Everyone knows the postcard. The mist-shrouded karst peaks, the serene Li River, the bamboo rafts. Guilin’s beauty is global legend. But what the brochures often miss is Guilin’s other, more intimate aquatic soul. Beyond the cruise ships and crowded docks lies a hidden network of pristine swimming holes, secret river beaches, and crystalline pools fed by underground springs. This is the Guilin that locals escape to in the sweltering summer—a world of dappled light, the sound of rushing water over smooth stones, and the profound quiet found only in secluded places. Forget the itinerary; grab a towel, a sense of adventure, and let’s explore the liquid heart of this landscape.
In an era of overtourism, finding a quiet corner feels like a treasure hunt. Guilin’s secluded swim spots offer more than just a cool dip; they provide a genuine connection with the surreal geology. Swimming in a jade-green pool surrounded by towering limestone is a multisensory experience—the taste of clean air, the echo of bird calls, the cool embrace of water that has filtered through ancient mountains. It’s adventure travel meets mindful wellness. Furthermore, seeking out these spots often leads you through authentic local villages and family-run farms, distributing tourism benefits beyond the main hubs. It’s a sustainable, immersive, and incredibly refreshing way to experience the region.
A crucial note before we dive in: "Secluded" does not mean "unprotected." Many of these areas are cherished by nearby communities. The golden rules are simple: Pack out everything you pack in. Be respectful of noise levels. Follow existing paths. If an area is clearly farmland or has a "no swimming" sign, heed it. Our goal is to enjoy these gems passively, leaving no trace of our visit, ensuring they remain pristine for locals and the next respectful traveler.
While the Yulong River is famous for its bamboo rafting, the savvy swimmer knows to bypass the main docking points. Rent a bicycle or an e-bike in Yangshuo and follow the river upstream towards the Jiuxian Village area. Here, the river widens and shallow, sandy beaches appear, perfect for a picnic and a swim. The water is calm, clear, and a stunning shade of green. For the more adventurous, seek out the small cascades and deeper pools near the old stone bridges like Xianren Bridge (Fairy Bridge). You’ll often have these spots entirely to yourself, especially on weekday mornings. The backdrop of rice paddies and karst peaks is pure magic.
Venture north of Guilin city toward Xing’an County. Here, Mao'er Shan, the highest peak in South China, creates a unique hydrological system. The true secret lies in the Xiangsi Waterfall (Xiangsi Pubu) area, not for the main waterfall itself, but for the series of smaller, tiered pools and springs that feed it. The water is shockingly cold, pure, and vibrantly blue. It filters directly from the mountain’s core. Finding the perfect pool requires a short, off-path hike (always with a local guide for safety), but the reward is a swimming experience that feels almost sacred in its isolation and beauty.
Yes, even the mighty Li River has its hidden eddies. Between Xingping and Yangdi, far from the daily cruise ship routes, lies Dutou Village. Here, the river curves, creating a long, pebbly beach that is accessible only by foot or by hiring a local fisherman for a short, private crossing. The view from this beach is arguably one of the best in Guilin: you face the iconic Nine Horses Fresco Hill and the Yellow Cloth Shoal with zero crowds. Swimming here, in the shadow of these legendary peaks, is to swim through a Chinese painting. Time your visit for late afternoon when the tour boats have dwindled, and the setting sun paints the cliffs in gold.
Most visitors to the spectacular Silver Cave (Yinzi Yan) do their tour and leave. The real aquatic treasure, however, is the unnamed stream that runs through the valley behind it. Follow the road past the cave entrance and listen for the sound of water. You’ll discover a natural waterpark of smooth rock slides, deep plunge pools, and small waterfalls. The limestone has been sculpted by the water into perfect natural loungers and chutes. It’s a fantastic spot for families (with caution) and anyone young at heart. The water is clean and refreshing, offering the perfect cool-down after exploring the cave’s interior heat.
This isn’t pool swimming. Come prepared. Sturdy, water-friendly shoes are non-negotiable for rocky approaches. A dry bag for your phone, keys, and towel is essential. Consider a floating strap for your camera. Biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent are kinder to these fragile ecosystems. And always, more water than you think you’ll need to drink.
No swim adventure is complete without refueling. The search for these spots will lead you past farmhouse restaurants (nongjiale). Post-swim, seek out dishes that are light, hydrating, and locally sourced. Li River beer fish is a classic, but for a hotter day, try lotus root stir-fry, cold noodles with cucumber, or a simple, delicious plate of stir-fried water spinach (kongxincai). The sweetness of a freshly cut pomelo or sugar cane juice is the perfect finale.
The photography here is about intimacy and scale. Use a wide-angle lens to capture a small figure in the vastness of a swimming hole framed by cliffs. Get low to the water to highlight reflections. Macro shots of water droplets on river stones can be stunning. Most importantly, put the camera down and just float on your back—the view of the peaks reaching into the sky from that perspective is a memory no lens can fully capture.
Guilin’s mountains are its bones, but these hidden waters are its lifeblood. They offer a rhythm of travel that is slow, sensual, and deeply personal. It’s a chance to trade the spectacle for the secret, to hear the landscape’s whisper instead of its roar. So, on your next journey to this corner of Guangxi, leave an afternoon unplanned. Wander down a path that follows the sound of water. You might just find your own private piece of paradise, a cool, clear secret waiting to be discovered, if only for a fleeting, perfect moment.
Copyright Statement:
Author: Guilin Travel
Link: https://guilintravel.github.io/travel-blog/guilins-most-secluded-beaches-and-swimming-holes.htm
Source: Guilin Travel
The copyright of this article belongs to the author. Reproduction is not allowed without permission.