Perfect for College Students! 5 Budget-Friendly Hidden Gem Coastal Cities!

1. Qidong (Jiangsu)
Must-Visit Spots
Bihai Yinsha Scenic Area: 3.5km of fine white sand (imported from Sanya), featuring an infinity pool and the "Two-Toned Sea" phenomenon where the Yangtze River meets the ocean. Perfect for sunset views.
Yuantuojiao Scenic Spot: Jiangsu's earliest sunrise viewing point, where the Yangtze River, Yellow Sea, and East China Sea converge.
Food Recs
Steamed blue crabs, Qidong sesame cakes (crispy with savory fillings). Try seafood at "Xianyu Fishing Village."
Stay
Hengda Ocean Venice Hotel (sea-view rooms with private beach) or Manxin Holiday Hotel (great value).
💡 Tips: Beware of rip currents in summer; supervise children closely. Free entry but water activities cost extra.

2. Wenchang (Hainan)
Must-Visit Spots
Tonggu Ridge: Hike ~2hrs to summit for Moon Bay panoramas.
Space Science Center: See rocket launch towers up close; book viewing spots early if a launch is scheduled.
Wen’nan Old Street: Colonial-style arcades with local snacks.
Food Recs
Wenchang chicken (with signature dipping sauce), fermented seafood hotpot, and Dongge rice cakes for late-night bites.
Stay
Hilton Wenchang (sea-view) or old street B&Bs (~¥100/person).
💡 Tips: Best weather Nov-Apr; check launch schedules on China Space Agency’s website.

3. Rongcheng (Shandong)
Must-Visit Spots
Chengshantou: China’s earliest sunrise spot over the sea (park at "East Gate" lot).
Hailv Island: 50-min boat ride to feed seagulls (wear a hat against droppings).
Bruwiser Shipwreck: Sunset shots of the silhouette with seagull swarms = cinematic gold.
Food Recs
Mackerel dumplings (Jiaodong’s freshest), braised sea cucumbers. Try "Nishi Haitai" seafood restaurant.
Stay
B&Bs near Xianghai Blue Bridge or swan lake seaweed houses (Jiaodong-style).
💡 Tips: Trilingual signs available; foreigners can book train tickets online with passport.

4. Rushan (Shandong)
Must-Visit Spots
Silver Beach: 20km of free "flour-soft" sand; dig clams at Tidal Lake (within 2hrs after low tide).
Great Rushan Mountain: Hike for blessings, family-friendly cycling/camping.
Food Recs
Grilled Rushan oysters (plumpest Sept-Mar), fish stew with cornbread. Night market scallops at "Thumbs Plaza" (¥10/serve).
Stay
Silver Beach Bihai Huating Hotel (private beach) or sea-view B&Bs (~¥200/person).
💡 Tips: Avoid muddy flats; forage with buddies and leave 1hr before high tide.

5. Shanwei (Guangdong)
Must-Visit Spots
Red Bay Zhelang Peninsula: Rare "calm-rough" twin seas divided by terrain.
Windmill Island: Coastal drive past giant turbines = sci-fi vibes.
Food Recs
Pounded tea (savory & refreshing), pan-fried radish dumplings. Hit Erma Road night market.
Stay
Jinting Bay "Yusen Heyuan" apartments (~¥50/person, steps from beach).
💡 Tips: Typhoon-prone in summer; check forecasts. Self-driving recommended for scattered attractions.

Key Tips:
☀️ Strong UV—pack sunscreen & hats.
🏨 Book hotels 1 week ahead for peak seasons.
🦐 Eat seafood in moderation; bring stomach meds/allergy pills.