Linked to Shantou by a long sea bridge, Nan'ao is Guangdong's only island county — a breezy ring of beaches, windmill-topped ridges, seafood harbours and a small but layered maritime history.
History & culture
A strategic outpost guarding the approaches to the Chaoshan coast, Nan'ao saw Ming and Qing garrisons, pirate legends and foreign trade, and retains old forts and a former 'island governor's' yamen.
What to see & do
- ◆The cross-sea Nan'ao Bridge approach
- ◆Qing'ao Bay beaches
- ◆The ridge-top wind-farm coastal road
- ◆Nan'ao General's Mansion (old island administration)
- ◆Fishing harbours and seafood markets
What to eat
- ●Just-caught island seafood
- ●Nan'ao seaweed and oysters
- ●Teochew-style fish and rice dishes
Getting there
Drive or bus across the Nan'ao Bridge from Shantou (about an hour); a scooter or car is handy to loop the island.
Avoid the pitfalls
- Summer holidays and weekends crowd the bridge and beaches — go midweek.
- Public transport on the island is limited; renting wheels helps.
- Typhoon season can close the bridge or ferries; check the forecast.
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