Hengsha Island Eco Resort is a top choice for sustainable stays, nestled within lush greenery and offering sea-view rooms overlooking the Huangpu River estuary. The resort features eco-conscious architecture, organic gardens, and guided nature trails that highlight the island's unique wetland ecosystem. Guests can enjoy kayaking, fishing, and hands-on farming experiences in a serene, off-the-beaten-path setting.

Access is convenient via a 1-hour drive from Pudong Airport or a scenic ferry ride from Shanghai's South Pier, adding to the adventure. The resort hosts monthly events like "Hengsha Night Tales," featuring stargazing tours, pottery workshops, and traditional fisherman’s dinners, providing authentic cultural immersion. Free electric bike rentals allow guests to explore hidden beaches and mangrove forests at their own pace.

Ideal for families seeking tranquility or couples desiring a romantic escape away from urban crowds, this retreat blends comfort with environmental stewardship.

The primary ways to reach Hengsha Island are by car via the Yangtze Tunnel from Pudong Airport or central Shanghai, then transferring to a ferry at the South Pier; alternatively, take a direct ferry from Shanghai’s South Pier, which takes about 40 minutes. The ferry route is the most scenic and recommended option, offering panoramic views of the Huangpu River estuary and an authentic maritime experience.

It’s advisable to book ferry tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons. Once on the island, private cars are not allowed—only electric bikes and bicycles are permitted, making electric bike rentals the ideal way to explore. Cyclists can meander through rice paddies, wetlands, and quiet village lanes, enjoying a true slow-travel atmosphere. This eco-friendly transit system enhances the island’s peaceful, untouched charm.

Visitors must try the daily morning wetland eco-tours, led by experienced natural guides who reveal the island’s rich biodiversity, including rare birds like the Black-faced Spoonbill and Egrets. The island’s working farms offer hands-on rice planting and harvesting experiences, giving city dwellers a deep connection to traditional agriculture.

Every weekend, the Hengsha Night Market comes alive with local fishermen selling fresh seafood and homemade snacks such as salt-baked crabs and rice wine pastries. Another highlight is the stargazing campfire nights, where the resort opens a dedicated dark-sky viewing area equipped with telescopes and expert commentary, perfect for witnessing the Milky Way under pristine night skies.

For cultural immersion, join a bamboo weaving workshop to craft traditional baskets and screens using locally sourced bamboo—a meaningful souvenir made with your own hands.