Just 2 hours from Beijing! This hidden "Maldives" in Hebei

How precious are weekends for working professionals? But would you believe it? With just a couple of pedal pushes from Beijing, you can dive straight into this magical wonderland where fish literally "jump out at you"! Tangshan's Domar Park has been blowing up my social media lately—50+ fishing methods instantly transport adults back to childhood, while artificial beaches paired with wetland sunsets take your breath away. Best part? High-speed rail gets you there hassle-free—why not lock in this weekend getaway? Why is it called the ultimate water playground in northern China? Here are 4 must-experience reasons from my visit The moment I entered, I was stunned: a sprawling 2,500-acre wetland park—half shimmering waters, half golden artificial beaches. Wearing a white dress at Blue Bay Beach, the saltwater lake and coconut palm reflections had my friends convinced I'd secretly flown to Sanya! But the real showstopper is the "fishing tech magic"—at Happy Fishing Valley, turning a waterwheel makes fish swim straight into your net. An elderly angler saw me squealing by the shore and even taught me his "casting secrets"—proving joy knows no age! The amphibious vehicle is a MUST! It charges from land straight into the lake—when the spray hits, everyone screams for another round. Even better? The water train gliding on tracks above the lake at sunset, painting the wetlands gold while the air smells of aquatic plants—I'd believe this was Jiangnan watertown! Deep-dive guide: Full-day immersive itinerary Morning: Ultimate family fun route Arrive at 9am for "Mystery Touch"—dip your hands into koi ponds for ticklish giggles (perfect photo op with fish swarming your palms!). Next, grab waders at "Bamboo Trap Fishing"—kids and adults alike will shriek with delight catching fish barehanded in shallows. I spent 30 soaked minutes there, but the thrill of touching a fish beat winning lottery! Afternoon: Instagrammers’ secret route Head to Blue Bay Beach at 1pm—the saltwater lake turns gradient blue under sunlight. Pro tip: Squat by the shore for photos framing the lake, beach, and distant reeds (caption: "Maldives vibes" totally works!). At 4pm, ride the water train through reeds startling egrets—every shot looks cinematic. Night: Hidden after-dark adventures Few know the park shines at night! The "Night Fishing Carnival" illuminates waters as staff cast nets, letting visitors wade in to catch fish (I bagged a palm-sized carp to take home!). Nearby, clown performances with balloon animals made me rediscover childlike wonder—who can resist starlit fishing with live shows? Stay like a true insider Domar Water Town’s villas are UNREAL—wake to misty lakes from floor-to-ceiling windows, fishing from your balcony. Families should book 4-8 person rooms where kids spot waterbirds from living rooms and stargaze with telescopes (fireflies possible!). For late risers, Domar Hotel is 5 minutes from attractions. My sunrise-hating self finally made the 9am fishing battle! Rooms feature minimalist wood decor overlooking wetlands—even toiletries smell like reeds. Perfectionists, rejoice! Local pro tips: Avoid these mistakes - Wear water shoes! My sneakers stayed soggy all day—lesson learned. ​ - Sunscreen & bug spray! Strong UV afternoons; ankle-biting mosquitoes at dusk. ​ - Pack spare clothes! Unlike me who fell in water and paid premium for replacement tees. ​ - Try the park’s iron-pot fish stew—freshly caught, insanely flavorful, just ¥50/person. I complained about Beijing traffic en route, but the park instantly healed me—while city dwellers stress over KPIs, here you chase fish barefoot as villas glow like honey at sunset. Now I get why Domar is called "North China’s Little Maldives"—it’s not just water fun, but summer’s pure joy bottled in wetlands. This weekend, ready to write your own fishing tale?