Beaches in China
Including Big Wave Bay Beach, Cheung Sha Beach, and Dadonghai Beach. On the map.
The vibe
The coastal experience here ranges from manicured, high-energy resort strips with endless amenities to rugged, windswept stretches where you might be the only person for miles. Late spring and early autumn offer the most comfortable temperatures for lounging, as the peak summer months can be stiflingly humid. You will find a mix of heavily managed tourist zones that cater to every whim and quieter, more local-feeling stretches that require a bit more effort to navigate.
Big Wave Bay Beach, Hong Kong Island
Hong Kong
Богдан Митронов-Слоб… / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)
Tucked away on the eastern side of Hong Kong Island, this beach is famous for its relaxed surf-town atmosphere and consistent waves. It is a favorite spot for surfers and those looking for a more bohemian, low-key beach experience.
Access. Accessible by minibus from Shau Kei Wan MTR station.
Notes. Popular with surfers; swimming is restricted to designated areas when waves are high.
Cheung Sha Beach, Lantau Island
Hong Kong
LN9267 / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Divided into Upper and Lower sections, this is the longest beach in Hong Kong, stretching for kilometers with fine, golden sand. It is a vibrant hub for water sports and beachside dining, offering a spacious, resort-like feel.
Access. Accessible by bus from Mui Wo or Tung Chung; plenty of parking and nearby restaurants.
Notes. Lifeguard services are available on the Lower Beach section.
Dadonghai Beach, Sanya
Hainan
江上清风1961 / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)
A vibrant crescent-shaped public beach nestled between lush green hills and the warm sea. The shore offers soft sand and clear waters popular for swimming, beachside dining, and sunbathing.
Access. Minutes away from downtown Sanya by bus or taxi, making it one of the most accessible beaches in the region.
Golden Pebble Beach, Dalian
Liaoning
rheins / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)
A unique coastal stretch featuring striking geological rock formations alongside wide sandy swimming areas. The clean water and dramatic surroundings provide a distinct coastal getaway in northern China.
Access. Easily reached via the Dalian light rail system or a scenic drive from the city center.
Half Moon Bay (Kiu Tsui Beach), Sai Kung
Hong Kong
kobe CHENG / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)
Located on Sharp Island, this small, crescent-shaped beach is famous for its exceptionally clear water and soft sand. It is a popular spot for a quick day trip to enjoy a quiet, island-style beach experience.
Access. Frequent kaito (small ferry) services run from Sai Kung Pier directly to the beach.
Notes. Can get busy on summer weekends; facilities include showers and a small kiosk.
Silver Beach, Beihai
Guangxi
landagent / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Famed for its expansive, flat shore of fine, quartz-rich sand that glimmers silvery-white under the sun. The water is warm and calm, making it a classic destination for swimming and beach strolling in the south of China.
Access. Reachable via local public transit or taxis from Beihai city center.
Tai Long Wan, Sai Kung
Hong Kong
rheins / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)
A remote, pristine stretch of coastline in the Sai Kung East Country Park, featuring four connected bays with fine sand and clear, turquoise waters. It is widely considered the most beautiful beach area in Hong Kong, offering a rugged, natural escape from the city's density.
Access. Accessible via a scenic hike from Sai Wan Pavilion or by private speedboat charter from Sai Kung Pier.
Notes. Strong currents can occur; swimming is at your own risk as there are no lifeguards.
Yalong Bay, Sanya
Hainan
lienyuan lee / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)
Widely known as the 'Hawaii of China', Yalong Bay features a pristine seven-kilometer crescent of soft, fine sand and exceptionally clear turquoise water. Lined with upscale resorts, it offers a tropical coastal escape with calm waves ideal for swimming and leisurely shoreline walks.
Access. Easily reached by taxi or resort shuttle from downtown Sanya; public and resort-managed beach access points are widely available.