Things to Do in Haikou: Beach, Volcano & Coconut Culture

I've been guiding travelers around Hainan for nearly a decade. Most people fly straight to Sanya, but Haikou? That's where the real local vibe lives. Think laid-back beaches, a volcano you can actually hike, and street food that'll ruin you for any other destination. Let me walk you through the things to do in Haikou that actually deserve your time.

Why Haikou? (And not just Sanya)

Haikou is the capital of Hainan Island but it's way less touristy than Sanya. Prices are lower, crowds are thinner, and the culture feels more authentic. If you're after a mix of nature, history, and amazing food without the resort bubble, Haikou is your spot. Plus, getting around is easy – most attractions are within 30 minutes by taxi or bus.

Beach Relaxation: Holiday Beach & Xixiu Beach

Haikou has two main beaches for chilling. Holiday Beach is the popular one with clean sand, rental umbrellas, and a long promenade for evening walks. I always tell my guests to come at 4 PM – the sun is softer, and the sea breeze kicks in. There's no entrance fee, but renting a beach chair costs around 30-50 yuan. For a quieter experience, head to Xixiu Beach (a 20-minute drive west). It's less developed, with fewer vendors and more space to yourself.

Volcano Park: Hike a Dormant Volcano

Haikou Volcano Cluster Global Geopark is a must-visit. It's a dormant volcanic area with craters, lava tunnels, and lush greenery. The main crater is about 200 meters in diameter – you can walk down into it or circle the rim. I recommend taking the trail that goes around the edge first for epic views, then descend into the crater for a cooler, otherworldly atmosphere.

Note: Prices fluctuate slightly, so I recommend checking their official WeChat mini-program before you go. I've sometimes seen discounts on weekdays.

What most guides won't tell you

The park has a small but interesting volcano museum near the entrance – it's free with your ticket. Don't skip it; you'll learn how Hainan formed geologically. Also, the best photo spot is not the crater itself but the lava rock formations on the eastern trail around 3 PM when light hits the red rocks.

Cultural Spots: Qilou Old Street & Wugong Temple

Qilou Old Street is a collection of arcaded buildings built by overseas Chinese in the early 20th century. The architecture blends European, Southeast Asian, and Chinese styles. It's a living street, not a museum – you'll find locals shopping, eating, and scootering through. Wander the side alleys for hidden cafes and vintage shops. I always tell my guests: “Forget the main thoroughfare, go two blocks north – that's where the real old Haikou atmosphere is.”

Wugong Temple is a Song Dynasty complex dedicated to five exiled officials. It's a peaceful garden with lotus ponds and ancient trees. Entry is 20 yuan. It's small, so combine it with a visit to the nearby Hainan Museum (free, closed on Mondays) for deeper context on the island's history.

Food Guide: Coconut Chicken & Street Eats

You can't leave Haikou without trying Wenchang chicken (a tender poached chicken) and coconut chicken hot pot (coconut milk broth with chicken, herbs, and dipping sauce). My go-to spot for the hot pot is Yan Jie Coconut Chicken – I've been going there for years. A meal for two costs about 120-150 yuan. The broth gets richer the longer you cook. They accept Alipay/WeChat, but cash works too. No English menu, but there are pictures.

For street food, hit the Jinyuan Night Market around 7 PM. Try grilled oysters with garlic (20 yuan for 6), coconut rice cakes (5 yuan), and sugarcane juice. The market is chaotic, but that's the charm.

Day Trip Ideas: How to Spend 24 Hours

If you only have one day, here's a realistic plan:

• 9:00 AM – Holiday Beach: Morning walk, swim, relax. Less crowded than afternoon.
• 12:00 PM – Lunch at Yan Jie Coconut Chicken. Get the set meal.
• 2:00 PM – Volcano Park: Uber there (30 min). Spend 2-3 hours.
• 5:30 PM – Qilou Old Street: Wander, snap photos, grab a coconut drink.
• 7:30 PM – Jinyuan Night Market: Dinner and street food exploration.

Alternative for rainy days: Swap the volcano for the Hainan Museum (indoor) and a cooking class at a local home (search on Airbnb Experiences).

Verified and fact-checked by the editorial team. All information based on current local practices as of the most recent update.