China’s coastline offers a surprising variety of beach escapes, from tropical islands to historic seaside towns.
For expats, these destinations provide not just sun and sand, but also unique cultural experiences, diverse activities, and a chance to unwind from city life.
This 2025 guide highlights the best beach spots for expats, with practical tips, cost info, and essential resources for planning your trip.
Quick Comparison Table
| Destination | Best Season | Key Features | Avg. Hotel Price (USD/night) | English Services | Safety/Health Facilities |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sanya, Hainan | Nov–Apr | Tropical, luxury resorts, diving | $80–$300+ | Good in resorts | International hospitals |
| Xiamen, Fujian | Apr–Oct | Urban beaches, culture | $60–$200 | Moderate | Major hospitals |
| Zhuhai, Guangdong | Mar–Oct | Quiet, islands, nature | $50–$180 | Limited | Good hospitals |
| Beidaihe, Hebei | May–Sep | Historic, family-friendly | $40–$120 | Limited | Basic hospitals |
| Qingdao, Shandong | Jun–Sep | Beer, seafood, festivals | $50–$180 | Moderate | International clinics |
Sources: Trip.com, Booking.com, China Expat Health
1. Sanya, Hainan: The “Hawaii of China”
Why Go: Sanya is China’s premier tropical destination, famous for its white-sand beaches, luxury resorts, and vibrant nightlife.
English is widely spoken in major hotels and tourist areas.
Highlights:
- Yalong Bay: Upscale, family-friendly, great for water sports.
- Dadonghai Beach: Lively, with beach bars and restaurants.
- Wuzhizhou Island: Top spot for snorkeling and diving.
Practical Tips:
- Best time: November to April (avoid typhoon season: July–Sept).
- Getting there: Direct flights from most major Chinese cities.
- Health: Several international hospitals, e.g., Sanya People’s Hospital.
2. Xiamen, Fujian: Urban Beaches with Culture
Why Go: Xiamen blends city life with scenic beaches and is known for its laid-back vibe and Gulangyu Island, a UNESCO site.
Highlights:
- Hulishan Cannon Fort Beach: History meets the sea.
- Guanyin Mountain Beach: Quieter, scenic.
- Gulangyu Island: No cars, colonial architecture, music festivals.
Practical Tips:
- Best time: April to October.
- Language: English is spoken in some hotels; translation apps recommended.
- Health: Major hospitals available, but bring travel insurance.
3. Zhuhai, Guangdong: Islands and Serenity
Why Go: Near Macau, Zhuhai is known for its relaxed pace, clean air, and beautiful islands.
Highlights:
- Lovers’ Beach: Romantic promenade, sunset views.
- Dong’ao Island: Pristine, less crowded, great for hiking and kayaking.
Practical Tips:
- Best time: March to October.
- Getting there: Ferry/train from Guangzhou, Shenzhen, or Hong Kong.
- Language: English is limited; basic Mandarin or translation apps helpful.
- Health: Good local hospitals, but limited international services.
4. Beidaihe, Hebei: Historic Seaside Escape
Why Go: A favorite for diplomats and families, Beidaihe offers clean beaches and a relaxed atmosphere close to Beijing.
Highlights:
- Tiger Stone Marine Park: Family-friendly, water activities.
- Gold Coast Beach: Soft sand, peaceful.
Practical Tips:
- Best time: May to September.
- Getting there: High-speed train from Beijing (2–3 hours).
- Health: Basic hospitals; bring necessary medications.
5. Qingdao, Shandong: Beer, Beaches, and Culture
Why Go: Famous for its German heritage, Tsingtao beer, and lively festivals, Qingdao is a top summer destination.
Highlights:
- Shilaoren Beach: Water sports, family picnics.
- Golden Sand Beach: Clean, spacious, popular for swimming.
- May Fourth Square: Iconic city views, seaside promenade.
Practical Tips:
- Best time: June to September.
- Events: Qingdao International Beer Festival (August).
- Health: International clinics available.
Safety, Health, and Accessibility
- Medical Care: Sanya and Qingdao have international hospitals; other cities have good local hospitals but limited English.
- Water Quality: Check local advisories, especially after storms.
- Safety: Beaches are generally safe, but always swim in designated areas and heed lifeguard warnings.
- Language: English is common in major hotels, rare elsewhere. Use Pleco or Google Translate apps.
Expat Tips for Beach Travel in China
- Book Early: Public holidays (especially May Day, National Day, and Chinese New Year) see huge crowds and price hikes.
- Try Local Seafood: Each region has its specialties—ask locals for recommendations.
- Respect Local Customs: Some beaches have dress codes or restrictions on alcohol.
- Stay Connected: Join expat forums like Internations or The Beijinger for travel updates and meetups.
Lesser-Known Alternatives
- Weizhou Island (Guangxi): Volcanic island, great for diving.
- Putuo Mountain (Zhejiang): Spiritual retreat with scenic beaches.
- Dongshan Island (Fujian): Quiet, authentic fishing villages.
