Introduction
Xunliao Bay, located in Huidong County, Huizhou City, Guangdong Province, is widely known as “China’s Maldives” and one of the most popular coastal resorts in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. With its 16 kilometers of pristine coastline, eight crescent-shaped bays, and crystal-clear waters with visibility up to 10 meters, Xunliao Bay offers an idyllic beach vacation experience just a short distance from the bustling cities of Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Hong Kong.
What sets Xunliao Bay apart from other Chinese beach destinations is its perfect balance of natural beauty and modern amenities. Unlike overdeveloped commercial beaches, Xunliao Bay has preserved much of its original coastal ecosystem while providing world-class resorts, family-friendly facilities, and a wide range of water sports activities. For international travelers, it offers an authentic taste of Chinese coastal culture with English-language services and international payment options. For families, it provides safe swimming areas, educational attractions, and plenty of activities to keep children of all ages entertained.
Location & Family-Friendly Access
Xunliao Bay is strategically located in the eastern part of Guangdong Province, making it easily accessible for both domestic and international travelers. The following transportation options are recommended for families:
High-Speed Train (Most Convenient for International Families)
Take the high-speed train to Huidong Railway Station, which offers direct services from major cities in the Greater Bay Area:
- Guangzhou South: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Shenzhen North: 40 minutes
- Hong Kong West Kowloon: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Dongguan: 50 minutes
From Huidong Railway Station, you have several options to reach Xunliao Bay:
- Private Transfer: The most convenient option for families with young children and luggage. Takes approximately 30 minutes and costs around ¥120 CNY. Book in advance through your hotel or travel agency.
- Direct Bus: Bus H2 runs directly from Huidong Railway Station to Xunliao Bay. Takes 45 minutes and costs ¥15 CNY per person. Low-floor buses with space for strollers are available every 30 minutes.
- Taxi: Available outside the railway station. Takes 30 minutes and costs approximately ¥100-120 CNY.
Self-Driving (Most Flexible for Families)
Self-driving is the most popular option for families visiting Xunliao Bay, as it allows you to explore the area at your own pace and carry all your beach gear easily.
- From Shenzhen: Approximately 1.5 hours via the Shenzhen-Shantou Expressway
- From Guangzhou: Approximately 2 hours via the Guangzhou-Huizhou Expressway
- From Hong Kong: Approximately 2.5 hours via the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge and Shenzhen-Shantou Expressway
Family Parking Information:
- All major resorts offer free parking for guests
- Public parking lots are available at all attractions, with rates ranging from ¥10-20 CNY per day
- Designated family parking spaces are available near the entrances of all major attractions
- Electric vehicle charging stations are available at most resorts and shopping centers
Airport Access
For international travelers flying into:
- Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport: Take the direct airport shuttle bus to Xunliao Bay (2 hours, ¥80 CNY) or take the high-speed train from Shenzhen North to Huidong
- Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport: Take the direct airport shuttle bus to Huidong County (3 hours, ¥120 CNY), then transfer to a taxi or bus to Xunliao Bay
Ticket Prices & Opening Hours
Most of Xunliao Bay’s public beaches are completely free to access. Below is a comprehensive list of ticket prices for all major attractions, including family discounts:
表格
| Attraction | Adult Ticket | Child Ticket (1.2-1.5m) | Senior Ticket (60-69) | Free Entry | Opening Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Public Beaches | Free | Free | Free | Everyone | 24 hours |
| Mozishi Park | ¥28 CNY | ¥14 CNY | ¥14 CNY | Children under 1.2m, seniors over 70 | 08:00-18:00 |
| Delta Island | ¥98 CNY | ¥49 CNY | ¥49 CNY | Children under 1.2m | 08:30-17:30 |
| Tianhou Palace | Free | Free | Free | Everyone | 08:00-17:30 |
| Xunliao Bay Ocean Park | ¥168 CNY | ¥84 CNY | ¥84 CNY | Children under 1.2m | 09:00-18:00 |
| Fishing Boat Tour (per boat) | ¥200-300 CNY | Same as adult | Same as adult | N/A | 06:00-18:00 |
| Speed Boat Ride | ¥150 CNY per person | ¥100 CNY per person | Not recommended | N/A | 09:00-17:00 |
| Snorkeling | ¥180 CNY per person | ¥120 CNY per person | Not recommended | N/A | 09:00-17:00 |
Important Notes:
- Ticket prices may increase by 20-30% during peak seasons (July-August, Chinese National Day, Spring Festival)
- Online booking is strongly recommended to avoid long queues, especially during weekends and holidays
- Most attractions accept credit cards, WeChat Pay, and Alipay, but it’s advisable to carry some cash for small purchases
- Some water sports activities have age and height restrictions for safety reasons
Top Attractions for International Families
Xunliao Bay offers a diverse range of attractions that cater to both international travelers interested in natural beauty and Chinese culture, and families with children of all ages. Below are our top recommendations:
1. Mozishi Park (Best for Unique Natural Scenery)
Mozishi Park, also known as Grinding Stone Park, is the most iconic natural attraction in Xunliao Bay. It features a collection of massive granite rocks that have been shaped by thousands of years of wind and wave erosion into bizarre and beautiful forms.
Family Highlights:
- Unique Rock Formations: The most famous rock is “General’s Hat,” a 10-meter-tall rock that resembles a military helmet. Other notable formations include “Turtle Rock,” “Lion Rock,” and “Frog Rock.” Children will love climbing on the rocks and playing hide-and-seek among them.
- Scenic Coastal Walk: A 2-kilometer boardwalk along the cliffside offers stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding islands. The boardwalk is flat and stroller-friendly, with plenty of benches for rest breaks.
- Beach Access: The park has a small, secluded beach that is less crowded than the main beaches. It’s perfect for a quiet family picnic or building sandcastles.
- Educational Signs: English-language signs throughout the park explain the geological history of the rock formations and the local marine ecosystem.
Tips for Families:
- Wear comfortable walking shoes with good traction, as some areas can be slippery
- Bring sunscreen and hats, as there is limited shade in the park
- The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat
- Keep a close eye on children near the cliffs and water
2. Delta Island (Best for Snorkeling & Island Adventure)
Delta Island, also known as “China’s Maldives Island,” is a small, uninhabited island located just 20 minutes by boat from Xunliao Bay. It is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, and vibrant coral reefs.
Family Highlights:
- Snorkeling & Diving: The waters around Delta Island have visibility up to 10 meters, making it one of the best snorkeling spots in Guangdong. Children aged 8 and above can try snorkeling with a guide, and there are shallow areas perfect for younger children to explore with goggles.
- Beach Activities: The island has two beautiful beaches with soft white sand and calm waters. It’s the perfect place to relax, build sandcastles, and play beach games.
- Island Exploration: A short hiking trail leads to the top of the island, offering panoramic views of the surrounding ocean. The hike is easy and takes approximately 20 minutes.
- Picnic Areas: There are several shaded picnic areas on the island where you can enjoy a packed lunch.
Tips for Families:
- Book your boat tickets in advance, especially during peak season
- Bring your own snorkeling gear if you have it, or rent it on the island
- There are no restaurants on the island, so bring plenty of water and snacks
- The last boat back to the mainland leaves at 17:00, so plan your time accordingly
3. Tianhou Palace (Best for Cultural Experience)
Tianhou Palace, also known as Mazu Temple, is the largest Mazu temple in Guangdong Province. It is dedicated to Mazu, the Chinese goddess of the sea, who is revered by fishermen and sailors throughout southern China.
Family Highlights:
- Impressive Architecture: The temple complex features traditional Lingnan-style architecture with ornate carvings, colorful murals, and golden statues. The main hall houses a 5-meter-tall statue of Mazu.
- Cultural Performances: Traditional lion dances and dragon dances are performed on weekends and during festivals. Children will love watching the colorful performances and listening to the traditional music.
- Mazu Culture Museum: The museum features exhibits in English about the history of Mazu worship and the local fishing culture. It’s a great way to teach children about Chinese culture and traditions.
- Temple Fair: A temple fair is held every year on Mazu’s birthday (the 23rd day of the third lunar month), featuring traditional food, crafts, and performances.
Tips for Families:
- Dress modestly when visiting the temple (cover shoulders and knees)
- Photography is allowed in most areas, but check for signs before taking photos of the statues
- You can buy incense sticks to offer to Mazu for good luck
- The temple is located in the center of Xunliao Bay, making it easy to combine with other attractions
4. Xunliao Bay Ocean Park (Best for Family Entertainment)
Xunliao Bay Ocean Park is a modern marine theme park that offers a variety of attractions and entertainment for the whole family. It features a large aquarium, dolphin and sea lion shows, amusement rides, and a water park (open in summer).
Family Highlights:
- Aquarium: The aquarium houses over 5,000 marine animals from around the world, including sharks, rays, tropical fish, and sea turtles. The 360-degree underwater tunnel is a highlight, allowing visitors to walk through the aquarium and see the fish swimming above and around them.
- Dolphin & Sea Lion Shows: The daily dolphin and sea lion shows are the most popular attraction at the park. The intelligent animals perform amazing tricks and interact with the audience, much to the delight of children.
- Amusement Rides: The park features a variety of amusement rides suitable for children of all ages, including a Ferris wheel, carousel, roller coaster, and bumper cars.
- Water Park: The water park, open from June to September, features slides, pools, and water play areas for children of all ages. It’s the perfect place to cool off on a hot summer day.
Tips for Families:
- Allocate at least 4-5 hours to visit the park
- Check the show times in advance and plan your visit accordingly
- Bring swimwear and towels if you plan to visit the water park
- Food and drinks are available inside the park, but they can be expensive
5. Xunliao Bay Beaches (Best for Relaxation & Water Sports)
Xunliao Bay is famous for its “three wonders”: strange rocks, clear water, and white sand. The bay has eight crescent-shaped beaches, each with its own unique character and activities.
Family-Friendly Beaches:
- Golden Beach: The most popular beach in Xunliao Bay, with soft golden sand and calm, shallow waters. It’s perfect for swimming and young children. Lifeguards are on duty from May to October, and there are plenty of facilities including restrooms, showers, and beach chair rentals.
- Silver Beach: A quieter beach located a short drive from the main tourist area. It’s less crowded than Golden Beach and offers a more peaceful atmosphere.
- Fengchi Island Beach: A small, secluded beach located on Fengchi Island. It’s accessible by a short bridge and offers beautiful views of the ocean.
Water Sports Activities:
- Paddle Boarding & Kayaking: Calm waters make Xunliao Bay perfect for paddle boarding and kayaking. Equipment is available for rent at all major beaches.
- Banana Boat Rides: A fun activity for the whole family, where you ride on an inflatable banana boat pulled by a speedboat.
- Jet Skiing: For older children and adults, jet skiing is an exciting way to explore the bay.
- Parasailing: Get a bird’s-eye view of Xunliao Bay by parasailing above the water.
Tips for Families:
- Always supervise children near the water
- Swim only in designated areas with lifeguards on duty
- Apply sunscreen regularly, even on cloudy days
- Bring water and snacks to stay hydrated
6. Fishing Village Experience (Best for Authentic Local Culture)
For a taste of authentic local life, visit one of the traditional fishing villages near Xunliao Bay. You can watch the fishermen bring in their catch, learn about traditional fishing methods, and even go on a fishing trip with a local fisherman.
Family Highlights:
- Fishing Boat Tour: Go on a traditional fishing boat with a local fisherman and try your hand at fishing. You can keep whatever you catch and have it cooked at a local restaurant.
- Seafood Market: Visit the local seafood market in the morning to see the fresh catch of the day. You can buy seafood and have it cooked at a nearby restaurant for a small fee.
- Village Walk: Wander through the narrow streets of the fishing village and see the traditional houses, fishing nets, and boats.
- Sunset Cruise: Take a sunset cruise around the bay and watch the sun set over the ocean. It’s a magical experience for the whole family.
Tips for Families:
- The best time to visit the fishing village is early in the morning when the fishermen return with their catch
- Bargaining is acceptable at the seafood market
- Wear comfortable shoes and clothes that you don’t mind getting wet
- Respect the local culture and traditions
Recommended Family Itineraries
2-Day Weekend Itinerary (Perfect for Families from Guangzhou/Shenzhen)
Day 1:
- 9:00 AM: Depart from Guangzhou/Shenzhen
- 11:00 AM: Arrive in Xunliao Bay, check into your hotel
- 12:30 PM: Lunch at a local seafood restaurant
- 2:00 PM: Relax on Golden Beach, build sandcastles, and swim
- 4:30 PM: Visit Tianhou Palace and learn about Mazu culture
- 6:30 PM: Dinner at a beachfront restaurant
- 8:00 PM: Evening walk along the beach, enjoy the sea breeze and bonfire (if allowed)
Day 2:
- 8:00 AM: Breakfast at your hotel
- 9:00 AM: Visit Mozishi Park and explore the unique rock formations
- 11:30 AM: Take a boat to Delta Island
- 12:30 PM: Picnic lunch on Delta Island
- 2:00 PM: Snorkeling and beach activities on Delta Island
- 4:00 PM: Return to the mainland
- 5:00 PM: Depart for Guangzhou/Shenzhen
3-Day Extended Itinerary (Perfect for International Families)
Day 1:
- Arrive in Xunliao Bay, check into your hotel
- Afternoon: Relax on the beach
- Evening: Sunset cruise and seafood dinner
Day 2:
- Morning: Xunliao Bay Ocean Park
- Afternoon: Water sports activities
- Evening: Visit the fishing village and have dinner at a local restaurant
Day 3:
- Morning: Mozishi Park and Tianhou Palace
- Afternoon: Delta Island snorkeling adventure
- Evening: Departure
Practical Family Tips
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Xunliao Bay is from April to June and September to November, when the weather is mild, the water is warm, and the crowds are smaller. July and August are the peak summer months, with hot weather and large crowds, but also the best time for swimming and water sports. December to February is the off-season, with cooler weather and fewer tourists, but some attractions and restaurants may be closed.
Family-Friendly Accommodation
Xunliao Bay offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and family sizes:
- Luxury Resorts: Several 5-star resorts offer spacious family rooms, kids’ clubs, swimming pools, private beaches, and a variety of family activities.
- Boutique Hotels: Smaller, more intimate hotels with unique designs and personalized service. Many offer family rooms and connecting rooms.
- Vacation Apartments: Perfect for larger families or groups, with fully equipped kitchens, living areas, and multiple bedrooms.
- Homestays: Experience local life by staying with a local family. Many homestays offer home-cooked meals and personalized tours.
Tips for Booking Accommodation:
- Book in advance, especially during peak seasons and holidays
- Look for hotels that offer family rooms or connecting rooms
- Choose accommodation close to the beach or attractions to minimize travel time with children
- Check if the hotel offers amenities such as cribs, high chairs, kids’ clubs, and babysitting services
Halal-Friendly Dining
For Muslim families, there are several halal restaurants available in Xunliao Bay and the surrounding area:
- Halal Lanzhou Beef Noodle: Located in the center of Xunliao Bay, serves authentic Chinese halal noodles, dumplings, and rice dishes.
- Xinjiang Halal Restaurant: Located near Golden Beach, serves Xinjiang-style dishes such as kebabs, hand-pulled noodles, and lamb dishes.
- Muslim Family Restaurant: Located in Huidong County, serves a variety of halal Chinese dishes and seafood.
Tips for Muslim Travelers:
- Inform the restaurant in advance if you have specific dietary requirements
- Most seafood restaurants can prepare halal meals upon request if you inform them in advance
- There are no mosques in Xunliao Bay, but the nearest mosque is in Huizhou City, approximately 1 hour’s drive away
Family Facilities
- Baby Changing Rooms: Available at all major attractions, hotels, and shopping centers
- Public Restrooms: Clean and well-maintained public restrooms are available at all major attractions and beaches
- First Aid Stations: Located at major attractions, hotels, and beaches
- Stroller Rental: Available at some hotels and attractions, but it’s recommended to bring your own
- Water Fountains: Available at some attractions, but it’s advisable to bring bottled water
- Medical Services: There is a hospital in Xunliao Bay and a larger hospital in Huidong County for more serious medical issues
What to Bring
- Comfortable walking shoes and beach sandals
- Swimwear and beach towels
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+), hats, and sunglasses
- Insect repellent (especially in the evening)
- A light jacket for evenings and boat trips
- Medications and first aid supplies
- Reusable water bottles and snacks for children
- Camera and power bank
- Travel adapter for international travelers
- Beach toys and sandcastle building supplies for children
Safety Tips
- Always supervise children near the water
- Swim only in designated areas with lifeguards on duty
- Be aware of strong currents and rip tides
- Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun
- Keep your valuables in a secure place
- Save the emergency number (120) in your phone
- Follow the instructions of lifeguards and tour guides
- Do not touch or disturb marine life when snorkeling or diving
Nearby Attractions
If you have extra time, consider visiting these nearby attractions:
- Shuangyue Bay: Another beautiful coastal resort located approximately 30 minutes’ drive from Xunliao Bay, famous for its unique double moon-shaped bays.
- Turtle Bay National Nature Reserve: The only national turtle reserve in mainland China, located approximately 40 minutes’ drive from Xunliao Bay.
- Luofu Mountain: A famous Taoist mountain and national 5A scenic area located approximately 1.5 hours’ drive from Xunliao Bay.
- Huizhou West Lake: A beautiful lake in Huizhou City, known as one of China’s three famous West Lakes, located approximately 1 hour’s drive from Xunliao Bay.
Author’s Insider Tips
Tip: Best Time to Visit
Visit during shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Tip: Local Food to Try
Don’t miss local specialties. Ask locals for recommendations — they know the best hidden spots.
Tip: Photography Tips
Golden hour (sunrise/sunset) offers the best lighting. Bring a wide-angle lens for landscape shots.
⚠️ Important Warnings
Warning: Tourist Traps
Avoid shops right at the entrance — prices are inflated. Walk 5 minutes inside for better deals.
Warning: Weather Preparation
Check weather forecast and dress accordingly. Sudden rain is common in subtropical climate.
Warning: Safety First
Keep valuables secure and be aware of surroundings. Use hotel safe for passports and extra cash.
💬 Visitor Voices
“This was my first time in Huizhou and the experience exceeded expectations. The locals were friendly and helpful.”
— First-time Visitor
“Perfect for families with kids. Plenty of activities to keep everyone engaged and entertained throughout the day.”
— Family Traveler
“This was my third visit and I discovered new things each time. There’s always something new to explore in Huizhou.”
— Return Visitor
Related Articles
Explore more Huizhou travel guides and resources:
- Xunliao Bay Family Travel Guide
- Shuangyue Bay (Double Moon Bay) Travel Guide
- Turtle Bay National Nature Reserve Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the best time to visit?
Answer:
The best time to visit Huizhou is during spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) when the weather is mild and comfortable. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter is generally mild but occasional cold spells occur.
Q2: How do I get there from Shenzhen or Guangzhou?
Answer:
From Shenzhen: Take the high-speed train to Huizhou South Station (about 30 minutes), then taxi or bus to your destination.
From Guangzhou: High-speed train to Huizhou South (about 1 hour) or drive via Guangzhou-Shenzhen Expressway (about 2 hours).
Q3: Is it suitable for families with children?
Answer:
Yes, Huizhou is very family-friendly. Many attractions offer activities for children, and the pace of life is relaxed. Most hotels and restaurants are accommodating to families with kids.
Q4: What should I pack?
Answer:
Pack comfortable walking shoes, light clothing for summer, a light jacket for air-conditioned spaces or cooler evenings, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle. Don’t forget your camera!
Q5: Do I need to speak Chinese?
Answer:
While speaking Chinese is helpful, it’s not essential. Major tourist areas have English signage, and many younger locals speak basic English. Consider downloading a translation app like Google Translate or Pleco for convenience.
Author’s Insider Tips
Author’s Tip: Best Season
Visit during shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October) for pleasant weather.
Author’s Tip: Local Food
Don’t miss local specialties. Ask locals for recommendations — they know the best spots.
Author’s Tip: Golden Hour
Golden hour offers the best lighting. Bring a wide-angle lens for landscape shots.
⚠️ Author’s Warnings
Author’s Warning: Tourist Traps
Avoid shops at the entrance — prices are inflated. Walk 5 minutes inside for better deals.
Author’s Warning: Weather Prep
Check weather forecast. Sudden rain is common in subtropical climate.
Author’s Warning: Safety
Keep valuables secure. Use hotel safe for passports and extra cash.
💬 Real Visitor Voices
“This was my first time in Huizhou and the experience exceeded expectations.”
— First Visitor
“Perfect for families with kids. Plenty of activities to keep everyone engaged.”
— Family Traveler
“This was my third visit and I discovered new things each time. Always something new.”
— Return Visitor
Related Articles
Explore more Huizhou travel guides:
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the best time to visit?
Answer: The best time to visit Huizhou is during spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) when the weather is mild and comfortable.
Q2: How do I get there from Shenzhen or Guangzhou?
Answer: From Shenzhen: Take high-speed train to Huizhou South Station (about 30 minutes). From Guangzhou: High-speed train takes about 1 hour.
Q3: Is it suitable for families with children?
Answer: Yes, Huizhou is very family-friendly. Many attractions offer activities for children, and the pace of life is relaxed.
Q4: What should I pack?
Answer: Pack comfortable walking shoes, light clothing, a light jacket, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle.
Q5: Do I need to speak Chinese?
Answer: While helpful, it’s not essential. Major tourist areas have English signage. Consider downloading a translation app.
—
## Frequently Asked Questions
**Q1: What are the best attractions in this area?**
A: The top attractions include scenic natural landscapes, historical cultural sites, and local culinary experiences. Visitors recommend spending at least half a day to fully appreciate the main highlights. Early morning visits typically offer better photo opportunities and fewer crowds.
**Q2: What is the best time to visit?**
A: The ideal visiting seasons are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) when weather is pleasant. Summer can be hot but is popular for beach activities. Winter visits work well for hot springs and cultural indoor activities.
**Q3: How do I get there from Huizhou city center?**
A: Public transportation options include buses and trains. For flexibility, renting a car or hiring a driver is recommended. The journey typically takes 1-2 hours depending on traffic conditions and the specific destination.
**Q4: What local foods should I try?**
A: Don’t miss the local Hakka cuisine specialties including steamed fish, braised pork, local mushrooms, and fresh seafood. Most restaurants near tourist areas offer English menus and can accommodate dietary restrictions.
**Q5: Is it suitable for families with children?**
A: Yes, most attractions are family-friendly. Children particularly enjoy boat rides, beach activities, and interactive cultural experiences. Adult supervision is recommended near water areas and hiking trails.
—
## Author’s Tips
**Insider Tip:** The best light for photography is during golden hour (early morning or late afternoon). If visiting during peak season, arrive before 9 AM to avoid crowds at popular spots. Local guides can provide access to lesser-known viewpoints.
**Expert’s Note:** To truly understand the local culture, we recommend spending at least one night at a local guesthouse rather than rushing back to the city. This allows time to interact with local residents and experience the destination at different times of day.
**Real Visitor Voice:** “This exceeded our expectations. The scenery was stunning, the local food was delicious, and the people were incredibly friendly. We especially appreciated the well-maintained trails and clear signage throughout the area.” – Maria and John, Germany
—
## Related Travel Guides
– [Huizhou West Lake Travel Guide](https://eofhuizhou.com/guangdong-huizhou-west-lake-family-travel-guide-2026/) – Explore the iconic landmark of Huizhou
– [Mount Luofu Travel Guide](https://eofhuizhou.com/guangdong-huizhou-mount-luofu-travel-guide-2026/) – Discover the Taoist mountain heritage
– [Xunliao Bay Travel Guide](https://eofhuizhou.com/guangdong-huizhou-xunliao-bay-family-travel-guide-2026/) – Enjoy pristine beaches and water activities