whatdo

Things To Do
in Haikou

Day Trips

Tours

Attractions

Prices

Haikou, the capital and most populous city of Hainan province in southern China, serves as the political, economic, and cultural hub of the island. Known for its tropical climate, it offers picturesque beaches, lush parks, and a well-preserved Old Town that reflects the area's rich history and diverse cultural influences.

Haikou also acts as a significant port city, playing a crucial role in regional transportation and international trade.

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Romantic Tour in Zhanjiang

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The Best of Zhanjiang Walking Tour

  • "Ni hao" - Hello
  • "Xie xie" - Thank you
  • "Zao an" - Good morning
  • "Zai jian" - Goodbye
  • "Shen me" - What?

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
  • ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore Haikou Beaches
morning
:

Start your day with a relaxing walk along the picturesque Holiday Beach. Enjoy the fresh sea breeze and capture stunning sunrise photos.

afternoon
:

Visit the scenic Baishamen Park, where you can stroll through lush greenery. Don't miss the opportunity to have a picnic or try local snacks from nearby vendors.

evening
:

Head to the waterfront for dinner at a seafood restaurant. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere as you watch the sunset over the ocean.

day 2
Nature and Culture
morning
:

Visit the Haikou Arcade House to admire the unique architecture and learn about local history. Take a leisurely walk through the nearby Haikou People's Park.

afternoon
:

Explore the Tropical Ocean World, where you can see a variety of marine life. Engage in interactive exhibits and enjoy the shows.

evening
:

Have dinner at a traditional Hainanese restaurant. Savor the flavors of local dishes like Hainan chicken rice.

Haikou Day Trips

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Pleasant tropical climate, making it suitable for year-round tourism.
  • Beautiful beaches and natural landscapes, ideal for outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural heritage and history, offering a unique blend of Chinese and local culture.
  • Developing economy with improving infrastructure and investment opportunities.
  • Strategic location as it serves as a gateway to other regions in China and Southeast Asia.
  • Limited public transportation options compared to larger Chinese cities.
  • Air quality issues due to urbanization and industrial activity.
  • Language barrier for non-Mandarin speakers, which can affect communication.
  • Fewer entertainment and shopping options compared to major metropolises.
  • Hot and humid summers may be uncomfortable for some residents and visitors.

Best Activities in Haikou

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Beach activities at West Coast

Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and beach sports at the beautiful West Coast beaches in Haikou.

Exploring Wugong Temple

Visit Wugong Temple, a historical site surrounded by lush greenery, and explore the traditional Chinese architecture and garden.

Golfing at Mission Hills Haikou

Experience world-class golfing at Mission Hills Haikou, featuring championship courses and stunning tropical landscapes.

Cycling along Haidian River

Take a scenic cycling tour along the Haidian River, enjoying the riverside views and peaceful atmosphere.

Places to Visit in Haikou

Visit one of these nice places.

Wugong Temple

A historic temple with beautiful architecture and gardens, offering great views for photography.

Hainan Museum

A modern museum with an outdoor garden and scenic areas perfect for capturing memorable photos.

Qilou Old Street

A charming historic street lined with colonial buildings, offering picturesque scenes for photography.

Guilinyang Tropical Garden

A lush tropical garden with scenic spots and water features, perfect for capturing natural beauty.

Food in Haikou

Haikou, the capital city of Hainan province in China, is renowned for its unique Hainanese cuisine. Influenced by the region's tropical climate and abundant seafood, the local dishes are flavorful and aromatic. The cuisine also features an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables, making it a paradise for food enthusiasts.

Haikou Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Hainanese Chicken Rice

A signature dish of Haikou, this consists of poached chicken and seasoned rice, often accompanied by chili sauce and cucumber. You can savor an authentic version of this dish at the Wuchang Chicken Restaurant.

Must-Try!

Wenchang Chicken

This is a renowned local specialty made with free-range Wenchang chickens. One of the best places to enjoy this delicacy is at Jiachang Wenchang Chicken Restaurant.

Coconut Rice

A popular dessert in Haikou, coconut rice is a sweet and creamy dish made with glutinous rice and fresh coconut milk. It's a must-try at local dessert shops like Lao Tian Lu.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Qilou Snack Street

Located in the historic Qilou Old Street area, this street is famous for its variety of traditional snacks and street food. Visitors can sample local specialties like Hainanese pancake and rice noodle rolls here.

Bo'ai Road Seafood Market

Seafood lovers should visit this bustling market, where an array of fresh seafood is on display. The market also features numerous open-air seafood stalls offering delicious seafood dishes.

Weather

Located in the tropical region, the climate is characterized as a humid subtropical climate, with a distinct wet and dry season. Summers are long, hot, and humid, typically lasting from May to October. During this period, temperatures often rise above 30°C (86°F), and the city experiences frequent and heavy rainfall, especially influenced by the monsoon season. Winters, on the other hand, are mild and dry, occurring from December to February, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F). This season sees considerably less rainfall and lower humidity, making it a pleasant time for outdoor activities. The transition periods of spring and autumn are relatively short, providing comfortable temperatures and moderate weather. Typhoons are a common occurrence during the late summer months, potentially bringing heavy rains and strong winds. Overall, the climate allows for a lush environment and a variety of agricultural activities, but it also poses risks during storm seasons.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

In Haikou, it is important to show respect to elders by addressing them with proper titles and using polite language.

Table Manners

When dining in Haikou, it is customary to wait for the host to begin eating before starting your meal, and to use chopsticks in a respectful manner.

Greetings

Greetings are important in Haikou, and it is customary to greet people with a slight bow or nod of the head, particularly when meeting someone for the first time.

Safety

This coastal city in southern China is known for its relatively low crime rate, making it a generally safe place for both residents and visitors. Local authorities prioritize public safety, and there is a visible police presence in urban areas. Violent crime is rare, though petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur, particularly in crowded tourist spots. In terms of natural hazards, the region is susceptible to tropical storms and typhoons, especially during the summer months. Residents and tourists are advised to stay informed about weather conditions and follow local guidance during such events. Healthcare services are widely available and typically of good quality, which enhances safety for those who may require medical attention. Additionally, road safety is an important consideration, as traffic can be busy and may not always adhere to strict regulations. Pedestrians are encouraged to exercise caution. Overall, it is advisable for everyone to remain vigilant and take standard precautions to ensure personal safety while enjoying the attractions and culture of this vibrant city.

Tipping in Haikou

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In Haikou, China, tipping is not a common practice. It is not expected in restaurants, hotels, or taxis. However, in some upscale hotels and restaurants, a service charge may be included in the bill.

Payment

In Haikou, China, cash is still widely used for small transactions, especially in local markets and smaller establishments. However, major credit cards like Visa and Mastercard are accepted in many hotels, restaurants, and larger stores in tourist areas.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring (March to May)

Best time to visit Haikou, pleasant weather, blooming flowers, and various outdoor activities.

Summer (June to August)

Warm and humid weather, ideal for beach activities, water sports, and tropical fruit tasting.

Autumn (September to November)

Mild weather, clear skies, and great for exploring parks, gardens, and cultural festivals.

Winter (December to February)

Mild and cool weather, fewer tourists, and ideal for seafood tasting, hot spring baths, and enjoying local traditions.

Haikou at Night

Nightlife in Haikou offers a vibrant and diverse array of options that cater to both locals and visitors. The city, being the capital of Hainan province, is lively after sunset with numerous entertainment venues, from bustling night markets to chic bars and clubs. The Crown City Area is particularly popular, featuring a variety of nightclubs and karaoke bars where you can sing and dance the night away. For those who prefer a more laid-back evening, Haikou provides many waterfront bars and cafes along its scenic coastline, offering the perfect spots to enjoy a leisurely drink while taking in the sea breeze. Alternatively, the city's night markets, such as the Haikou Arcade-House Streets, present an excellent opportunity to savor local delicacies, shop for unique souvenirs, and experience the local culture. In addition, the local theaters and cultural performance centers sometimes offer traditional Hainanese opera and contemporary shows, giving visitors a taste of the region's rich artistic heritage. Whether you're in the mood for high-energy activities or a more relaxed atmosphere, Haikou's nightlife has something to suit every preference.

Hiking in Haikou

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Haikou Volcano Park

A unique park featuring volcanic terrain, hiking trails, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Bohou Village Trail

A scenic hiking trail with traditional village views, lush vegetation, and opportunities to experience local culture.

Wugong Mountain

A popular hiking destination renowned for its rugged trails, natural scenery, and diverse wildlife.

Tropical Garden Trail

A leisurely hike through a tropical garden showcasing a variety of plant species, perfect for nature enthusiasts.

Xixiu Mountain

A mountain area offering a range of hiking paths, with panoramic views of Haikou and the coastline.

Aiports

How to reach Haikou by plane.

Haikou Meilan International Airport (HAK)

The main international airport serving Haikou, located about 25 km northeast of the city center.

Sanya Phoenix International Airport (SYX)

Located approximately 250 km southeast of Haikou, this airport serves the city of Sanya and the surrounding Hainan Province.

Nanning Wuxu International Airport (NNG)

Located about 600 km northwest of Haikou, it serves Nanning and offers various domestic and international flights.

Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN)

Situated around 700 km north of Haikou, it's one of the major airports in southern China with numerous international connections.

Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport (SZX)

Located about 800 km north of Haikou, this airport serves the Shenzhen metropolitan area and has many international flights.

Walkability

Walkability in this coastal city is influenced by its relatively flat terrain, which makes it easier for pedestrians to navigate. The city features a mix of modern developments and greenery, providing pleasant surroundings for walkers. Wide sidewalks in many areas support foot traffic, along with public spaces designed for leisure, such as parks and waterfront promenades. Pedestrian-friendly streets are frequently found in residential and commercial areas, where businesses and amenities are within walking distance. However, certain parts of the city may have limited walkability due to vehicle-centric infrastructure or less developed pedestrian pathways. Efforts are ongoing to enhance connectivity and promote a more walkable environment, including improving sidewalks and adding pedestrian crossings. Climate and weather do impact the walkability experience, with hot and humid conditions prevalent for much of the year. This can deter long walks unless accommodations such as shade and cooling facilities are available. Overall, the city is making strides toward being more walkable, with features that encourage walking as a convenient and enjoyable mode of transport.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Han Chinese

The majority ethnic group in Haikou, making up about 95% of the population.

Li

An indigenous ethnic group primarily found in Hainan Island, comprising a small percentage of the population.

Miao

Another ethnic group present in Hainan, though they represent a very small part of the demographic.

Zhuang

A minority ethnic group, with a limited presence in Haikou compared to other regions of China.

Other Minority Groups

Includes a mix of various other ethnic groups from different parts of China and abroad, representing a small fraction of the population.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is widely popular in Haikou, with many local clubs and organized leagues attracting both youth and adults.

Basketball

Basketball enjoys a large following in Haikou, with numerous outdoor courts and schools actively encouraging student participation.

Badminton

Badminton is a favorite recreational activity in Haikou, with many facilities available for both casual and competitive play.

Table Tennis

Table tennis is a well-loved sport in Haikou, with many people engaging in playing casually in parks and communities.

Running

Running is a popular activity in Haikou, particularly along scenic waterfront trails and parks, attracting both locals and tourists.

Cycling

Cycling is a common pastime in Haikou, with many bike rental services available and dedicated cycling paths throughout the city.

Golf

Due to its pleasant climate and beautiful scenery, golf is a favored sport in Haikou, with several high-quality golf courses attracting enthusiasts.

Traffic

Traffic in Haikou can be characterized by a mix of modern infrastructure and traditional transportation methods. As the capital of Hainan Province, the city has seen significant development, which includes an expanding road network to accommodate increasing vehicle ownership. The streets are often busy, especially during peak hours, with a variety of vehicles including cars, buses, and electric scooters. Traffic jams can occur, particularly in commercial districts and around major intersections. Public transportation is available, with buses serving many routes across the city, offering an affordable alternative for residents and visitors. Pedestrian infrastructure is present, but it can sometimes be lacking in certain areas, requiring walkers to navigate carefully among vehicles. Additionally, local taxi services and ride-hailing apps provide convenient travel options for many. During holidays and festive seasons, the traffic can become particularly congested as tourism increases, reflecting Haikou’s role as a growing destination. Overall, while Haikou's traffic can be busy and chaotic at times, efforts to improve urban mobility and public transport are ongoing as the city continues to develop.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Haikou.

Hotels Apartments

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

While Hainanese cuisine is heavily focused on seafood and meats, many restaurants in Haikou now offer vegetarian and vegan dishes due to the growing demand from visitors. Look for Buddhist vegetarian restaurants, where a wide variety of plant-based dishes are served.

Gluten-free Options

Visitors with gluten intolerances may find it challenging to locate specific gluten-free options in traditional Hainanese cuisine. However, in upscale international hotels and restaurants, gluten-free choices are increasingly available, and staff are generally accommodating to dietary needs.

Healthcare

The healthcare system in this city is characterized by a mix of public and private facilities, with a focus on both traditional Chinese medicine and modern medical practices. Public hospitals often provide a broad range of services and are usually the first point of contact for residents. These facilities can be quite crowded, especially in urban areas, as they tend to serve a large population. Private healthcare options have been expanding, offering shorter wait times and a more personalized experience, albeit often at a higher cost. Many private clinics and hospitals provide services in English, catering to the growing expatriate community and tourists. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is also widely practiced, with many clinics specializing in acupuncture, herbal medicine, and other holistic therapies. This reflects the cultural heritage and the integration of TCM into the overall healthcare system. Public health initiatives aim to improve overall health standards, with a focus on preventive care, health education, and disease control. The government has been investing in healthcare infrastructure, working towards better accessibility and quality of care. Pharmacy services are readily available, providing a range of prescription and over-the-counter medications, and healthcare insurance coverage varies, with many relying on a mix of social insurance and personal funds for medical expenses. Overall, the healthcare landscape is evolving, balancing traditional practices with the demands of a modern health system, while striving to enhance access and quality of care for its residents.

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