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Explore the pristine beaches, relax in the clear waters, and enjoy water sports like kayaking and snorkeling. Take a guided tour of the island to learn about the local flora and fauna. Hike along the scenic trails or enjoy cycling around the island. The island also offers a perfect spot for fishing and bird watching. You can also experience the local culture by visiting nearby fishing villages and tasting fresh seafood.
Daidai Island is located in Lingshui County, Hainan Province, China, adjacent to Nanwan Monkey Island. From Monkey Island Pier, it's a short boat ride to the Nanwan Peninsula, followed by a tour bus. Daidai Island is one of Hainan's ten most romantic scenic spots, offering a pristine, ecologically sound, tranquil, and sentimental landscape. With its pristine white sand and azure waters, a 1.1-kilometer-long coastline, a 280-meter-deep sandy beach, and endless coconut groves, it creates a private, idyllic beach paradise.
Compared to other beaches, Daidai Island's most striking quality is its tranquility. Free from the hustle and bustle of crowds and the chaotic sounds of the surroundings, it's a place where one can simply let go, enjoying the sea breeze and the sound of the waves. Writer Feng Tang once said: "This is China's most beautiful deserted beach." A variety of internet celebrity photo props are scattered across the beach: pink buses, white classic cars, bubble houses, swings, boats... Here, there's only the tranquility and romance of falling asleep to the sea breeze and the sound of the waves.
tropical monsoon climate;
November to May is the golden season for travel
It is recommended to play for 2 to 3 hours
Reference price: 90 yuan (including ferry and sightseeing bus)
8:30-16:30
Daidai Island is a beautiful, unspoiled island located in the southern part of Hainan. The island has been known for its natural beauty and is a popular destination for eco-tourism. It is also significant for its biodiversity, hosting a range of tropical plants and animals. The island’s history is intertwined with the local fishing culture and its remote location makes it a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of mainland cities.
Daidai Island is located off the coast of Lingshui County, Hainan. It can be accessed by boat from the mainland. The nearest port is Lingshui Port, which is about 30 km from Lingshui County. From Haikou, you can take a bus or taxi to Lingshui Port and then take a boat to the island.
The island is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the cooler months between October and March. Avoid the summer months (June-August) when the weather can be hot and humid. Visiting during the dry season offers better weather conditions for outdoor activities.
Entry to Daidai Island typically requires purchasing a boat ticket, which costs approximately 100-150 RMB. Tickets can be bought at Lingshui Port before departure. It is advisable to book tickets online if possible, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Booking tickets in advance is not mandatory, but it is recommended, especially during weekends and holidays. You can book tickets online up to a week in advance to ensure a spot on the boat and avoid long waiting times at the port.
You will need around 4-6 hours to fully explore the island, including time for hiking, swimming, and relaxing on the beach. A day trip is sufficient to enjoy the main attractions of the island.
The main highlights include the beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling, and the lush tropical landscapes. The island’s hiking trails also offer fantastic views of the surrounding sea. Fishing villages and the local culture are also noteworthy areas to explore.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and English-speaking guides may be available during peak tourist seasons. Audio guides are not typically provided on the island.
Great photography spots include the coastal cliffs, sandy beaches, and the lush forested areas. The highest points on the island offer panoramic views of the surrounding sea and neighboring islands. Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for photography as well.
Start your day by visiting the beach for swimming or sunbathing. Then, explore the hiking trails leading to the best viewpoints. Afterward, visit the local fishing village for a taste of fresh seafood. End the day by enjoying the sunset from the highest point on the island.
Night visits and light shows are not available on Daidai Island. The island is typically visited during the daytime, with no planned nighttime activities. However, it’s a peaceful place to enjoy a quiet night under the stars if you choose to stay overnight at nearby accommodations.
The island can get crowded during peak holiday seasons, particularly around Chinese New Year and summer vacation. To avoid crowds, it is best to visit on weekdays or outside the peak tourist seasons (April-May, September-November).
The island offers basic facilities such as public toilets, rest areas, and food stalls. There are no large shops or restaurants, but you can purchase snacks and drinks from small local vendors. It’s advisable to bring your own water and supplies for longer stays.
While the island is relatively small, the terrain can be uneven, with steep trails and rocky areas. Elderly and disabled visitors may find some areas challenging to access. It’s best to plan for shorter walks or consult with local operators for accessibility options.
Cash is accepted on the island, but mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are also widely used. Credit card facilities may be limited, so it’s advisable to carry cash or use mobile payment apps for convenience.
The island has basic food stalls serving local snacks and seafood. For a wider variety of meals, you can visit nearby restaurants in Lingshui County. Many local seafood restaurants offer fresh catches from the surrounding waters.
Vegetarian and vegan options may be limited on the island, but you can find some vegetable-based dishes. Halal food options may also be limited, so it’s best to check in advance or find suitable meals in Lingshui County before heading to the island.
There are a few mid-range hotels and guesthouses in Lingshui County, offering basic amenities. For a more luxurious stay, you can opt for resorts in the Haikou area, which is about 1.5-2 hours away by car.
Nearby attractions include the Nanshan Temple, Sanya Bay, and Yalong Bay. These locations are all within a few hours’ drive and can be easily combined into a day trip from Daidai Island.
There are small souvenir shops on the island selling items like local handicrafts, seafood products, and tropical fruits. The most popular souvenirs are locally produced goods such as tropical fruit jams, teas, and handmade crafts.
After visiting the island, you can take a boat back to Lingshui Port. From there, taxis or buses are available to continue your trip to other parts of Hainan. For more distant destinations, consider renting a car or taking a long-distance bus to Haikou or Sanya.
