Beihai, Guangxi – a shimmering pearl nestled along the coast of Beibu Gulf – beckons travelers with its enchanting seascapes, profound historical tapestry, and distinctive regional culture. Stretching white sandy beaches, crystal-clear azure waters, time-honored arcaded old streets, and mysterious volcanic isles converge to make Beihai a treasure trove of destinations, each narrating its own tale to intrepid self-guided explorers. Here, you may chase waves along Silver Beach while the ocean breeze caresses your skin, wander through the labyrinthine alleys of the Old Street to savor whispers of history, or ascend Weizhou Island to unravel the geological wonders of its volcanic past. Below, we present a meticulously crafted travel guide to Beihai’s optimal self-guided routes, designed to unlock an unforgettable coastal adventure.
Itinerary Planning: 5-Day/4-Night Classic Route
Day 1: Arrival in Beihai → Beibu Gulf Square → Beihai Old Street → Waisha Island
- Morning: Arrive at Beihai Fucheng Airport or Beihai Railway Station, then take an airport shuttle or taxi to check into your hotel and rest briefly.
- Noon: Savor Beihai’s signature dish Zhujiao Fen (braised pork knuckle rice noodles) at a restaurant near Beibu Gulf Square. The tender pork knuckle, smooth and chewy rice noodles, and rich broth create a memorable flavor profile, all for approximately 30 yuan per person.
- Afternoon: Explore Beibu Gulf Square, the city’s downtown landmark featuring the artistic Southern Pearl Soul Sculpture. Stroll through the bustling commercial area before heading to Beihai Old Street. Founded in 1883, this nearly 200-year-old street boasts arcaded buildings blending Chinese and Western styles. Visit the Beihai Historical and Cultural Museum to trace the city’s evolution, and browse stalls for handicrafts and snacks like xiabing (shrimp patties) – golden, crispy, and savory at 5 yuan each.
- Evening: Dine at Waisha Island, a seafood haven where restaurants serve fresh catches like salt-and-pepper mantis shrimp (crispy exterior, tender meat) paired with an ice-cold beer – a perfect match for 150–200 yuan per person. Cap the night with a seaside stroll to admire the island’s nightscape
Day 2: Beihai Silver Beach → Qiaogang Flavor Street → Qiaogang Beach
- Morning: After breakfast, head to Beihai Silver Beach, nicknamed China’s “Number One Beach” for its silvery-white sands that gleam under sunlight. Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, sandcastle-building, or watersports like jet skiing or banana boat rides (prices range from 80–200 yuan depending on the activity).
- Noon: Dine near Silver Beach and try seafood fried rice noodles, loaded with fresh shrimp and squid, for around 40 yuan per person.
- Afternoon: Wander through Qiaogang Flavor Street, a culinary hotspot renowned for Vietnamese-inspired dishes and local snacks. Sample Vietnamese rice rolls (smooth rice sheets filled with rich toppings and dipped in savory broth, 10 yuan each) or Chinlown herbal soup (a sweet, cooling coconut milk-based dessert, 8 yuan). Browse stalls for Vietnamese handicrafts and clothing.
- Evening: Visit Qiaogang Beach to witness a stunning sunset and stroll along the shore. Unwind at beachside bars or BBQ stalls, sipping drinks and grabbing snacks (approximately 80 yuan per person) as the ocean breeze washes over you.
Day 3: Beihai → Weizhou Island → Crocodile Mountain Scenic Area → Shiluokou Beach
- Morning: Book ferry tickets to Weizhou Island in advance via the “Laiyouba Official Website” (tickets range from 150–240 yuan, depending on cabin class; the Beiyou No. 26 ferry is recommended for stability). Upon arrival, take an island shuttle or taxi to your hotel.
- Noon: Dine near your accommodation and sample Weizhou Island specialties like Volcano-Style Ribs – tender meat in a rich broth – for around 50 yuan per person.
- Afternoon: Explore Crocodile Mountain Scenic Area, Weizhou’s highlight, where volcanic craters, jagged black lava rocks, and turquoise waters create a dramatic landscape. Stroll along the coastal boardwalks for 3–4 hours of breathtaking vistas.
- Evening: Head to Shiluokou Beach, renowned for its crystalline waters and fine sands – perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or sunset viewing. Optional scuba diving lets you explore coral reefs and tropical fish (packages from 300–800 yuan). After sunset, dine nearby on steamed grouper (tender, flavorful, and authentically prepared) for approximately 80 yuan per person.
Day 4: Five-Colored Beach → Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception → Dripping Sands Cliff → Nanwan Seafood Market
- Morning: Rise early to watch the sunrise at Five-Colored Beach, where volcanic rock formations glisten with rainbow hues under sunlight. Afterward, hunt for seashells or explore tide pools to experience island life.
- Noon: Dine at a nearby farmhouse for rustic local cuisine like White Cut Chicken and stir-fried seasonal vegetables, averaging 40 yuan per person.
- Afternoon: Visit the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, a Gothic landmark built in 1882, to admire its ornate interiors and solemn atmosphere. Later, head to Dripping Sands Cliff, where water cascades down coral cliffs like shimmering curtains – a photographer’s dream.
- Evening: Shop at Nanwan Seafood Market, Weizhou’s largest seafood hub, for fresh catches at reasonable prices. Choose your favorites and have them cooked at nearby restaurants (processing fees: 15–45 yuan per kilogram). Must-try dishes include spicy crab and steamed scallops with garlic, averaging 150 yuan per person. End the night with a seaside stroll along Nanwan’s coastal path.
Day 5: Leisurely Exploration of Weizhou Island → Departure
- Morning: Sleep in, revisit favorite spots, or rent an electric scooter (80–100 yuan/day) to cruise along coastal roads, soaking in the island’s serene vistas and laid-back vibe.
- Noon: Enjoy a final island meal, pack your bags, and check out of your accommodation.
- Afternoon: Return to Beihai by ferry, departing according to your ticket schedule, and bid farewell to this coastal paradise.
Travel Tips
Sun Protection & Mosquito Prevention: Beihai’s subtropical climate means intense sunlight and high UV rays – pack sunscreen, sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and UV-protective clothing. The humid environment also attracts mosquitoes, so bring repellent to avoid bites.
Ferry Safety: If prone to seasickness, take medication before boarding the 1.5–2 hour ferry to Weizhou Island. Rough seas may cause turbulence, so follow crew instructions for safety.
Seafood Safety: Choose fresh seafood to prevent stomach issues, and avoid pairing it with beer or persimmons. If allergic, inform staff and opt for alternative dishes.
Attraction Tips:
- Beihai Silver Beach’s free areas offer ample recreation; paid zones are unnecessary.
- Weizhou Island’s entry ticket covers all sights – ignore street vendors selling “discounted tickets.”
- Avoid unsupervised swimming in undeveloped coastal zones due to strong undercurrents.
