Haikou independent travel guide (2025): top things to do near you, popular tourism attractions, itinerary planning, accommodation, food, transportation, weather, and more - everything you need to know (updated July 2025) | Trip.com

About Haikou

Recommended trip: 2–4 day(s)

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Hainan Provincial Museum Reopens With Renewed Splendor, Three Exhibition Halls to Open in Phases in July@Hai Nan Museum

Night Cruise Haikou Bay will open on June 28, 2024

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Haikou Local Travel Guide 2025

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Haikou Brief Guide

Haikou is the capital of Hainan, with a much more cultural air than Sanya. Aside from the parks of coconut groves, beaches, mangrove forests and volcanoes, you can see natural landscapes as well as the historical arcades and the Five Officials’ Temple. The Mission Hills H‧Brothers Feng Xiaogang Film Commune, also known simply as Haikou Movie Town, is a new attraction. Here you can see the classic scenes from the movie "Back to 1942" and backdrops of a pre-war Southeast Asia and Hong Kong, as well as experience this city's historical changes over a hundred years. It is also an excellent place to take photos.

Haikou Must-try Local Experiences

1. Discover Haikou's Historical Gems Explore Haikou's rich history by visiting the Five Figures' Temple, Sotte Porticos Streets Maikou, and Hainan Museum. These sites offer a glimpse into the city's cultural heritage and architectural beauty. 2. Embrace Nature's Beauty Hike to the summit of Leiqiong Global Geopark for panoramic views and explore the unique volcanic landscapes, hike up the craters, visit lava tunnels, additionally, explore the mangrove forests at Hongshulin Museum. These natural wonders offer diverse flora and fauna. 3. Relax at Holiday Beach Side Resort Holiday Beach Side Resort is perfect for relaxation and recreation. Enjoy the sun, sand, and sea, and take part in various water sports or simply relax and watch the sunset. 4. Stroll Through Evergreen Garden Evergreen Garden is ideal for a leisurely stroll with its lush greenery, scenic lakes, and various recreational facilities. 5. Experience the Vibrant Culture of Arcades Explore Sotte Porticos Streets Maikou, known for its arcades blending Chinese and European influences. The street houses shops, restaurants, and cultural gems. 6. Delve into Qiong Opera Immerse yourself in Qiong Opera, a traditional art form with elaborate costumes, expressive singing, and captivating storytelling.You can also attend a performance of it to experience the local culture and artistic expression. 7. Visit the Hainan Museum The Hainan Museum offers a comprehensive look at the island's history, culture, and natural environment with exhibits of ancient artifacts and cultural relics. 8. Partake in the Joy of the Hainan Island International Tourism Island Carnival Don't miss the vibrant Hainan Island International Tourism Island Carnival in spring, featuring parades, performances, and festivities showcasing the island's culture. 9. Participate in Local Festivals Join the Hainan International Coconut Festival, celebrating the island's coconut culture with various activities, performances, and coconut-related products. 10. Savor the Flavors of Hainanese Cuisine Indulge in Hainanese Chicken Rice, Wenchang Chicken, and fresh seafood, highlighting the diverse flavors of Hainanese cuisine. 11. Explore Haikou's Shopping Districts Visit Haixiu Road Shopping Street and Mingzhu Square for a variety of shopping options, including local crafts and souvenirs. 12. Capture the Beauty of Haikou Century Bridge Capture stunning photographs of Haikou Century Bridge, especially enchanting at night when its lights reflect on the water. 13. Photograph the Haikou Clock Tower Capture the essence of Haikou at the iconic clock tower, especially picturesque at night when beautifully illuminated.

Haikou Must-see Attractions

Haikou is known for its diverse attractions ranging from the geological marvels of Leiqiong UNESCO Global Geopark and rich biodiversity of Hainan Tropical Wildlife Park, to the historic Qilou Old Street, culturally immersive Mission Hills H‧Brothers Feng Xiaogang Film Commune, and the informative Hainan Museum, providing visitors a comprehensive and engaging exploration of nature, history, and culture.

Haikou Food Guide

Haikou boasts a rich culinary scene characterized by dishes like Hainan noodles, coconut rice, Wenchang chicken, and an array of fresh seafood. It offers an enticing mix of unique local delights and tropical tastes, widely beloved by both visitors for their delicious diversity.

Haikou Transportation

Haikou's transportation infrastructure is well-developed, with Haikou Meilan International Airport and Haikou Railway Station being the primary gateways for intercity travel. Haikou Meilan International Airport (HAK) is the largest airport in Hainan and a significant aviation hub, located 25 km southeast of Haikou's city center. The airport has two terminals, with Terminal 2 recently opened to accommodate the increasing passenger and cargo traffic. To reach the city from the airport, travelers can take a taxi or the airport express bus, which operates in sync with flight schedules and takes about 30 minutes to the city center. Haikou Railway Station, situated approximately 20 km from the downtown area, is known for being China's first ecotype railway station. It serves as the northern terminal for the Hainan eastern and western ring high-speed railways. Passengers can take public buses No. 28, 35, 37, 40, and 57 to reach the city from the station. The station also connects to Haikou East Railway Station and Meilan International Airport, providing access to various destinations within and outside of Hainan Island.

Haikou Where to Stay

Haikou’s accommodation scene is spread across various neighborhoods, each offering unique experiences and amenities.

Haikou Best Time To Visit

The best time to visit Haikou is from November to April. During these months, the weather is pleasant with less rainfall and a reduced risk of typhoons, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. This period avoids the rainy season from May to October and the typhoon season from June to September, ensuring a more comfortable travel experience. Whether you're looking to explore the city's historical sites or relax in its beautiful parks, this is the optimal time to enjoy all that Haikou has to offer.

Haikou Useful Guide

Haikou, the capital of Hainan province, is a melting pot of cultures and languages due to its immigrant population. Mandarin Chinese is the official language, widely spoken and understood. For non-Mandarin speakers, translation apps and local interpretation services can be helpful. The city's multilingualism stems from its diverse population and tourism. When facing language barriers, visitors can use universal gestures, maps, and facial expressions to communicate.