Built in 1914, the Saint Mary's Roman Catholic Basilica is the oldest Roman Catholic parish in the city and the only basilica in Arizona. Its stunning stained glass windows, intricate interior, and iconic Carillon Tower make it a must-see for visitors of all faiths. The basilica's grandeur was further elevated by a historic visit from Pope John Paul II in 1987, a moment that continues to resonate with parishioners and visitors alike. With daily Mass still celebrated, the basilica serves as both a spiritual sanctuary and a historical landmark. Visitors are welcome to admire its beauty, but please be respectful of ongoing services, keeping attire and behavior appropriate.

If you could draw an almost perfect Robinson Crusoe style beach, Dolly would definitely be a contender. Natural food supplies, shelter, and a source of fresh water would keep most castaways happy, and this beach has been known to do just that. As you arrive, especially if you are the first person of the day, you may be drawn to the turtle tracks in the sand. You can follow them until you find the signs of a nest. Both hawksbill and green turtles have been spotted. At the northern end of the beach, the hills are marked by fantastic rock formations with plenty of resident seabirds. More interesting, though, are the sea-level rock pools. Waves crash over the golden-toned, stony reef edges, which doesn't discourage marine life. Red algae and small hard corals paint different colours across the surfaces, while small fish dart about between the pools. Tiny moray eels hunt in ankle-deep water, and if you stay still they will swim up to you. The opposing end of the beach has slightly deeper pools to explore. Depending on the tides, these allow safe, shallow swimming. Going over the rocks to the sea isn't advised, as currents can be strong.

If you're looking to get a sense of the region's ancient past, the Shaanxi History Museum is where you need to go. The museum is packed with artefacts from thousands of years of history, reflecting the importance of Shaanxi as the heart of several key Chinese dynasties. Among its vast collection, one of the main draws is the display of four original Terracotta Warriors. As you wander through the museum, you’ll come across everything from detailed bronze tools and pottery to fascinating tomb relics, each telling a different part of the region’s story.

With the arrival of Iginio Scarpa, a patrician from Rijeka and building of his summer house Villa Angiolina in 1844, Opatija opened her doors to a whole line of guests and passengers. This is the building that certainly marked the beginning of the tourist epoch in the history of Opatija.