No need to go abroad! I found Guangdong's hidden "Little Maldives"!
by STANLEY ROWE
Jun 4, 2025
"Digging sand, beachcombing & seafood feasts! These 4 underrated coastal cities are perfect for family trips!" 🦀 Shanwei, Yangjiang, Shantou, Maoming – less crowded, stunning views, budget-friendly, with powdery sands and fresh seafood. Save this family travel guide now!
🚗 Transportation Guide
- **Shanwei**: 1h high-speed train from Shenzhen (frequent departures)
- **Yangjiang**: 2h train from Guangzhou South (take Hailing Island shuttle bus)
- **Shantou**: 40min taxi from Chaoshan Station (carpool recommended)
- **Maoming**: 1.5h via Zhanjiang West train transfer (direct to Fangji Island)
🏡 Family-Friendly Stays
▫️ **Shanwei**: Jinding Bay Seaview Apartments ($30+/night with kitchen)
▫️ **Yangjiang**: Poly Silver Beach Villas (great for 4 families sharing)
▫️ **Shantou**: Nan'ao Island Fisherman's Homestay ($23/person including 3 meals)
▫️ **Maoming**: Romantic Coast Wyndham (with water park)
📝 4-City Itinerary
1️⃣ Shanwei: Shell-digging at Windmill Island
✅ **Must-do**: Red Bay (crystal water), Windmill Island (shell paradise)
✅ **Hidden gem**: Chenzhou Village clam hunting (best at low tide)
✅ **Food**: Vegetable Tea (loaded ingredients), Sweet/Savory Pancakes
2️⃣ Yangjiang: Beachcombing at Hailing Island
✅ **Horse Tail Island**: Crab catching ($1.5/tool set)
✅ **Beiluo Secret Realm**: Cliff walkway + infinity pool (free under 1.2m)
✅ **Seafood Market**: Zhapo Market ($2.3/lb processing fee)
3️⃣ Shantou: Nan'ao Island Loop
✅ **Qing'ao Bay**: Gentle waves (kid-friendly)
✅ **Eco-activity**: Fishing trip ($45/boat for 8 people)
✅ **Must-eat**: Seaweed Fried Rice (kids' favorite)
4️⃣ Maoming: Fangji Island Snorkeling
✅ **Family fun**: Glass-bottom boat coral viewing ($12/person)
✅ **Romantic Coast**: Wave pool + beach swings
✅ **Unique experience**: Bohe Fishing Port sunset
🍤 Budget Seafood Feast
✔️ **Shanwei**: Mini Dumplings (with oyster sauce), Jiumao Jelly
✔️ **Yangjiang**: Pig Intestine Rolls ($0.45 each), Leaf Cakes
✔️ **Shantou**: Stuffed Rice Cakes, Preserved Fruit
✔️ **Maoming**: Duck Porridge (free refills), Cuttlefish Cakes
💡 Pro Tips
⚠️ Bring beachcombing tools (3x pricier locally)
⚠️ Book breakfast-included stays (time-saver)
⚠️ Swim after 4pm (avoid sunburn)
"Watching kids chase waves while feasting on $7 seafood banquets – this is what summer memories are made of!" 🌊
Post by Theodore Livingston61 | Jul 18, 2025



















