Huangjin Beach (Golden Beach), Meizhou Island

Huangjin Beach, or Golden Beach, is a sunset-facing sandy beach on Meizhou Island in Xiuyu District, Putian, Fujian, China. Meizhou is best known as the birthplace of the sea goddess Mazu, and the island combines pilgrimage sites with a coastline of beaches and rocky headlands. Huangjin Beach has golden-toned sand that gives it its name, and the water is typically a green-blue colour, with clarity varying by wind and tide. The beach is open to the strait and can see moderate waves and breezes, so swimmers should take care and avoid rough conditions. The atmosphere is quiet and rural compared with big mainland resorts: visitors are mostly domestic tourists and pilgrims who add a seaside stop to a visit to the Mazu Ancestral Temple area, about 15 km away by island road. The beach faces west, so late afternoon and sunset are the most popular times, and photographers value the warm light over the water. Amenities are basic, with public restrooms, nearby island guesthouses and seafood restaurants for meals, and electric buggies for getting around the island. Sun loungers and formal lifeguard cover are not reliably available, so visitors should bring sun protection and swim cautiously. Reaching the island requires a ferry from Wenjia Wharf in Putian, which takes about 15 minutes, followed by an island buggy or the tourist bus. Putian itself is 25-40 minutes from Fuzhou by high-speed train, making a day trip possible, although staying overnight lets visitors enjoy the sunset and quieter morning hours. The best period is May to October, while the shoulder seasons are cooler and the winter wind can be sharp. Ferry operations can be affected by weather and typhoons, so checking schedules in advance is advisable, and the last ferry back should be confirmed before settling in for the sunset.