A snapshot of the boutique retreat, fishing boats, and the vast sea in harmony

Pingtan, situated off the coast of Fujian Province and being the closest mainland location to the island of Taiwan, is China's second international tourism island following Hainan. It serves not only as a comprehensive pilot zone for cross-Straits integration but also as a vital hub for international trade and logistics, boasting a stunning coastline that attracts visitors from far and wide.

Zhan Xianfu (left), founder of Nine Mile, in discussion with staff

Nestled in Baisha Village along Pingtan's coastal road, Nine Mile・ENJOYS Seaview Resort has quickly risen to fame as a new internet-famous photo-taking spot just one year after its opening. The brainchild of Zhan Xianfu, an out-of-towner who fell in love with Baisha Village's picturesque scenery, this homestay has struck a perfect chord with travelers.

A tourist wandering through the off-white architecture of the coastal retreat

Zhan's design philosophy centers on "finding a delicate balance between preserving the old and embracing the new" and ensuring "the homestay first captures one's own heart". This concept is evident throughout the property. During the renovation, a natural reef was kept intact by adjusting the wall lines and the lawn was expanded to retain the area's natural charm. Handmade shell ornaments and clay vases add a touch of craftsmanship to the decor.

The sunroom, where panoramic vistas take center stage

The architectural design is a blend of functionality and aesthetics. A series of archways create an axis leading towards the horizon, while the 360-degree glass sunroom, hailed as the "eye of the homestay", brings the sea, windmills, and clouds into the interior. Linen curtains fluttering in the sea breeze create a dreamy play of light and shadow. The color scheme, dominated by an elegant off-white tone inspired by Pingtan's traditional stone houses, is complemented by plants like traveler's palms and tropical cacti, adding a vibrant touch of green.

Nine Mile's family-friendly room

The rooms, all named after the sea such as "Lan Hai" (Embracing the Sea), "Mi Hai" (Seeking the Sea), and "Xu Hai" (Chatting by the Sea), emphasize the sea-view experience. The "Xu Hai" family room stands out as a star choice. Its curved walls, replicating the caves on the island, prevent children from bumping into sharp corners and provide a sense of security. The starry sky fiber optic lights on the roof simulate fishing fires, creating a romantic atmosphere of night fishing.

Geometric archways 

The public areas are equally inviting. The lobby, transformed into a "seaside living room" without a traditional reception desk, functions as a coffee bar. It offers high-quality Yunnan coffee and a special "Pingtan Blue Tears" drink containing local seaweed, paired with shell and wave-shaped desserts. This allows guests to savor the sea breeze and the aroma of coffee while checking in.

The service at Nine Mile·ENJOYS sets it apart. Four housekeepers work in two shifts, ready to assist guests at any time, combining the warmth of a homestay with the reliability of a high-end hotel.

Ma Yuqian, a post-95s housekeeper known as "Xiao Ma", is skilled at coffee latte art. Having explored the surrounding areas, she has become a "local expert" and provides valuable advice on check-in spots for tourists. Her efforts were recognized when a tourist from Shanghai sent her local specialties as a token of thanks. 

Xu Zheng, the night shift housekeeper, once rode an electric bike to get medicine for a guest in urgent need at 11 p.m., ensuring that guests' needs are met promptly.

Such exceptional experiences have led many guests to extend their stays. As one guest from Hangzhou, Wang He, put it, "It's a delightful surprise to steal a moment of leisure from the busy world here."

The retreat's inviting pool, a refreshing oasis

With an occupancy rate exceeding 90% during the summer vacation, Nine Mile·ENJOYS has successfully turned many tourists from "passers-by" into "old friends who entrust their hearts and souls."