Weizhou Island, an island that makes you forget your worries.

Weizhou Island Travel Guide: A Volcanic Island That Makes You Forget Your Worries

Welcome to Weizhou Island, China's youngest volcanic island and the largest island in Guangxi. Imagine standing on an island formed by volcanic eruptions, with peculiar rocks shaped by cooled lava millions of years ago beneath your feet and azure waters stretching before your eyes—this feeling is even more thrilling than slacking off at the office!

How to get there?
The only way is by ferry from Beihai International Passenger Port. The fast ferry takes 70 minutes, while the slow one takes 2 hours. Opt for the fast ferry unless you fancy experiencing a "rocking cradle at sea." Remember to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak season—it's as competitive as Singles' Day shopping.

Where to stay?
Three options on the island: 1. Luxury hotels (for the well-heeled) 2. Homestays (highly recommended! Owners will tip you off on where to find the cheapest seafood) 3. Camping (romantic, but beware of mosquitoes treating you as an all-you-can-eat buffet). Staying near Dishui Village or Shiluokou is most convenient.

Must-visit attractions:
1. Crocodile Hill Volcanic Park: The only ticketed attraction on the island (¥98), but worth every penny. Volcanic craters, sea-eroded caves, and a lighthouse—every shot is postcard-perfect. Best visited in the early morning or evening; going at noon means free sauna sessions.

2. Five-Colored Beach: Not literally five colors, but the volcanic rocks and moss at low tide are breathtakingly beautiful. Check the tide schedule, or you'll only see a "monochrome beach."

3. Shiluokou Beach: The best spot for swimming, with sand as fine as flour. Rent a sun umbrella and daydream all day, pretending you're in the Maldives (budget edition).

4. Catholic Church: A century-old church built in 1870 by the French. Post a photo online, and someone will surely ask, "Are you in Europe?"

5. Shell Beach: Less crowded and picturesque, perfect for shell collecting (though the prettiest ones are long gone). Especially romantic at sunset—not recommended for singles.

Foodie guide:
Coming to Weizhou Island without eating seafood is a wasted trip! Head to Nanwan Seafood Market to buy fresh catches and have them cooked at nearby restaurants. Must-tries: mantis shrimp, flower crabs, and grouper—prices are at least 30% cheaper than on the mainland. Bargaining tip: Pretend to walk away, and the vendor will call you back.

Other local delights:
Bananas (a local specialty; ¥5 gets you a huge bunch)
Volcanic goat (raised on volcanic rocks, exceptionally tender meat)
Sea duck eggs (with rich, oily yolks that are irresistibly fragrant)

Practical tips:
1. Getting around mainly relies on electric scooters (¥60-80/day). Can't ride one? Prepare to walk till your legs give out.
2. Sunscreen! Sunscreen! Sunscreen! Say it three times—the UV rays here can turn you into a lobster in seconds.
3. Best travel season: April to November, but avoid summer break (crowded and pricey). Winter is windy, ideal for "deserted island survival" vibes.
4. Bring cash! Many places don't accept digital payments—don't drool over seafood you can't pay for.

Final reminder: Weizhou Island is magical—visitors always want to return. Don't believe it? Give it a try!