Once you arrive, you won't want to leave—Hilton Haikou Ocean Flower Island

Both Ocean Flower Island and the Hilton exceeded my expectations. When initially planning this western Hainan trip, influenced by hearsay, I treated Ocean Flower Island merely as a transit point, allocating just one day. Now, I find myself wanting to cancel the rest of my itinerary and stay longer to soak it all in.

Most first-time visitors to Hainan head straight to the southeastern coast, from Wanning and Lingshui to Sanya, where the expansive mountains and sea make it a prime tourist destination, hence the concentration of international hotel chains and constant buzz. But for those seeking more authentic local charm or an off-the-beaten-path experience, the island's western side offers equally stunning coastlines and a slower pace of life. Ocean Flower Island, as the largest tourist hub in this region, is practically unmissable. Unfortunately, many facilities here are currently suspended, leaving it half-finished. The only notable international chain is the Hilton.

This Hilton is the island's undeniable flagship, standing tall near the bridge entrance with two cylindrical towers like majestic gatekeepers. Surrounding it are all the island's must-visit spots, from scenic views to delicious food, plus a small (though not particularly fine) artificial beach nearby.

Visiting during the off-season meant avoiding crowds, and check-in was swift. The upgraded room was love at first sight—cool, dry, and odor-free, with pristine facilities, crisp white linens, and floor-to-ceiling curved windows flooding three connected spaces with unobstructed sunlight and sweeping views to the horizon.

With the executive lounge closed, member benefits were relocated to the ground-floor restaurant, where I ended up having breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The breakfast spread was modest, with limited variety—decent but unremarkable, though it did feature local specialties like Danzhou milan (rice noodles) and seafood-duck egg congee. Afternoon tea and happy hour were served as set menus, acceptable in quality.

The outdoor pool was under maintenance, a missed highlight. Just as I resigned myself to lounging in bed scrolling my phone, I was reminded that sunset on the island is a race against time—first to the ocean-view platform for the golden hour, then back by 8 PM for the square's light show. Both natural and man-made spectacles were dazzling, making the trip thoroughly worthwhile.

In the end, it’s the perfect place to unwind. I’ve already planned a return trip with my mom to explore the ancient salt fields and Dongpo Academy, leaving plenty of time to watch the golden dusk melt into the sea. Plus, I’ll use points for a "stay five, pay four" deal and laze around the hotel, indulging in carefree gluttony.

Special thanks to front office manager Kay for her warm, professional hospitality—advance calls, smooth check-in, and insider travel tips. Highly reliable.

P.S. Free shuttle buses are available from Haikou Meilan Airport, or take the high-speed rail to Baimajing Station and a taxi from there.

Room details:
Room No.: 1117
Official name: Deluxe Ocean View Suite
Size: 106 sqm

Mattress: King Koil
Bedding & towels: North Shore Textiles
Bedroom TV: Samsung
Living room TV: Samsung
Bluetooth speaker: JBL

Shower & fixtures: Kohler
Sink & bathtub: Munk
Master toilet: Manual, Kohler
Guest toilet: Manual, Kohler
Hair dryer: Braun
Scale: LeXin
Amenities: Large bottles, Crabtree & Evelyn

Electric kettle: Tonney
Coffee machine: Nespresso
Coffee capsules: Nespresso (3)
Instant coffee: Douwe Egberts
Tea bags: Chali
Bottled water: C'estbon
Minibar: Chargeable