Zhanjiang hides a glowing sea! Please keep this nanny-level guide safe!

Zhanjiang, I used to only know it as a naval port, but after actually going there, wow, it’s truly a treasure! It’s not as bustling as Sanya, but it has its own unique local charm and endless sea views. I’m about to share my top-secret guide with you, guaranteed to make you feel like a local! Day 1: Embrace the blue, start from the city coastline My suggestion is not to go too far on the first day, just stroll around the city and feel Zhanjiang’s “sea within the city.” · Morning: Daydreaming at Jinsha Bay Sleep in naturally, then wander over to Jinsha Bay. The seawall here is beautifully built, and right across is Zhanjiang’s city landmark—the Olympic Sports Center, with those shell-shaped buildings looking especially photogenic against the blue sky. You can find a bench to sit on, watch local grandpas fishing, kids digging in the sand, and seagulls flying overhead. That leisurely feeling can instantly pull you out of work stress. The sand here isn’t the finest, but the view is incredibly wide and perfect for taking all kinds of “pretending to be on vacation” photos. · Afternoon: Treasure hunting at Chikan Old Street Grab a casual lunch, then you must visit Chikan Old Street! This is no ordinary old street; it’s the main museum of Zhanjiang’s history! The movie "The Bad Kids" was filmed here. Walking through the winding alleys lined with Nanyang-style arcade buildings, though a bit weathered, they are full of character. Around any corner, you might meet an old lady selling herbs or a fragrant snack stall. Don’t forget to check in at the former site of the Guangzhou Bay Chamber of Commerce; that old building will instantly transport you back to the last century. · Evening: Seafood market and romantic sea-view promenade Coming to Zhanjiang and not eating seafood is a wasted trip! But we have to be smart about it. I highly recommend you visit the Xiashan Seafood Wholesale Market (or Dongfeng Market) for a stroll! Not necessarily to buy immediately, but to experience the shock of this “seafood kingdom”! Lobsters, crabs, mantis shrimp, and all kinds of fish you can’t even name, all lively and jumping around, dazzling your eyes. You can look around and ask prices to get a sense. For dinner, find a reliable restaurant near the market to have your freshly bought seafood cooked, or order directly at the restaurant. Must-try dishes include garlic steamed sandworms (super crispy texture), salt and pepper mantis shrimp (thick and flavorful meat), and steamed grouper (so fresh it’ll make your eyebrows raise)! After dinner, don’t rush back to the hotel. Be sure to take a walk along the sea-view promenade. The sea breeze at night is especially pleasant, the lights of Techeng Island twinkle across the water, and chatting with your partner or friends while strolling—this feeling is absolutely perfect! Day 2: Island hopping, spend a slow day on Techeng Island Today we go out to sea! Destination—Techeng Island. It’s only about a 20-minute boat ride from the city, very convenient. After arriving, I suggest renting an electric scooter or bicycle to ride around the island. The island is shaded with green trees, the mangrove wetlands are especially beautiful, and you can see huge wind turbines. There’s no car noise here, only the quiet fishing village, drying fishing nets, and simple villagers. You can find a quiet spot by the sea, just sit and listen to the waves, feeling time slow down. There’s a hot spring resort on the island; if your budget allows, staying overnight is an excellent experience. Day 3: Geological wonders and farewell feast · Morning: Deep breath at Huguangyan Today you can visit Huguangyan. This is a world-class maar lake, basically a huge volcanic crater lake. The water is as clear as a mirror, and the whole scenic area is lush with vegetation, like a natural oxygen bar. Walk around the lake or just daydream by the shore, your mood will become especially calm. This place feels completely different from the sea, very magical. · Afternoon/Evening: Fill in the gaps, return satisfied In the last half day, you can visit specialty stores to buy some dried seafood to take home. Or have one last meal of your favorite dishes! Besides seafood, Zhanjiang’s white-cut chicken is also a must-try—the skin is crispy, the meat tender, dipped in special sand ginger soy sauce, finger-licking good! There are also various spicy beef dishes and other snacks worth trying. Some tips: · Transportation: Zhanjiang city isn’t very big; taxis or shared electric scooters are very convenient. · Accommodation: It’s recommended to stay in Xiashan District or Chikan District, convenient for dining, shopping, and going to the beach. · Best seasons: Autumn, winter, and spring are very comfortable; summer can be hot and watch out for typhoons. · Essentials: Sunscreen! Sunglasses! Hat! Stomach medicine (just in case you can’t handle too much seafood)! The beauty of Zhanjiang isn’t in any shocking attraction, but in the salty sea breeze, the local street life, and bowls of fresh seafood. I hope you have a shining and memorable time in Zhanjiang! Let’s go!