastline and pristine beaches, making it a popular destination for both nature lovers and history enthusiasts.
Sanmen Island is located in the Huizhou City of Guangdong Province, China. To reach the island, take a bus or taxi from Huizhou city center to the nearby ferry terminal, and then take a ferry to the island. There is no metro service directly to the island, but local transport options like taxis and buses are available.
Sanmen Island is accessible year-round. The best times to visit are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. Summer months can be hot, and the island may get crowded with tourists.
There is no entrance fee for the island itself. However, activities like boat rides, water sports, and visiting some temples may require a fee. Tickets for these activities can be purchased on-site or through local travel agencies. Some tickets may also be available online through local tourism websites.
Booking tickets in advance is not mandatory, but it is recommended during peak tourist seasons or for specific activities like boat tours or temple visits. Booking at least a few days in advance is a good idea during holidays or busy months.
A visit to Sanmen Island typically takes about 3 to 5 hours if you want to explore the beaches, trails, and temples. If you're interested in water activities or a boat tour, you may want to spend the entire day on the island.
Guided tours are available on the island, especially for temple visits or boat tours. These tours are typically available in Mandarin, but English-speaking guides may be available upon request, depending on the tour operator.
Start by exploring the beaches, then take a short hike to the viewpoint to capture the island’s scenic beauty. Afterward, visit the local temples and enjoy a boat tour around the island to explore the rock formations and marine life.
There are no light shows or night tours on Sanmen Island. However, you can enjoy a peaceful evening by the beach or at the temple, as the island offers a tranquil atmosphere after sunset.
The island can get crowded, especially during weekends and public holidays. For a quieter experience, visit during weekdays or outside of peak tourist seasons. Early mornings and late afternoons tend to be the least crowded times.
Sanmen Island offers basic facilities such as public toilets, rest areas, and food stalls. You can find local snacks, drinks, and souvenirs on-site. However, the availability of amenities may be limited compared to more urbanized tourist spots.
The island is somewhat accessible for elderly and children, especially the beaches and areas near the ferry terminal. However, some of the natural trails and temple areas may be challenging for those with mobility issues. It is advisable to stick to the beach areas for easier access.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are more commonly used on the island. Credit cards may not be widely accepted at smaller shops and food stalls, so it's a good idea to carry cash or use mobile payment methods.
Vegetarian options are available at some restaurants, but they may be limited. Halal food options are rare on the island but may be found at larger restaurants in Huizhou City.
Souvenir shops are available near the ferry terminal, offering items like handmade crafts, beachwear, and local snacks such as dried seafood and fruits.
To continue your trip, taxis and buses are available from the ferry terminal. You can also use ride-hailing apps to travel to nearby attractions or return to Huizhou City for further exploration.
