Dongshan Deep Reef

Dongshan Coral Gardens

Dongshan Pinnacle

Dongshan Shore Reef

Dongshan Coral Wall

Dongshan Wreck

Dongshan Island is renowned throughout China for its exceptional seafood, particularly the prized Dongshan abalone that is considered among the finest in Asia. The island’s fishing fleet brings in daily catches of grouper, snapper, lobster, squid, and numerous shellfish species that are prepared in traditional Fujian cooking styles. Fujian cuisine emphasizes soups, braised dishes, and the delicate use of sugar and vinegar to enhance natural flavors. The island’s restaurants serve seafood so fresh that many dishes require minimal seasoning. Local specialties include abalone soup, steamed lobster with garlic and vermicelli, and the famous Dongshan fish balls made from freshly pounded fish paste.

Dongshan Island Resort

Tongling Ancient Town Inn

Malian Mountain Beach Hotel

Dongshan Seaview Guesthouse

Dongshan Island in Fujian province is one of China’s most underrated diving destinations, a scenic island with crystal-clear water, dramatic wind-eroded granite formations above and below the surface, and coral reef ecosystems that thrive in the warm Taiwan Strait currents. The island’s southeastern coast features the best dive sites with underwater granite boulders creating arches, tunnels, and walls that support vibrant soft coral communities and diverse reef fish populations. Dongshan’s position in the Taiwan Strait provides excellent visibility averaging 10-20 meters, with conditions occasionally reaching 25 meters during autumn. The island is home to one of China’s most important marine turtle nesting areas, and green sea turtles are regularly encountered at dive sites during the nesting season from May through September. The famous Wind-Moving Stone, a balanced granite boulder that reportedly moves in strong winds, is one of China’s geological wonders. Beneath the surface, similar dramatic granite formations create spectacular diving scenery. The island’s fishing culture dates back centuries, and the fresh seafood is among the best in Fujian. With fewer tourists than Hainan and genuinely excellent diving conditions, Dongshan Island offers an authentic and uncrowded subtropical diving experience.

Fujian – Dongshan Island

Optimal diving with warm water, excellent visibility, and calm seas.

Cooler winter months or typhoon-prone summer period with reduced visibility.

Good conditions with slightly cooler water and fewer crowds.

See the famous balanced granite boulder and explore the surrounding geological park

Wind-Moving Stone geological park visit

Hike the scenic mountain trail with panoramic views of the island and Taiwan Strait

Malian Mountain hiking with coastal views

Explore the historic Ming dynasty walled town with temples and fortifications

Tongling ancient town walking tour

Dine on ultra-fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants watching the sunset

Fisherman wharf sunset seafood dinner

Accessible shore snorkeling at the famous rock formation near town

Gulou Reef snorkeling from the beach

Visit a local abalone aquaculture facility and learn about sustainable seafood

Dongshan abalone farm tour

Fly into Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport (XMN) then transfer by car approximately 2.5 hours to Dongshan Island. Alternatively, take the high-speed train to Zhangzhou then transfer by car (1.5 hours). The island is connected to the mainland by bridge.

Where to Stay in Fujian – Dongshan Island

Accommodation Overview

Recommended Areas

Tongling Old Town

Malian Mountain Area

East Coast Beach

Chen Cheng Town

Featured Hotels & Resorts

Dongshan Island Resort

Tongling Ancient Town Inn

Malian Mountain Beach Hotel

Dongshan Seaview Guesthouse