Shenzhen's Secluded Youtong Bay: A Stunning Private Beach That Feels Like a Tropical Getaway

On this gloomy September afternoon, I want to escape the restless city. I decide to head to the seaside, watch the sunset, and let the autumn sea breeze clear my head. I think of last night, the wind blowing, my friends sitting beside me—the years have made us quiet, and no one talks about tomorrow anymore. There are hopes and dreams that always play the most beautiful melody in my heart, yet real life keeps drumming out its chaotic rhythm. It's like a war, and the opponent is yourself. At least now I will never run away. Maybe the ideal shore doesn't exist, but I'll keep walking on this journey anyway. —From Xu Wei's song "September"
As long as there's love in your heart, anywhere can be the Maldives.
I remember before I got married, Mr. Zhou's friend Brother Lin said that after tying the knot, couples should occasionally steal some time just for themselves—leave the kids with the grandparents, take a short trip, or enjoy a candlelit dinner for two. That's how you keep the spark alive and the love fresh. I've always held onto that advice and put it into practice. A child's happiness comes not only from their parents' company but also from seeing their parents' relationship thrive. Maybe not every trip has to be a family affair. Sometimes it's nice to be a little selfish and take a journey that belongs only to you and your partner. When we travel with our kid, we tend to focus all our attention and cameras on them. But on a trip that's just for us, I get to keep being the prettiest princess in your lens. Whether the photos turn out beautiful or awkward, whether I look fat or thin, the moment is frozen in time—a happy memory that belongs to just the two of us, something we'll revisit again and again in the years to come.
I want to catch the tail end of summer, feel the sea breeze on my face. I want to leave the restless city behind and watch the sunset by the sea. On the last weekend of September, the weather was clear and bright. In the morning, I dropped our little tomboy off at my mom's place, then the two of us packed light and drove to Shenzhen's Royal Court Youtong Bay Resort. I firmly believe that as long as there's love in your heart, anywhere can be the Maldives. More importantly, the sea at Youtong Bay genuinely rivals the Maldives.
Let me tell you everything about Youtong Bay.
Youtong Bay—most people have probably never heard of this beach. The name is unfamiliar to many. Nan'ao Island in Shenzhen is well known, and when people think of a seaside getaway, they usually stop at the crowded Nan'ao Seafood Street or the overly commercialized Jiaochangwei. But Royal Court Youtong Bay Resort Hotel is like a sheltered daughter from a wealthy family, like a pure hidden paradise, tucked away near Egong Bay in Dapeng Town, Nan'ao. Even most locals in Shenzhen don't know about this gem. Calling Youtong Bay the most beautiful beach in Shenzhen doesn't feel like an exaggeration at all. There's no urban noise here, no endless streams of tourists. Under the private management of Royal Court Youtong Bay Resort Hotel, all you'll find is blue sky, deep blue sea, soft fine white sand, lush greenery, and the quiet serenity of the beach.
How to get to Youtong Bay.
The resort's location is relatively remote—no buses go there. Most people who come are those in the know, driving themselves. After you follow your GPS to Nan'ao Town, keep going along a mountain road. The hotel is at the end of it. The road isn't the dangerous cliffside kind, though some sections require climbing and others descending. If you're like me and not the most confident driver, just take it slow. Some parts of the road are narrow, and when you meet an oncoming car, you'll need to yield to each other and pass carefully. As you wind along the mountain road, just before you arrive, you'll be surprised to find a rustic century-old village tucked in the hills. Driving the mountain road can be a bit tiring, but the beautiful scenery along the way is a reward in itself. Most importantly, when you see the mountains and sea at the end of the road, you'll feel it was all worth it—your heart will open up.
Let me be stranded in a time that faces the sea.
After a three-hour drive, Mr. Zhou and I finally escaped the concrete jungle and arrived at Royal Court Youtong Bay Resort Hotel. Compared to the Royal Court V Hotel next to the Shenzhen Convention Center, the front desk here has less urban sleekness and glamour. Instead, it's a charming little wooden cabin surrounded by lush green mountains and water—pure relaxation.
The entire Youtong Bay Resort has only about 70 rooms, all built along the hillside, each with views of either the magnificent sea or the pleasant dense forest. If you're traveling with family or friends, consider the mountain-view villa rooms. They're fully equipped, and you can even play mahjong to pass the time.
Led warmly by the hotel staff, we arrived at our booked sea-view room. From the front desk to the room, we passed walkways and saw flowing water—it was delightful. What put me most at ease was that the resort is privately enclosed. Whether returning to your room or entering the scenic area, you need to swipe your room card, ensuring no outsiders can wander in.
The moment we opened the door, my heart filled with pleasant surprise. To the right was a walk-in closet where we could store luggage and clothes. Two steps forward, and there was a bathroom with both a bathtub and a shower. Clean, high-quality fixtures and custom toiletries—understated luxury.
The spacious, comfortable room blended with the sea and sky outside the floor-to-ceiling windows. I couldn't wait to kick off my sandals and run barefoot to the large balcony to gaze at the ocean.
Looking at this stunning view—mountains on three sides, sea on one—I truly wished I could be stranded in this sea-facing moment a little longer, and a little longer still…
Lost in the shimmering stillness of the afternoon.
Compared to the packed beaches of Dameisha and Xiaomeisha, Youtong Bay offers a rare tranquility. After unpacking, I set out to experience its beauty with my feet and my eyes.
The late summer, early autumn breeze brushed gently against my face. I melted into a couch at the resort's western restaurant. It's a wonderful spot for afternoon tea and a beautiful afternoon. The interior is simple and fresh, focusing on light meals, desserts, coffee, and fruit teas. The menu is hand-drawn in chalk on a blackboard—absolutely charming. A few potted plants add a touch of greenery.
The sofa by the window caught my eye immediately. Curling up there, soaking in the warm sunlight, ordering a caramel macchiato and lemon tea—pure comfort. Best of all, the view outside is the sea. Without trying, a little artsy, slightly quirky vibe naturally surfaces.
If you want to bask in the sunlight properly, sitting in the outdoor lounge area is perfect. Sitting at a simple wooden table, zoning out, watching the sea. Soaking in the seaside sun, doing absolutely nothing, letting time go to waste—that's what living is.
The afternoon sun scattered across the shimmering sea. Sitting on the open-air viewing deck with sleepy cats and dogs, sipping coffee slowly, looking up at the endless blue.
Love her, bring her to Youtong Bay.
Follow the stone steps down from the western restaurant, and you'll find an infinity pool that merges with the sea. When the sky, the ocean, and the pool—three different shades of blue—collide, it's breathtaking at first glance.
Even if you don't swim, sitting by the pool and playing with the water is lovely.
The beach is just a step away from the pool. The sand at dusk has a different kind of beauty. The sunlight is warm but not harsh; the sea breeze is soft with a faint salty tang. Rolling waves rush toward the soft, white sand. Barefoot on the fine sand, letting the water wash over you freely. Sitting by the sea, feeling the breeze, gazing at the endless sky, meditating quietly. This beauty makes you want to stay forever.
We were lucky to meet a photographer also visiting Youtong Bay. Such a great opportunity—I had to ask her to take a photo of us together. This year marks my seventh year of love with Mr. Zhou. When we posted our photo at Youtong Bay on social media, several friends commented almost in unison: "You two are starting to look alike."
The sun dipped west. Sunset and dusk shadows like gauze, deep golden light spilling across the sea. Strolling along the seaside boardwalk, listening to the waves crashing against the rocks, my whole being gradually emptied out.
Since having our little tomboy, it feels like forever since I've been Mr. Zhou's special "model." Today, with her away, I got to properly play the queen in his lens. Honestly, making your wife or girlfriend (aka the queen) look beautiful in photos is an absolute must for any man. Think about it—when the queen looks good, she feels good. When she feels good, there are fewer arguments, life