Weizhou Island

Weizhou Island is a volcanic island in Guangxi Province, 21 nautical miles south of Beihai City. China National Geographic Magazine named it one of the "Ten Most Beautiful Islands in China." This is China's largest and youngest volcanic island, with beautiful beaches, an average temperature of 22 degrees, and an excellent range of seafood restaurants. Outside of national holidays, the island is rarely visited, but it contains some interesting sites, such as a gothic-style Catholic Church built by the French in the nineteenth century.

Prior to the French occupation, the island was under Vietnamese control, which explains the abundance of elaborate pagodas and temples. On the south side of Weizhou Island are the high and steep unique volcanic lava landforms. On the north side are the open and smooth coastal beaches. The island has lush vegetation and stunning scenery, making it one of China's most popular island vacation destinations.

Traveller Tip: Ferries leave on a daily basis, but booking ahead of time and paying extra for first class is recommended. Again, bring plenty of cash with you because foreign bank cards are not accepted.

Be warned: English is not widespread on the island, except for the younger people, but Mandarin is common among most of the locals.

• Location: Beihai, Guangxi, China
• Landing fee: 120 yuan per person