The Olympic Sailing and Marine Culture Tourism Area is located in Shinan District, Qingdao City, Shandong Province, and is a national 5A-level tourist attraction. Covering a total area of 45 hectares with about 30 hectares of water area, it was the venue for the sailing competitions of the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Famous for its "Olympic legacy, marine culture, and urban charm," the area integrates sports leisure, marine culture display, and tourism, serving as the core landmark of "China's Sailing Capital."
History and Culture
The Olympic Sailing Center was built on the site of the former Beihai Shipyard and transformed into an Olympic venue in 2008. After the Games, it became a comprehensive area combining sports, culture, and tourism.
As one of the birthplaces of modern sailing in China, Qingdao has a long marine culture history. The center not only witnessed Olympic glory but also inherits Qingdao's century-old maritime traditions.
The Olympic Museum in the area documents highlights of the 2008 sailing events and showcases Qingdao's profound connection with the Olympics, serving as an important window to promote Olympic spirit.
Main Attractions
Olympic Sailing Center
The main venue for 2008 Olympic sailing competitions, covering about 30 hectares. Facilities include the main breakwater, Olympic memorial wall, and medal plaza. Visitors can experience the Olympic atmosphere and admire modern sailing facilities.
Qingdao International Convention Center
The main venue for the 2018 SCO Qingdao Summit, with a floor area of 54,000 sqm. Its seagull-inspired architecture has become a new landmark, housing a summit exhibition hall.
Lovers' Dam
A 534-meter breakwater turned romantic dating spot with a bar street and viewing platforms, offering some of the best coastal views and sunsets in Qingdao.
Marine Sightseeing Platform
Located east of the sailing center, this 10,000-sqm platform extends into the sea providing 360-degree views of Qianhai Bay, ideal for photographing May Fourth Square and Fushan Bay.
Cuisine
Qingdao Seafood
Nearby restaurants serve fresh seafood like steamed oysters, braised prawns, and sea cucumber with scallion - best paired with Qingdao beer.
Chuange Fish Dumplings
Qingdao specialty dumplings with fresh fish filling, thin wrappers and juicy flavor. The Chuange restaurant in the area is the top choice to try them.
Seaview Coffee
Cafés along Lovers' Dam offer seaside afternoon tea - perfect for relaxing with coffee and desserts while enjoying bay views.
Ticket Information
The Olympic Sailing Center is free to enter. Marine activities require separate tickets: sightseeing cruise (80 yuan/person), sailing experience (from 150 yuan). Qingdao International Convention Center admission is 60 yuan with discounts for students and seniors.
Tour Route
Recommended itinerary: Olympic Square → Memorial Wall → Olympic Museum → Lovers' Dam (lunch) → Sightseeing Platform → Convention Center → Sailing Experience → May Fourth Square night view. Full tour takes 4-6 hours.
Transportation
- Metro: Take Line 2 or 3 to May Fourth Square Station, then 10-minute walk
- Bus: Multiple routes stop at Olympic Sailing Center
- Driving: Underground parking available, navigate to "Qingdao Olympic Sailing Center"
- Taxi: About 15 minutes from Qingdao Station (~20 yuan)
Must-Visit Attractions
- Olympic Sailing Center: Experience Olympic legacy and sailing culture
- Lovers' Dam: Enjoy romantic seaside bars and views
- Marine Sightseeing: Cruise Qingdao's coastline
- Convention Center: Visit SCO Summit venue
- Sailing Experience: Try sailing firsthand
Tour Suggestions
- Best visiting season is May-October for pleasant weather and water activities
- Evenings offer light shows at the center and May Fourth Square night views
- Book sailing experiences in advance and use sun protection
- Wear comfortable shoes for extensive walking
- Rent audio guides for deeper Olympic insights
Precautions
- Follow safety instructions for marine activities
- Protect the environment - no littering
- No climbing on breakwaters or Olympic facilities
- Drones prohibited in certain areas
- Watch personal belongings during peak seasons