The ultimate guide to Xiaomeisha, Shenzhen

Feeling the ocean breeze on your face and listening to the rhythm of the waves – reconnecting with nature is what draws visitors to Shenzhen’s seaside town of Xiaomeisha. Following a major revamp in 2021, the area affectionately dubbed “Oriental Hawaii” has returned with new attractions. One of the hottest beach destinations in the Greater Bay Area, Xiaomeisha offers a balance of relaxation and outdoor adventure. Whether you’re planning a laid-back family holiday or seeking water-based thrills, this elegant coastal gem promises a sun-soaked escape.

Where to go

Xiaomeisha Beach entices visitors with its graceful crescent of powder-white sand, framed by mountains on three sides. The picturesque shoreline is lined with stalls selling delicious skewers and fresh young coconuts; on the western end, a water sports centre offers speedboat rides, flyboarding, banana boating and other daredevil activities. As dusk settles, wander along the shore and take in the golden hues of sunset. If you’re visiting in the summer, don’t miss the seaside gig series – this year, you can catch music sessions every Friday to Sunday until 31 August.

East of the park, the Xiaomeisha Coastal Cycling Path offers a scenic route for a leisurely afternoon stroll, eventually leading to the charming seaside walkway. As you descend its steps, the jungle hums with the chirps and whirrs of insects on one side, while waves crash against the rugged shoreline on the other. The path culminates at the red-and-white Beizaijiao Lighthouse, which rises against a vivid azure backdrop. On the return, a staircase leads to Wanghai Library – a striking yellow and green container-inspired structure. Pause here for a reflective moment – a book in hand, the sea crashing nearby.

Where to eat

Head to Fiamma at MGM Shenzhen for Mediterranean favourites spanning the cuisines of Spain, Greece and Italy. We recommend the flavourful Mortadella pizza and Wagyu beef tartare, topped with salmon roe for a burst of umami.

For the freshest catch of the day, make your way to Nanhai Fishing Boat on Haiqin Road, Yantian. Try the stir-fried mantis shrimp with spiced salt – a meaty bite enriched with savoury roe. When the sun goes down, Yanmei Road night market (just one metro stop away) is the place to go. Sample street food from roadside stalls or head straight to Wu Gu Fang on Haidu Street for its signature roast pigeon – a dish recognised on Unesco’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list.

Where to stay

Stay in one of the Seaview Rooms at MGM Shenzhen , complete with a private balcony, and you may find yourself lingering all day, captivated by the view. Prefer to be poolside? You have two to choose from: the shell-shaped outdoor pool on the first floor and the seaside infinity pool. Guests also enjoy complimentary access to Xiaomeisha Beach Park via a private entrance. 

Families with young children will love the outdoor playground water slides and indoor climbing walls of the ocean-themed Patio playground. Alternatively, join one of the hotel’s curated workshops for some parent-child bonding. If you’re looking for a few moments of peace, take advantage of the daycare service provided by Leo Kids Club. 

From Tuesday to Sunday, guests can round off the evening at the M Show – an entertaining programme of clown acts and laser displays, performed in true Vegas style. The fire dance, in particular, dazzles with its blinding brilliance. For a nightcap, make your way over to rooftop Bar18 – a stylish watering hole featuring refined sips and live bands after dark.

What to know

Travelling from our home city? Our handy travel guide details all the ways you can get to Shenzhen from Hong Kong. Once in the city, hop on the Shenzhen Metro Line 8 – it takes around 30 minutes to reach Xiaomeisha, the final stop. Take Exit A and cross the road to arrive at the beach.

Digital wallets, such as WeChat Pay and Alipay, are widely used across the Chinese Mainland, and many places don’t accept cash or credit cards. Be sure to set up your mobile payment options in advance to ensure a smooth journey – you can read more about staying connected here.