Things To Do
in Leizhou

Leizhou is a coastal city at the western tip of Guangdong's Leizhou Peninsula, facing the South China Sea. The town blends centuries of seafaring history with a relaxed, seafood-forward culture. Lush mangroves, long beaches, and nearby volcanic landscapes offer natural scenery and outdoor escapes.

Its markets, temples, and seaside eateries showcase a distinctive regional flavor that makes Leizhou feel both timeless and welcoming.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Leizhou Museum, where you can learn about the rich history of the region and its unique culture. Spend time marveling at the ancient artifacts, including pottery and tools from the Stone Age. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the historic streets, absorbing the architecture and local atmosphere.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, head to the famous Leizhou Ancient City to explore its well-preserved walls and traditional buildings. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, sampling regional specialties such as Leizhou rice noodles. Afterward, visit the nearby Longmu Temple, a stunning example of traditional Chinese architecture surrounded by lush gardens.

evening
:

As the sun sets, wander through the night market, where you can indulge in various street foods and shop for local handicrafts. The vibrant atmosphere is perfect for mingling with locals and other travelers. Cap the night off with a relaxing tea session at a nearby tea house, soaking in the ambiance.

day 2
Nature and Scenic Views at Leizhou Peninsula
morning
:

Begin your day with a scenic drive to the Leizhou Peninsula, taking in the stunning coastal views along the way. Once you arrive, explore the picturesque beaches, such as the sandy shores of Nanshan Beach, where you can relax and enjoy the sound of the waves. Pack a picnic breakfast to enjoy while overlooking the ocean.

afternoon
:

Continue your exploration by hiking the coastal trails that offer breathtaking vistas of both the sea and the lush greenery surrounding you. Stop at the Leizhou Lighthouse, a historic structure that provides panoramic views of the coastline. After your hike, visit a local seafood restaurant for a fresh catch of the day, celebrating the local fishing culture.

evening
:

As evening approaches, find a cozy spot on the beach to watch the sunset, painting the sky with vibrant colors. Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere as you reflect on the day’s adventures. If you're in the mood for entertainment, consider attending a local performance or cultural show featuring traditional music and dance.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant$6-12
🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant$15-30
🚕Taxi ride (short distance)$2-6
🧃Bottle of water (1.5L)$0.50-1.50
📱Local SIM data plan (1-2GB)$5-15

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich coastal scenery and fresh seafood
  • Relaxed pace and welcoming local culture
  • Accessible nature escapes nearby
  • Limited nightlife compared with big cities
  • English may be less common outside tourist areas
  • Some services and signage are more Chinese-language oriented
  • "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?
  • "可以刷卡吗?" - Can I pay by card?
  • "我想点菜" - I would like to order

Places to Visit in Leizhou

Visit one of these nice places.

Leizhou Bay coastline at sunrise

Soft morning light over the calm bay; a classic spot for silhouettes of fishermen and distant ships.

Salt ponds at golden hour

Geometric patterns and reflective water surfaces as the sun sets; ideal for abstract and landscape shots.

Old town gates and market courtyards

Historic architecture, lanterns, and busy street scenes that evoke everyday life in Leizhou.

Volcanic rock formations (Geopark area)

Rugged lava-like formations with dramatic textures and coastal vantage points.

Culinary Guide

Food in Leizhou

Leizhou cuisine centers on fresh seafood, earthy flavors, and bright herb accents. Expect bold coastal dishes, salt-seasoned specials, and a propensity for fiery and savory profiles that reflect the peninsula’s maritime heritage.

Leizhou Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Salt-baked fish

Fresh fish cooked in a salt crust to lock in moisture and delicate flavors; best found at coastal seafood eateries by the harbor.

Must-Try!

Grilled squid with garlic and lemongrass

Charred squid tossed with aromatic herbs; commonly sampled from street stalls near markets and piers.

Seafood hotpot

A communal pot of simmering shellfish, fish, and vegetables, ideal for sharing with locals at waterfront restaurants.

Rice noodles with seafood

Lightly seasoned noodles tossed with fresh shrimp or fish and herbs; a frequent staple in casual eateries.

Coconut custard dessert

A sweet finish featuring coconut milk and soft custard, often found in local dessert shops and markets.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Leizhou Old Market

A lively market scene with seafood stalls, dried goods, and snack stands; great for tasting small bites and observing daily life.

Harborfront stalls

Casual seafood grills and vendor carts offering quick bites, from grilled shellfish to peppery broths.

Climate Guide

Weather

Leizhou experiences a humid subtropical monsoon climate with hot, humid summers and mild winters. Rain is most common in the summer monsoon season, while typhoon activity can occur from late summer into autumn. Spring and autumn are the most comfortable for outdoor activities, with moderate humidity and pleasant temperatures. Overall, the climate supports a long outdoor season, especially from late spring through early autumn.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Temple and shrine etiquette

Dress modestly, remove hats, and speak softly. Do not point feet at sacred objects and avoid touching statues.

Greeting and respectful behavior

A polite nod or brief bow is common. Use both hands when giving or receiving items to show respect.

Market conduct

Bargaining is common but should be done with a smile and patience. Keep voices courteous in crowded areas.

Safety Guide

Safety

Leizhou is generally safe for travelers. Practice standard urban safety: keep valuables secure, beware pickpockets in crowded markets, use licensed taxis, and be cautious near the water and at night in less populated areas. For typhoons or heavy rain, follow local guidance and have an emergency plan. Health facilities are accessible in Zhanjiang and larger towns; travel insurance is recommended.

Tipping in Leizhou

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is not customary in most everyday settings. In higher-end hotels, tour guides, and upscale restaurants, rounding up or modest tips are appreciated but not expected.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, especially in markets. Mobile payments (WeChat Pay and Alipay) are ubiquitous in towns and many merchants. Cards are increasingly accepted at larger restaurants and hotels; in rural areas cash is often safest.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers. Typhoon season can bring strong winds and rain; stay hydrated and plan outdoor activities earlier in the day.

Autumn

Milder temperatures and clearer skies; comfortable for outdoor sightseeing and photography.

Winter

Generally mild, with cool evenings. Occasional rain; packing a lightweight jacket is wise.

Spring

Pleasant temperatures and blooming vegetation; good for hiking and market visits.

Nightlife Guide

Leizhou at Night

Leizhou’s nightlife is low-key compared with bigger cities. You’ll find seafood-focused nighttime markets, small bars near the waterfront, casual tea houses, and occasional karaoke rooms; evenings are best spent along the coast with the sea breeze and local company.

Hiking in Leizhou

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Leizhou Volcano Geopark trails

Ridge trails through volcanic formations with coastal viewpoints and photo-worthy lava-like textures.

Coastal mangrove and wetlands trails

Flat, bird-rich paths along estuaries—great for nature photography and quiet walks.

Peninsular rural hillside paths

Village climbs with sea views and countryside scenery, ideal for a relaxed half-day hike.

Airports

How to reach Leizhou by plane.

Zhanjiang Wuchang Airport (ZHA)

Primary gateway to the Zhanjiang region and Leizhou area; frequent connections to major Chinese hubs.

Shantou Chaoshan International Airport (SWA)

serves the Chaoshan region; useful for southern Guangdong access; longer overland transfer to Leizhou.

Beihai Airport (BHY)

Nearby Guangxi gateway; useful when traveling via Beihai and continuing by road to Leizhou.

Getting Around

Walkability

Leizhou has a walkable town center with pleasant waterfront promenades and markets. Outside the core, many destinations require short drives or taxis, as rural areas are more spread out.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Han Chinese

Predominant ethnicity; Mandarin is widely used; Teochew-speaking communities contribute regional cultural flavor.

Teochew-speaking communities

Cultural influence evident in markets, cuisine, and local traditions.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

Widely played in schools and community centers; easy pickup games in public courts.

Football (soccer)

A popular pastime among youths and local clubs across towns.

Badminton

Common in parks and sports facilities; affordable and easy to join.

Water sports

Swimming, snorkeling, and light fishing along the coast when conditions permit.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is generally moderate. Taxis and ride-hailing are common, and buses connect most towns on the peninsula. In peak hours, expect city center congestion; typhoon-related closures can affect schedules during storm season.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Leizhou.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Opt for vegetable dishes, tofu-based dishes, and mushroom preparations. Communicate clearly that you avoid meat and seafood; many places can tailor soups and noodles to be meat-free.

Gluten-Free

Rely on rice-based dishes and clearly request no wheat-based sauces; avoid soy sauce-heavy preparations if gluten is an issue and ask for alternatives like salt, chili, or sesame oil.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is accessible in Zhanjiang and larger towns, with public hospitals and private clinics. Pharmacies are common, but for specialized care or emergencies, travel to bigger cities may be needed. Travel insurance is advised.

Discover China

Read more in our China 2025 Travel Guide.

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