Best Coastal Foodie Day Trip

Nan'ao Island is undoubtedly the most "healing" and "chill" island within Shantou's one-day living circle! No need to fly to Southeast Asia—just take a car ride across the Nan'ao Bridge from Shantou, and you can embrace blue skies, white clouds, and stunning sea views 🌊. You can even rent an electric scooter for a carefree island tour, experiencing "boundless freedom" while capturing Instagram-worthy moments. This trip is not just about sightseeing but also about discovering authentic Shantou cuisine—spending a day indulging in fresh seafood, savoring satay noodles, and enjoying almond tea. No wonder you'll keep reminiscing about it afterward!

🌊 Highlights of the Route
A one-day trip to Nan'ao Island is perfect for laid-back travelers, families, or couples. Whether driving yourself or renting an electric scooter, the freedom is unparalleled. It feels like a mini Okinawa, with a simple route covering beautiful coastlines, unique dining spots, trendy drinks, and cozy shops. The blue coastal scenery along the way is incredibly soothing! Don't forget to check out the various specialty juice and ice shops, and the satay noodles bursting with seafood flavors!

🗺️ Recommended Attractions & Food Spots

1️⃣ Relaxing on the Beach
After crossing the Nan'ao Bridge, you'll be greeted by blue skies and the sea along the way. Take your time riding along the coastline and find a less crowded beach to rest. Every photo you take will be stunning! On sunny days, the sea and sky are so blue that it instantly lifts your mood.

2️⃣ Huang Ji Seafood Satay Noodles
📍 Address: Xin Xing South Road, Nan'ao Town, Nan'ao Island (200 meters right after the bridge)
Check the opening hours in advance. It's crowded during lunch, so it's best to arrive before 11:30 AM! Their signature seafood satay noodles feature a rich and flavorful broth packed with fresh clams, shrimp, baby squid, and other seafood. The satay aroma makes it incredibly satisfying! The shop is small but offers fresh ingredients and a homely vibe.

3️⃣ Nan'ao Island Juice & Ice Company
📍 Address: No. 24, Xin Xing Road, Nan'ao Town, Nan'ao Island
A must-visit for Instagram-worthy photos! The decor is trendy, and they serve a variety of specialty fresh fruit smoothies. Prices are on the higher side, but the ingredients are top-notch, and the presentation is beautiful—perfect for chilling with friends and snapping great photos.

4️⃣ Aunt Feng's Almond Tea
📍 Address: Jian She South Road, Nan'ao Town, Nan'ao Island (near Huang Ji Seafood Satay Noodles)
They offer many flavors of almond tea. This time, I tried the pistachio flavor, which was surprisingly delightful—fragrant, smooth, and not too sweet. Paired with snacks, it's perfect. Drinking it in hot weather is incredibly refreshing!

🛵 Tips for Touring Nan'ao Island
Renting an electric scooter is a must for a more flexible journey! (There are many rental shops on the island, mostly concentrated around Xin Xing South Road. It's recommended to book in advance during peak seasons.) Be mindful of the island's road conditions, which include some slopes. The bridge can be windy, so wear a hat and jacket, and bring plenty of drinking water.

🍲 Other Food Recommendations
Besides seafood satay noodles, there are many seafood stalls and specialty snack shops near the Nan'ao Island market. It's worth exploring the area for street food. Lobsters, crabs, and fresh shrimp are all freshly cooked and incredibly fresh. Enjoying them with the sea breeze makes them even tastier!

🚗 Transportation Guide
It takes 30–50 minutes to reach Nan'ao Island from downtown Shantou by shuttle bus (via Nan'ao Bridge). During peak seasons, check the schedule in advance. Driving yourself is more convenient, and there are several parking lots on the island, mainly around Xin Xing South Road and Jian She South Road.

📸 Photo Tips
The sun can be intense on sunny days, so bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and an umbrella. For the best lighting, take photos along the coastline after 4 PM when the light is softer, ensuring the best shots.

After a day trip to Nan'ao Island, if you love blue skies, the sea, and authentic Shantou cuisine, make sure to bookmark this route and plan a relaxing getaway!