A Complete Guide to Chasing Sunrises on Nan'ao Island: Routes and Practical Tips

A Complete Guide to Chasing Sunrises on Nan'ao Island: Routes and Practical Tips Welcoming the first rays of sunlight on Nan'ao Island is a romantic journey that soothes both body and soul. When pink-purple clouds pierce through the layers above, and the sea surface turns golden, all the fatigue of early rising transforms into awe of nature. Here's a tested quality route and practical tips to help you encounter the ultimate charm of island sunrises. Best Sunrise Route (Summer Example) 4:30 Wake up and depart | 5:00 Arrive at Sanfeng Cliff Lighthouse As the most photogenic lighthouse on the island, the red and white striped Sanfeng Cliff Lighthouse stands out distinctly in the pre-dawn darkness. When arriving early, the sky is still deep blue, waiting for the rosy glow to spill through gaps in the clouds onto the sparkling sea surface. The panoramic view here, with the lighthouse complementing the waves, creates cinematic shots whether you're capturing landscapes or backlit portraits. 5:30 Drive 2 minutes | Visit "Barren Land" On the way back to Qing'ao Bay from Sanfeng Cliff, notice the empty wilderness beside the road - this rarely visited spot has a rough sandy path extending toward the sea, seemingly leading to the world's end. After sunrise, the slanting light is perfect for shooting silhouettes or side profiles, letting golden sunlight outline figures while sea breezes lift clothing edges, creating frames filled with freedom. 6:00 Stroll on Qing'ao Bay Beach By now it's bright, with water sparkling in the morning light and occasional tourists playing in the waves. Though small, Qing'ao Bay Beach has fine sand and is conveniently located - if staying at nearby guesthouses, you can walk there to enjoy the peaceful moments after sunrise. 7:00 Try Local Breakfast Recommended is "Bingzhong Guotiao Noodles," where fresh seafood soup paired with chewy rice noodles warms both body and stomach, perfectly concluding the morning's sunrise chase. Practical Tips: For a More Relaxed Experience - Time Planning: Summer sunrises occur around 5:30-6:00, arrive at viewing points 40 minutes earlier; winter sunrises are later (around 6:30-7:00), but bring hot water and jackets for the cold morning. - Viewing Point Selection: - Sanfeng Cliff Lighthouse: Excellent for both sunrise and sunset, perfect for photographers seeking the "lighthouse + seascape" combination. - Qing'ao Bay Guesthouse Balcony: Best for leisure seekers, choose oceanfront rooms (like Golden Coast Apartments) for unobstructed sunrise views without leaving your room. - Tropic of Cancer Plaza: An iconic spot where you can photograph sunrise through the "Gate of Nature" tower, capturing moments when sunlight penetrates the tower structure. - Photography Tips: Bring a small tripod for time-lapse photography to capture changing light; for portraits, use low angles with sea and sky as background to emphasize dynamic poses. - Transportation and Accommodation: Self-driving or chartered cars recommended on the island; Qing'ao Bay accommodations are centrally located and convenient; for budget options, Houzhai Town guesthouses offer good value but require early morning drives to viewing spots. Seasonal Tips Nan'ao Island's sunrises vary by season: in summer, the sun rises northward, making Sanfeng Cliff and Qing'ao Bay perfect viewing spots; in winter, it shifts south - try Yun'ao Town Beach or the Windmill Viewing Platform for panoramic views of sunrise painting the entire sea red. Regardless of timing, choose a clear day and approach your sunrise appointment with anticipation - Nan'ao Island won't disappoint. A sunrise chase is also a time for self-reflection. When the first ray of sunshine touches your brow, remember to capture it with your camera, but more importantly, store this feeling in your heart - after all, some scenery, once seen, is never forgotten.