Liuao Peninsula Travel Guide: Exploring the "Most Beautiful Beach on the Chinese Mainland"

Introduction to Liuao Peninsula
Located in the southeast of Zhangpu County, Liuao Peninsula faces the Taiwan Strait to the east and Jiuzhen Bay to the west, with a coastline stretching over 30 kilometers. Here, you'll find natural and cultural attractions such as Emerald Bay, the Abstract Gallery, and Liuao Ancient City, as well as unique experiences like visiting the wind farm and exploring the fishing villages.

Best time to visit: April-November (summer is ideal for water activities, spring and autumn for photography)
Suggested duration: 2-3 days

Must-See Attractions on Liuao Peninsula

Emerald Bay (the most beautiful beach on the Chinese mainland)
Features: Fine white sand, crystal-clear water, and vast tidal flats at low tide, perfect for beachcombing, camping, and watching the sunrise.
Things to do:
Sunrise and sunset: Emerald Bay is a photographer's paradise, especially at dawn when the sky is ablaze with color.
Beach camping: Bring your own tent or rent camping equipment and enjoy stargazing and listening to the waves at night.
Water activities: Jet skiing, sailing, beach volleyball, and more.

Abstract Gallery (a marvel of coastal erosion)
Features: Unique rock formations sculpted by wind and sea erosion, resembling abstract paintings, ideal for photo ops.
Things to do:
Hiking: Explore the coastline on foot and admire nature's artistry.
Photography: The unique rock textures are perfect for portrait photography.

Liuao Ancient City (a 600-year-old anti-Japanese pirate city)
Features: Built during the Hongwu period of the Ming Dynasty, it once served as a military fortress against Japanese pirates. Remnants of the ancient city walls and houses still stand.
Things to do:
Climb the city walls for panoramic views: Overlook Emerald Bay and the wind turbines.
Explore the old houses: Experience the charm of a traditional Minnan fishing village.

Liuao Wind Farm (wind turbine coastline)
Features: Dozens of giant wind turbines stand tall on the peninsula, forming a spectacular "wind turbine array."
Things to do:
Cycling along the wind turbine road: Rent an electric scooter or bicycle and cycle along the coastline, enjoying the sea breeze and the romantic scenery of the wind turbines.
Sunset silhouettes of wind turbines: In the evening, the wind turbines create a picturesque scene against the sunset, perfect for capturing stunning photos.

Hutoushan Fishing Port (fishing village experience)
Features: A gathering place for local fishermen, where you can experience the seafood market and see fishing boats setting sail.
Things to do:
Visit the morning market for fresh seafood: The fishing port is bustling in the early morning, offering a wide variety of fresh seafood.
Fishing village photography: Capture scenes of fishermen at work and fishing boats returning to port.

Transportation Guide

1. How to get to Liuao Peninsula?
By car (recommended):
From Xiamen: Approx. 1.5 hrs (via Shenyang-Haikou Expressway → Zhangpu Exit → Liuao)
From Zhangzhou city center: Approx. 1 hr

Public transportation:
High-speed train: Take the train to Zhangpu Station, then take a taxi or bus (approx. 40 mins) to Liuao.
Bus: From Zhangzhou Bus Station to Liuao Town (approx. 2 hrs).

Transportation within the peninsula
Electric scooter/bicycle rental: Ideal for exploring the island (approx. 50-80 RMB/day).
Chartered car/taxi: Suitable for families or groups.

Food Recommendations

Liuao is famous for its seafood. Must-try dishes:
Liuao laver: A local specialty, can be used in laver soup or laver pancakes.
Seafood stalls: Recommended restaurants near Hutoushan Fishing Port. Must-try dishes:
Steamed grouper
Boiled shrimp
Oyster omelet
Liuao sweet potato: Sweet and glutinous, can be roasted or boiled.

Recommended Itinerary (2-3 days)

Day 1: Emerald Bay + Abstract Gallery
Morning: Arrive at Liuao, check in to a hotel near Emerald Bay.
Afternoon: Hike and take photos at the Abstract Gallery.
Evening: Camp on Emerald Bay beach/watch the sunset.

Day 2: Liuao Ancient City + Wind Farm + Fishing Port
Morning: Explore Liuao Ancient City.
Afternoon: Cycle along the wind turbine road.
Evening: Enjoy seafood at Hutoushan Fishing Port.

Day 3 (optional): Explore surrounding areas
Visit Volcano Island (1 hr drive) or Dongshan Island (2 hrs drive).

Travel Tips

Sun protection and mosquito repellent: The seaside has strong UV rays, so bring sunscreen, a hat, and mosquito repellent.
Beachcombing equipment: If you want to try beachcombing, bring a small bucket, shovel, and other tools.
Best time for photography: Sunrise and sunset, when the light is soft, are ideal for photographing wind turbines and the Abstract Gallery.