Back from Xiapu, and I can't recommend this breezy destination enough

"The sea and waves, warmth and tenderness, love and freedom are all here." Xiapu, this coastal gem in Fujian province, shines like a pearl favored by time under the summer sun. Every inch of its beaches and every wave tells stories of freedom and romance, waiting to be discovered 🌊 1. How to Get There • By Air: First fly to Fuzhou Changle International Airport, then take a bus to Xiapu (about 2.5 hours). Alternatively, rent a car at the airport for a 2-hour drive via expressway. • By High-Speed Rail: Many cities have direct trains to Xiapu Station. From there, take a taxi or local bus to attractions (note buses have limited schedules). 2. 6 Must-Visit Spots 1. Beqi Mudflats: Xiapu's most iconic sunrise spot. During June-July seaweed farming season, the tidal patterns create ink-wash painting-like scenery. The golden sunrise light on the rippling mudflats is breathtaking 🌅 ◦ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ◦ Ticket: Free (parking ~¥10) ◦ Best time: Arrive by 4:30am for sunrise 2. Yangjiaxi Stream: A real-life "Wizard of Oz" forest in summer. Sunlight filters through ancient banyan trees creating stunning Tyndall effects (best 8-10am) 🌳 Enjoy bamboo rafting in 25°C refreshing water 🚣 ◦ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ ◦ Ticket: ¥18 ◦ Hours: 8:00-17:00 3. Dongbi Village: A poetic fishing village famous for sunset views. Cliffside B&Bs offer perfect sunset vistas over returning fishing boats 🌅 Viewpoint frames an S-curve road with the sea. Don't miss the seafood noodles at "Shijianhai" restaurant 🍜 ◦ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ◦ Ticket: Free ◦ Hours: All day 4. Xiaohao Beach: Unique golden wave patterns appear at low tide - spectacular for drone shots. Check "Xiapu Tide Timetable" for best viewing times 🌊 ◦ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ ◦ Ticket: Free ◦ Hours: All day 5. Sishang Islands: Real-life "Zelda" landscape. Dongshang Island's cliffs with June greenery resemble Nordic islands 🌍 July brings spectacular seagull flocks on Bird Island (Hongshang Island). Take daily ferry from Jishi Pier (1.5hr trip). ◦ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ◦ Ticket: ~¥100 roundtrip (prices vary) ◦ Hours: All day 6. Xiawei Island: Sea-eroded caves make perfect photo spots (accessible at low tide) 🕳️ Rugged reefs suit dark-themed photography. Lucky visitors might see blue tears in June 💙 ◦ Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ ◦ Ticket: Free ◦ Hours: Low tide only 3. What to Eat • Seafood Fried Rice Noodles: Simple seasoning highlights fresh seafood flavors • Eight-Treasure Crab Rice: Sweet crab meat over fragrant sticky rice • Boiled Goose Barnacles: Surprisingly delicious with minimal preparation • Wine-Stewed Baby Octopus: Chewy texture enhanced by wine aroma • Steamed Yellow Croaker: A local specialty, steamed with soy sauce and garnished with scallions and chili 4. What to Wear Light summer clothes (t-shirts, shorts) plus sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen). Bring swimwear and sandals for beach activities. 5. Where to Stay • Dongbi Village: Sea-view B&Bs like "Shijianhai" offer stunning sunrise/sunset views • Xiapu Town: More affordable hotels with convenient access to amenities 6. Tips • Check tide schedules for best viewing times • Use strong sun protection (both clothing and sunscreen) • Consider renting a car for flexible transportation between scattered attractions • Verify seafood freshness and prices before ordering • Bring fully charged cameras with extra memory cards 🎈 Xiapu is like a summer dream - every landscape enchants, every dish delights. Come experience this romantic seaside getaway!