Things To Do
in Nan’ao
Nan'ao is a coastal island county off the coast of eastern Guangdong, administered by Shantou City. The island blends rugged granite coastlines, quiet sandy bays and small fishing villages with strong Teochew (Chaoshan) cultural flavor. Visitors come for fresh seafood, scenic coastal drives, and outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling and snorkeling.
Compared with mainland cities, Nan'ao offers a relaxed, low-key atmosphere and easy access to regional cultural sites in Shantou and Chaozhou.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk along the scenic Nan'ao coastline, breathing in the salty sea air as the sun rises. Stop by a local seafood market to witness the daily catch being unloaded, and maybe pick up some fresh ingredients for later. Enjoy a traditional Chinese breakfast at a nearby eatery, savoring the flavors of congee and dim sum.
Spend the afternoon visiting the Nan'ao Island Museum, where you can learn about the rich maritime history and culture of the region. Afterward, relax on the pristine beaches, soaking up the sun and enjoying the gentle waves lapping at your feet. Consider renting a kayak to explore the nearby coves and secluded spots, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the area.
As the sun sets, head to a beachside restaurant for dinner, indulging in fresh seafood dishes while listening to the soothing sounds of the ocean. After your meal, stroll along the beach, watching the stars come out as the night sky envelops you. End the evening with a visit to a local bar, enjoying a cocktail while mingling with friendly locals.
Begin your day by visiting the historic Nan'ao Temple, a serene spot filled with intricate carvings and a calming atmosphere. You can participate in a morning prayer session, experiencing the spiritual side of life on the island. Afterward, take some time to explore the temple grounds, capturing beautiful photographs of the architecture and nature.
In the afternoon, head to the nearby Kwan Tai Temple, where you can learn about its significance and the traditional rituals performed there. Interact with the local worshippers, gaining insights into their beliefs and customs. Afterward, wander through the surrounding village, observing the local crafts and perhaps picking up a handmade souvenir.
As night falls, attend a local festival if one is taking place, filled with vibrant performances and delicious street food. Experience the lively atmosphere as local artists showcase their talents in dance and music. Conclude your evening with a quiet moment at the beach, reflecting on the day's cultural experiences.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-8 |
| ☕Coffee / Tea at a cafe | $1.50-4 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride (within town) | $2-6 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel per night | $40-90 |
| 🍺Local beer (restaurant) | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful, less-crowded coastal scenery and beaches
- Excellent, fresh seafood and strong Teochew culinary culture
- Good base for outdoor activities: hiking, cycling, fishing
- Close enough to Shantou/Chaozhou for day trips to larger cultural sites
- Limited English-language services and tourist infrastructure
- Transport options and ferry schedules can be disrupted in typhoon season
- Fewer nightlife and entertainment options compared with larger cities
- Medical facilities for serious emergencies may require transfer to the mainland
- "你好" - Hello
- "谢谢" - Thank you
- "请问厕所在哪？" - Excuse me, where is the restroom?
- "多少钱？" - How much does it cost?
- "我对贝类过敏" - I am allergic to shellfish
Places to Visit in Nan’ao
Visit one of these nice places.
Granite cliffs, rocky headlands and dramatic sea stacks along the east coast offer sunrise and late-afternoon light for sweeping coastal panoramas.
Colorful fishing boats, nets and daily market activity create intimate documentary-style photo opportunities of island life.
Quieter sandy bays provide compositions of surfers, swimmers and wide coastal horizons — best at golden hour.
Lighthouse promontories and nearby trails give elevated vantage points for panoramic sea views and long-exposure shots.
Narrow lanes, traditional teahouses and temple facades capture local architecture and cultural details.
Food in Nan’ao
Nan’ao Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A selection of locally caught fish, clams, crabs and shellfish simply steamed or stir-fried; best found at harbor-side restaurants and seafood stands.
Must-Try!
Loose, watery rice porridge served with small plates of pickled vegetables, braised meats, and fresh seafood — common in morning markets and teahouses.
Local variations of slow-braised poultry using light soy and spices; served at family restaurants and specialty stalls.
Simply grilled or stir-fried with garlic and preserved vegetables; available at markets and seaside eateries.
Cold-prepared seafood with light seasoning — seasonal and prized for freshness, often found in specialty restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Watch auctions and local buyers choose the day's catch; vendors sell live fish, shellfish, and ready-to-eat snacks — try fresh seafood congee or steamed clams here.
Small evening stalls selling grilled squid, skewers and local sweets; a good place to sample street-style seafood and local snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be polite and reserved; avoid loud behavior in small villages. When visiting temples, dress modestly and follow any rules about photography or offerings.
Accept tea when offered; in communal meals, try a little of each dish and avoid leaving large amounts uneaten. Use both hands when passing items in more formal contexts.
Be patient in queues and public transport; cut-ins may happen in busy markets, but staying calm is appreciated.
Avoid political topics or sensitive questions about local governance; stick to neutral conversation about food, weather and travel.
Safety
Tipping in Nan’ao
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not widely expected in most local restaurants and shops; small tips for exceptional service are appreciated but not required. For guides, boat crews or private drivers, a modest tip is customary if you were pleased.
Mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) are widespread for local purchases; cash (CNY) is still useful in markets and small stalls. International credit cards are accepted at some hotels and larger restaurants, but not everywhere — carry cash or ensure you can use mobile payment with an international card or local SIM.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming vegetation make spring pleasant for hiking and cycling; occasional rain showers become more frequent toward late spring.
Hot, humid and sunny — ideal for swimming and snorkeling but expect frequent afternoon thunderstorms and the peak of typhoon season (July–September) which can disrupt ferries and outdoor plans.
Often the best time to visit: warm days, cooler evenings, clearer skies and lower rainfall; great for outdoor activities and photography.
Mild and relatively dry compared with northern China — temperatures are comfortable for sightseeing though chilly nights sometimes occur and water activities are limited.
Nan’ao at Night
Hiking in Nan’ao
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A moderate trail along the island's eastern cliffs offering dramatic sea views, good for sunrise/sunset photography; sections may be rocky and exposed.
Shaded trails through coastal woodland with lookout points and short loops suitable for families and birdwatching.
Short, steep path to the island lighthouse and cape viewpoints — excellent panoramas of the surrounding sea and nearby islets.
Lower-elevation walks connecting interior villages to secluded bays and beaches — cultural as well as scenic, passing through farmland and fishing hamlets.
Airports
How to reach Nan’ao by plane.
The closest major airport for most visitors; around 1.5–2.5 hours by road to Nan'ao depending on route and connections (some routes use the coastal highway and bridge). From the airport take a taxi or regional bus toward Shantou then local transport to the island.
Larger international hub about 3–4+ hours by car (longer by public transport); useful if combining travel with Shenzhen or Hong Kong. From Shenzhen you can drive or take train/bus toward Shantou and then connect to Nan'ao.
Major international airport serving Guangdong province — about 4–5+ hours by car/train to Nan'ao; good option for international flights with onward domestic connections to Jieyang/Shantou.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority speak Teochew dialect and maintain distinct cultural practices, cuisine and tea culture; many are ethnically Han Chinese with strong regional identity.
A large portion of the local population is involved in fishing, seafood processing and agriculture; small family businesses dominate the local economy.
Domestic tourists (especially from nearby Guangdong and Fujian) swell visitor numbers in summer and holiday periods, supporting hospitality and food services.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Both a livelihood and a popular recreational activity — anglers can fish from piers or join boats to fish offshore.
Traditional in coastal Guangdong—community events and races often take place around the Duanwu (Dragon Boat) Festival.
Swimming, snorkeling, and seasonal wind- or kite-surfing where conditions permit; some beaches may host casual volleyball or watersport activities.
Leisure cycling around the island is popular among visitors and locals for sightseeing and exercise.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nan’ao.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist but are limited compared with urban centers; request simple vegetable stir-fries, tofu dishes and congee without fish stock, and be explicit about no seafood or animal-based sauces.
Excellent choice — seafood is abundant and widely available; specify preparation methods (steamed/grilled) to avoid hidden lard or meat stocks.
Seafood and shellfish are staples — communicate allergies clearly in Mandarin (e.g., “我对贝类过敏” — “I’m allergic to shellfish”) and avoid shared utensils if severe.