4 Budget-Friendly Hidden Gem Seaside Cities for Backpackers

【Must-Visit for Summer 2025! 4 Affordable Coastal Towns Where You Can Have Endless Fun for Just 800+ RMB per Person】

Who says beach trips have to be expensive? This summer I discovered 4 "high-value coastal treasures" spanning different styles from south to north. Perfect for students and working folks – just follow this guide to enjoy beachside stays, fresh seafood, and Instagram-worthy photos for only 800+ RMB per person!

1️⃣ Xiamen | Where Artsy Vibes Meet Local Flavor

Skip crowded Gulangyu! The colorful arcades of Shapowei Art Zone and the coastal bike path along Huandao Road are backpacker paradises – rent a shared bike (5 RMB/hour), feel the sea breeze while passing Calligraphy Square and Zengcuoan Art Village, with every snapshot looking straight off Instagram.

Food highlights: Wuxiang Rolls at Bashi Market (15 RMB), Shacha Noodles (from 12 RMB), and Worm Jelly (8 RMB). Carb lovers must try the fresh oyster pancakes on Jukou Street (3 RMB each).

Stay at B&Bs near Zengcuoan (100+ RMB/night per person), just 10 minutes' walk to the beach with night market fried ice desserts.

2️⃣ Beihai | Affordable Alternative to Kenting + Weizhou Island Hacks

Want to visit Weizhou Island without breaking the bank? Book non-holiday ferry tickets 3 days early in July (150 RMB roundtrip). Stay at B&Bs near Dishuidanping (150+ RMB/night per person) for sunset views – owners often provide free clam-digging tools!

Must-eats at Qiaogang Snack Street: 24 Building Desserts (8 RMB/bowl), Vietnamese spring rolls at Yuexiang Kitchen (10 RMB), steamed grouper at beachside stalls (40 RMB/jin) – half the price of Sanya!

3️⃣ Qingdao | Beer + Waves + Old Town Charm

Avoid crowded Zhanqiao Pier. Instead, watch free sunsets at Xiaomai Island Park and take forest-themed photos at Princess Tower in Badaguan (8 RMB ticket).

Breakfast: Wangjie Skewers' squid (5 RMB/stick). Lunch: seafood dumplings in old alleys (mackerel dumplings 25 RMB/liang). Evening: seaweed jelly at Taidong Night Market (6 RMB).

Stay in Shinan District B&Bs (120+ RMB/night per person) with direct subway access to beaches.

4️⃣ Wanning | Less Crowded Than Sanya, Surfers' Secret Spot

Summer beginner surf lessons at Riyue Bay (280 RMB/2 hours), then lounge on the beach for sunset. Read oceanfront at Phoenix Jiuli Bookstore (free) in Shimei Bay with coconut water (8 RMB) – too cozy to leave!

Local delights: Hou'an Rice Noodles (8 RMB/bowl), Dongshan Lamb Hotpot (small portion 98 RMB). Stay at Shenzhou Peninsula B&Bs (180+ RMB/night per person), just 5 minutes to the beach.

Each city shines differently – some love Xiamen's local vibe, others adore Wanning's surfing freedom. This summer, take this guide and enjoy the bluest seas on a budget! ✨