Survived Nan'ao Island... I was truly overwhelmed 😫

Visiting Nan'ao without a proper guide is NOT recommended! Crowded, scorching hot, and overall poor experience!! Some attractions require advance booking – don't waste your trip 🥱. Follow this detailed guide to copy the perfect itinerary!

✅Transport Recommendations
🚄High-speed rail: Shantou Station is the best choice. Take Bus 161 directly to Nan'ao Island or book a Didi ride
🚗Self-drive: Round-trip bridge toll is 96💰 (only charged when entering; free during holidays)
🚌Island buses: Routes 601/602 cover most attractions
🛵E-bikes: Shared/rental e-bikes available (80-100/day)

🏚Accommodation
We stayed at Manshe Homestay in Houzhai Town – close to attractions with sea/sunset views from rooms. Fully equipped facilities.

💃🏼2-Day Itinerary
✔️Day 1: Changwei Mountain Lighthouse → Tianzai Land Park → Qian'ao Bay Resort → Qian'ao Bay Lighthouse → Maritime Silk Square → Qianjiang Bay Beach
📍Changwei Mountain Lighthouse: The striking red lighthouse visible right after crossing Nan'ao Bridge – perfect photo op with the bridge
⬇️🚗11min
📍Tianzai Land Park: Unique wave-carved rocks along South Ring Road (Caution: slippery surfaces)
⬇️🚗7min
📍Qian'ao Bay Resort: Southeast Asian-style beach boardwalk for insta-worthy shots
⬇️🚶10min
📍Qian'ao Bay Lighthouse: Fairytale-like green-and-white tower (10min walk from resort)
⬇️🚗5min
📍Maritime Silk Square: Panoramic sea views with historical exhibits and passing ships
⬇️🚗15min
📍Qianjiang Bay Beach: Pristine soft sand and crystal waters for perfect relaxation

✔️Day 2: Sanchongya Lighthouse → Qing'ao Bay → Nature's Gate → Route 2 → The Lonely Tree → Huanghuashan Tropic of Cancer
📍Sanchongya Lighthouse: Red-white "ice cream cone" structure on cliffs (ideal sunrise spot)
⬇️🚗17min
📍Qing'ao Bay: Swim, sunbathe, and enjoy beach activities
⬇️🚶2min
📍Nature's Gate: Tropic of Cancer landmark with unique architectural significance
⬇️🚗10min
📍Route 2: Scenic coastal road perfect for e-bike rides and Japanese-style photography
⬇️🚗15min
📍The Lonely Tree: Navigate to "Yuman Village" – a solitary seaside tree (crowded in peak season)
⬇️🚗20min
📍Huanghuashan Tropic of Cancer: Unique geographical landscapes (Best light in afternoon; 20¥/person)

🥗Food Recommendations
Four Seasons Goose Meat, Qingqing Wintermelon Tea, Fufu Soufflé, Countryside BBQ Farmhouse, Ankoufu Beef Hotpot, Chenfuji Seafood Claypot Rice, Wuli Sweet Soup

⚠️ Travel Tips
1. Sun/insect protection: Strong UV and mosquitoes – pack sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, repellent
2. Transport: Limited buses – strongly recommend self-drive/charter (≈500¥/day) or e-bikes (I rented two for 45¥/day)
3. Seafood pricing: Confirm prices/units before ordering; choose reputable restaurants
4. Off-peak visits: Avoid holidays; enter island before 9am for fewer crowds

Protect the environment – take trash with you!
Nan'ao's charm lies in its laidback island vibe and breathtaking coastal roads. Relax, enjoy sunshine, sea breezes, and delicious food – that's the ultimate strategy!