South Bay Crocodile Mountain Scenic Area in Beihai City is located at Crocodile Ridge on the west side of South Bay of Weizhou Island, Beihai City, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. It is a national 5A-level tourist scenic area. The scenic area is renowned for its unique volcanic geological relics and magnificent coastal landscapes. The total area is approximately 3.8 square kilometers, and the core tourist area is about 1.2 square kilometers. The scenic area preserves the complete remains of a volcanic crater, with a volcanic rock coastline stretching up to 1.5 kilometers, and the highest point is at an altitude of 79 meters. In 2004, it was listed as a national geological park, and in 2019, it was selected as one of the "Top Ten Most Beautiful Islands in China".
It encompasses rich natural and cultural landscapes. Most of the buildings in the scenic area are related to volcanic culture and marine culture. Although there are no particularly grand landmark buildings, some facilities such as viewing platforms and plank roads provide convenience for tourists to admire the beautiful scenery.
History and Culture
Weizhou Island is the youngest volcanic island in China in terms of geology and the largest island in Guangxi. Crocodile Ridge, where the South Bay Crocodile Mountain Scenic Area is located, has witnessed the volcanic activities of Weizhou Island. In ancient times, this area experienced multiple volcanic eruptions. After the hot magma flowed and cooled down, it formed the unique volcanic geological landform we see today.
Local fishermen have lived here for generations. They depend on the marine and volcanic environment, forming a unique marine culture and fishing tradition. They revere nature and inherit ancient fishing techniques and ways of life. These cultural elements also add a strong humanistic atmosphere to the scenic area.
With the development of tourism, the South Bay Crocodile Mountain Scenic Area has gradually become an important window for people to learn about volcanic geological knowledge and experience marine culture. It has attracted more and more tourists to explore the mysteries of nature and experience the unique regional culture.
Main Scenic Spots
Volcanic Crater Remains
The volcanic crater remains are one of the core scenic spots in the area. It is the trace left by volcanic eruptions in ancient times. The huge volcanic crater is like a deep pit, surrounded by steep volcanic rock walls, demonstrating the majestic power of nature. Standing on the edge of the volcanic crater, one can almost feel the shocking scene of the volcanic eruption in those days. The rock textures inside the volcanic crater are clear, recording the changes of time, making it an excellent place for geology enthusiasts to study volcanic geology.
Sea-Eroded Arch Bridge
The sea-eroded arch bridge is a unique landscape formed by the long-term erosion of seawater. A huge rock has been eroded by seawater to form an arched hole. From a distance, it looks like a natural bridge spanning the seaside. The waves constantly crash against the arch bridge, splashing layers of white waves, adding a bit of vivid beauty. Tourists can stand under the arch bridge, feel the sea breeze blowing and the waves crashing, and admire this amazing natural masterpiece.
Yueliang Bay (Moon Bay)
Yueliang Bay is shaped like a crescent moon. The beach is delicate and soft, and the sea water is clear and blue. The bay is calm, making it a great place for tourists to swim and frolic. The surrounding volcanic rocks contrast with the blue sea and sky, forming a beautiful picture. In Yueliang Bay, tourists can fully enjoy the comfort of the sun and the beach, and also enjoy the beautiful sea sunset scenery.
Geological Museum
The Geological Museum is an important place to learn about the volcanic geological knowledge of Weizhou Island. The museum displays a rich collection of volcanic rock specimens, pictures, and models. Through graphic and text displays and multimedia presentations, it introduces to tourists the geological formation process of Weizhou Island, the principles of volcanic activities, and other knowledge. Tourists can gain an in-depth understanding of the mysteries of volcanic geology here and increase their scientific knowledge.
Delicacies
Seafood Congee
Seafood congee is one of the characteristic delicacies around the scenic area. It is made by boiling fresh seafood such as shrimps, crabs, and shellfish in a fragrant rice porridge. The congee has a rich and delicious taste, perfectly combining the sweetness of the seafood with the softness of the rice porridge. After a tiring day of sightseeing, having a bowl of steaming seafood congee can not only replenish energy but also satisfy the taste buds.
Grilled Oysters
Grilled oysters are also a must-try delicacy here. Fresh oysters are directly grilled over charcoal fire, with seasonings such as minced garlic, chopped scallions, and chili peppers added. Grill until the oysters open slightly and the soup is rich. The oyster meat is tender and juicy, with a smooth taste. The garlic flavor and the freshness of the oysters blend together, leaving a lingering aftertaste.
Raw Sandworm Sashimi
Sandworms are one of the specialties of Weizhou Island, and raw sandworm sashimi is a unique delicacy. After cleaning the fresh sandworms, they are sliced thinly and served with a special sauce. The sandworms have a crispy and tender taste and a sweet flavor, making them the first choice for tourists who like to try new and fresh foods.
Sweet Soup
In hot weather, having a bowl of sweet soup is very pleasant. There are various flavors of sweet soup around the scenic area, such as red bean sweet soup, mung bean sweet soup, mango sago pudding, etc. The sweet soup has a sweet taste and the effect of clearing heat and relieving summer heat, making it a good choice for tourists to cool off and quench their thirst.
Tickets
The tickets for South Bay Crocodile Mountain Scenic Area in Beihai City are usually included in the tickets for getting on Weizhou Island. The price of the tickets for getting on the island is generally 115 yuan per person. This ticket allows tourists to enter and visit multiple scenic spots on Weizhou Island, including the South Bay Crocodile Mountain Scenic Area. It should be noted that the ticket price may be adjusted according to policies and market conditions. Before going to the scenic area, tourists are advised to obtain the latest ticket price information through official channels or relevant tourism platforms.
Opening Hours
The opening hours of South Bay Crocodile Mountain Scenic Area in Beihai City are generally from 08:00 to 18:00 every day. However, the opening hours may be adjusted due to seasonal changes, weather conditions, or special circumstances. For example, in case of severe weather such as typhoons or heavy rains, the scenic area may be temporarily closed to ensure the safety of tourists. Therefore, before planning to visit the scenic area, tourists are recommended to pay attention to the official announcements of the scenic area or consult the staff to obtain accurate opening hour information and avoid delaying the trip.
Tour Routes
Tourists can first enter from the entrance of the scenic area and follow the plank road to the volcanic crater remains. At the volcanic crater remains, carefully admire the traces left by the volcanic eruption and feel the magical power of nature. Then continue along the plank road to the sea-eroded arch bridge, where you can take photos and admire the unique sea-eroded landform landscape.
Next, go to Yueliang Bay, take a stroll on the beach, and enjoy the sunshine and the waves. If time permits, you can also engage in water activities such as swimming in Yueliang Bay. After that, go to the Geological Museum and gain an in-depth understanding of the volcanic geological knowledge of Weizhou Island through the exhibits and introductions in the museum.
During the tour, tourists can, according to their physical strength and time arrangement, take a rest in the rest areas of the scenic area in a timely manner, taste the surrounding delicacies, and replenish their energy.
Transportation
- By Boat: Tourists need to take a boat from Beihai International Passenger Terminal to Weizhou Island first. Boat tickets can be purchased through online ticketing platforms or at the terminal ticket office. After arriving at Weizhou Island, they can take the island's sightseeing bus or taxi to the South Bay Crocodile Mountain Scenic Area.
- Island Sightseeing Bus: There are special sightseeing bus routes on Weizhou Island. Tourists can take the sightseeing bus at the main locations on the island and directly reach the South Bay Crocodile Mountain Scenic Area. The operating hours and ticket prices of the sightseeing bus can be inquired at the tourist service center on the island.
- Taxi/Online Car-hailing: On Weizhou Island, tourists can also take a taxi or an online car-hailing service to the scenic area, but relatively speaking, the number is small, and the price may be slightly higher than usual.
- Renting an Electric Bicycle: If you prefer a self-guided tour, tourists can rent an electric bicycle near the pier or the accommodation on Weizhou Island and ride along the island's roads to the South Bay Crocodile Mountain Scenic Area. This way, they can enjoy the scenery along the way and arrange the itinerary flexibly.
Must-visit Scenic Spots
- Volcanic Crater Remains: It is a witness of ancient volcanic eruptions. The huge volcanic crater and steep rock walls are extremely impressive. The surrounding rock textures record the geological changes, making it suitable for geology enthusiasts to explore.
- Sea-Eroded Arch Bridge: A natural arch bridge landscape formed by seawater erosion. The waves crashing against the arch bridge create a magnificent scene, making it a great place for taking photos.
- Geological Museum: The museum displays a rich collection of volcanic rock specimens, pictures, and models. Through various display methods, it introduces the geological formation of Weizhou Island, helping tourists increase their scientific knowledge.
Tour Tips
- Learn about the weather conditions of Weizhou Island in advance and choose an appropriate time to visit. It is best to avoid severe weather such as typhoons and heavy rains to prevent affecting the tour experience.
- When purchasing boat tickets and tickets for getting on the island, try to book in advance, especially during the peak tourist season, to avoid delaying the trip.
- When visiting the scenic area, pay attention to safety and abide by the regulations of the scenic area. Do not cross the safety fence or enter the unopened areas.
- If you choose to rent an electric bicycle for the tour, check the performance of the vehicle in advance, master the basic riding skills, and wear a helmet.
- When tasting the delicacies, choose regular restaurants and stalls to ensure food hygiene and quality.
- Bring sunscreen products such as a sun hat, sunscreen lotion, and sunglasses, because the sunlight by the sea is strong and it is easy to get sunburned.
Precautions
- Comply with the various rules and regulations of the scenic area, cherish the natural environment and public facilities in the scenic area, and do not damage rocks, vegetation, etc. at will.
- When playing by the sea, pay attention to the tide changes and the wave conditions. Do not swim or frolic in dangerous areas.
- There are many plank roads and steps in the scenic area. Pay attention to foot safety when walking, especially for the elderly and children, who should be accompanied by family members.
- If an emergency occurs, contact the staff of the scenic area in a timely manner and follow their instructions and arrangements.
- Take good care of personal belongings, especially in crowded places, to prevent loss or theft of property.
- When visiting the Geological Museum, abide by the regulations of the museum and do not touch the exhibits.