Embark on a memorable three-day journey in Yantai, where stunning coastal landscapes and rich cultural experiences await. This itinerary takes you from the picturesque Yantai Mountain, with its historic consulate buildings and breathtaking views, to the enchanting Penglai Pavilion, known for its legendary tales. Enjoy thrilling water park adventures and explore the wonders of marine life at the Ocean Polar World. Conclude your trip with scenic coastal walks and delightful local cuisine, making this family-friendly adventure a perfect getaway for all ages.
Day 1: Yantai Mountain Scenic Area > Zhangyu Wine Culture Museum > 37-Degree Dream Sea Water Park
Begin your adventure in Yantai, named after Yantai Mountain, which is surrounded by the sea on three sides. This scenic area boasts a beautiful environment covering 45 hectares, with stunning coastal views, clear waters, and unique rock formations. At the base of the mountain lies Asia’s largest modern consulate building complex, featuring a mix of architectural styles, including classical and early British apartment designs. After exploring the mountain, head to the Zhangyu Wine Culture Museum, where you can taste exquisite wines from their century-old underground cellars. In the afternoon, make your way to the 37-Degree Dream Sea Water Park at the Jinhai Beach Resort, which offers over 30 world-class water attractions, including wave pools and water roller coasters. After enjoying the park, take a stroll along the beach, and as evening falls, visit the romantic Tianma Pier to admire the seaside night view.
Accommodation: Nearby the 37-Degree Dream Sea, the Sheraton Hotel at Jinhai Beach (金沙滩喜来登度假酒店) offers upscale lodging, while there are budget and business hotels available on Huanghe Road and Changjiang Road.
Dining: For lunch, enjoy local specialties like yellow flower fish, steamed crabs, sea cucumbers, and spicy stir-fried clams at restaurants like Dongshun Garden (东顺园) and Penglai Chun (蓬莱春) near Yantai Mountain. For dinner, savor fresh seafood at the Jinhai Beach Resort.
Day 2: Penglai Pavilion > Ocean Polar World
On your second day, venture to the enchanting Penglai. A must-visit is the Penglai Pavilion, which consists of several significant buildings, including the Tianhou Temple and Lüzudiao. After exploring the ancient architecture, take a cable car to the top of Tianheng Mountain for a breathtaking view of the intersection between the Yellow Sea and the Bohai Sea. In the afternoon, explore the Ocean Polar World, home to the largest tropical rainforest exhibit in China, seal and turtle islands, and various marine life displays. This attraction combines scientific research, education, and artistic displays, providing an interactive experience for visitors.
Accommodation: There are many budget and business hotels available near Zhonglou North Road and Beiguan Road, such as 7 Days Inn and Jinjiang Inn. The Penglai Ponda Golden Harbor Hotel is conveniently located near the passenger terminal for easy access to Changdao the next morning.
Dining: Enjoy seafood and local dishes like Penglai noodles at nearby restaurants such as Jianxing Restaurant (建兴饭店), Lao Xu Noodle House (老徐小面), or Fisherman’s Wharf (渔人码头). You can also try your hand at cooking seafood at various fishing family restaurants.
Day 3: Jiu Zhang Cliff > Crescent Bay Park > Xianjingyuan > Wangfu Reef
On your final day, start early and head to Changdao to visit Jiu Zhang Cliff, where mountains, sea, reefs, and ancient sites come together, making it a perfect spot for sightseeing, fishing, and photography. Next, stroll along the pebble paths of Crescent Bay Park before continuing to Xianjingyuan, known as the “First Village in Northern China.” This area is said to be where the Eight Immortals resided and where ancient emperors sought immortality. Along the way, take a moment to catch a glimpse of Wangfu Reef.
Accommodation: After your adventures on Changdao, return to Penglai for a more affordable stay. You can choose from budget hotels on Zhonglou North Road or in fishing family accommodations.
Dining: Sample local delicacies such as seaweed buns, jellyfish soup, seafood barbecue, and fresh fish dumplings at nearby fishing family restaurants like Laoyumin Dumplings (老渔民饺子) and Shanghaixuan (尚海轩渔家).