Survived Nan'ao Island... I was truly overwhelmed 😫

Visiting Nan'ao without a proper guide is NOT recommended! Crowded, scorching hot, and overall poor experience!! Some attractions require advance booking – don't waste your trip 🥱. Follow this detailed guide to copy the perfect itinerary! ✅Transport Recommendations 🚄High-speed rail: Shantou Station is the best choice. Take Bus 161 directly to Nan'ao Island or book a Didi ride 🚗Self-drive: Round-trip bridge toll is 96💰 (only charged when entering; free during holidays) 🚌Island buses: Routes 601/602 cover most attractions 🛵E-bikes: Shared/rental e-bikes available (80-100/day) 🏚Accommodation We stayed at Manshe Homestay in Houzhai Town – close to attractions with sea/sunset views from rooms. Fully equipped facilities. 💃🏼2-Day Itinerary ✔️Day 1: Changwei Mountain Lighthouse → Tianzai Land Park → Qian'ao Bay Resort → Qian'ao Bay Lighthouse → Maritime Silk Square → Qianjiang Bay Beach 📍Changwei Mountain Lighthouse: The striking red lighthouse visible right after crossing Nan'ao Bridge – perfect photo op with the bridge ⬇️🚗11min 📍Tianzai Land Park: Unique wave-carved rocks along South Ring Road (Caution: slippery surfaces) ⬇️🚗7min 📍Qian'ao Bay Resort: Southeast Asian-style beach boardwalk for insta-worthy shots ⬇️🚶10min 📍Qian'ao Bay Lighthouse: Fairytale-like green-and-white tower (10min walk from resort) ⬇️🚗5min 📍Maritime Silk Square: Panoramic sea views with historical exhibits and passing ships ⬇️🚗15min 📍Qianjiang Bay Beach: Pristine soft sand and crystal waters for perfect relaxation ✔️Day 2: Sanchongya Lighthouse → Qing'ao Bay → Nature's Gate → Route 2 → The Lonely Tree → Huanghuashan Tropic of Cancer 📍Sanchongya Lighthouse: Red-white "ice cream cone" structure on cliffs (ideal sunrise spot) ⬇️🚗17min 📍Qing'ao Bay: Swim, sunbathe, and enjoy beach activities ⬇️🚶2min 📍Nature's Gate: Tropic of Cancer landmark with unique architectural significance ⬇️🚗10min 📍Route 2: Scenic coastal road perfect for e-bike rides and Japanese-style photography ⬇️🚗15min 📍The Lonely Tree: Navigate to "Yuman Village" – a solitary seaside tree (crowded in peak season) ⬇️🚗20min 📍Huanghuashan Tropic of Cancer: Unique geographical landscapes (Best light in afternoon; 20¥/person) 🥗Food Recommendations Four Seasons Goose Meat, Qingqing Wintermelon Tea, Fufu Soufflé, Countryside BBQ Farmhouse, Ankoufu Beef Hotpot, Chenfuji Seafood Claypot Rice, Wuli Sweet Soup ⚠️ Travel Tips 1. Sun/insect protection: Strong UV and mosquitoes – pack sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, repellent 2. Transport: Limited buses – strongly recommend self-drive/charter (≈500¥/day) or e-bikes (I rented two for 45¥/day) 3. Seafood pricing: Confirm prices/units before ordering; choose reputable restaurants 4. Off-peak visits: Avoid holidays; enter island before 9am for fewer crowds Protect the environment – take trash with you! Nan'ao's charm lies in its laidback island vibe and breathtaking coastal roads. Relax, enjoy sunshine, sea breezes, and delicious food – that's the ultimate strategy!