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Founded in the 1980s, the Xisha Oceanographic Museum, located on Yongxing Island in the Xisha Islands, is my country's southernmost oceanographic museum and the only one founded by military personnel. Soldiers stationed on the island collect sea turtles and shellfish from the beaches, which are then sampled and displayed. The vast majority of marine life on display is unique to the Xisha waters, including the largest thousand-year-old giant clam, the largest sea turtle, the largest black coral, and the largest sponge ever discovered in the region.
The museum features a conch and seashell hall, a turtle and lobster hall, a sea rock flower hall, and a sea tree and rock fungus hall. The largest exhibit in the Conch and Seashell Hall is the largest giant clam yet discovered in the Xisha Islands, measuring 90 centimeters in diameter and boasting a delicate, regular white wavy pattern that captivates visitors with its captivating photo opportunity. Another enormous specimen, a nearly 1.5-meter-long, approximately 270-year-old sea turtle specimen, is housed in the Turtle and Lobster Hall. This is one of the largest and best-preserved sea turtles discovered in the Xisha Islands. Various fish specimens, a diverse array of coral and rock flowers, and other fascinating exhibits complete the museum's dazzling collection.
Tropical maritime monsoon climate;
Suitable for all seasons
It is recommended to visit for 1 to 2 hours
free
9:00~17:00
The Xisha Ocean Museum in Sansha City is dedicated to showcasing the marine biodiversity and ecological importance of the Xisha Islands (Paracel Islands). It highlights ocean conservation, maritime culture, and scientific research in the South China Sea region.
The museum is located in Sansha City, Hainan. Visitors typically reach it by taxi or private car; local buses may connect from central areas. Walking is suitable for exploring the museum complex itself.
The museum is generally open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are weekdays in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy quieter exhibits.
Ticket prices are moderate; visitors can purchase tickets at the museum entrance. Some official websites or local travel agencies may allow online bookings.
Advance booking is recommended during peak tourist seasons, typically a few days in advance, to ensure entry and guided tour availability.
2–3 hours are generally sufficient to see all exhibits, attend interactive sessions, and explore special exhibitions.
Guided tours are available, mainly in Mandarin. Some audio guides or informational panels may offer English explanations.
Start with the main aquarium hall, move through interactive and educational exhibits, then finish with temporary exhibitions or special displays.
Night visits are generally not available. Special tours or events may be scheduled occasionally, depending on the museum’s calendar.
Weekdays and mornings are the least crowded. Holidays and weekends can see higher visitor numbers, especially school groups.
Facilities include restrooms, benches, a small café, water fountains, and a gift shop selling marine-themed souvenirs.
The museum is mostly accessible for elderly visitors, children, and those with disabilities, with ramps and elevators available for easier movement.
Cards and mobile payments are widely accepted for tickets, food, and gift shop purchases; cash is also accepted.
A small café is inside the museum. Nearby in Sansha City, local restaurants offer seafood and Chinese cuisine.
Vegetarian options are limited; halal options may be available in select restaurants in the city.
There are several small hotels and guesthouses in Sansha City, providing convenient access to the museum.
The museum gift shop sells marine-themed items such as models of sea creatures, postcards, and educational materials.
Visitors can use taxis, private cars, or local buses to explore other parts of Sansha City or nearby islands.
