A budget-friendly seaside city perfect for family trips

Xingcheng Beach is a national 4A-level tourist attraction located in Xingcheng City, Huludao, Liaoning Province, often referred to as the "Second Beidaihe."

Attraction Highlights

- Xinghai Bay Beach: The primary beach in Xingcheng's coastal scenic area, featuring a gentle slope, wide sandy shores, and clean water, ideal for swimming and water play. At the entrance stands the Chrysanthemum Maiden statue, while the southern end boasts the "Three Reefs Scenic Spot," where three reefs are connected by a boardwalk with pavilions, offering great views of tides, sunrises, and fishing spots.
- Bingjia Bay Beach: Known for its soft, fine sand, this beach features Instagram-worthy elements like the Smile Path, lighthouse, and ship bridge viewing deck. During low tide, visitors can hunt for clams and small crabs.
- Bikini Square: Named for its red bra-shaped canopy when viewed from above. While not suitable for swimming, it's perfect for picnics, camping, and enjoying nighttime sea views.
- Dragon's Turn: A cliffside viewing platform and coastal boardwalk offering panoramic coastline views. Legend has it Emperor Qianlong paused here to admire the scenery during his eastern tour, hence the name.

Activities

- Water Sports: Enjoy speedboat rides (prices negotiable) or thrilling activities like jet skiing and banana boating (prices vary by vendor).
- Tidepooling: During low tide, explore the "Three Reefs" area or Bingjia Bay with buckets and shovels to collect shells and crabs.
- Beach Camping: Set up camp near Bikini Square to enjoy sunsets and the soothing sound of waves.

Transportation

- Getting There: Fly, take a train, or drive to Xingcheng City, then proceed to the beach.
- Local Transport: Buses, taxis, or self-driving (navigate to "Xingcheng Coastal Scenic Area") are available. Parking fees: ¥10 for cars, ¥20 for larger vehicles.

Dining

- Seafood: Numerous seafood restaurants and open-air BBQ stalls offer reasonably priced crab, shrimp, and shellfish.
- Local Snacks: Try regional specialties like shrimp-stuffed dumplings, blending Northeastern flavors with seafood.

Accommodation

- Luxury: Options like Xingcheng Seaside Hotel provide comfort and premium service near the beach.
- Boutique Stays: Bingjia Bay courtyard guesthouses offer sea-facing rooms, some with outdoor pools.

Tips

- Free admission, open all day, but water activities are best enjoyed during daylight with safety precautions.
- The coarse sand and shell fragments recommend wearing beach shoes or sandals.
- Book accommodations early during the busy summer season.