Shandong province boasts one‑sixth of China's coastline and has plenty of ocean tourism offerings. Its marine tourism story is written in numbers – but it's the experiences that are drawing visitors. From Aug 23 to 27, a media tour along Shandong's golden coastline explored the province's latest marine tourism innovations in Rizhao, Yantai, and Weihai.

A view of Rizhao's Wulian Mountain scenic area. [Photo/Huanghe Plus]

In Rizhao, Wulian Mountain has transformed from a traditional sightseeing spot into a year‑round leisure destination, blending granite peaks, wild azalea forests, and cultural heritage with conservation and rural homestays. The coastal city also offers a water‑and‑light spectacle that has won multiple international awards including IAAPA's award for the most creative multimedia performance and the 2017 PATA Gold Award.

An aerial view of Genghai No 1 marine ranch, which also serves as a hot tourism attraction in Yantai. [Photo/Huanghe Plus]

Yantai is pushing boundaries with immersive experiences. The Penglai Bay Xunxian night tourism cruise brings the legend of the Eight Immortals to life, with costumed performers and interactive games on board. Meanwhile, the Genghai No 1 marine ranch combines aquaculture with tourism, attracting over 150,000 visitors a year.

Weihai's cruise tour offers visitors immersive experiences blending nature and ocean culture. [Photo/IFENG]

Weihai offers a 1,001‑kilometer coastal driving route that connects more than 90 percent of the city's cultural and natural attractions. The route has become a national model for integrating transport and tourism. The city hosts year-round marine sports events, including the 2026 China Weihai Hobie Open Regatta & Hobie 16 Asian Championship, triathlon, family sailing regattas, and paddleboarding invitationals. The integration of coastal scenery and athletic competition is building a multi-dimensional maritime tourism product system.