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Dove Nest Park is famous for its peaceful environment and natural beauty, making it an ideal spot for outdoor activities such as walking, picnicking, and birdwatching. Visitors can explore the lush green areas, enjoy the scenic lakes, and take photos of the stunning landscape. The park is also known for its tranquil atmosphere, making it a perfect destination for relaxation.
Dove Nest Park is located in the northeast corner of the Beidaihe District coast. On a 20- meter-high cliff, formed by a geological fault , stands a jagged boulder, resembling an eagle perched on the seashore. This rock, once a habitat for wild pigeons, earned the park its name.
On the clifftop, standing shoulder to shoulder with the boulder, stands a pavilion with ethnic characteristics , the Eagle Corner Pavilion. Originally built in 1937 , it has undergone several renovations and now bears a plaque inscribed in 1983 by Hu Juewen, Vice Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress .
On the marble stele to the south of the pavilion is engraved the poem "Lang Tao Sha Beidaihe" which was conceived and written by Mao Zedong here in the autumn of 1954. There is also a sea-view corridor to the south of the Dove Nest, with a four-corner pavilion and an open pavilion at the north and south ends respectively.
The most captivating attraction of a visit to Dove Nest is watching the sunrise. Renowned essayist Jun Qing once described the magnificent sunrise scene at Dove Nest. The spectacle of " sun bathing " is often witnessed during sunrise viewing at Dove Nest : as the bright red sun rises above the sea, another bright red sun clings to the rising sun, seemingly trying to pull it out of the water. The clinging force seems impossible to break. But in the instant you gaze, the upper sun suddenly leaps upward, and the lower sun, clinging to the seabed, disappears before you know it. All that remains on the surface is a golden glow and the cheers of the people.
Besides being a prime spot for sunrise viewing, the adjacent Grand Shoal is also a fantastic spot for birdwatching. Every spring and autumn, tens of thousands of rare migratory birds feed and stop here, creating a new spectacle.
Recommended play time: 2-3 hours
25 yuan/person
March 1st - October 31st : 5 :00-18 : 00
November 1st - February 28th : 8 : 00-18 : 00
Dove Nest Park in Qinhuangdao is a popular natural park known for its rich biodiversity and beautiful landscapes. The park is especially known for the large number of migratory birds that stop here, and its name comes from the many doves that inhabit the area. It is a peaceful getaway for nature lovers and an important spot for environmental conservation.
Dove Nest Park is located in Qinhuangdao, Hebei Province, approximately 15 km from the city center. To get there, you can take a taxi or bus from downtown Qinhuangdao. Public transport options are available, but taxis offer the most direct route. The park is also accessible by walking if you're staying nearby.
Dove Nest Park is open year-round, but the best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild and the birdwatching is at its peak. The park is busiest during weekends and holidays, so visiting on weekdays or in the early morning will provide a more peaceful experience.
The entrance to Dove Nest Park is free of charge. However, certain areas or activities within the park, such as special tours or boat rides, may have an additional fee. Tickets for these can usually be purchased on-site or through local tourism websites.
For general access, booking in advance is not necessary. However, if you plan to take a special guided tour or other activities that require reservations, it’s recommended to book at least a few days in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
You can explore Dove Nest Park in 2 to 3 hours, depending on how much time you want to spend enjoying the park’s natural beauty. For birdwatching, you may want to allocate more time. If you're interested in taking photos or walking around the entire park, a full day is also a good option.
The must-see areas in Dove Nest Park include the peaceful lakes, walking trails, and birdwatching spots. The central area, surrounded by lush greenery, is perfect for picnics or quiet relaxation. The park's lakes are home to a variety of waterfowl, making it an excellent location for birdwatching.
Guided tours are available in Chinese, and they can be arranged at the park entrance or through local tour operators. Audio guides may be offered in Chinese, but it’s best to confirm availability before visiting if you require one in other languages.
Some of the best viewpoints for photography in Dove Nest Park are near the lakes and the observation points along the walking trails. The calm waters of the lake reflect the surrounding trees and wildlife, providing perfect opportunities for nature photography. Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for capturing the park’s serene beauty.
Start your visit by walking around the central lakes, where you can spot various waterfowl. Then, follow the main trails through the park, making stops at the best birdwatching locations. Finish your visit with a relaxing break near the park’s open green areas, where you can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Night visits are not generally available at Dove Nest Park as it is a natural park focused on daytime activities like walking and birdwatching. The park does not typically offer light shows, but some local tour companies may organize special tours or events during peak seasons.
The park can get crowded during weekends and holidays, especially in the summer. To avoid the crowds, visit early in the morning on weekdays or during the shoulder seasons in spring and autumn when the park is less busy.
Basic facilities at Dove Nest Park include public toilets, rest areas, and drinking water stations. There are also a few small shops selling snacks and drinks. However, the park does not have large-scale food services, so it's advisable to bring your own picnic if you plan to stay for an extended period.
Dove Nest Park is relatively accessible for elderly visitors and children, with flat paths and resting spots along the trails. However, some areas of the park may be more challenging for visitors with disabilities due to natural terrain. It's recommended to check in advance if you need specific accommodations.
While cash is commonly accepted, most restaurants and shops in and around the park also accept mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay, as well as credit/debit cards. It’s always a good idea to carry some cash for small purchases.
There are a few small cafes and local restaurants near the entrance to Dove Nest Park. These offer simple Chinese dishes and snacks. For more dining options, you can head to downtown Qinhuangdao, which has a wider variety of restaurants and cafes.
Vegetarian food options are available in the local restaurants, especially during the vegetarian festivals. Halal food options are also available in some restaurants catering to Muslim visitors, particularly in Qinhuangdao city.
Nearby hotels include the Beidaihe Resort Hotel, which is about a 15-minute drive from Dove Nest Park, as well as more budget-friendly accommodations within Qinhuangdao city. For a more comfortable stay, the Grand Bay Hotel offers modern amenities and proximity to the park.
Nearby attractions include Beidaihe Beach, Laohutan Scenic Area, and the Qinhuangdao Wildlife Park. These places can be easily combined with a trip to Dove Nest Park for a full day of outdoor exploration.
There are a few souvenir shops near Dove Nest Park selling items like traditional Chinese handicrafts, local art, and nature-related products like birdwatching accessories. You can also find some small souvenirs in the nearby areas of Beidaihe.
The best transportation options for continuing your trip after visiting Dove Nest Park include taxis, local buses, or rental cars. The Qinhuangdao train station is also a convenient option if you plan to travel further by train.
