Ten times quieter than Xiamen and seafood four times cheaper than Sanya—the perfect little island of Dongshan Island

If you're looking for a hidden island getaway that's quieter than Xiamen and offers cheaper seafood than Sanya, Dongshan Island in Zhangzhou, Fujian, is exactly what you're dreaming of! With minimal commercialization, it retains the charm of an authentic fishing village, offers affordable seafood, and boasts pristine, uncrowded beaches—making it a highly cost-effective island vacation destination.

Why choose Dongshan Island?
1. Fewer crowds, stunning scenery, ten times quieter
- Compared to the crowded Gulangyu in Xiamen, Dongshan Island has far fewer tourists, especially on non-holidays, when you can practically have the beaches to yourself.
- Must-visit spots: Nanmen Bay (filming location for the movie *The Left Ear*), Jinluan Bay (mirror-like beaches), and the Sufeng Mountain Ring Road (super therapeutic coastal bike rides).

2. Laughably cheap seafood, indulge to your heart's content
- While seafood in Sanya is pricey, Dongshan Island, as a fishing port, gets its seafood straight from the docks. You can feast to your heart's content for just 50 RMB per person!
- Recommended: Buy fresh seafood at Tongren Market in Tongling and have it cooked, or order at local seafood stalls (must-tries: small squid, crabs, oysters, and oyster omelets).

3. Breathtaking scenery rivaling popular destinations
- Fishbone Sandbar (a stunning sandbar that appears at low tide, perfect for drone shots).
- Yanya Village (a hidden gem with cliffs and reefs, photos look like they’re taken abroad).
- Aojiao Village (an undeveloped fishing village with picturesque lighthouses and shipwreck bays).

4. Rich culture + slow-paced living
- Immerse in the strong Minnan culture—visit the Guan Di Temple (one of China’s four major Guan Yu temples) and the Wind-Rocking Stone Scenic Area (marvel at the "stone that moves with the wind").
- In the evening, sip coffee at Nanmen Bay while watching fishermen return to port, embracing the true slow life of an island.

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Money-saving tips:
- Accommodation: Average homestay prices are 150–300 RMB/night during non-holidays. Stay in Nanmen Bay (convenient) or Jinluan Bay (great value for sea-view rooms).
- Transportation: Take the high-speed train to "Yunxiao Station," then a taxi or bus to Dongshan Island (rent an e-bike for 80 RMB/day to explore the island easily).
- Avoid pitfalls: Skip July–August (fishing ban period, limited seafood options); check tide times for Fishbone Sandbar—it’s only visible at low tide.

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In summary:
Dongshan Island is perfect for travelers who prefer tranquility and great value, especially couples, families, or photography enthusiasts. If you want to escape crowds, enjoy affordable seafood, and experience unspoiled coastal views, this is the ideal alternative!

Tip: The sea is bluer on sunny days—plan a 3-day, 2-night trip for the best experience!

Post by VenlaLaine | Jul 21, 2025