Ultra-Detailed Travel Guide to Dongfang, Hainan – This One Has It All!

Want to visit Hainan but avoid the crowds in Sanya? Then Dongfang is the perfect choice for you! This hidden gem of a city has its own unique charm. Below is a super-detailed travel guide to Dongfang!

Must-Visit Instagram-Worthy Spots
Yulin Cape Scenic Area
This place is a photography paradise! With crystal-clear waters and rocky shores, it offers pristine natural beauty. The most eye-catching feature is the lighthouse standing atop a small rocky hill—every shot here turns out stunning. Note: The beach is covered in small pebbles, which can be uncomfortable to walk on barefoot, so wear comfortable shoes. Legend has it that in ancient times, a devoted couple lived here. After the husband died in battle, the grieving wife turned into a seagull and piled mud into a fish-scale-shaped mountain, hence the name. Standing on this storied land with the sea breeze blowing, you can almost hear the echoes of this tragic love tale.

Haidongfang Beach Park
With a 2,800-meter coastline, this park features powdery white sand and clear waters. It combines beach, sea, and park elements, including the Hundred Blessings Stone Carvings, an amusement park, and ocean-view platforms. Here, you can stroll along the beach, sunbathe, or enjoy breathtaking sea views from the platforms—a perfect spot for relaxation.

Baicha Village
A village rich in Li ethnic culture, Baicha is famous for its boat-shaped thatched houses (81 of which remain intact). In 2008, it was listed as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage site. Walking through the village feels like stepping back in time, offering a deep immersion into the unique cultural charm of the Li people.

Thrilling Activities
Hainan Dongfang Skydiving Base
Want an adrenaline rush? This is the place! Jump from 4,000 meters, free-fall at 200 km/h for 40–50 seconds, then glide down under a parachute for about 7 minutes, taking in Dongfang’s stunning 133.86 km coastline from above. Before the jump, instructors provide thorough training to ensure a safe and exhilarating experience.

Dongfang Ezhen Crocodile Park
Home to Asia’s first glass walkway over crocodiles, this park lets you walk above these creatures as they lounge or swim below. At the central pavilion, you can even try crocodile fishing (with staff assistance). The 2,000-square-meter park offers close-up views of crocodile behavior.

Food Recommendations
Dongfang’s cuisine is a must-try. Don’t miss:
- Sisheng Roast Suckling Pig: Crispy skin, tender meat, and rich aroma.
- Dongfang Lamb: Delicate and non-gamey, perfect for hot pot or white-cut style.
- Seafood: Fresh and affordable—steamed or stir-fried grouper, prawns, crabs, and more, all bursting with natural flavors.

Accommodation Tips
For luxury and oceanfront views, choose Dongfang Jiayuan Sochi Hotel, where you can enjoy stunning sunsets from your balcony. For a budget-friendly yet comfortable stay, Walden International Hotel (Dongfang Wanda High-Speed Rail Station Branch) is a great option, with cozy rooms and easy access to Wanda Plaza.

Avoiding Pitfalls
- Transportation: Public transport is limited, so renting a car is recommended. When taking taxis, opt for licensed ones to avoid scams.
- Spending: Be mindful of prices at tourist spots—confirm costs upfront to prevent disputes.
- Activities: For adventures like skydiving, choose certified operators, read agreements carefully, and follow safety guidelines.

Dongfang, Hainan, boasts unique landscapes, exciting activities, and mouthwatering food. Pack your bags and embark on a different kind of Hainan adventure—you’re sure to fall in love with this charming city!