The Ultimate Zhuhai Travel Guide: Discovering China’s Coastal Riviera

Often overshadowed by its massive, bustling neighbors, Zhuhai is the Greater Bay Area’s best-kept secret. Known as the “Chinese Riviera,” this lush, laid-back coastal city sits directly next to Macau and is just a stone’s throw from Hong Kong, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou.

Whether you’re looking to walk the breezy coastal promenades, island-hop in the South China Sea, or ride world-class rollercoasters, Zhuhai offers a refreshing escape from the concrete jungles of China’s megacities. Here is everything you need to know to plan the perfect trip.

How to Get to Zhuhai

Because of its strategic location, getting to Zhuhai is incredibly easy, making it the perfect day trip or weekend getaway from neighboring hubs.

From Macau: You can literally walk into Zhuhai! The Gongbei Port and Hengqin Port are the primary pedestrian border crossings. Simply cross immigration, and you are in downtown Zhuhai.
From Hong Kong: The famous Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge (HZMB) connects the two cities. You can take a direct shuttle bus (the “Golden Bus”) from the HK Port to the Zhuhai Port in about 45 minutes. Alternatively, a scenic 70-minute ferry ride from the Hong Kong Macau Ferry Terminal will drop you at Zhuhai Jiuzhou Port.
From Shenzhen: A quick 1-hour ferry from Shenzhen Shekou Port will take you directly across the Pearl River Delta to Zhuhai.
From Guangzhou: Hop on a high-speed bullet train from Guangzhou South Railway Station, and you will arrive at Zhuhai Railway Station (right next to the Macau border) in under an hour.

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Top Things to Do in Zhuhai

Zhuhai perfectly balances modern entertainment, historical replicas, and natural beauty. Here are the absolute must-dos for your itinerary:

1. Stroll Down Lovers’ Road & See the Fisher Girl Statue

Stretching over 28 kilometers along the coastline, Lovers’ Road (Qinglü Lu) is the city’s scenic artery. Rent a bike or take a leisurely walk to enjoy the sea breeze. Along the way, you will find the Zhuhai Fisher Girl Statue, the iconic symbol of the city. Legend has it she is a sea fairy who fell in love with a local fisherman.

2. Visit the Zhuhai Grand Theatre

Located on Yeli Island (accessible via a short bridge from Lovers’ Road), this modern architectural marvel is shaped like two massive scallops or pearls. It is incredibly photogenic, especially at night when the “shells” are illuminated with vibrant LED light shows.

3. Explore Chimelong Ocean Kingdom

Located on Hengqin Island, this is one of the largest and most impressive marine theme parks in the world. Holding multiple Guinness World Records, it features massive aquarium viewing domes, thrilling rollercoasters (like the Parrot Coaster), and spectacular evening firework shows over the central lake. It is a must-visit for families and thrill-seekers alike.

4. Step Back in Time at the New Yuan Ming Palace

If you want a taste of traditional Chinese architecture without flying to Beijing, head here. It is a partial, 1:1 scale replica of the original Old Summer Palace in Beijing. Set against the backdrop of the forested Danlin Mountains, it features traditional gardens, imperial architecture, and cultural performances.

5. Go Island Hopping

Zhuhai has over 100 islands! Take a ferry from Xiangzhou Port to Dong’ao Island or Wailingding Island. These spots offer pristine beaches, lush hiking trails, crystal-clear waters, and some of the freshest, cheapest seafood in Guangdong province.

Where to Stay and What to Eat

Neighborhoods to Base Yourself In:

Neighborhood	Best For	Vibe
Gongbei	Convenience & Shopping	Bustling, energetic, right on the Macau border. Home to the massive Gongbei Underground Market.
Xiangzhou	Sea Views & Local Life	Relaxed, scenic, close to Lovers’ Road, the Grand Theatre, and ferry ports to the islands.
Hengqin	Theme Parks & Luxury	Modern, spacious, and directly adjacent to Chimelong Ocean Kingdom and the University of Macau campus.

What to Eat:

Zhuhai’s culinary scene is dominated by fresh seafood. Head to Wanzai Seafood Street, where you can buy fresh catches directly from local fishermen’s stalls and take them to a nearby restaurant to be cooked exactly to your liking. Look out for local specialties like Hengqin oysters and salt-and-pepper mantis shrimp.

Essential Practical Tips for Visiting China

Traveling to China requires a bit of pre-planning, but Zhuhai makes it incredibly rewarding.

1. Visas and Entry

China has vastly expanded its visa-free entry policies. As of 2026, passport holders from dozens of countries (including much of Europe, Australia, and New Zealand) can enter China visa-free for up to 30 days. Furthermore, if you are visiting just Zhuhai from Macau or Hong Kong, you might be eligible for a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) Visa on Arrival, valid for 3 days. Always verify current requirements for your nationality before traveling.

2. Staying Connected

Standard internet in China blocks many Western apps, including Google, WhatsApp, and Instagram. Instead of fighting with unreliable software, it is highly recommended to arrive prepared. If you need in China an eSIM with unlimited data, [use my link here for a 5% discount]—it is an eSIM that will automatically bypass the VPN restrictions, keeping you connected the second you land.

3. Payments

Cash is rarely used in China today. Download Alipay or WeChat Pay and link your foreign credit card before you arrive. You will use your phone to scan QR codes for everything from buying a bottle of water to paying for a taxi.

4. Health & Safety

Zhuhai is an incredibly safe city, but navigating medical care abroad can be difficult due to language barriers and out-of-pocket costs. To ensure peace of mind while exploring the Greater Bay Area, if you need the best travel insurance for China, use my link.

Zhuhai offers the perfect blend of seaside relaxation and modern Chinese innovation. Whether you are adding it as a two-day extension to a Macau trip or making it your primary destination, the Chinese Riviera is waiting for you!