Things To Do
in Beihai

Whole seawater fish steamed simply with ginger, scallions and light soy — widely available at seafood restaurants and the best way to taste local freshness.

Must-Try!

Stir-fried or steamed with garlic and chilis at seaside stalls; try at the night markets or portside vendors for peak freshness.

Crab cured and baked in coarse salt to concentrate flavor, often served in mid-range seafood restaurants around the harbor.

Light broth with rice noodles, herbs and toppings — a common breakfast or snack offering in local eateries.

Street vendors along Zhongshan Road and nearby alleys sell snacks like grilled squid, sugarcane juice, soybean pudding and local pastries — great for sampling multiple items.

Near the port and Silver Beach you’ll find stalls and small restaurants where fishermen or vendors sell fresh catch cooked to order; bargain for price and pick what you want.

Use polite greetings (ni hao) and show respect to elders. A nod or slight bow is fine; formal titles and surnames are appropriate in business or formal contexts.

Ask before photographing locals, especially in villages or of children. Fishermen and market vendors may expect a friendly interaction before photos.

Communal dishes are common; try a little of each dish and avoid sticking chopsticks upright in rice (it resembles funeral rites). Use both hands when passing or receiving plates in more formal settings.

Keep voice levels moderate, be patient in queues, and avoid loud arguments or public criticism. Sensitive political topics are best avoided in casual conversation with acquaintances.

Tipping is not customary in most local settings — it’s generally unnecessary in small restaurants, taxis and casual services. Higher-end hotels and international restaurants may accept or include service charges; tipping in KTVs or for exceptional service is discretionary.

Mobile payments (WeChat Pay and Alipay) dominate and are accepted almost everywhere; cash (RMB) and major credit cards are accepted at hotels and larger restaurants, but small vendors may prefer mobile pay or cash. ATMs are available in town.

Mild temperatures and flowering plants make this a pleasant time to visit; occasional rain begins in late spring. Good for outdoor activities before the summer humidity increases.

Hot, humid and the main tourist season for beaches; also peak typhoon season (July–September) so check weather forecasts and ferry schedules. Expect crowded beaches and higher prices during Chinese holidays.

Generally the best time for travel — cooler, lower humidity, clearer skies and stable seas ideal for island trips and photography.

Mild compared with northern China, cooler evenings and low temperatures rarely drop below 10°C (50°F); quieter tourist scene and lower prices, though some island services may reduce frequency.

Short, scenic hikes across volcanic cones, lava fields and coastal cliffs with panoramic ocean views; suitable for half-day exploration and photography.

Flat, accessible coastal walk for sunrise and sunset photography, people-watching and easy exercise.

Walks through mangrove areas and estuaries are good for birdwatching and gentle nature hikes—best at low tide and in the cooler seasons.

Short drives from Beihai lead to countryside trails around Hepu Ancient City and rice-paddy landscapes for a quieter hiking experience and cultural sites.

Vegetarian options exist but many local dishes use seafood or meat broths. Use the phrase 'wo chi su' (I eat vegetarian) and confirm 'bu yao rou, bu yao yu' (no meat, no fish). Larger restaurants and hotels can accommodate; small stalls may have limited choices.

Cross-contamination with seafood and use of fish sauce/oyster sauce is common — carry translation cards for allergies and prefer vegetarian restaurants or hotel kitchens to be safe.