THE Department of Ecology and Environment of Guangdong Province has unveiled 16 ecological tourism itineraries, each highlighting unique natural and cultural elements across 16 cities.

Let’s explore the Shenzhen itinerary, which mainly features coastal promenades and beaches —ideal for a relaxing getaway: Dongchong and Xichong — Yangmeikeng — Observatory Coastal Boardwalk — Jiaochangwei — Yantian Coastal Promenade — Shenzhen Bay Coastal Promenade — Qianhai Stone Park Coastal Promenade — Xiwan Mangrove Coastal Promenade.

Dongchong and Xichong 东西涌

Located in Dapeng New Area in eastern Shenzhen, Dongchong and Xichong are famous seaside hiking routes that combine mountain trails with scenic coastlines. Listed by National Geographic as one of China’s top 10 most beautiful hiking trails, the 7-kilometer routes showcase diverse marine landforms — beaches, reefs, sea-eroded rocks, caves, and stone pillars.

Jiaochangwei 较场尾

This charming coastal village in Dapeng once served as a training ground for soldiers from centuries-old Dapeng Fortress. Facing the popular marine sports destination Longqi Bay, Jiaochangwei spans some 330,000 square meters with about 3 kilometers of shoreline. The village now hosts nearly 300 inns and B&Bs.

Yangmeikeng 杨梅坑

Nestled south of Qiniang Mountain and overlooking Daya Bay to the north, Yangmeikeng is a stunning area featuring well-preserved sea cliffs, caves, and wave-cut platforms. Covering 6.5 square kilometers with 16.5 kilometers of coastline, this area in Dapeng offers fascinating natural scenery.

Shenzhen Bay Coastal Promenade 深圳湾滨海栈道

A highlight of the Shenzhen Bay leisure corridor, this 19.6-kilometer promenade extends from the Mangrove Ecological Park in Futian District to Sea World in Nanshan District. Visitors can enjoy views of mangrove wetlands, Hong Kong islands, the Shenzhen Bay Bridge, and stunning sunrises and sunsets.

Observatory Coastal Boardwalk 天文台海滨栈道

Perched atop a cliff near Xichong Beach and adjacent to the Shenzhen Astronomical Observatory, this 900-meter boardwalk includes over 600 stone steps and wooden walkways. Visitors are rewarded with sweeping views of the crystal-clear sea and unique reefs.

Yantian Coastal Promenade 盐田海滨栈道

This promenade in Yantian District offers a blend of urban leisure, port views, and natural ecological scenery. Beginning at the Zhongying Street Pagoda Park in the west, it links Shatoujiao, Yantian Port, and Dameisha, before ending at Xiaomeisha. Stretching 19.5 kilometers, it is considered one of the longest and most beautiful coastal promenades worldwide.

Qianhai Stone Park Coastal Promenade 前海石公园滨海栈道

Located in the Guiwan area, this 1.1-kilometer walkway forms part of Qianhai Stone Park and Qianhai Performing Arts Park.

Xiwan Mangrove Coastal Promenade 西湾红树林滨海栈道

Situated at Xiwan Mangrove Park in Bao’an District, this 3-kilometer promenade offers visitors close-up views of lush mangrove forests. At low tide, visitors can spot mudskippers and small crabs, while also enjoying distant sights of the Yanjiang Expressway and the cross-sea bridge.

(Cao Zhen)