Live Your Best Lives
On Dongshan Island, you can relax on scenic beaches, take coastal walks, explore ancient ports or forts, visit historical sites (old castle, Qing/Ming fortifications), do snorkeling or swimming (in summer), enjoy seafood and local villages, take boat tours around nearby islets, watch sunrise/sunset over the sea, and do photography of coastal landscapes.
Dongjia Island, commonly known as the Treasure Island, was originally a Fujian-Taiwan trade island. It is a remote and deserted island far away from the mainland in the southernmost waters of Pingtan County, Fujian Province, close to the Taiwan Strait. It is located in the south of Haitan Island, Pingtan County, about 9 kilometers away from Caoyu.
As a deserted island, it's also a great place for island survival experiences, fishing, snail hunting, swimming, snorkeling, bonfire roasted lamb, beach volleyball, beach soccer, and other outdoor activities. The island has a beautiful beach where you can swim freely. The water is deep blue and clear, allowing you to see fish 2-3 meters below. There are also various rocks scattered around.
Recommended play time: about half a day
free
All day
Dongshan County, including Dongshan Island, is a coastal island county in Fujian Province, under Zhangzhou administration. It comprises multiple islands and is known for its maritime history, coastal defenses, ancient water ports, and fishing culture. Historically, coastal defenses and sea trade were important in the area, and some old forts or water towns survive.
Dongshan Island lies off the southern Fujian coast, part of Dongshan County, Zhangzhou City, Fujian. To get there, typically one travels by bus or car from Xiamen or Zhangzhou to the ferry or bridgehead, then by ferry/boat or local transport to the island. On the island, taxis, motorbikes, or local buses can be used to move among villages and scenic spots.
Beaches and general island areas are accessible daily, but some sites or facilities may have opening hours (e.g. historical sites or museums) typically in daytime (e.g. ~8:00 AM to 5:00 PM). The best times to visit are in late spring, summer, and early autumn (May to September), when weather is warm and suitable for beach and sea activities. Avoid the typhoon season.
I did not find definitive information about a general island admission fee. Individual scenic areas (beaches, forts, viewing platforms) may charge small entry fees. Tickets are typically purchased on-site (offline).
For popular spots in peak season, booking ahead may help (a few days), but for general island exploration, advance booking is usually not essential unless for special boat tours or limited-capacity attractions.
To get a good feel of the island—including beaches, coastal walks, historical sites, and local villages—plan 2 to 3 full days. You might do a shorter visit (1 full day) if time is limited, but it will feel rushed.
I did not find clear evidence of multilingual guided tours or audio guides for Dongshan Island. Local tourism services may offer Chinese-language guided tours. Some boat tours may provide commentary.
A sample itinerary: Morning: arrive and settle, visit main beach; Midday: local village, seafood lunch; Afternoon: coastal walk, viewpoint, historic fort; Evening: sunset at a beach or cliff spot; Next day: boat tour of islets, more beaches or hidden coves. Mix inland village roads and coastal routes to diversify views.
No notable information indicates night tours or light shows; most activity is daytime. Some fishing ports may have evening ambiance and night walks.
During summer holidays and weekends, beaches and scenic spots will be more crowded. The quietest times are weekdays outside major holidays. Early morning and later afternoons are less busy.
On Dongshan Island you can expect basic facilities: restrooms at beaches or near tourist attractions, small food stalls or restaurants in villages, shops selling snacks and local products, and resting pavilions along scenic paths. Bring water and supplies when venturing into remote stretches.
Some parts (beaches, flat coastal paths, village roads) are suitable for children and the elderly. However, cliffs, stairs, and rough terrain may be difficult. Full wheelchair access is unlikely across all areas.
In most tourist areas in China, mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) and bank cards are widely accepted. In smaller shops or remote villages, cash (RMB) is safer to carry.
You’ll find seafood restaurants, local Fujian coastal cuisine, small cafes or teahouses in villages and by the waterfront. Many will specialize in fresh fish, shellfish, seaweed dishes, and local specialties.
Vegetarian options may be available in larger restaurants (e.g. vegetable dishes, tofu). Halal options are less certain in rural coastal areas, so if needed, check ahead or bring some food supplies.
On Dongshan Island there are guesthouses, seaside inns, boutique B&Bs, mid-range hotels in main towns. Book ahead during peak season. Some places offer sea views or beachfront lodging.
You may combine visits to nearby islets, other coastal islands in Dongshan County, or mainland coastal scenic sites. Also, you can pair with trips to Zhangzhou, other Fujian coastal cities, or cultural / historical towns in the region.
Yes — you’ll find souvenir shops selling local sea products (dried seafood, seaweed, shell-based crafts), postcards, local food specialties (e.g. snacks, preserved seafood), and small handicrafts.
You can return by boat/ferry to the mainland, then by bus or car to Zhangzhou, Xiamen, or other destinations in Fujian. Private car, taxi, or intercity bus are common for onward travel.
