Introducing Pingtan Island
Pingtan Island, also known as Haitan Island, is China's fifth largest island and the largest in Fujian Province. Known as the "County of a Thousand Reef Islands," it is located on China's southeastern coast within Pingtan County, Fujian Province, and serves as the county's main island. It is 128 kilometers from Fuzhou and only 68 nautical miles east of Hsinchu Port in Taiwan. This makes it the closest point to Taiwan from mainland China, serving as a vital window for economic, trade, and cultural exchanges between China and Taiwan along its southeastern maritime borders.
Haitan Island's scenic spots and historical sites include Sanshiliujiao Lake, Shipaiyang Reef, Xianrenjing, Yipianwa, and Keqiutou Ruins. It also boasts the Longfengtou Resort and Tannan Bay Bathing Beach. Haitan Island boasts a winding coastline stretching 408 kilometers, over 100 kilometers of which is high-quality sandy beaches. The island's marine erosion landforms are exceptional, featuring rare granite sea stacks, wind-blown rocks, and spherical weathered granite, earning it the nickname "Marine Erosion Landform Museum."
Climate and best time to travel
The summer is long and the winter is short, it is warm and humid, with cool summers and warm winters. It has a subtropical marine monsoon climate, and the spring temperature is lower than the autumn temperature.
Recommended time: October to June of the following year
July to September is hot and dry, often affected by tropical storms, with heavy rainfall and typhoons, making it unsuitable for travel
Recommended number of days and locations for visiting
Thirty-six Foot Lake
Haitan Island's most famous landscape resembles a giant octopus, its numerous tentacles extending in all directions into the dense granite mountains. The lake's banks are winding, steep, and precipitous, with thousands of peaks and rocks towering above.
Nanzhai Stone Forest
Beicuo Town, located in southern Pingtan Island, boasts a 0.6 square kilometer area of low hills dotted with weathered granite formations of enormous size and diverse shapes, including over 40 unique and pictographic rock formations. Typical sights include Camel Rock, Mandarin Ducks Preening Their Wings, Leopards Patrolling the Mountains, and the Divine Turtle Rock, creating a veritable rock zoo and perfect for photo opportunities.
Tickets
free
Attraction opening hours
Open all day
Most Popular FAQs for Pingtan Island
What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?
Pingtan Island is the largest island in Fujian Province and a key strategic location in the Taiwan Strait. It has historical significance as a fishing and trading hub and is known for its natural coastal beauty, traditional fishing villages, and growing tourism industry.
Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?
- Located off the coast of Fuzhou, Fujian Province, in the Taiwan Strait.
- Accessible by car, bus, or high-speed rail to Pingtan Railway Station.
- Taxis or local buses connect the main towns to beaches and scenic spots.
- Walking and cycling are popular ways to explore local areas.
What are the opening hours and best times to visit?
- Most attractions and beaches are open year-round.
- Best visiting season: Spring and autumn (March–May, September–November) for mild weather and lower humidity.
- Summer is popular for beach activities but can be crowded.
What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?
- Most natural attractions and beaches are free to visit.
- Certain parks or scenic spots may charge small entrance fees (around 20–50 CNY).
- Tickets can be purchased on-site or online through local travel platforms.
Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?
Advance booking is generally not required for beaches and most outdoor attractions, but recommended for popular parks or tours during peak season.
How much time is needed to fully explore it?
- 1–2 days for main beaches, scenic coastal roads, and key attractions.
- 3–4 days for a more relaxed itinerary including village visits, cycling tours, and local seafood experiences.
What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?
- Pingtan Beach and coastal areas.
- Haitan Strait Bridge and surrounding viewpoints.
- Traditional fishing villages.
- Wind farm areas along the coast.
- Local seafood markets and cultural streets.
Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?
- Guided tours are available in Chinese and occasionally in English via travel agencies.
- Audio guides are limited; hiring a local guide is recommended for cultural and historical context.
What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?
- Haitan Strait Bridge for panoramic coastal views.
- Pingtan Beach at sunrise or sunset.
- Coastal wind farms for unique landscape photography.
- Fishing villages and pier areas for cultural shots.
What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?
- Start at Pingtan Town → visit beaches → explore coastal roads and wind farms → Haitan Strait Bridge → traditional fishing villages → local seafood markets.
- Optional: Rent bicycles or scooters to cover longer stretches along the coast.
Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?
Night visits along the beach and bridge areas are possible; some festivals may feature light displays, but there are no regular night tours.
Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?
- Beaches can be crowded during summer holidays.
- Weekdays and off-peak seasons (spring, autumn) are less crowded.
What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?
- Public toilets and rest areas available near main beaches and attractions.
- Restaurants, cafes, and small shops in towns and near scenic spots.
- Water and snack vendors are common along beaches.
Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?
- Main beaches and town areas are accessible.
- Some coastal roads and wind farm areas may require walking or cycling; not ideal for visitors with mobility issues.
- Children are welcome, but supervision is recommended near water.
Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?
- Mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) are widely accepted.
- Cash is recommended in small shops and local markets.
What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?
- Seafood restaurants in Pingtan Town and along the coast.
- Local cafes and street food stalls near beaches and scenic areas.
- Hotel restaurants provide convenient dining options for visitors.
Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?
Vegetarian options are available in some restaurants; vegan and halal options are limited and may need to be requested in advance.
What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?
- Hotels and guesthouses in Pingtan Town.
- Resorts and seaside hotels along main beaches.
- Budget hostels and homestays are available for more economical stays.
What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?
- Dongshan Island for coastal exploration.
- Local cultural villages and historical sites in Fuzhou.
- Haitan Strait Bridge sightseeing and nearby scenic coastal areas.
Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?
- Souvenir shops in Pingtan Town and near tourist areas.
- Typical souvenirs: local seafood products, handicrafts, postcards, and beach-themed gifts.
What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?
- High-speed train or bus to Fuzhou city and other parts of Fujian.
- Taxi or car rentals for local transfers.
- Ferries or coastal routes for exploring nearby islands.
