Dongshan Island

Dongshan Island, in Dongshan County, Zhangzhou, about 140 km south-west of Xiamen on the southern coast of China's Fujian province, is a granite island of clean beaches, sea-view roads and working fishing harbours. It is a seafood and beach destination that suits an overnight stay better than a rushed same-day return, since the journey takes about 2.5-3 hours each way. The standard public route is a train from Xiamen North to Zhangzhou, then a coach to Dongshan bus station, for about ¥80-140 one way; a private car with driver costs about ¥800-1300 for the day and gives much more flexibility on the island. Once on Dongshan, the main sights include the Tongpo coastal road and its beaches, the Golden Beach (Jinluan Bay) area, the Tongshan sea-view stretches, Mount Tongling and the boulder-strewn Wind Moving Stone viewpoint, and the Dongshan harbours where fishing boats unload. A one-day arc begins with an early departure from Xiamen, arrival by late morning, and a coastal drive with beach and viewpoint stops, then lunch of fresh seafood such as grilled fish, shellfish, crab and noodle dishes at a harbour restaurant. The afternoon can include a beach walk or swim and a stop at Dongshan's old town and Guandi temple before the journey back by about 16:00. The best season for swimming is May to October, while typhoons are possible from July to September and can close roads and boat services. Spring and autumn are comfortable for walking, and midsummer weekends are crowded. Food stops are mainly seafood restaurants near the harbours and beaches, with prices varying by catch and weighing method, so confirming prices before ordering is sensible. Total walking is moderate, and the trip involves long hours in transit.