Daya Bay (大亚湾), located in the southeast of Huizhou, covers an area of nearly 500 square kilometers and features around a hundred islands and reefs. It enjoys a typical subtropical marine climate, with an average annual temperature of 21.8°C. Surrounded by mountains on three sides and opening to the South China Sea, the bay resembles the bottom of a large bag. The underwater terrain is flat, contributing to calm waters year-round.
Historically, Daya Bay has been a trading port due to its convenient land and sea transport. The bay is rich in marine biodiversity, with abundant fish and shellfish resources, including renowned seafood like “Water Gui You Fish” and “Sanmen Lobster,” which are highly regarded in Hong Kong, Macau, and Southeast Asian countries.
A great way to experience Daya Bay is by taking a boat tour or going fishing, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the local fishing lifestyle. The extensive coastline is dotted with numerous islands, such as Sanmen Island, Dajia Island, Xiaojia Island, and Dongsheng Island. Visitors can also take a boat to one of these islands to enjoy their pristine natural beauty.
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Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 1 day |
| Ticket Price | Free |
| Opening Hours | 24 hours a day throughout the year |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0752-3351567 |
Location and Transportation
Daya Bay is located in the Huizhou region of Guangdong Province, nestled between Honghai Bay and Dapeng Bay in the Huizhou Huayang District. To get there, you can take public buses 188, 189, or 201, which will take you to the Xiasha Village bus stop. From there, it’s a short walk to the bay.
Highlights of Daya Bay
Qingquan Temple: Qingquan Temple is situated at the foot of a mountain, 2 kilometers north of Xiayong Town, and was established during the Qing Dynasty. The temple is flanked by two springs with different sources, known for their sweet and refreshing water. Remarkably, the springs remain constant throughout the rainy season and dry season, earning the nickname “Longevity Water” from locals. Legend has it that these springs were brought down by Miaolan, the youngest sister of the Goddess Guanyin.
Three Trees Viewing Platform: The Three Trees Viewing Platform is located at the site of the largest joint venture project in China—the China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC) and Shell’s Nanhai Petrochemical Project. The three ancient trees stand as silent witnesses to the significant changes in Daya Bay and the development of the petrochemical project.
Panda Gold Coast: Panda Gold Coast is nestled within the picturesque Xiayong Office area. This beautiful beach features gentle slopes, fine white sand, and crystal-clear water. A silver crescent-shaped beach stretches between lush green protective belts that wind for miles on either side, resembling the elegant sleeves of a lotus fairy.
Chuan Zhou Island: Chuan Zhou Island, also known as “Zhu Island,” features a cave resembling a door that was once navigable. According to local legend, ancestors would stop at the stone gate to rest and pray before heading out to sea for fishing or other livelihoods. Though boats can no longer enter the island, the name “Chuan Zhou Island” has persisted through time.
Sanmen Island: Sanmen Island is the largest island in Daya Bay, roughly the size of Gulangyu Island in Xiamen. Facing the vast Pacific Ocean, its unique history as a military restricted zone has preserved it as a rare ecological island. Since the Qing Dynasty, it has served as a vital maritime gateway and military stronghold. With lush green mountains and abundant freshwater resources, the island is home to over 2,000 plant species, earning it the nickname “Paradise for Marine Flora and Fauna.”
Dajia Island: Once a crucial military outpost, Dajia Island covers an area of 2.3 square kilometers. The expansive waters around it are crystal clear, and the beaches are flat and smooth, making it a natural bathing area. The island is lush with vegetation, creating a charming coastal atmosphere that enchants visitors.
