Things To Do
in Meilan

Meilan is a picturesque district located in Haikou, Hainan Province, China, known for its beautiful landscapes and tropical climate. It serves as a gateway to various natural attractions, including beaches and mountains, making it a popular destination for both tourists and locals. The area is also rich in culture, with historical sites and traditional markets that reflect the local way of life.

Meilan is an ideal place for those seeking a blend of relaxation and adventure in a vibrant environment.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Nature and Culture
morning
:

Start your day at the beautiful Meilan Lake, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk around the lake and take in the scenic views.

afternoon
:

Visit the Hainan Museum to learn about the rich history and culture of Hainan Island, followed by a stroll through the nearby Haikou Old Town to admire its colonial architecture.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local seafood restaurant, followed by a visit to the Haikou Night Market to experience the vibrant street food scene.

day 2
Day 2: Beach Relaxation and Adventure
morning
:

Head to the stunning Baishamen Park for a morning of relaxation on the beach, sunbathing, and enjoying the ocean breeze.

afternoon
:

Participate in water sports like jet skiing or paddleboarding, or explore the nearby Coral Island for snorkeling.

evening
:

Dine at a beachfront restaurant, enjoying fresh local dishes, and then take a walk along the promenade to enjoy the sunset.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at a local restaurant$5
🚕Taxi fare (within the city)$3
🛍️Souvenir or local craft$10
Coffee at a café$2
🍺Beer at a bar$4

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural landscapes and beaches.
  • Rich cultural heritage and delicious local cuisine.
  • Mild climate year-round, suitable for outdoor activities.
  • Language barrier may pose challenges for non-Mandarin speakers.
  • Public transportation options can be limited outside urban areas.
  • Summer months can be very hot and humid.
  • "你好" - Hello
  • "谢谢" - Thank you
  • "请问厕所在哪里?" - Excuse me, where is the restroom?
  • "我不明白" - I don't understand
  • "多少钱?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Meilan

Visit one of these nice places.

Meilan Lake

A picturesque lake surrounded by lush greenery, ideal for capturing stunning sunrise and sunset shots.

Haikou Old Town

Charming streets lined with colonial architecture, perfect for capturing the essence of Hainan's history.

Baishamen Park

Offers beautiful coastal views and is a great location for landscape photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Meilan

Meilan offers a delightful culinary experience with its unique flavors and fresh ingredients from the region. Must-try local dishes are a highlight for any visitor, showcasing the cultural diversity of Hainan.

Meilan Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Hainanese Chicken Rice

A fragrant dish featuring poached chicken served with seasoned rice and a variety of dipping sauces.

Must-Try!

Niu Rou Mian

Beef noodle soup that is hearty and flavorful, often enjoyed with pickled vegetables.

Coconut Rice

Sticky rice cooked with coconut milk, often served with fresh tropical fruits.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Haikou Night Market

A bustling market where you can sample a variety of street foods including skewers, dumplings, and local desserts.

Meilan Street Food Alley

A popular spot for locals offering a range of snacks and quick bites, perfect for an afternoon treat.

Climate Guide

Weather

Meilan experiences a tropical monsoon climate, characterized by hot and humid summers and mild winters. Average temperatures range from 20°C (68°F) in winter to 30°C (86°F) in summer. The rainy season occurs between May and October, with July and August being the wettest months. The dry season spans from November to April, which is the best time to visit for pleasant weather.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Showing respect to elders is important in Chinese culture; always greet older individuals first.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating or toasting before you begin to eat.

Gift Giving

When giving gifts, avoid giving clocks or umbrellas, as they are associated with funerals.

Safety Guide

Safety

Meilan is generally considered safe for tourists, with low rates of violent crime. However, petty theft can occur, especially in crowded areas; therefore, it’s wise to keep personal belongings secure. Travelers should also be cautious when crossing streets, as traffic can be hectic.

Tipping in Meilan

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not traditionally practiced in China, but rounding up the bill is appreciated in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Cash is accepted, but mobile payment apps like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used and convenient for transactions.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring (March to May) brings mild weather and blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Summer (June to August) can be hot and humid, ideal for beach visits but be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

Autumn (September to November) features comfortable temperatures and clear skies, perfect for exploring the outdoors.

Winter

Winter (December to February) is mild compared to other regions, making it a pleasant time for sightseeing.

Nightlife Guide

Meilan at Night

Meilan has a vibrant nightlife scene with numerous bars and clubs that cater to different tastes. The Haikou Night Market comes alive in the evenings, offering a mix of street food, shopping, and entertainment. For those looking for a more relaxed atmosphere, there are bars along the coastline where visitors can enjoy live music and beautiful ocean views. Karaoke is also popular, with many locals enjoying this favorite pastime late into the night.

Hiking in Meilan

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Wuzhishan Trail

A scenic hiking trail that leads to the summit of Wuzhishan Mountain, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Tianya Haijiao

Famous for its stunning coastal views, this trail offers a mix of forest and beach paths, perfect for both hiking and sightseeing.

Airports

How to reach Meilan by plane.

Haikou Meilan International Airport

Located approximately 25 kilometers northeast of Haikou city center, this airport connects Meilan to major cities in China and several international destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Meilan is relatively walkable, especially in urban areas like Haikou. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and many attractions are within walking distance of each other. However, some areas may require transportation due to the distance between certain sites, especially if venturing into more rural areas.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Han Chinese

The majority ethnic group in Meilan, known for their cultural practices and traditions.

Li People

An indigenous group in Hainan, known for their unique customs and rich heritage, contributing to the cultural diversity of the region.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is a popular sport among locals, with many amateur teams and matches taking place in parks and schools.

Badminton

Badminton is widely played in public parks, with many people enjoying casual games as a form of exercise.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic conditions in Meilan can be congested during peak hours, especially in urban areas. Public transportation includes buses and taxis, which are affordable and widely used. Ride-sharing apps are also available, making it convenient for travelers to navigate the city.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Meilan.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Meilan offer vegetarian dishes, but it’s advisable to check with the staff to ensure no meat products are used.

Allergies

Be cautious about food allergies; communicating in advance is essential, as local dishes may contain common allergens.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Meilan is reasonably good, with several hospitals and clinics available. Major hospitals in Haikou offer services in English, but it's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses. Pharmacies are also common and usually carry a range of medications.

Discover China

Read more in our China 2025 Travel Guide.

China Travel Guide