Liandao Island
连岛
Jiangsu's largest island, connected to the mainland by a sea-blocking embankment. Dashawan Beach, Sumawan Bay and seafood at the fishing harbour make it Jiangsu's most typical island resort.
Liandao Island lies in the sea north of Lianyun District, covering about 7.6 square kilometres. It is Jiangsu's largest island. The 6.7-km West Embankment, completed in 1993, connects it to the mainland. It is one of the longer sea-blocking embankments in China, and you can reach the island by car or bus. The island has an eastern and a western part. Dashawan Beach is one of Jiangsu's finest natural beaches, busiest in summer for swimming, playing in the water and building sandcastles. Sumawan Ecological Park sits with its back to the hills and faces the sea. Its sand is finer and more secluded, the water is clearer, and it has forest trails and sea-view platforms. The island also has fishing villages and a harbour, where you can watch the fishing boats come in, buy fresh seafood and eat at open-air stalls. At low tide you can dig for shellfish. A visit takes half a day to a full day. The island's shuttle bus costs about 25 yuan round trip; beach facilities and boat trips are charged separately. Notes: weekend traffic on the embankment can be heavy in summer, so arrive early. Swim only within the shark nets and lifeguard zones, and bring sunscreen and mosquito repellent. Getting there: take a BRT or bus to Liandao from the city, or drive for about 40 minutes.
Opening hours
Beach open in summer, usually about 07:00–18:00 (per scenic area announcements)