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Enjoy the stunning views of the Golden Beach and surrounding desert landscape. Take a walk along the beach, engage in water sports like boating and kayaking, or simply relax by the shore. The area also offers opportunities for sand dune adventures such as dune surfing and camel rides. For a unique experience, visit the nearby desert areas for stargazing at night.
The Golden Beach Tourist Area, located in Heshuo County, Bayingolin Mongol Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, sits on the northeastern shore of Lake Bosten and is a popular summer resort in Xinjiang. The most beautiful feature of Golden Beach is its sand, which is called "Golden Beach" because of its golden sandy geology. The sand is shiny, golden in color, and has extremely uniform grains, typically ranging from 0.5 to 0.8 mm. Combined with the waters of Lake Bosten, such a beach is truly rare in inland areas. It serves as both a summer resort and a holiday destination, earning it the nickname "Hawaii of Xinjiang."
Temperate continental climate, summer
Bosten Lake, 1-3 hours
30 yuan
All day (Monday to Sunday, January 1st - December 31st)
The Golden Beach Scenic Area is known for its natural beauty and unique landscape, characterized by golden sand dunes stretching across the desert. It has long been a destination for travelers looking to experience the vastness of the desert, and its proximity to historical Silk Road routes adds to its cultural significance. The area is also a popular site for local recreational activities and environmental education.
The Golden Beach Scenic Area is located in Bayingolin Mongol Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang. The most convenient way to get there is by taxi or private car. Public transportation options are limited, so renting a car or joining a tour group are popular choices for visitors.
The area is open year-round, though the best time to visit is during spring and autumn when the weather is cooler and more pleasant for outdoor activities. Summer can be extremely hot, and winter is less favorable for desert exploration due to colder temperatures.
The entrance fee to the Golden Beach Scenic Area is typically around ¥40-¥60. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance, as the site does not currently offer online ticketing.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary unless you are visiting during a peak tourist season. It’s recommended to book if you plan to visit during public holidays or the summer months.
A visit to the Golden Beach Scenic Area typically takes about 2 to 4 hours, depending on the activities you choose to participate in, such as camel rides or sand dune surfing.
Highlights include the vast golden sand dunes, the serene beach area, and the desert flora and fauna. For those interested in adventure, sand dune surfing and camel rides are popular activities. The area is also great for photography, especially at sunset.
Guided tours are available and are usually conducted in Chinese. Some tours may offer English-speaking guides, especially during peak tourist seasons. Audio guides may be available in Chinese and English.
The best photography spots are along the sand dunes, especially at sunrise or sunset when the light creates stunning contrasts on the golden sands. The beach area also offers excellent views of the surrounding desert landscape.
Start by exploring the golden sand dunes, take part in a camel ride, and then enjoy the beach area. Consider taking a boat ride on the nearby river or lake for a different perspective of the landscape. End your visit with some time spent watching the sunset over the dunes.
Night visits are possible, and the area is popular for stargazing due to the clear desert skies. However, there are no light shows or special tours in the evening.
The Golden Beach Scenic Area can get crowded during the summer months and public holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit on weekdays or during the off-season in spring or autumn.
Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available. There are small kiosks selling snacks and water, but it is recommended to bring your own supplies, especially water, as the area can get hot.
The area is accessible to elderly and children, though it may be challenging for disabled visitors due to the sandy terrain. It’s advisable to check accessibility options in advance if you have specific needs.
Cash is widely accepted, and mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are commonly used in the area. Credit card payments may be limited, so it’s a good idea to carry cash.
There are a few local eateries and snack stalls in the area, but for a wider variety of restaurants, it's better to head into the nearby towns or cities in Bayingolin Prefecture.
Yes, halal food is widely available in Xinjiang, especially in the nearby towns. Vegetarian and vegan options can also be found in most local restaurants.
There are a few hotels in Bayingolin Prefecture, including budget and mid-range options. For more upscale accommodations, consider staying in nearby cities such as Korla or Hami.
Nearby attractions include the Kumul Grand Canyon and the ancient ruins of Loulan. Both can be combined with a visit to the Golden Beach Scenic Area for a scenic day trip.
There are small souvenir shops selling local crafts, such as handmade jewelry, scarves, and traditional Xinjiang textiles. You can also find souvenirs like sand art and small desert-themed items.
The best transportation options are by taxi, bus, or private car. If you're planning to visit other nearby attractions, renting a car or joining a tour is recommended for convenience.
