One of the first comprehensive sites of its kind in China, the Wanshan Marine Development Experimental Zone (Wanshan Zone) was established in October 1998. The zone now contributes much to economic and social development especially the city's "Blue Marine" economic development.

Situated in the southeast of Zhuhai in the Pearl River Estuary between Hong Kong and Macao, the Wanshan Zone encompasses 4,567 sq km (1,763 sq miles) of sea area with 105 islands of various sizes. The main ones are national 4A-Level scenic spots Dong'ao and Wailingding islands, and also of note are Guishan, Big Wanshan, Small Wanshan, Baili, Huangmao, Wailingding, Dan'gan, and Miaowan.

Wailingding Island [File photo by Cheng Lin]

Wanshan Fishery, one of the most renowned in China, is habitat to over 200 varieties of fish, 68 different types of shellfish, 61 varieties of shrimp and crab, as well as 18 kinds of seaweed. Found here are Chinese white dolphins that are protected at the state-level, macaque monkeys safeguarded by the province, and coral preserved by the city.

In addition, there is a 1,000-sq-km (386-sq-mile) international yacht and fishing area and many harbors suitable for deep-water port construction. The zone's first two significant premium hotels are Gree Dong'ao Hotel on Dong'ao and Dreamland Resort on Big Wanshan. More upscale hotels will be built on Dong'ao under an ongoing Lingding Coast Seashore project.

Most of the islands maintain the original natural ecological environment, which is abundant with soft sand beaches and rare vivid life-like stones.

Infrastructure, including water and electricity, is more than adequate to meet civilian and production needs. Moreover, high-speed-liner routes serve the major islands, including Dan'gan as its farthest destination.

Morphing into a world-class ocean tourist resort in the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Greater Bay Area, the Wanshan Zone is developing coastal tourism demonstration, marine industry innovation, and marine ecological protection zones, and a comprehensive service base.

Coral reefs [Photo courtesy wanshan.gov.cn]