Picture the Liandao - or Lian Island - seascape paradise in the warm light of the late afternoon.
There is a wide, white beach with a jade-colored ocean with gentle waves foaming on a stretch of white sand.
People are jogging and playing on the sand. In the background, daubs of color - red umbrellas, a yellow kayak - complete the picture.
Ships - from sleek yachts to tubby fishing boats - come and go. People take their time here, and the mood is mellow.
The weather is a gift, with an average temperature of 14.3 degrees Celsius.
The 120,000-square-meter Dasha Bay bathing beach is among the top attractions for tourists from the country's dull, gray and overcrowded cities.
Grab the sunscreen and leave your cares behind. This land of pleasure boasts beautiful scenery, beach umbrellas and sun chairs.
The beach experience is sensual: rhythmic, salty air, openness and crashing waves.
But as Jiangsu Province's largest island, Liandao is a feast of many flavors, with the surf and sand mere appetizers.
The suma Bay Ecology Park, east of Dasha Bay bathing beach, is a highlight.
Behind the coastal beaches, visitors can discover a heritage of art and culture. And history lies deep here.
Some 2,000-year-old carved stones from the Han Dynasty has been discovered at the foothold of Mountain Yu in the park, facing the picturesque beaches.
The stones marked the border between Donghai Shire and Langya Shire in the ancient Han period, securing its great historic importance.
Lovers should not miss a pair of rocks called "the solemn pledge of love."
Some 30 wooden houses, also called "lover's houses", dot the mountain landscape.
The houses are a model of traditional and gracious accommodation, fitted with modern facilities such as air conditioning and color TVs. A house costs from 800 yuan (US$96.39) to 1,000 yuan per day in peak season. Reservations must be made two weeks in advance.
The homes have views of the sea and the island on one side and a spectacular view of the wilderness on the other.
Tours take visitors for cruises down the harbor, with a stop at Qianshan Island, where various species of protected birds can be watched.
Wherever you are, wilderness is always within reach, making the island a mecca for bushwalkers, white-water rafters, campers and other outdoors enthusiasts.
The 4,700 fishermen who live in a fishing village on the island are a warm, welcoming lot, who are happy to share their homes with tourists.
The yujiale program, a tourist package allowing tourists to live in fishermen's houses, go fishing and eat village-style dishes, is popular.
A dazzling array of fresh fish, such as abalone, prawn and crab, is available in village restaurants.
It doesn't matter if its summer, winter, spring or autumn, because every season is suitable for Liandao.
A stop in the island is a must.