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Haikou, nicknamed the "Coconut City," is the capital of Hainan Province. Nestled in the tropics, Haikou boasts diverse tropical resources and is a southern coastal city rich in stunning natural scenery. Haikou boasts a pleasant climate and a first-class ecological environment. Its air quality consistently ranks first among key regions (Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei, Yangtze River Delta, and Pearl River Delta) and 74 cities (municipalities, provincial capitals, and cities with independent planning status) nationwide. With a green coverage rate of 43.5%, Haikou has been designated by the World Health Organization as China's first "World Health City" pilot site.
Haikou has been awarded the titles of "China's Charming City", "China's Most Happy City", "China's Excellent Tourist City", "China's Famous City for Leisure and Cuisine", "National Model City for Environmental Protection", "National Sanitary City", "National Garden City", "National Historical and Cultural City", "National Civilized City", "National Model City for the Support of the People and the Army", and "Most Innovative International Convention and Exhibition City". It has won the annual "China Habitat Environment Award" issued by the Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development, and was selected as one of the "Top 50 Cities with the Most Investment Potential in China" in 2017.
Haikou is located at the northern edge of the low-latitude tropics and has a tropical monsoon climate. Temperatures here are neither too cold in winter nor too hot in summer, with evergreen, warm and comfortable all year round.
Best time to visit: October to May. During this period, Haikou enjoys calm seas and pleasant weather. While the north is freezing, Haikou enjoys a gentle, warm breeze.
The other months are the rainy season in Haikou, especially September, which is the peak rainfall period and will cause inconvenience to tourists.
Qilou Old Street
Spanning several streets in Haikou, including Xinhua Road and Zhongshan Road, this street boasts a 700-year history and is renowned for its history and culture. Over 600 multi-story buildings, large and small, were built by overseas Chinese returning from Southeast Asia in the last century. Deshengsha Road is home to Hainan's largest clothing wholesale market. Xinhua South Road boasts traditional tailor shops, casual clothing and shoe stores, teahouses, and snack shops. Zhongshan Road is dotted with cafes, galleries, and craft shops. Boai Road boasts small shops selling home appliances and small commodities. Running through Boai Road are the East and West Gate Markets. The East Gate is home to a seafood and dried goods market, while the West Gate is home to an antique street.
All day, free
Holiday Beach
Located in northern Haikou, this 6-kilometer-long beach overlooks the vast Qiongzhou Strait, where sailboats can be seen passing by. The beach comprises sunbathing areas, marine sports areas, dining areas, and leisure areas, making it a comprehensive seaside tourist and leisure destination in Haikou. Evening barbecues are available in the summer.
All day, free
Leiqiong Geopark (Volcanoes World Geopark)
There are over 40 volcanoes in Haikou. From the vantage point of the crater, you can overlook the city and the Qiongzhou Strait, making it a natural geological museum. The Volcanic Stone Cultural Park displays tools made of volcanic stone from villages in the volcanic area over 2,000 years ago. The most eye-catching attraction is the Ma'anling Crater, one of the most geologically young extinct volcanic craters in my country and one of the best-preserved in the world. Furthermore, the Ma'anling Crater is the highest point in Haikou, and the Guanhaikou Observation Deck offers a panoramic view of the azure sea and sky of the Qiongzhou Strait.
Time: 08:00-18:00
Ticket price: 60 yuan/person
Wanlv Park
Located in the reclaimed area north of Haikou, Wanlv Park is Haikou's largest open tropical coastal ecological forest landscape park. Planted with numerous tropical ornamental plants, Wanlv Park blends the clear waters, blue skies, and tall buildings into one harmonious whole. It's a popular park for Haikou residents to enjoy morning exercises and evening strolls. The park also boasts 16 scenic areas and numerous surrounding facilities, perfect for a relaxing stroll.
All day, free
Haikou is the capital city of Hainan Province in China and is known for its blend of modernity and tradition. Historically, it has been a key port and trade hub, with colonial-era influences visible in its architecture. Haikou is also famous for its proximity to volcanic landscapes and pristine beaches.
Haikou is located on the northern coast of Hainan Island. It is easily accessible via the Haikou Meilan International Airport. Taxis and buses are the most common modes of transportation within the city, and walking is a great option for exploring local areas like Haikou Old Town.
Haikou is a year-round destination. However, the best times to visit are during the cooler months from November to April. The city’s attractions are typically open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, though specific hours may vary depending on the venue.
Most attractions in Haikou have free or low entrance fees. For sites like the Hainan Museum or Haikou Old Town, tickets may be purchased at the entrance or in advance online for specific events or exhibitions.
For popular attractions or special events, it is advisable to book tickets in advance, especially during the peak tourist season (November to March). Booking a few days in advance is generally sufficient.
A typical visit to Haikou takes 2-3 days, allowing enough time to explore the main attractions such as Haikou Old Town, the Hainan Museum, beaches, and parks. A day trip can also be sufficient for a more relaxed visit to the major landmarks.
Guided tours are available at many of Haikou’s attractions, including the Hainan Museum and the Haikou Old Town. Tours are typically in Mandarin, though English-speaking guides may be available on request for larger groups or specific tours.
Start your day by exploring Haikou Old Town for historical context, then visit the Hainan Museum for cultural insight. In the afternoon, relax at Holiday Beach, and in the evening, head to the Haikou Volcano Park for sunset views.
Haikou has some evening activities, such as visiting the bustling local markets and enjoying the vibrant nightlife. Light shows or night tours are not commonly available at most attractions, but certain events or festivals may offer evening activities.
Haikou can be crowded during public holidays and the peak tourist season (November to February). Weekdays and early mornings are typically less crowded, making them ideal for a more relaxed experience.
Most of Haikou’s tourist attractions are accessible for elderly and children, with paved walkways and ramps at major sites. However, some areas like the Haikou Volcano Park may involve steep terrain that could be challenging for disabled visitors.
Cash is still accepted in many places, but mobile payments (WeChat Pay and Alipay) are widely used in Haikou, especially for transportation and shopping.
Yes, Haikou has a variety of vegetarian, vegan, and halal food options, especially in the city’s markets and food courts, with many restaurants catering to dietary preferences.
Souvenir shops are common throughout Haikou, especially near tourist sites. Typical souvenirs include Hainanese coffee, local handicrafts, tropical fruits, and embroidered textiles.
After visiting Haikou, you can continue your trip by taxi, bus, or private car hire. Ferries also connect Haikou to other parts of Hainan Island, and flights are available from Haikou Meilan International Airport.
