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Things to Do in Haikou

Things to Do in Haikou

Haikou Hainan, China Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

Discover Haikou's natural landscapes through active pursuits and wildlife encounters.

Hiking & Trekking

Haikou Volcanic Cluster Global Geopark

This preserve provides easy to moderate walking trails around its dormant craters and through ancient lava rock formations. Routes are well-maintained, suitable for most fitness levels. The longest loop takes about 1.5-2 hours.

Dongshan Ridge

Located further south of Haikou, Dongshan Ridge offers more strenuous hiking having picturesque vistas and several Buddhist temples along the ascent. This requires a higher fitness level and may be a potential day trip.

Preparation Advice

Always wear appropriate footwear and carry water, notably in summer. Sun protection is highly recommended.

Water Sports & Wildlife

  • Holiday Beach: Offers swimming, jet-skiing, parasailing, and banana boat rides.
  • Haikou Bay: Recreational boat tours, especially scenic cruises during sunset.
  • Surfing: Limited direct opportunities in Haikou; Wanning (Riyue Bay) to the south is known for consistent waves.
  • Dongzhai Port Mangrove Natural Reserve: Excellent for bird watching and observing the unique mangrove ecosystem via boat tours.

Cycling Routes

  • Haikou Bay Promenade: Flat, dedicated cycling path along the coast.
  • Evergreen Park: Dedicated cycling paths within a green, peaceful environment.
  • Recreational cycling is the main focus in Haikou.

Wildlife Park

  • Hainan Tropical Wildlife Park and Botanical Garden.
  • Features tropical animals like tigers, lions, bears, and primates.
  • Located in a semi-natural setting outside the city center.

Adventure Sports

  • Limited dedicated adventure sports facilities in Haikou.
  • Most adrenaline activities concentrate in Sanya.
  • For extreme sports, consider southern Hainan.

Safety Warning for Water Sports

Always engage with reputable vendors for water sports. Confirm all safety equipment is in good condition, and follow instructions closely. Be aware of weather conditions and currents.

Cultural Immersion

Engage with Haikou’s local culture through various immersive experiences and traditional celebrations.

Workshops & Classes

  • Chinese Calligraphy/Painting: Workshops may be available upon inquiry.
  • Traditional Craft Making: Inquire with community cultural centers or high-end hotels.
  • Language Learning: Local universities or private schools may offer short-term Mandarin courses.
  • Community-Based Tourism: Less prominent in Haikou city, but opportunities exist in rural Hainan via specific tour operators.

Cultural Performances

Hainan Provincial Song and Dance Theatre

Occasionally hosts performances, including local Hainanese opera or traditional music and dance. Check local listings upon arrival.

Traditional Ceremonies

During festivals, you might encounter traditional ceremonies and local festivities, offering insights into local customs.

Local Cultural Centers

These venues display various performances throughout the year, celebrating regional arts and culture.

Chinese New Year

Celebrated with family gatherings, special foods, and sometimes fireworks. Expect crowded transit and higher prices.

Dragon Boat Festival

Features zongzi (sticky rice dumplings) and dragon boat races on local waterways, a and energetic event.

Mid-Autumn Festival

Celebrated with mooncakes and family reunions, often involving admiring the complete moon with loved ones.

Relaxation & Wellness

Haikou has several options for relaxation and rejuvenation, from spas to natural hot springs.

Spa & Wellness Centers

  • Many mid-range to luxury hotels offer comprehensive spa services.
  • Includes massages, facials, and other wellness treatments.
  • Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) clinics offer acupuncture and herbal medicine.
  • Various forms of massage like Tui Na are available throughout the city.

Hot Springs & Resorts

Mission Hills Haikou Hot Springs

This resort features a massive hot springs complex with over 100 pools, offering diverse themed springs and wellness treatments.

Other Hot Spring Resorts

Smaller hot spring resorts may locate in the surrounding areas of Haikou, furnishing more localized experiences.

Yoga & Meditation

Dedicated yoga and meditation retreats are limited directly in Haikou. Larger wellness centers or hotels may offer individual classes.

Beach & Pool Club Amenities

Ocean Views

Many beachfront hotels and resorts along Haikou Bay offer stunning ocean views from their facilities.

Pool Facilities

Excellent pool services are available, creating a relaxed club-like atmosphere for guests.

Direct Beach Access

Properties along Holiday Beach often feature direct access to the sandy shores for the best possible convenience.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Haikou's evenings transition from tranquil to lively, offering a variety of entertainment options.

Live Music & Performances

  • Live Music Venues: Some bars and pubs in commercial districts feature live music.
  • Often showing cover bands playing popular Chinese plus Occidental hits.
  • Theater & Performance Spaces: Hainan Provincial Song and Dance Theatre and cultural centers host performances.
  • Includes local opera, dance shows, and national touring productions.

Late-Night & Social Spots

Nightclubs & Dancing

Clusters of nightclubs, mainly in commercial areas, offer electronic music, pop, and dancing, catering to a younger crowd.

Bar Districts

A few clusters of bars can locate in the Longhua District and around major hotel areas, offering choices for an evening drink.

KTV Karaoke

KTV remains a popular late-night entertainment choice for groups, offering private rooms for singing and socializing.

Evening Drinks

Explore the varied the bars and clubs, from hotel lounges to local pubs.

Late-Night Dining

Many restaurants stay open late, furnishing supper options after your evening activities.

City Exploration

The illuminated cityscapes, especially Qilou Old Street, offer beautiful evening walks.

Nightlife Safety Advice

Stay aware of your surroundings, drink responsibly, and consistently use official taxis or ride-sharing apps for transportation at night. Travel in groups when possible.

Shopping & Markets

Explore Haikou’s retail landscape, from traditional markets to modern luxury shopping.

Traditional Markets & Souvenirs

  • Traditional Markets: Dongmen Market for an authentic glimpse into daily life.
  • Qilou Old Street: A mix of traditional shops selling local goods, snacks, and souvenirs.
  • Souvenir Recommendations: Coconut products, shell crafts, tropical dried fruits, Hainan coffee, and tea.
  • Artisan Workshops: Limited dedicated workshops, but local crafts and shell art are found in souvenir shops.

Luxury & Boutique Shopping

Haikou Duty-Free Shop 海口日月广场免税店

One of China's largest duty-free shops, offering a wide range of international luxury brands, cosmetics, and electronics. A main shopping destination.

Wangfu Plaza 望海国际广场

A primary retail mall featuring international and domestic fashion brands, electronics, and dining options.

Friendship Sunshine City 友谊阳光城

Another large shopping mall with a diverse selection of brands and entertainment facilities.

Local Market Experience

  • Dongmen Market in the morning for bustling activity.
  • Sample fresh tropical fruits.
  • Taste local snacks directly from vendors.
  • A truly local and experience.

Souvenir Specifics

  • Coconut candies and oils are easy to transport.
  • Intricate coconut wood carvings are distinctive souvenirs.
  • Shell art and jewelry make for beautiful mementos.
  • Locally grown coffee plus tea are tasteful gifts.

Ethical Shopping

  • Support local artisans and businesses directly.
  • Avoid products made from endangered species.
  • Be mindful of environmental impact from purchases.
  • Boost the local economy responsibly.

Shipping & Customs Information

Large Purchases & Duty-Free
  • Understand your home country's luggage allowances.
  • Be aware of customs regulations for items purchased.
  • Keep receipts for duty-free items for simpler customs processing.
Shipping Services
  • Shipping services are is sold at local post offices.
  • Major logistics companies also facilitate sending items home.
  • Inquire about shipping costs and delivery times in advance.

Shopping Districts

Major shopping malls like Wangfu Plaza and Friendship Sunshine City offer a modern retail experience with varied international and domestic brands.

Activity Planning Summary

Maximize Your Day

  • Group nearby attractions or activities to save travel time.
  • Plan outdoor activities for cooler parts of the day, especially in summer.
  • Incorporate cultural experiences like Qilou Old Avenue in the late afternoon.
  • Reserve evenings for dining, nightlife, or relaxing at a hot spring.

Considerations

  • Check the weather forecast for optimal planning, specifically for outdoor excursions.
  • Be mindful of Chinese public holidays, as attractions and transport can get packed.
  • Utilize translation apps and local mapping tools to navigate and communicate.
  • Allocate budget for entrance fees, activity costs, and shopping.
Things to Do in Haikou. Activities, Experiences, Adventures