Gangzaihou Beach, Gulangyu (港仔后海滨浴场)

Gangzaihou Beach is a sheltered cove of sand and rock on the south-east side of Gulangyu Island, off Xiamen in Fujian, China. Backed by the Haitian Tang area and the old Western-style villas that give the island its character, the beach is small and enclosed rather than long and open, and the cove shape keeps waves low. The shore mixes sand with rock pools and sea platforms, so the experience is closer to a scenic seaside pause than a full beach day. The water is typical of the Xiamen coast, greenish and only moderately clear, and swimming suits a short dip or a paddle in summer after sightseeing. The atmosphere is relaxed and family-oriented, with visitors arriving on foot between the island's sights rather than for a long stay. Amenities are seasonal. Changing rooms and showers operate in summer, a lifeguard is posted during the swimming season, and cafes on the lanes above the beach offer drinks and snacks. Sun loungers are not a feature, so most visitors sit on the sand or the rocks. Hours and services outside summer should be checked locally. Access is by ferry and on foot, because Gulangyu is car-free. Visitors take the Gulangyu ferry from the Dongdu cruise terminal to Neicuoao pier, which costs about 35 yuan return, and then walk roughly 20 minutes across the island to the beach. The route passes narrow lanes and some slopes, and the walk is part of the appeal. Ferry queues are longest on weekends and public holidays, so an early crossing is advisable. The best swimming period runs from June to September, with the warmest water in mid-summer. Outside that window, the cove is still worth visiting for its views, rock formations and quiet corners, though swimming facilities may be closed. Visitors often combine the beach with the nearby villas, gardens and viewpoints before returning to the pier.