Tourists visit an island lighthouse. [Photo provided to CHINA DAILY]

As tourism has grown, the livelihoods of the residents have gradually diversified. Tourists have come not only to enjoy home-cooked meals — largely seafood — but also to stay overnight or longer. In response, some families have opened guesthouses or invested in sightseeing vehicles to cater to the growing demand.

Chen Yiwen, 28, represents a younger generation embracing these changes. Six years ago, she returned to the island and renovated her family home into a homestay.

"We've turned old houses into stylish guesthouses so that every visitor wakes up to the sea breeze and a view of the ocean," she said, adding that this youthful approach aims to show Lingshan Island as more than a scenic getaway — it's a place where life itself can be savored.

So far, 53 homestays have been developed, supported by a local industry association that helps revitalize idle rural homes and older properties.

Currently, three regular ferry lines connect the island to the mainland, each providing a single round-trip service daily, weather permitting. Additional sailings are added during the peak travel season.

This strong ecological foundation has also added value to local aquaculture products.