Ever since I got my mainland entry permit last year, one of my goals has been to explore more of China. So, I kicked things off with Shenzhen, which is just across the border from Hong Kong. Beyond shopping, dining, and relaxing at spas, I’ve noticed that much of Shenzhen remains unexplored by Hongkongers. Therefore, I’m excited to uncover its hidden gems and share my adventures with you!
One recent experience is exploring the Angel Bay Area of Yunhai on the Dapeng Peninsula, which includes the “Sky Capsule” Train. As you glide along the winding shore, you’re treated to uninterrupted views of the sea, sandy beaches, and a constant sense of drifting between sea and sky. Add water sports, crystal-clear beaches, and nearby attractions, and you’ve got a refreshing weekend escape from the city bustle.
Things To Do At Angel Bay
Angel Bay is part of the Dapeng New District in Shenzhen, a popular coastal zone with family-friendly activities, animal encounters, and relaxed seaside vibes. Here are some of the highlights that make this place a must-visit in Shenzhen:
Natural Garden and Animal Encounters at Angel Bay
Upon entering Angel Bay, you’ll encounter a delightful Natural Garden with a charming campground. Here, a small van offers a variety of snacks, refreshing drinks, and delightful afternoon tea.
This family-friendly spot allows visitors to interact with different animals, including sika deer (those you see at Nara Park in Japan), alpacas, goats, and more.
You can purchase animal feed for 38 RMB per person and observe the animals up close. This experience is especially popular with children.
The relaxed atmosphere, coupled with a gentle summer breeze, makes it an ideal spot for families. Enjoy a meal in the spacious glamping tent, take photos against picturesque backdrops, and don’t miss the breathtaking coastal views from this area!
Riding the Sky Capsule Train
Busan’s sky capsule train has always been a popular tourist attraction; many people are drawn to its colorful appearance against the beautiful backdrop of Korea‘s coastline, and this seaside capsule train in Shenzhen evokes a similar vibe.
While the ride is much shorter than a traditional cable car (think less than a minute), it’s designed more for the vibes. At just 15 RMB (or 25 RMB for a round trip) per person, it’s reasonably priced for the short experience. This whimsical coastal ride feels like stepping into a Miyazaki film, featuring two charming blue-and-white carriages that can accommodate four people each.
For those who prefer to walk, a path runs alongside the coastal railcar, allowing you to soak in the views at your own pace. This way, you can still see the beautiful view, take pictures with the carriages. I enjoyed riding down and walking back up for a more leisurely experience.
Beaches at Angel Bay: Sun, Sand, and Water Sports
Just below the cliff where the Sky Capsule Train drops off, you’ll find two gorgeous, crystal-clear beaches.
Left Beach: Ideal for sunbathing and swimming, this beach features public changing rooms for convenience.
Right Beach: For adventure seekers, this beach offers a range of water sports, including canoeing, speedboating, paddleboarding, and jet skiing. Prices vary by vendor; for example, a jet ski ride cost us around 180 RMB per person and 280 RMB for two (2025 prices). The right beach also boasts a sea swing, perfect for capturing memorable photos; however, it may be submerged during high tide.
Both beaches provide stunning sunset views, making them perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
Dining at the Seaside Restaurant
Nestled between the beaches, you’ll find a charming restaurant offering unparalleled ocean views and a relaxed French atmosphere. The beautiful ambiance makes it a perfect spot for a romantic date or a leisurely meal with friends. Imagine enjoying delectable dishes while soaking in the stunning coastal scenery!
While there is a restaurant and snack shop at the location, they may not be vegetarian or halal-friendly. It would be best to bring some snacks or take a Didi to a place nearby instead!
Picturesque Backdrops and Instagram-Worthy Spots
One of the biggest draws of visiting Angel Bay is the sheer beauty and photogenic nature of the coastal scenery. As you explore the area, you’ll find a variety of picturesque set-ups perfect for capturing beautiful, frame-worthy photos.
This includes the iconic flower gate, a charming wooden chair in the middle, and the sparkling sea in the background. The colorful ticket booth is another popular spot, with its whimsical design complementing the coastal landscape.
How to Get To Angel Bay
As the Dapeng Peninsula is a popular day trip destination, you can easily get there from the Shenzhen city center.
If you’re visiting from Hong Kong, take the MTR to Lo Wu Station, then cross the border into Shenzhen. It is about an hour’s ride from the Lo Wu Border. If you choose to take High Speed Rail from West Kowloon, take the one to Futian.
- Hail a taxi, you can show this address to the driver: 深圳市大鹏半岛云海天使湾.
- Book a DIDI directly to Yunhai Angel Bay (you can type this in English) on the app. It cost me around 105 RMB on a public holiday for a one-way trip, which took around 1 hour and 15 minutes. This route is cost-effective if you’re multiple people, and minimizes time spent navigating unfamiliar streets.
**Note that traffic can cause this route to be much longer. Some suggest taking the train to Dameisha station first, and then taking DIDI from there. - By Public Transport: Take the M583 bus and get off at the Yunhai Bus Terminal.
- Driving: There is a small parking space right outside. Parking rate is around 40 RMB/hour, capped at 80 RMB. Parking is free with a 200 RMB restaurant purchase.
Making the Most of Your Visit to Angel Bay
As the destination is about a 2-hour round trip from the Shenzhen city center, you’ll want to make the most of your time there.
Timing Your Visit
- Visit in the morning for the least amount of crowds and unobstructed views.
- Visit in the afternoon for soft, perfect light during golden hour and for watching the sunset by the sea.
- Clear, sunny days maximize seawater visibility and coastal views; check local forecasts to avoid heavy rain or strong winds that can affect outdoor plans.
Where To Stay
If you’re planning to stay the night., check out my complete guide to the Shenzhen Luxury Beach Resorts: 8 Best Boutique Hotels & Private Villas.
What to Wear
- Choose a light-colored, airy outfit for beautiful, summery shots against the backdrop of the coastal scenery.
What To Pack
- There are not a lot of shaded areas, so bring an umbrella, a hat, and a handheld fan for a hot summer day.
- Don’t forget to pack plenty of sunscreen!
- Bring your own swimwear, beach toys for children, and other beach essentials to avoid purchasing at higher rates.
- A small convenience store is located near the beach, so don’t worry if you forget something.
- There are only two spots to grab food, and they may not be suitable for specific diets (such as vegetarian or halal). Do bring your own snacks and food!
Suggested Itinerary
Plan for at least a half-day experience at Angel Bay rather than just a quick photo op. Spend time at the beaches, enjoy water sports like canoeing or jet skiing, or check out nearby attractions in the Dapeng New District. Here’s a suggested itinerary based on my own experience:
- Observe and interact with the animals when you arrive
- Ride the train down to the beach
- Enjoy a seaside lunch
- Spend the afternoon swimming and trying water sports
- Photograph the sunset
- Go back to the city center for dinner
Angel Bay is stunning, but it’s just one stop. Check out my full Dapeng Peninsula Coastal Getaway to plan a weekend escape and map out your accommodation and cliffside cafes.
Final Thoughts
Shenzhen’s Angel Bay coast on the Dapeng Peninsula offers a unique blend of pristine beaches, dramatic coastal views, and a playful “Sky Capsule Train” experience that evokes coastal journeys from popular seaside spots around the world. It’s an easy day trip for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking relaxed scenery, gentle adventure, and photo-worthy moments. Whether you’re riding the sky capsule train, paddling along calm waters, or exploring the two beaches, this coastal escape offers a refreshing counterpoint to Shenzhen’s urban energy.
If you’ve visited Angel Bay, share your favorite moment in the comments; your tips could help future travelers plan a perfect day on Shenzhen’s coast. And if you know other hidden coastal gems nearby, I’d love to hear about them for my next adventure!
