Since then, the sunshine economy has become a development engine of Wenling's tourism. From 2001 to 2018, the number of tourists to Wenling continued to grow at an average annual rate of over 20 percent.

In 2018, it received 18.9 million tourists with total tourism revenue rising to 20.76 billion yuan.

The once trash-filled beach has been transformed into a spotless stretch ideal for sun viewing, with trails stretching along the sea and recreational facilities everywhere.

Shitang was once known as a "vacant village" as fishermen usually stayed out at sea for several months on end, leaving behind an unattended village.

However, incoming tourists have brought tremendous changes as the local government has increased investment and strengthened management.

Stone houses decorated with carved granite windows have been erected, and the clean bay and clear sea fascinate tourists.

Chen Bin, 46, was among the first arrivals to strike gold. He visited Shitang in 2014, and decided to stay by operating a homestay.

There were 19 homestays as of 2017, and the number rose to 39 within just one year.