The Golden Sand Beach in Qingdao's West Coast New Area, Shandong Province is drawing crowds of visitors at the height of summer. Below blue skies and beside a sparkling sea, the golden shoreline is filled with holidaymakers enjoying the season.

Some visitors splash through the waves, others swim in the cool waters, while families and children dig in the sand and collect seashells, making the most of the refreshing seaside experience.

Located within the Phoenix Island Tourism Resort, Golden Sand Beach stretches for more than 3.5 kilometers in a crescent shape. It is celebrated for its crystal-clear water, broad shoreline and soft, fine sand, making it one of Qingdao's most popular coastal destinations.

The beach is also steeped in local legend. According to folklore, a golden phoenix flying to a grand gathering of birds was captivated by the beauty of Jiaozhou Bay, a bay located in Qingdao. Enchanted by the shimmering waters, it chose to stay, transforming into what is now known as Phoenix Island and giving the area its enduring name.