Shangchuan Island Windmill Mountain - Every shot looks like a Hayao Miyazaki manga

🌊 Practical Travel Guide to Shangchuan Island: The Perfect Way to Explore Guangdong's Hidden Gem

📅 Best Time to Visit
✅ May-October (clear waters, ideal for swimming)
⚠️ Avoid weekends/holidays in July-August (hotel prices triple)
🌟 Unique Experience: September Fishing Festival offers the plumpest seafood

🚢 Transportation Guide
✔ Self-drive:
- Guangzhou → Shanzui Port (3 hours) → Ferry (35 minutes)
- Parking fee: 60 CNY/day at Shanzui Port
✔ Public transport:
- Guangzhou South Station → Taishan Station (1h) → Taxi to Shanzui Port (30min)
- Ferry ticket: 55 CNY one-way (round-trip combo recommended)

🏝️ Must-Visit Attractions
1. Feisha Beach
- Main beach (54 CNY entrance), abundant water activities
- 📍 Hidden tip: Free entry before 6 AM

2. Windmill Mountain
- No. 40 Windmill Viewing Platform (accessible by car)
- ⚠️ Note: Narrow mountain roads require cautious driving

3. Shadi Fishing Port
- Prime sunset spot + seafood market
- 🦞 Must-try: Freshest catch when boats return at 4 PM

4. Macaque Nature Reserve
- Free wild macaque viewing
- ❌ Do not feed/provoke the monkeys

🏨 Accommodation Tips
• Budget: Homestays near Feisha Beach (200-400 CNY)
• Sea view: Chuanyou Hotel (walk to beach)
• Unique experience: Fishing village boat houses (book in advance)

🍽️ Food Guide
✔ Must-try: Eel rice ("Old Brand" most authentic)
✔ Seafood picks: Mantis shrimp/flower crab/general's cap shells
✔ Avoid: Tourist area seafood stalls (Shadi Port is cheaper)

⚠️ Important Notes
1. Essentials: Sunscreen + mosquito repellent + cash
2. Only 1 ATM on island (Rural Credit Bank)
3. Swimming only at Feisha Beach (other areas dangerous)

💰 Budget Reference (2D1N)
• Basic: 500 CNY/person (homestay + simple meals)
• Comfort: 800-1200 CNY/person (sea view room + seafood feast)

📌 Pro Tips
- Rent electric bikes (80 CNY/day, more convenient than driving)
- Best sunrise spot: Rocky area east of Feisha Beach
- Bargain for seafood (reference: flower crab 35 CNY/jin)
- Last return ferry: 18:30 (extra trips in peak season)

🌅 Ultimate Advice:
Shangchuan Island suits travelers seeking unspoiled islands. Embrace flexibility - tides affect beachcombing results. Bring sand tools for family beach adventures!