Things to Do in Nan'ao in 2025 - Top Attractions, Local Food, Hotels & Travel Tips (Updated May, 2025) | Trip.com

About Nan'ao

Recommended trip: 2–4 day(s)

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Nan'ao Local Travel Guide 2025

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Nan'ao Brief Guide

Nan'ao, which is part of Shantou City in Guangdong Province, consists of Nan'ao Island and its 33 surrounding islands. Nan'ao has always been an important node for trade on the southeast coast and a major channel for trade with Taiwan. Famous visitors to Nan'ao include the Emperor of the Southern Song Dynasty, the great navigator Zheng He, and Qi Jiguang. They left behind historical sites such as the ancient Song Well, Military Recruiting Tree and Xiongzhen Pass.

Nan'ao Must-try Local Experiences

1. Explore the Scenic Nan'ao Island Nan'ao Island offers stunning coastal scenery, pristine beaches, and lush greenery. Enjoy hiking, beachcombing, and exploring the island's natural beauty. 2. Visit the Nanao Ancient City Explore the well-preserved historical buildings and ancient streets of Nanao Ancient City to learn about the area's rich history and culture. 3. Experience the Wupingzhai Wharf Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere at Wupingzhai Wharf, watch local fishermen at work, sample fresh seafood, and take in picturesque harbor views. 4. Discover the Nan'ao Museum Learn about Nanao's maritime history and culture at the Nan'ao Museum, featuring exhibits on local fishing traditions, marine life, and historical artifacts. 5. Sample Local Cuisine Indulge in Nanao's culinary delights, including fresh seafood dishes, traditional snacks, and local specialties like Nanao fish balls and seafood hotpot. 6. Photograph the Lighthouse of Qian'ao Bay Visit the iconic Nanao Lighthouse and take photos of its striking architecture against the backdrop of the sea for memorable moments.

Nan'ao Must-see Attractions

Nan'ao is renowned for its natural beauty and significant cultural highlights, encompassing Qing'ao Bay's stunning beaches, Nan'ao Bridge's unique architecture and historical sites such as Song Well and Lu Xiu Fu's Mausoleum, making it a diverse destination for natural and cultural tourism.

Nan'ao Food Guide

Nan'ao Island cuisine primarily features seafood, including grouper, lobster, white shrimp, and red-clawed crabs. The dishes are not only tasty and diverse but also offer great value and are bursting with local flavor.

Nan'ao Transportation

Nan'ao Island is a key transit point for commerce and tourism in southeastern China, accessible by various modes of transportation. Visitors can reach the island by high-speed rail, plane, or bus from Shantou City, which serves as the nearest major urban center with transportation links to the island. The most common intercity travel options include ferry and passenger ship services, as well as coach buses. The bus service from Shantou Bus Station to the island operates three times a day, providing a convenient link for travelers.

Nan'ao Where to Stay

Nan'ao Island is characterized by a range of tranquil and picturesque landscapes, from serene beaches like Qing'ao Bay to lush eco-tourism zones like the Nan’ao Island Eco-Tourist Area. This diversity allows for varied accommodation options across its regions, appealing to different types of travelers.

Nan'ao Best Time To Visit

The best time to visit is during April, May, September, and October. During these months, the island's climate is particularly pleasant, with a warm winter and cool summer, making it ideal for exploring the beautiful beaches, mountains, and historic temples. The sea breeze during these times ensures comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy the renowned spots with the added comfort of modestly-priced accommodations and delicious local seafood dishes.

Nan'ao Useful Guide

Local people predominantly speak the Chaoshan dialect. While Mandarin is the official language, the presence of various dialects and languages such as Cantonese and Hakka is likely due to the region's historical trade connections and cultural exchanges. For travelers, overcoming language barriers can involve using translation apps or learning key Mandarin phrases. Non-verbal communication like gestures can also be effective. Multilingualism varies among locals, with some also speaking English, especially in tourist areas.