🏛️ 5A National Attractions
Last verified 23 Aug 2025
Dalian hosts 2 5A scenic areas: Jinshitan National Tourist Resort (金石滩) and Laohutan Ocean Park (老虎滩海洋公园)—a perfect split between coastal geology and marine shows.
1 Quick Metrics
Total sites
2 (Jinshitan, Laohutan)
Official 5A designation
Themes
Ancient coastal rock formations; oceanarium & polar pavilions
Geology & marine life
Ticketing
Jinshitan coastal belt largely open; paid sub-attractions inside the resort. Laohutan uses date-specific e-tickets; shows & ropeway extra
Mixed pricing models
Transit reach
Metro Line 3 → Jinshitan Station; Laohutan by city bus/taxi (~20 min from downtown)
Public transport accessible
Real-name
Required for most e-tickets (enter passport/ID in app)
ID verification needed
2 Why It Matters
"Rock museum" coastline — Jinshitan's Cambrian–Sinian strata and sea-sculpted formations make an outdoor geology class with beaches.
Family-friendly marine park — Laohutan bundles polar animals, coral halls, sea-lion theatre and a cross-sea ropeway in one waterfront zone.
3 Pro Tips
1
Jinshitan sunrise – head to East Sea Park section for golden cliffs; check tide tables for reef access.
2
Plan Laohutan shows – arrive early; windy days may pause the ropeway.
3
Shoulder seasons win – May–Jun & Sep offer clear skies, light crowds along the Binhai belt.
4 The Full 5A List
🏖️
Coastal Geology · Jinpu New Area
Jinshitan National Tourist Resort / 大连金石滩国家旅游度假区
National scenic area & 5A resort; coastal geology belt, beaches, museums; Metro Line 3 to Jinshitan; many sub-attractions ticketed separately.
🐋
Ocean Park · Zhongshan
Laohutan Ocean Park / 大连老虎滩海洋公园
5A ocean park with Polar Pavilion, Coral Hall, sea-lion shows & long cross-sea ropeway; busy on weekends/holidays.
Two coastal heavyweights—cliffs by day, marine lights by night—No Tourist Traps. No BS.