Beidaihe

Introducing Beidaihe

Beidaihe Beach is located west of Qinhuangdao City, Hebei Province, just a 2-3 hour drive from Beijing and Tianjin. It's an ideal route and resting place for migratory birds. Enjoying neither scorching summers nor freezing winters, the waters are pristine, the sands are fine, and the refreshing sea breeze permeates your skin, bringing a refreshing summer coolness.

Since when, Beidaihe has become a summer retreat for surrounding cities. Its refreshing air is a haven for recuperation and leisure. Even more appetizing is its vibrant seafood, from the must-try Beidaihe mantis shrimp to crabs, oysters, and scalloped fish. The dazzling array of seafood is a key reason why Beidaihe is so popular. Beidaihe is also an ideal passageway and resting point for numerous migratory birds.

Climate and best time to travel

The best seasons for bird watching in Beidaihe are from mid-March to late May and from early September to mid-November. In other months, you can also see rare bird sightings.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

As a coastal resort, Beidaihe's most important feature is, of course, its beaches. The clean, fine sand is sure to lift your spirits. Accommodation in Beidaihe is primarily located along the coast, and beaches of all sizes dot the coast. Beidaihe also boasts several parks and a zoo, while Nandaihe boasts numerous unique casinos and beaches.

Recommended number of days for visiting: about 2 days

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Beidaihe

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Beidaihe has been a popular summer resort since the early 20th century, known for its mild climate and proximity to Beijing. It is historically significant as a retreat for both Chinese and foreign dignitaries. The area is also renowned for its birdwatching and coastal landscapes.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Beidaihe is located in Qinhuangdao, Hebei Province, along the Bohai Sea coast. It is easily accessible by train, bus, or taxi from Beijing (about 2-3 hours by car). The nearest major train station is Beidaihe Railway Station, which is connected to the city's attractions by local taxis and buses.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Beidaihe is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the summer months (June to August) when the weather is ideal for beach activities. Spring and autumn are also great for birdwatching and enjoying the cooler weather.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The beach areas and public parks in Beidaihe are free to enter. However, certain attractions like the Beidaihe Bird Watching Tower and Laohushi Mountain may charge an entrance fee. Tickets for these can be purchased on-site or through travel agencies.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

For most attractions, booking tickets in advance is not necessary. However, during peak tourist seasons, it is advisable to book tickets for popular spots, such as the Bird Watching Tower or mountain trails, a day or two in advance.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to Beidaihe can take anywhere from 1-3 days, depending on how many attractions you wish to explore. A day is typically enough for the beach, but if you're interested in hiking or birdwatching, you'll want to spend additional time in the surrounding natural areas.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The must-see attractions include the Beidaihe Beach, Laohushi Mountain, Beidaihe Bird Watching Tower, and the local nature reserves. For a scenic view, the coastal walking path along the Bohai Sea is highly recommended.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available for attractions like Laohushi Mountain and the Bird Watching Tower. These tours are usually conducted in Mandarin, but English-speaking guides may be arranged in advance through travel agencies.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Top photography spots include the Laohushi Mountain for panoramic views, the Beidaihe Bird Watching Tower for birdwatching shots, and the beaches at sunrise and sunset for stunning coastal landscapes.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

A typical itinerary would start with a visit to the Beidaihe Beach for relaxation, followed by hiking at Laohushi Mountain for scenic views. In the afternoon, visit the Beidaihe Bird Watching Tower, and finish the day with a walk along the coastal path.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Beidaihe does not have major night attractions, but evening walks along the beach or visits to local seafood restaurants offer a relaxing experience. Special birdwatching tours may also be arranged during the early morning or late evening hours.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Beidaihe can get crowded during weekends and holidays, especially in the summer. The least crowded times are weekdays in spring and autumn, outside of peak vacation seasons.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Beidaihe has plenty of public toilets, restaurants offering local and seafood dishes, and small shops selling souvenirs and essentials. Rest areas are available along the beach and walking trails.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Beidaihe is relatively accessible for elderly and children, especially along the beach and public parks. However, some hiking trails and mountainous areas may be challenging for disabled visitors.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is not usually necessary, as most places accept mobile payments (e.g., Alipay, WeChat Pay) and credit cards. It’s always good to carry some cash for smaller vendors or attractions that don’t accept cards.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a variety of restaurants offering local Chinese dishes and fresh seafood along the coast. For international cuisine, cafes and Western-style restaurants are also available.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available at many restaurants offering Chinese cuisine, with dishes based on tofu, vegetables, and rice. Halal food options are more limited but can be found at specific halal restaurants.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are numerous hotels and guesthouses near Beidaihe Beach, ranging from budget accommodations to more luxurious resorts. Some of the well-known hotels include the Beidaihe Hotel and the Tianjin Garden Hotel.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the Qinhuangdao Great Wall, Shanhaiguan (the first pass of the Great Wall), and the Nandaihe Nature Reserve. These can be visited on a day trip from Beidaihe.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops in Beidaihe sell local handicrafts, seashell items, and Tibetan-style jewelry. Fresh seafood is also a popular local purchase.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting Beidaihe, transportation options include trains and buses back to Beijing or nearby cities. Taxis and private car hires are also available for more flexibility.