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Emerald Island, one of my country's seven national marine nature reserves, is located on the southern coast of the Golden Coast in Changli County, Qinhuangdao City, Hebei Province. Surrounded to the east, north, and west by the Bohai Sea and the Qilihai Lagoon, it is a peninsula composed of alternating yellow sand and green vegetation. Its rolling, beautifully shaped sand dunes have earned it the nickname "Jingdong Desert."
The island is a bird kingdom, home to the black-headed gull, a nationally protected rare bird. It also boasts one of the highest distributions of the precious lancelet (Branch Otter) in China. A variety of medicinal herbs, such as Adenophora australis and White Reed, are also grown on the island.
The fine sand, gentle currents, clear water, and low tides here are all protected by the region's tourism authorities, leaving it untouched by pollution. This makes it an ideal spot for ecotourism. After playing in the sea, hike up the sand dunes to admire the wonders of nature's "seaside desert" and enjoy a foot massage while walking barefoot on the sun-baked sand.
temperate monsoon climate;
July and August are the best tourist seasons
75 yuan in peak season, 40 yuan in off-season
All day
Emerald Isle is a beautiful island in Qinhuangdao, Hebei Province, known for its lush landscapes and pristine natural beauty. It has historical significance as a tranquil getaway for visitors seeking peace away from the busy city life. The island is also noted for its biodiversity and serves as an important ecological reserve. Its unique flora and fauna, combined with its scenic coastlines, make it a popular spot for nature enthusiasts.
Emerald Isle is located in Qinhuangdao, Hebei Province, near the Bohai Sea. You can reach the island by taking a taxi or private car from Qinhuangdao city center, which is about 20-30 minutes away. Ferries or boats from nearby docks are the primary means of reaching the island, as it is accessible only by water. Public transport options are limited, so taxis or rental cars are recommended for easier access.
Emerald Isle is an outdoor natural attraction, so it is open year-round. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild and perfect for outdoor activities. Summer can also be a great time for beach activities, though it can be crowded. Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal for avoiding large crowds and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.
The entrance fee for Emerald Isle is generally modest, and tickets can be purchased at the ferry terminal before boarding the boat. For boat tours around the island, additional fees may apply. It is advisable to buy tickets at the ferry terminal or through local travel agents. Tickets are typically available both offline and via local tourism websites.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for general entry to Emerald Isle. However, for boat tours or guided services, booking at least a day in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons or holidays, to ensure availability.
You can fully explore Emerald Isle in about 3-4 hours. This will give you time to walk the trails, relax by the beach, enjoy the boat tour, and visit the lighthouse. For those interested in birdwatching or leisurely exploration, consider spending a bit more time on the island.
Guided tours are available for visitors, providing insightful information about the island’s history, flora, and fauna. These tours are generally offered in Mandarin. For English-speaking visitors, it is advisable to check in advance for availability of English-speaking guides or request a private tour with a translator.
The best viewpoints are from the Emerald Isle Lighthouse, which offers a panoramic view of the entire island and the surrounding sea. Other great photography spots include the beaches, where the clear waters meet the lush green landscape, and the walking trails with scenic vistas of the island’s natural beauty.
Night visits and light shows are not typically available at Emerald Isle. The island is mainly a daytime attraction, with most visitors exploring during daylight hours. However, special sunset boat tours may be offered during peak seasons.
Emerald Isle can get crowded during weekends and public holidays, particularly in the summer. The least crowded times to visit are on weekdays, early mornings, or late afternoons during the off-peak seasons (spring and autumn).
Emerald Isle has basic facilities including toilets, rest areas, and small shops. While food and water are available, it is recommended to bring your own supplies, especially if you plan to explore the island for an extended period. There are no large restaurants on the island, but you may find local snack stands.
The island is generally accessible for elderly and children, though some of the walking trails may be uneven or challenging. For disabled visitors, it may be difficult to navigate certain areas due to the terrain. It is advisable to check with local tour operators for more information on accessibility options.
Cash is still accepted in some areas, but mobile payments via platforms like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted. It is recommended to use mobile payments for convenience, as they are commonly used in the region.
While there are limited dining options directly on Emerald Isle, the nearby city of Qinhuangdao offers a wide range of restaurants and cafes, from local Chinese eateries to more upscale international options. Seafood is a specialty in the area.
Vegetarian options are available at local eateries, though vegan and halal food options may be more limited. For specific dietary preferences, you may want to check with restaurants in Qinhuangdao city, where there are more diverse food choices.
There are several hotels in Qinhuangdao, ranging from budget options to more upscale accommodations. Staying in Qinhuangdao provides more convenience, as it is a larger city with better access to other attractions.
Souvenir shops on the island offer marine-themed products, local crafts, and postcards. In Qinhuangdao, you can find a wider variety of souvenirs, including traditional Chinese items and local specialties.
Taxis or private cars are the best options for continuing your trip from Emerald Isle. Public buses and trains from Qinhuangdao provide further access to other areas of Hebei Province.
