Weizhou Island: The Ultimate Travel Guide: Unlocking the Volcanic Island Paradise

📅 Best Time to Visit - Peak Season (April-November): Crystal-clear waters, perfect for diving (May-October is "blue tears" season). - Off-Season (December-March): Fewer crowds, better prices, but some water activities may be unavailable. - ❗Caution: Typhoons are common from July to September. Check ferry schedules in advance. 🚢 Transportation 1. Getting to the Island: - Beihai International Passenger Port → Weizhou Island (fast ferry: 80 minutes/slow ferry: 150 minutes) - Tickets: CNY 150/person (one-way) + CNY 98 island entry fee (mandatory) - ✨ Tip: Beiyou 25/26 ferries are newer and more comfortable. Choose seats in Section B for a smoother ride. 2. Island Transportation: - 🛵 Electric scooter rental (CNY 60-80/day, highly recommended) - 🚌 Sightseeing bus (CNY 30/person/day, suitable for families) - ❗Note: Some roads are steep. Exercise caution when riding scooters, especially if you're a beginner. 🏝️ Top 5 Must-See Attractions | Attraction | Features | Recommended Activities | Best Time to Visit | | Crocodile Mountain Park | Volcanic geological wonders | Hike to the crater, photograph the cliffs and seascape | 8-10 am | | Wucai Beach | Colorful volcanic rocks | Tide pooling/watching the sunrise | Sunrise | | Dishui Danping | Coral beach | Sunset viewing/water sports | Evening | | Shiluo Kou | Glass-like waters for diving | Snorkeling/diving | 10:00 am-3:00 pm | | Nanwan Street | Fishing harbor atmosphere | Buying fresh seafood/visiting pubs | All day | 🦞 Food Recommendations ✅ Must-Try: - Fresh seafood from Nanwan Market (cheapest between 3-5 pm) - Charcoal-grilled volcanic goat (try the old restaurant in Dishui Village) - Banana chicken/banana pork (island specialties) - Danjia seafood porridge (Shi Lu Restaurant is recommended) ❌ Avoid: - Be cautious when buying wild sea cucumbers from street vendors (most are farmed). - Confirm seafood processing prices beforehand (Chongqing Flavor Processing Shop is recommended). - Goods on the island are expensive. Bring your own snacks. 🏡 Accommodation Recommendations | Area | Features | Recommended Guesthouses | Price Range (CNY) | | Dishui Village | Stunning sunsets | Fangdao Art Hotel | 600+ | | Shiluo Kou | Convenient for diving | 270-degree Sunset Ocean View | 400+ | | Wucai Beach | Close to sunrise viewing spots | Yeli Courtyard | 500+ | | Nanwan | Convenient for daily life | July Guesthouse | 300+ | 💡 Book one month in advance during peak season. You can find accommodation upon arrival during the off-season. 📸 Photography Spots 1. Crocodile Mountain Lighthouse (aerial photography is stunning) 2. Wucai Beach's mirror-like sand (capture reflections during sunrise) 3. Corner of Nanwan Street (Kenting vibes) 4. Muya Cliff (currently closed, but you can take photos in nearby safe areas) 5. Church Backyard Garden (French countryside style) ⚠️ Tips and Cautions 1. Buy sunscreen before arriving (prices are double on the island). 2. Bargain for seafood by the piece, not by weight, at the market. 3. Check the battery level of your rented scooter (a full charge is needed for a trip around the island). 4. Choose reputable diving clubs (Zhui Whale Diving is recommended). 5. Bring enough cash (some areas have poor cell service). 🚤 Unique Activities - Night squid fishing (summer only) - Day trip to Xieyang Island (a more pristine island) - Coral reef snorkeling (Shiluo Kou is the best spot) - Tide pooling experience (contact local fishermen) 🌴 Weizhou Island is not a luxury resort, but a pristine island where you can disconnect from your phone and simply listen to the waves. The most beautiful scenery here is not a specific landmark, but the undiscovered beach you stumble upon while riding your scooter, the fresh sea urchin offered by a smiling fisherman, and the different surprises brought by the tides each day.