The 'Coconut City' and provincial capital; a blend of colonial-style 'Qilou' architecture, volcanic landscapes, and a relaxed, authentic island lifestyle.
The city is lined with millions of coconut trees, and fresh coconut water is available on almost every street corner.
The Qilou Old Street features century-old buildings influenced by Southeast Asian and European architectural styles.
UNESCO Global Geopark
Historic Urban Architecture
Luxury Golf & Wellness Resort
National 4A Scenic Spot
National First-Class Museum
Is your family planning a trip to Haikou? Explore the best things to do in Haikou with kids, from free beaches and parks to the volcano and wildlife park. Get insider tips on tickets, transport, and local food.
What are the best things to do in Haikou at night? From the buzzing Hainan University Night Market to the dazzling Century Bridge skyline, this local's guide shares 8 unmissable activities, honest safety tips, and how to avoid tourist traps.
Planning a weekend in Haikou and overwhelmed by choices? Discover the best things to do, where to eat, and how to avoid tourist traps in this two-day local guide.
Wondering which Haikou tourist attractions are actually worth your time? Get the local's guide to the best sights, how to book tickets, and the mistakes to avoid in Haikou.
Is your family planning a trip to Haikou? Explore the best things to do in Haikou with kids, from free beaches and parks to the volcano and wildlife park. Get insider tips on tickets, transport, and local food.
What are the best things to do in Haikou at night? From the buzzing Hainan University Night Market to the dazzling Century Bridge skyline, this local's guide shares 8 unmissable activities, honest safety tips, and how to avoid tourist traps.
Planning a weekend in Haikou and overwhelmed by choices? Discover the best things to do, where to eat, and how to avoid tourist traps in this two-day local guide.
What can you actually do in Haikou beyond the beach? From the historic Qilou Old Street to the volcanic geopark, plus where to eat fresh seafood and practical tips for foreign travelers.
How many days do you really need in Haikou? Whether you have 24 hours or a full week, this detailed guide covers the perfect itinerary, top attractions, local restaurants, and insider tips to plan the ideal trip length for your visit to Hainan's capital.
Looking for the best things to do in Haikou? From volcano craters to seafood night markets, this guide covers top attractions, costs, transport, and local hidden gems — with honest advice from a seasoned tour guide.
Wondering what the best places to visit in Haikou are? This detailed guide covers top attractions, hidden gems, ticket prices, and insider tips on how to avoid crowds and save money during your trip.
Planning 4 days in Haikou? Discover how to avoid crowds, where to eat, and which attractions are worth your time. Insider tips from a local guide.
Looking for where to stay near Hainan Tropical Wildlife Park? I've guided dozens of tours there and tested every nearby hotel. This guide covers my top picks for every budget, plus insider tips on transportation, booking with a foreign passport, and avoiding cash headaches.
Looking for affordable places to stay in Haikou? Discover the best budget hostels with clean rooms, free WiFi, and local tips to save money and explore Haikou like a pro.
Wondering where to stay in Haikou for first timers? I’ve guided dozens of visitors through Haikou’s neighborhoods, from Guomao’s convenience to Qilou’s charm. This guide breaks down each area with hotel picks, price ranges, and pro tips—no fluff, just what you need.
Looking for the best hotels in Haikou? From luxury beachfront resorts to affordable city stays, get firsthand tips on location, price, and amenities. Avoid common tourist traps with advice from a local guide.
Planning a visit to Hainan Provincial Museum? Wondering where to stay nearby? This guide breaks down the best neighbourhoods, hotels, and insider tips for every budget, so you can explore Haikou with ease.
Planning a trip to Haikou? Wondering where to stay near Qilou Old Street for easy access to history, food, and nightlife? I've spent years guiding groups around this area—here's my honest breakdown of the best neighbourhoods, hotels, and local tips to save you time and hassle.
Planning a trip to Mission Hills Haikou? Find the best places to stay near the world's largest golf resort, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly options. Insider tips for families, golfers, and solo travelers.
Looking for where to stay in Haikou? This guide breaks down the best neighborhoods and hotels for every budget and travel style, with insider tips to avoid tourist traps, plus practical advice from a local expert.
Recent Reviews
Came for a weekend and stayed a week. Haikou has this laid-back energy you cannot fake. Morning tai chi on the beach, afternoon iced coconut coffee in the arcade courtyard, evening noodle soup under fairy lights — just dreamy. People at my guesthouse were warm and gave great tips. Pure bliss, highly recommend.
Absolutely loved Haikou! Rented a scooter and explored at my own pace. The volcanic geological park is a hidden gem — walking through the lush crater surrounded by tropical forest was surreal. Had fresh seafood at a night market, cheap and delicious. And the waterfront promenade at dusk? Stunning. Best city in Hainan for sure.
Haikou completely charmed me! The combination of fresh sea breeze, palm trees and clean streets felt like paradise. Cycled along the coastline and visited the volcanic park — incredible views. Breakfast at a small local shop near our hotel: steaming rice noodles and sweet coconut buns. Everyone was so friendly. Can't wait to return!
Really enjoyed our short stay! The coastline is lovely with that tropical vibe, and watching sunset at the beach was magical. The city is green and relaxed. Only downside: attractions are spread out and taxi drivers didn't speak English, but we managed with a translation app. Would recommend for a slow beach getaway.
Had high hopes for Haikou but came away a bit underwhelmed. The Old Street is charming but very touristy and many shops felt repetitive. Qilou area could be great but maintenance is spotty. Also got stuck in traffic for an hour going to the beach. Food was good though, especially the local noodles. An okay stop but not worth more than a day or two.
Haikou surprised me with its history! The Qilou arcades are beautifully preserved – I loved walking through the narrow alleys and discovering hidden ancestral temples. The Hainan Provincial Museum is top-notch and free, with excellent exhibits on maritime silk road and Li & Miao minority cultures. I also took a short taxi to the volcanic geopark – the crater hike is easy and the views over the city are stunning. Highly underrated destination.
Leave a Review