Chen Liu
Look, I've taken dozens of groups to Holiday Beach over the years. And every single time, I see the same mistakes: people arriving at noon, getting sunburned, paying double for drinks, and leaving bored. It doesn't have to be that way.
Here is the honest truth: Holiday Beach is not a postcard paradise. The water is murky, the sand is average, and it gets packed on weekends. But if you know the tricks, it can be a relaxing half-day escape without breaking the bank. Let me show you how.
Why Bother with Holiday Beach?
Most tourists head straight to Sanya. But if you're in Haikou and craving a quick beach fix, Holiday Beach is the only sandy option within 30 minutes. It’s free to enter, has basic facilities, and the sunset view over the ocean can be stunning. Just keep your expectations realistic: it’s a city beach, not a resort.
Getting There: The Cheapest & Fastest Way
Do not use Google Maps here – it’s terrible in China. Instead, use Apple Maps or just show the Chinese address below to your taxi or Didi driver.
Address: 滨海大道, Xiuying District, Haikou (海口市秀英区滨海大道假日海滩)
By Taxi/Didi: From city center (e.g., Guoxing Avenue), it’s around 20 minutes, about 30-40 RMB. Tell the driver “假日海滩” (Jiari Haitan).
By Bus: Take bus 28, 35, 37, or 40 to “假日海滩” stop. Fare is 1-2 RMB, but the AC can be weak. Not recommended with luggage.
By E-bike: If you’re adventurous, rent an e-bike. The ride along Binhai Avenue is gorgeous. Many hotels rent them for 50 RMB/day.
What to Bring (Don’t Forget This)
- Sunscreen (reef-safe): The tropical sun is no joke. Even on cloudy days you’ll burn.
- Cash: Many food stalls and some vendors don’t accept cards or Alipay. Small bills (5, 10, 20 RMB) are gold.
- A towel and change of clothes: There’s a paid shower (10 RMB), but no lockers. Leave valuables at hotel.
- Water shoes: The beach has small rocks and shells – especially near the water.
- VPN: Your phone will work, but WhatsApp, Google, Instagram won’t unless you have a VPN active. Install one before arriving.
Beat the Crowds: Best Time to Go
Weekdays are your best bet. If you must go on a weekend, arrive before 9 AM or after 4 PM. The beach is packed from 11 AM to 3 PM – sunburn central.
Sunset time: Around 17:30-18:00 depending on season. That’s the golden hour for photos and the sea breeze picks up. I always tell my groups: sacrifice the midday nap, come at 4 PM, stay for sunset, and you’ll have the best experience.
Food & Drinks: Where Locals Eat
Avoid the stalls right at the beach entrance – they charge tourist prices (15 RMB for a bottle of water). Walk 200 meters south along the beach to the local food street where you’ll find:
| Item | Price (RMB) | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Coconut | 8-10 | Cold and fresh. They’ll cut the top. |
| Grilled squid on stick | 10 | Spicy or not. Ask for “bu la” (not spicy). |
| Watermelon juice | 5 | Freshly squeezed, no sugar added. |
| Beer (Hainan brand) | 8 | Small bottle. Pairs with sunset. |
Most vendors only take cash or WeChat Pay. If you only have Alipay, ask nicely – some have QR codes for both.
Things to Do Besides Swimming
Walk the Boardwalk
The promenade stretches for about 1 km east. Great for jogging or people-watching. There are benches under palm trees – perfect for reading.
Volleyball & Frisbee
There’s a free volleyball net (first come, first served). Bring your own ball if you can – they rarely have one.
Watch the Ships
This is a working port area, so you’ll see cargo ships and fishing boats. Not glamorous, but oddly calming.
Nearby: Xiuyu Park & Haikou Volcanic Park
If you get bored after two hours, Xiuyu Park (show Xiuying Park) is a 10-minute drive – a nice green space. Or if you’re up for a half-day trip, Haikou Volcanic Park (30 min drive) has a crater you can hike.
FAQs – What Most Guides Don’t Tell You
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