Haikou Hainan, China Travel Guide
Haikou Meilan International Airport (HAK) is the main airport. It serves as a significant hub for Hainan Airlines and handles both domestic and not many international flights. Major Chinese airlines operate extensive domestic routes.
Flight prices increase during peak domestic travel seasons (Lunar New Year, National Day holiday, summer holidays). Prices are lower during shoulder and low seasons. HAK is a modern airport with two terminals (T1 and T2).
Meilan Airport Station directly connects to Hainan Eastern Ring High-Speed Railway for city center access.
Several airport bus lines connect HAK to various city center points; a cost-effective option.
Taxis are available; AirHelp if flight issues. Didi Chuxing is widely used (¥60-¥100 to the downtown area).
Variety of duty-free shops, restaurants, and cafes available.
Currency exchange services, ATMs, and VIP lounges operate.
Free Wi-Fi access throughout the airport terminals.
Haikou offers robust train connections both within Hainan Island and to mainland China. High-speed rail provides efficient travel along the island's eastern coast.
Haikou has several long-distance bus stations (e.g., Haikou South, Haikou East). Buses connect Haikou to other cities and towns across Hainan Island, offering a comprehensive network for travel within the area.
International Driving Permits (IDPs) are not recognized in mainland China. Foreigners obtain a temporary Chinese driving license for legal driving. This process involves the license from your country, passport, and health certificate.
Major international brands (e.g., Avis, Hertz, often via local partners) and domestic rental companies (e.g., eHi Car Services, CAR Inc.) operate in Haikou. However, obtaining a temporary driving license is a multi-step process for most visitors.
Haikou Xiuying Port and Haikou New Port (Xin Hai Port) are major ferry terminals. They connect Haikou to mainland China, mainly to Xuwen Port in Guangdong Province. Car and passenger ferries operate frequently across the Qiongzhou Strait.
Similar to the airport procedures, travelers arriving from foreign ports via cruise or ferry go through immigration. Travelers from mainland China via domestic ferry typically do not go through immigration checks.
Ferries adhere to safety standards; pay attention to onboard briefings.
For cruise ship passengers, arranged tours typically handle port transfers.
No significant river transportation options for tourism within Haikou.
Exit taxes are typically included in the airline ticket price for international flights departing China. There are no separate cash exit fees paid at the airport. Departure procedures vary by mode of transport.
Haikou Meilan International Airport offers various shops, restaurants, and waiting areas for departing travelers. Train and ferry stations provide rudimentary waiting spots, shops, and eateries for your convenience.
Ensure passport, visa, and tickets are readily accessible.
Confirm transport to airport/station. Consider high-speed rail to HAK.
Check luggage for forbidden items, finalize packing.
