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Shilaoren Beach

Shilaoren Beach

The Legend of the Stone Old Man

Shilaoren Beach gets its name from a distinctive rock formation resembling an old man standing in the sea. This natural landmark carries with it a touching legend that has been passed down through generations.

According to local folklore, an elderly fisherman lived with his beautiful granddaughter at the foot of Mount Lao. Their peaceful life was disrupted when the Dragon Prince of the East Sea, captivated by the granddaughter's beauty, forcibly took her to his underwater palace. The heartbroken old man stood in the sea day after day, calling out for his granddaughter, regardless of wind or rain.

Years passed, and eventually, moved by his unwavering devotion, the heavens transformed him into the stone formation that stands in the sea today. His granddaughter, who had refused to submit to the Dragon Prince, was also transformed into a reef known as the "Daughter's Reef," forever gazing at her grandfather across the waters.

Shilaoren Beach

Beach Overview

Scale and Zones

Shilaoren Beach stretches along a 3,100-meter coastline with a width of over 100 meters. The total area covers 280,000 square meters, including a 240,000-square-meter swimming area. The beach is divided into several functional zones:

  • Swimming Zone: An 800-meter stretch with clear water, moderate depth, and gentle seafloor topography. Protected by an 800-meter shark net and monitored by 20 professional lifeguards from 9 AM to 6 PM.
  • Non-Swimming Zone: A 2,300-meter area perfect for beach walking, shell collecting, and wave chasing.
  • Commercial Area: Features food stalls, specialty shops, and entertainment facilities.
  • Tent Area: Designated space for visitors who prefer private relaxation.

Facilities

The beach offers comprehensive facilities for visitors' comfort:

  • 3 changing rooms with 347 shower heads (including warm water)
  • 124 sets of beach umbrellas and chairs
  • 196 rentable tents
  • 2 parking lots accommodating 442 vehicles
  • 8 foot-washing stations
  • Professional medical station
  • 210 ocean-themed garbage bins
  • Complete safety monitoring system with watchtowers and broadcast system
Famous cave at Shilaoren Beach

Essential Information

Opening Hours

  • Season: July 1st to September 25th
  • Daily Hours: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Transportation

By Metro

Take Line 2 to Shilaoren Beach Station, then walk about 10 minutes to the beach.

By Bus

Multiple options available:

  • Routes 102, 104, 110, 125, 301, 304, 311, 321, 382, 501, 623: Get off at "Haier Road" station
  • Routes 313, 362: Get off at "Qingdao Grand Theater" station
  • Routes 317 (Coastal Sightseeing Bus), 504: Direct access to "Shilaoren Beach" station

Highlights

Beach Activities

  • Swimming in clear waters
  • Building sandcastles
  • Beach volleyball
  • Beach football
  • Sunbathing on beach chairs

Water Sports

  • Speedboat rides
  • Sailing
  • Kayaking
  • Jet skiing
Sunset and houses at Shilaoren Beach

Photography Spots

  1. The Famous Cave
  • Location: Near the Shilaoren Golf Club parking lot
  • Best time: During sunset
  • Note: Check tide times before visiting, as the cave is only accessible during low tide
  1. "Mini Jeju Island" Area
  • Features blue ocean views, white sand, mountain houses, and a scenic road
  • Perfect for Korean-style photography
  • Best for natural and fashion photography

Local Cuisine

Seafood Restaurants

  1. Crab Feast Ocean View Restaurant
  • Location: 88 Donghai East Road
  • Specialties: Japanese cuisine and king crab
  • Average cost: ¥356 per person
  • Features panoramic ocean views
  1. Guangkai Seafood House
  • Location: 272 Hong Kong East Road
  • Traditional Lu cuisine
  • Average cost: ¥155 per person
  • Specialties: Seafood dumplings, spicy clams

Street Food

  • Smoked meat pancakes
  • Fermented tofu with kimchi
  • Korean street food
  • Fish cake and rice cakes
  • Thai-style chicken feet

Tips

  1. Safety
  • Swim only in designated areas during operating hours
  • Use proper swimming equipment if needed
  • Always follow lifeguard instructions
  1. Sun Protection
  • Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before sun exposure
  • Bring sun hats and sunglasses
  • Reapply sunscreen every 2-3 hours
  1. Personal Belongings
  • Keep valuables secure
  • Use waterproof bags for electronics
  • Don't leave items unattended
  1. Environmental Care
  • Use provided garbage bins
  • Clean up after beach activities
  • Respect the natural environment

Location: 287 Haikou Road, Laoshan District Admission: Free Access: Exit B1 of Metro Line 2, 11-minute walk (767 meters)