Laoshan Beach sits below the mountains on the eastern edge of Qingdao's coastal sprawl. It is farther from the centre than the city's better-known bathing beaches, but the setting is the reward: clear water, fine sand, and a more open feel around the Yangkou tourist area.
Plan transport both ways before going. Taxis are harder to find here than in central Qingdao, and the distance makes it a deliberate beach trip rather than a quick swim between city sights.