What Are You Beachin' About? Tianjin's Got a Seaside Getaway
Summer is here, which means it's time to get out and see the world. And while we, unfortunately, can't see as much of the world as we'd like to this year, that's not to say there aren't plenty of worthwhile spots, including a charming little beach known as Dongjiang Bay Beach, right in Beijing's own backyard – Tianjin. I've been fortunate enough to visit countless beaches all around the world, and though the beach in the Binhai New Area of Tianjin might not embody your archetypical ocean experience, it does have a wealth of unique features.
For the history and factoid geeks: Dongjiang Bay Beach is wholly manmade and much of the area was actually underwater years ago. Its coast is 2km long, with sand that was brought in from the beautiful beaches of southern China. Fun fact: The total amount of sand originally used was about 150,000 cubic meters, with an extra 700,00 cubic meters of pebbles for stability, making it the largest manmade beach scenic area in China. It's located in the southeast leisure tourism resort at the Dongjiang Area of the Tianjin port, and is roughly two hours by train, or a little over three hours by car.
Unfortunately, if splishin' and splashin' in the sea is what you're after, Dongjiang Bay Beach probably isn't your ideal getaway. However, if beach sports, feeling the sand between your toes, and seeing some interesting oceanside quirks is your jam, then this nearby seaside town could be the perfect pick. The beach has a bit of everything, from watersports such as kite-surfing, wind-surfing, SUP (stand up paddleboard), parasailing, kayaking, speedboats, sailing, yachting, sea-doos, and more depending on the time you go. Likewise, prices are relatively affordable, ranging from RMB 100 to RMB 300, with an entry fee of RMB 50 (though there is a free area). On an average day during peak season (between June and August), you can find around 10,000 people milling about the paid area, and I've been told the record for a single day was over 32,000, however, you can avoid the masses by booking beach activities in advance, and spending your day in a more secluded area. When I visited, we pre-booked everything with a local lifestyle concierge and even made our trip an overnight adventure. We stayed in one of the new hotels near the highspeed train, which turned out to be a fraction of the cost compared to hotels in downtown Beijing. Likewise, though we weren't able to swim at the beach, the hotel had an amazing pool to kick back and relax.
Of course, the area that requires an entry fee also boasts the most amount of attractions, and there's also a more private beach area that you can book in advance for sports, parties, and other recreational activities. The beach is open year-round, but it should come as no surprise that summer is its most vibrant season, with all manner of events and performances like bubble foam parties, traditional African tribal drummers, parades, kung fu demonstrations, fashion shows, music festivals, yoga retreats, DJ nights, and BMX stunt shows. What's more, last year an area for art exhibitions was unveiled, dubbed the East Boundary Bay Starry Night Wine Art Center.
If you opt to not pay the RMB 50 entry fee, there is a free area, however, it functions more as a lookout point and walkway. Nevertheless, the area is consistently being renovated and added on to, featuring lovely modern architecture by the sea, extended lookouts, basketball courts, and more.
When I visited with a group of friends, we began our day with some yoga in the sand complimented by a peaceful beach breeze – as one of my favorite Beijing yogi clubs calls it, a bit of Detox-Retox. We followed our yoga and stretch with a bit of SUP out on the sea. Next, we decided to wind down with a relaxing adult beverage on the massive sailboat as we made our way around the bay. Finally, we ended the day with a medley of tasty dishes in the seafood street and soaked up the sunset. Aside from that, we made sure to capture all of our Instagram-worthy moments, including a few photos in the idyllic photo-op locations, not least of which was a collection of giant rainbow-colored seashells, huge love heart, and oversized lawn animals (the polar bear with a bowtie was a must for me). If you don’t want to pay for more than admission, then a picnic basket full of your favorite snacks and beverages (no glass allowed), a few friends or family members, and some of your go-to activities are sure to make this day at the beach a joyful day and seaside escape.
READ: These Water Parks Are Open To Help You Stay Cool This Summer
Images: Jin Lizhong
