Want to see the sea during the National Day holiday but dread the crowds and price gouging? 💥 I've rounded up 5 niche, peaceful coastal towns with stunning sea views and affordable food and lodging! No need for a "special forces" style rush—take it slow for 3 days, enjoy the sea breeze, eat fresh seafood, and fully recharge with a relaxing vacation. 🍂
📍 Xuwen, Zhanjiang, Guangdong 🌍 | The Southernmost Tip of Mainland China
🚄 Transport: Take the high-speed train to Zhanjiang West Station, then take a taxi or dedicated shuttle directly to Xuwen's South Pole Village. The roads are in great condition.
💛 Vibe: A severely underrated, healing "glass sea"! Avoid the crowds of Sanya. The pristine, untouched beaches are incredibly clean. The sky is often clear during the National Day holiday, and the orange sunset over the sea is legendary. With very few tourists, every photo looks like a blockbuster. Perfect for zoning out and relaxing.
🦞 Food: Local pickled noodles, charcoal-grilled oysters, fresh coconuts, and lamb porridge. Prices are super low, making it easy to enjoy all the seafood you want.
🗓️ 3-Day Itinerary: D1: Check in at Kissing Beach in South Pole Village; D2: Go beachcombing and watch the sunset at Coral Coast; D3: Wander the rural coastline and enjoy a leisurely return trip.
📍 Weizhou Island, Beihai, Guangxi 🏝️ | An Untouched Healing Island
🚄 Transport: Take the high-speed train directly to Beihai Station, then take a ferry from the pier to the island. Renting an e-bike on the island is super convenient.
💛 Vibe: The crowds drop significantly during the National Day holiday! The seawater is crystal clear, the volcanic rock beaches are unique, and the island is lush with greenery. It's moderately commercialized without being overly noisy. The morning and evening sea breezes are gentle, making it perfect for a short, relaxing getaway.
🍤 Food: Island banana chicken, garlic scallops, seafood fried rice, and handmade sweet soup. Fresh, affordable, and no tourist traps.
🗓️ 3-Day Itinerary: D1: Arrive on the island and rest, watch the sunset at Dishui Danping; D2: Explore the volcanic sea views at Crocodile Mountain Scenic Area; D3: A slow stroll through the Catholic Church and Shell Beach.
📍 Guishan Island, Zhuhai, Guangdong 🌤️ | A Niche Island off Zhuhai
🚄 Transport: Take a direct ferry from Xiangzhou Port in Zhuhai. The trip is short and stress-free. The island is easily explored on foot or by bike.
💛 Vibe: A hidden gem in the Pearl River Delta! Completely avoid the crowds of Dong'ao Island and Wailingding Island. It's clean, healing, artistic, and fresh. The white lighthouse and coastal boardwalks are perfect for photos. The weather during the National Day holiday is comfortable, quiet, and relaxing.
🦐 Food: Sea urchin fried rice, salt and pepper mantis shrimp, local fisherman's porridge, and Cantonese-style sweet soup. Fresh and flavorful.
🗓️ 3-Day Itinerary: D1: Check in at Guishan Lighthouse Park; D2: Enjoy the breeze and take photos along the island loop road; D3: Stroll on the beach and explore the old island streets.
📍 Rushan, Weihai, Shandong 🌊 | An Affordable Northern Coastal Secret
🚄 Transport: Take the high-speed train directly to Rushan Station. Buses and taxis are convenient for getting from the city to Silver Beach.
💛 Vibe: A hidden treasure of the Shandong coast! The vast Silver Beach has fine, soft sand, and the water is clean and clear. The autumn seaside atmosphere during the National Day holiday is wonderful. Prices are super low, with sea-view homestays costing just over 100 yuan. The locals are honest and straightforward. A pure paradise for a relaxing vacation.
🦞 Food: Rushan oysters, seafood noodles, Jiaodong steamed dumplings, and spicy stir-fried clams. Incredible value for money.
🗓️ 3-Day Itinerary: D1: Play in the waves at Silver Beach; D2: Enjoy the autumn mountain and sea views at Dalu Mountain Scenic Area; D3: Visit the seaside fishing port to eat and shop.
📍 Pingtan, Fujian 🌬️ | A Romantic City of "Blue Tears"
🚄 Transport: Take the high-speed train directly to Pingtan Station. E-bikes are the best way to travel around the island—free and stress-free.
💛 Vibe: Pingtan is twice as gentle in the autumn! The wind and waves are moderate, and there are few tourists. The windmill beaches and "glass sea" create a fantastic atmosphere. If you're lucky, you might even encounter the late-autumn "Blue Tears." No need to squeeze through crowds; immerse yourself in the romance of the island.
🍜 Food: Pingtan "Shi Lai Yun Zhuan" (dumplings), oyster cakes, Bazhen stir-fried cake, and authentic fish balls. Full of Fujian flavor.
🗓️ 3-Day Itinerary: D1: North line windmill forest, watch the sunset at Changjiang'ao; D2: Relax at Tannannan Bay Beach; D3: Wander the niche bays on the south line.
💡 Tips for a National Day Seaside Trip ✨
1. There is a large temperature difference between day and night at the seaside in autumn. The evening sea breeze can be chilly, so be sure to bring a light jacket and practice good sun protection.
2. Ferry schedules to islands are limited. Book tickets and check schedules in advance, and allow plenty of time for boarding and departing.
3. For seafood, prioritize small local fishing port restaurants. They are fresh and affordable, and you can avoid the price markups at tourist spots.
4. Check tide tables in advance for beachcombing, wear non-slip shoes, and prioritize safety.
5. Niche towns are all about a relaxed, slow-paced trip. No need to rush your itinerary—three days is just right.
You really don't need to crowd into popular internet-famous spots for the National Day holiday! These 5 coastal towns have fewer people, beautiful scenery, great value, and an excellent experience. ✨ Avoid the crowds, enjoy a healing seaside vacation on a budget, and just go for it if you're looking for a short trip!