Things To Do
in Haiyang
Haiyang is a coastal city in Shandong Province along the Yellow Sea. It blends traditional fishing heritage with growing modern amenities and seaside attractions. The long beaches, dunes, and fishing piers create a relaxed coastal atmosphere perfect for seafood lovers.
The city experiences a temperate, monsoon-influenced climate with distinct seasons that shape travel planning.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Haiyang Museum, where you can immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of the region. After exploring the exhibits, take a leisurely stroll through the nearby ancient streets lined with traditional architecture. Stop at a local tea house to enjoy a traditional Chinese breakfast with freshly brewed tea.
In the afternoon, visit the picturesque Haiyang Confucius Temple, a serene spot that offers insight into Confucian philosophy. Wander through the temple grounds, admiring the intricate carvings and peaceful gardens. Treat yourself to lunch at a nearby restaurant, sampling local specialties such as seafood noodles and dumplings.
As the sun sets, head to the waterfront promenade for a scenic walk along the coast. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere as street vendors set up their stalls, offering local snacks and handmade crafts. End your day with a delightful dinner at a seafood restaurant, where you can savor the freshly caught fish and enjoy a stunning view of the ocean.
Begin your day at the beautiful Golden Beach, where the golden sands and gentle waves create a perfect setting for relaxation. Spend the morning soaking up the sun, or engage in activities like beach volleyball or paddleboarding. Don’t forget to grab some fresh coconut water from a local vendor to keep you refreshed.
After lunch, dive into water sports by renting jet skis or trying out parasailing for an adrenaline rush. The experienced instructors will guide you, ensuring you have a safe and thrilling experience. Take some time to relax on the beach after your adventure, enjoying the stunning views of the horizon.
As the evening approaches, find a cozy beachside café to enjoy a casual dinner with a view of the sunset. Indulge in grilled seafood and local delicacies while listening to the sound of the waves. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the beach, basking in the serene atmosphere as the stars begin to twinkle.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🚌Local transportation (1 day) | $1-3 |
| 🏨1-night budget hotel | $25-40 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $2-4 |
| 📶SIM card / data plan | $10-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastline and seafood-rich cuisine
- Relaxed pace and welcoming local culture
- Reasonable costs for meals, accommodation, and transport
- Good base for exploring Shandong’s coast and nature reserves
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Some areas rely on weather, especially in winter
- Public transit outside central areas may require planning
- English spoken can be limited in smaller venues
- "你好" - Hello
- "谢谢" - Thank you
- "请问厕所在哪儿?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "多少钱?" - How much is this?
- "你会说英语吗?" - Do you speak English?
- "我吃素" - I am vegetarian
Places to Visit in Haiyang
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden light over calm waters and wet sand provides reflections and wide-angle opportunities.
Soft sand dunes with wind-formed patterns and expansive sea views—great for textures and silhouettes.
Activity at the fishing harbor with colorful boats and lanterns in the evening.
Leisurely promenade scenes: locals walking, park spaces, and the sea as a backdrop.
Food in Haiyang
Haiyang Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic dish that showcases fresh local fish with a bright ginger aroma and light soy-based seasoning.
Must-Try!
Tender sea cucumber stewed with soy, garlic, and light aromatics—popular in coastal taverns.
Juicy clams tossed with garlic, chili, and glass noodles for a satisfying bite.
Silky tofu finished with a fragrant hot scallion oil and soy seasoning.
Quickly seared squid with scallions, peppers, and sesame oil to preserve tenderness.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant stalls offering the freshest catches, grilled seafood, and quick-fix snacks right by the water.
A cluster of stalls serving fried dumplings, skewers, steamed buns, and local bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Line up patiently in shops and public transport; avoid pushing or cutting in; maintain polite distance in crowded areas.
Address elders with polite terms; wait to be seated in formal dining settings.
Speak softly in temples and cultural sites; avoid loud conversations near religious spaces or during meals in shared tables.
Safety
Tipping in Haiyang
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in most local establishments; service charges are rarely included. In tourist-heavy spots, small tips may be appreciated but are not expected.
Cash and mobile payments are widely accepted, especially WeChat Pay and Alipay. Some smaller markets may prefer cash only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with strong sea breezes; afternoons can bring thunderstorms. Pack sun protection, light clothing, and stay hydrated; sea swims are popular but heed safety flags.
Mild temperatures and thinner crowds; comfortable for outdoor exploration and cycling. Beach conditions remain pleasant through early autumn.
Cool to cold with potential strong winds and occasional drizzle. Indoor dining and sightseeing are comfortable; pack warm layers.
Pleasant temperatures with increasing humidity and seas breeze. Early spring can be windy; bring a light jacket and enjoy coastal walks and blooming scenery.
Haiyang at Night
Hiking in Haiyang
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy to moderate coastal path featuring dunes, tidal views, and photo opportunities.
Shaded trails through pine stands and nearby coastal scenery, suitable for day hikes.
Airports
How to reach Haiyang by plane.
Major international hub serving Qingdao and the broader region; accessible by road and rail from Haiyang with travel times varying by route.
Regional airport offering domestic connections; convenient for trips to nearby coastal cities.
Coastal airport serving Yantai area with regional flights; feasible as a nearby option for multi-city itineraries.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The vast majority of residents; diverse in age groups and occupations, with a growing number of newcomers in service and tourism sectors.
Small populations including migrant workers and seasonal residents; cultural exchanges are common in coastal areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Common pastime and local leagues; casual play is widely available in parks and schools.
Popular indoor activity with many clubs and recreational halls.
Seasonal sport on beaches during warmer months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Haiyang.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Seek tofu, mushrooms, leafy greens, and vegetable-based dishes; request vegetable stock and no meat/seafood broths.
Clearly communicate shellfish, seafood, or nut allergies; consider carrying a translation card in Mandarin describing your restrictions.