Beihai, located in southern Guangxi, is a stunning coastal city known for its white sandy beaches, fresh seafood, and historical charm. As one of China’s fastest-growing tourist destinations, city boasts the famous Silver Beach (Yintan), Weizhou Island, and Beibu Gulf. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, or cultural exploration, this place offers a perfect getaway.
Essential Information
- Location: Southern Guangxi, South China
- Climate: Tropical monsoon – hot summers, mild winters
- Best Time to Visit: April to October (warm weather, best for beach activities)
- Currency: Chinese Yuan (CNY)
- Language: Mandarin and Cantonese; some locals speak Beihai dialect and Zhuang language
- Time Zone: China Standard Time (GMT+8)
Interesting Facts About Beihai
- Home to China’s Best Beach – Silver Beach (银滩) is one of the longest and cleanest beaches in China.
- Weizhou Island is a Volcano – China’s largest volcanic island is just a short ferry ride from Beihai.
- A Maritime Silk Road Hub – This place was an important port city during the Tang and Song Dynasties.
- A Seafood Lover’s Paradise – The city offers some of the freshest seafood in China at unbeatable prices.
- Mild Climate Year-Round – Even in winter, temperatures rarely drop below 15°C (59°F), making it a great winter escape.
How to Get There
By Air ✈️
- Beihai Fucheng Airport (BHY) has direct flights from Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Chengdu.
- From the airport:
- Taxi (30 min, ~¥50-80) to the city center.
- Airport Shuttle Bus (45 min, ~¥20) to Railway Station.
With Train 🚄
- Beihai Railway Station has high-speed trains from Nanning, Guangzhou, Guilin, and Kunming.
- Guangzhou: 4.5 hours by bullet train.
- Nanning: 1.5 hours by train.
By Bus 🚌
- Long-distance buses connect the city with Nanning, Guilin, and Shenzhen.
- Travel time from Nanning: 3 hours by express bus.
Best Things to Do in Beihai
1. Relax at Silver Beach (银滩) 🌊
- One of China’s most beautiful beaches with soft white sand and clear waters.
- Perfect for swimming, jet skiing, and sunbathing.
2. Take a Ferry to Weizhou Island (涠洲岛) 🏝️
- A volcanic island with coral reefs, crystal-clear waters, and lush forests.
- Visit Colorful Beach, Crocodile Hill, and Saint Catholic Church.
3. Stroll Through Beihai Old Street (北海老街) 🏛️
- A historic street featuring European-style architecture and Qing Dynasty buildings.
- Enjoy local snacks, souvenir shops, and traditional teahouses.
4. Explore Beibu Gulf Square (北部湾广场) ⛲
- The heart of the city, known for its large pearl sculpture and evening performances.
- A great spot for photography and people-watching.
5. Visit Beihai Underwater World (北海海底世界) 🐠
- A marine park showcasing tropical fish, sea turtles, and shark tunnels.
- Ideal for families and ocean lovers.
Best Accommodation Options in Beihai
Luxury Hotels ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Beihai Shangri-La Hotel – Offers seafront views, an outdoor pool, and top-notch service.
- Golden Bay Mangrove Resort – A perfect beachfront resort for relaxation.
Mid-Range Hotels ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Beihai Guanling Resort Hotel – Located near Silver Beach with spacious rooms.
- Howard Johnson Hotel Beihai – A comfortable stay with modern amenities.
Budget Options ⭐⭐⭐
- Beihai Old Street Hostel – Ideal for backpackers and budget travelers.
- Beihai Yintan Seaview Hotel – Affordable rooms with great ocean views.
Cultural and Modern Attractions
Cultural Attractions
- Wenchang Pagoda (文昌塔) – A historical Ming Dynasty pagoda with panoramic views.
- Weizhou Island Catholic Church – A French-style stone church built in the 19th century.
Modern Attractions
- Maritime Silk Road Museum – Showcases Beihai’s maritime trade history.
- Beihai Wanda Plaza – A top shopping mall with local and international brands.
Dining and Nightlife
Must-Try Dishes
- Grilled Oysters (烤生蚝) – City is famous for fresh, flavorful oysters.
- Seafood Hotpot (海鲜火锅) – A must-try dish featuring local seafood and fresh vegetables.
- Fried Rice Noodles (炒粉) – A simple but delicious local dish.
Top Restaurants
- Beihai Seafood Market – Choose live seafood and have it cooked on-site.
- Xiangwei Lou (香味楼) – Famous for authentic Beihai cuisine.
Best Nightlife Spots
- Seaview Bars – Enjoy cocktails with ocean views at Silver Beach.
- Bar Street (酒吧街) – A lively area with karaoke bars and clubs.
Day Trips from Beihai
1. Weizhou Island 🌴
- Best day trip from Beihai, offering stunning beaches, snorkeling, and seafood.
2. Mangrove National Park (红树林公园) 🌳
- Explore a beautiful mangrove forest, great for bird-watching and eco-tours.
3. Hepu Ancient Town (合浦古镇) 🏯
- A historical town known for Tang Dynasty ruins and ancient trade routes.
Getting Around
- Buses: Cheap and connect major attractions.
- Taxis & Didi: Affordable and convenient for short trips.
- Bike Rentals: Available at Silver Beach and Beihai Old Street.
- Ferry: The best way to reach Weizhou Island.
Practical Tips for Visiting Beihai
Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for mild weather and fewer crowds.
Packing Tips: Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for beach activities.
Payment: WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used; cash is accepted in markets.
Local Etiquette: Bargaining is common in markets and street stalls.
Safety: Be careful swimming during monsoon season (June-August).
Conclusion
Beihai is a tropical paradise perfect for beach lovers, foodies, and culture enthusiasts. Whether you’re exploring Silver Beach, taking a boat to Weizhou Island, or savoring fresh seafood, city offers an unforgettable experience. Plan your trip today and enjoy this coastal gem of Guangxi! 🌊🌴
