Three Days and Two Nights in Rizhao: The Ultimate Guide to Tide Pooling, Surfing, and Fresh Seafood

With its blue sea and sky, golden sandy waves, Rizhao, the "Eastern Sun City" on the Shandong Peninsula, connects poetic coastal scenery along 438 kilometers of coastline. Whether it's family tide pooling, couples watching the sunrise, or foodies seeking fresh catches, everyone can find their own joy. This guide covers the essentials of dining, accommodation, and transportation to help you unlock an in-depth Rizhao experience. --- **Itinerary Suggestions: Roam to the Rhythm of the Sunrise** **Day 1: First Encounter with Coastal Charm** Morning: Upon arrival, head straight to Wanpingkou Scenic Area (Gate 1) to check in at the "Tide Tower" for a 360° panoramic sea view. The popular swing at Gate 3 and the wedding photo base are perfect for great shots. Afternoon: Experience the ancient fishing town culture at Dongyi Town. Don’t miss clam pancakes and yellow croaker wraps. Before dusk, go to Lighthouse Square to catch a sunset over the Orange Sea. **Day 2: Adventures in Forest and Sea** All day: Focus on Rizhao Coastal National Forest Park! Take the Ferris wheel for a bird’s-eye view of the forest and sea meeting, hike through the dawn redwood forest, then rush to Jinshatan Beach to rent a tent and relax listening to the waves. At low tide (check the tide table), bring a shovel to Renjiatai Reef Park to dig clams and catch crabs. **Day 3: Culture and Fresh Flavors to End** Morning: Travel back in time at the Ancient City of Juguo, watch Hanfu parades, and try intangible cultural heritage rubbings. In the afternoon, shop at Shijiu Seafood Market, then have your seafood cooked at nearby processing shops for a 10 yuan per dish service fee to enjoy seafood freedom! --- ▌Top 5 Must-Visit Attractions 1. **Wanpingkou Seaside Park**: 7 kilometers of free coastline with clearly divided sports beach and children’s playground zones. 2. **Rizhao Ocean Park**: Walk through the underwater tunnel to see stingrays swimming close by, and experience the stunning silverfish storm theater. 3. **Lighthouse Square**: The perfect spot to watch the sunrise, where reefs and the lighthouse frame a scene like a painting. 4. **Sunshine Coast Camping Park**: Stay overnight in beach wooden cabins and enjoy romantic seaside barbecues and open-air movies. 5. **Egret Bay Art Town**: A must for art lovers, with art galleries and Maple Forest Bookstore to while away the afternoon. --- ▌Local Insider Fresh Food Guide **Night Market Must-Go’s**: University Town Night Market (sea sand noodles + oyster pancakes), Nashanhai Night Market (steamed seafood towers). **Reputable Old Shops**: - Chocolate Fisherman’s House: Affordable live-caught steamed seafood pots that beat trendy restaurants - Qianwangyuan Seafood Restaurant: Authentic Jiaodong style, must-try mixed fish potstickers **Avoid Scams Tip**: Be cautious with large roadside stalls in scenic areas! Look for the "Rizhao Catering Association Recommended Unit" sign or shops rated above 4.5. --- ▌Practical Tips 1. Transportation: The "Rizhao Tourism Express" bus connects major attractions; Didi rides are more cost-effective; renting an electric bike for 50 yuan/day is very convenient for coastal rides. 2. Sun Protection: UV rays are strong! Prepare high-SPF sunscreen, a sun hat, and sunglasses. 3. Tide Pooling Gear: Buy stainless steel shovels and crab tongs online in advance (prices double in scenic spots), and wear non-slip rubber shoes. 4. Accommodation: During peak season, stay near the Lighthouse or Wanpingkou for sea views from your window; if prices surge, consider the Wanda business district in the city center. --- **Recommended Hashtags**