This 3-day itinerary offers a perfect blend of Beihai‘s coastal charm and the stunning landscapes of Weizhou Island. From vibrant geological formations like Rainbow Beach to the serene Shell Beach, you’ll experience the best of the region’s natural beauty. Along the way, immerse yourself in the island’s rich history with visits to the historic Catholic Church and leisurely cycling along the scenic Colored Road. Whether you’re drawn to the island’s geological marvels or its peaceful village life, this itinerary promises an unforgettable adventure.
Day 1: Exploring Beihai’s Old Street and Coastal Attractions
Start your first day by discovering the historical and cultural highlights of Beihai.
First Stop: Beihai Old Street (北海老街) (1-2 hours)
Unlike other city streets that have been renovated or rebuilt, Beihai Old Street (北海老街) retains its unique blend of Chinese and Western architecture, with many colonial-style buildings. The oldest street, Shaqi Street (沙脊街), dates back to 1821, while Zhuhai Road (珠海路) was established in 1883. These streets were once the center of Beihai’s commerce and culture. Many of the old consulate buildings from countries such as Britain, France, and Germany still stand, showcasing their Western architectural styles. The street has a lively atmosphere, with locals chatting, playing cards, and relaxing in cafes and small shops selling local products.
Second Stop: Beibu Gulf Square (北部湾广场) (30 minutes)
To get to Beibu Gulf Square (北部湾广场) from Beihai Old Street, take Bus 2 for about 20 minutes. The square, a city landmark, features a 15-meter-high sculpture of a pearl shell called “Southern Pearl Soul” (南珠魂), along with a fountain. This is the heart of Beihai and a popular gathering place for locals.
Third Stop: Jin Hai Bay Mangrove Forest (金海湾红树林) (2 hours)
From Beibu Gulf Square, you can take a bus or taxi to Jin Hai Bay (金海湾). The mangrove forest (红树林) is a great spot to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Walk along the wooden boardwalk that stretches deep into the wetlands for a closer view of the mangrove trees. During high tide, the treetops float on the water, creating the picturesque “sea forest” effect. When the tide recedes, the tree trunks emerge, creating a stunning contrast. There is also a folk museum (疍家民俗园) displaying the history and tools of the local Danjia ethnic group. You can even participate in activities like clam digging and beachcombing.
Fourth Stop: Beihai Silver Beach (北海银滩) / Qiaogang Beach (侨港海滩) (2 hours)
From the mangrove forest, take a short taxi ride to the famous Beihai Silver Beach (北海银滩). The sand here shines silver under the sunlight, which gives the beach its name. The soft, fine sand and the tranquil environment make it an ideal place to relax before sunset. You can swim in the ocean, try out water sports like jet skiing and sand karting, or simply enjoy the sunset. Another option is Qiaogang Beach (侨港海滩), located further west, which is quieter and less crowded than Silver Beach, making it perfect for those seeking a more peaceful retreat.
Fifth Stop: Qiaogang Resort Beach (侨港度假浴场) (2 hours)
Take a 20-minute taxi ride from Silver Beach to Qiaogang Resort Beach (侨港度假浴场). This wide and flat beach offers a peaceful escape from the busier beaches in Beihai. It’s the perfect place to walk barefoot in the sand and enjoy the sunset in a quieter atmosphere.
Sixth Stop: Qiaogang Style Street (侨港风情街) (2 hours)
From Qiaogang Resort Beach, you can take Bus 5 for about 30 minutes to reach Qiaogang Style Street (侨港风情街). Developed with the help of the Chinese government and the UN in the late 1990s, this area was originally home to returnees from Vietnam. Today, it is known as the largest seafood processing base in Guangxi, with a variety of seafood restaurants and Vietnamese eateries. The street is a great place to enjoy a delicious and affordable meal after spending time at the beach.
Dining Recommendations
For lunch, consider visiting Gui Xiao Chu (桂小厨) near Beibu Gulf Square for delicious Guangxi dishes. Their signature “Old Friend Fish” (老友鱼) and stone-ground tofu (石磨豆腐) are highly recommended. If you’re in the mood for something different, Shi Luo Ji (拾螺记) offers local delicacies like “Luosifen” (螺蛳粉) (snail noodles) for only 10 yuan per bowl. For dinner near Qiaogang Style Street, try Yue Xiang Xiao Chu (越乡小厨) for some Vietnamese-inspired dishes or Hao Shi Lai Seafood (好食来海鲜) for fresh local seafood. Finally, stop by 24 Dong Tang Shui Dian (24栋糖水店) for some popular sweet soup desserts to end your day.
Day 2: Exploring Weizhou Island (涠洲岛)
Weizhou Island (涠洲岛) is the largest volcanic island in China and one of the top destinations for visitors to Beihai. The island is known for its dramatic geological features, beautiful beaches, and abundant marine life. This 2-day itinerary on the island includes exploring volcanic landscapes, diving, cycling around the island, camping to watch the sunrise, and enjoying seafood barbecues.
Ferry to Weizhou Island: The ferry ride to Weizhou Island requires a ferry ticket, which also serves as an entry fee for the island’s attractions. Tickets for adults are priced at 105 yuan.
Transportation on Weizhou Island
- Ferries depart daily from Beihai International Passenger Terminal (北海国际客运港码头) to Weizhou Island, taking about 1.5 hours to reach the island’s West Wharf (西角码头).
- Upon arrival, most guesthouses provide pick-up services. You can inquire about this service in advance.
- Weizhou Island has three bus lines connecting the main attractions. You can check the routes directly via mobile maps by searching “Weizhou Island Bus 1/2/3”.
- A common mode of transport on the island is electric bikes, available for rent at 60-80 yuan/day. Additional fees for parking or charging range from 2-10 yuan.
- Electric tricycles are available for 30-80 yuan per ride. For a full day’s rental, the price is about 150-180 yuan.
- Rent mountain bikes for 30 yuan/day or tandem bikes for 50 yuan/day.
First Stop: Crocodile Mountain Volcano Park (鳄鱼山火山公园) (1-3 hours)
Crocodile Mountain Volcano Park (鳄鱼山火山公园) is a natural museum showcasing the volcanic formation process of Weizhou Island. Here, you can see the most concentrated volcanic eruption relics on the island. Key Highlights include:
- Crocodile Mountain Lighthouse (鳄鱼山灯塔)
- Volcanic Crater Site (火山口遗址): One of the five volcanic craters on the island, with the most recent eruption occurring about 10,000 years ago.
- Turtle Cave (藏龟洞): A sea-eroded passageway carved into the cliff.
- Sea-eroded Arch (海蚀拱桥)
- Volcanic Impact Crater (火山弹冲击坑)
- Moon Bay (月亮湾): A crescent-shaped sea-eroded cliff.
- Coral Beach (珊瑚沙滩): A beach made from accumulated coral remains.
- Sea-eroded Platform (海蚀平台): During low tide, you can see live coral, fish, and shrimp trapped in the holes on the platform.
Second Stop: Shiluo Kou Beach (石螺口海滩) (2-3 hours)
Shiluo Kou Beach (石螺口海滩) is one of the two major diving areas on the island. It is an excellent shore diving site, while Dishui Danping (滴水丹屏) is more suitable for boat diving, where you can explore coral reefs under the sea. The water here is clearer, and the marine life is more abundant. You will find local shops offering diving experiences along the way.
Third Stop: Dishui Danping (滴水丹屏) (2-4 hours)
Located on the southern coast of Dishui Village (滴水村), Dishui Danping (滴水丹屏) is a sea-eroded cliff named for the water that continuously drips from the lush vegetation on the cliff face. This is the prime spot for diving, watching the sunset, and enjoying seafood. Highlights include:
- Sandy beach: The soft, fine sand is perfect for relaxation.
- Sea-eroded red cliffs and fishing boats: These scenic elements make it a great spot for sunset views.
- Seafood dining: After watching the sunset, you can enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many nearby seafood restaurants.
Dining Recommendations:
- Near Dishui Danping: Ke Lai Xiang Seafood Sichuan Restaurant (客来香海鲜川菜馆): Located near Shiluo Kou Beach, this restaurant offers great service and delicious dishes like garlic steamed scallops and stir-fried clams. The chef comes from Beihai’s Shangri-La Hotel, offering a higher quality of service than most other places on the island.
- In Nanwan Town (南湾镇): Hua Le Restaurant (花乐餐厅): Specializes in banana pork stir-fried with island-grown bananas. The name “banana pork” is quirky and worth trying for a unique island experience. On sunny days, you can enjoy your meal while watching the bay from the outdoor seating.
- Small Barbecue (小酒吧烧烤): Famous for its signature banana chicken, the crispy skin and tender meat make it a must-try. The restaurant is ideal for enjoying the sea breeze, having drinks, and eating skewers while watching the ocean.
Day 3: Exploring Weizhou Island (涠洲岛)
On Day 3, you’ll visit Weizhou Island‘s vibrant geological landscapes, historical sites, and enjoy cycling along its colorful road. Be sure to avoid high tide times, as some areas can get submerged during this period.
First Stop: Rainbow Beach (五彩滩) (1 hour)
Rainbow Beach (五彩滩) is a unique beach made up of shells and black sandstones, resembling sesame seeds, which is why it’s also called “Sesame Beach.” This 1.5 km stretch of coast features towering sea-eroded cliffs ranging from 20-50 meters high. During low tide, a wide sea-eroded platform emerges, which is covered in vibrant moss, creating a stunningly colorful sight under the sunlight. The area where the cliffs meet the platform is filled with sea-eroded caves, making this a striking geological landscape. It’s an excellent place to watch the sunrise early in the morning, offering a peaceful and picturesque experience.
Tip: Be sure to visit during low tide, as these features are submerged during high tide.
Second Stop: Catholic Church (天主教堂) (0.5 hours)
Located in Shengtang Village (盛塘村), Weizhou Island’s Catholic Church was built in 1853 by French missionaries and follows a Gothic architectural style. The building materials, including coral, stones, and lime, were sourced from the island itself. Despite facing centuries of weathering, the church has remained a place of religious activities for the local Catholic community. The village itself is home to many believers, and this church remains a central part of local life.
Third Stop: Cycling on the Colored Road (彩色公路骑行) (1-2 hours)
One of the scenic routes on the island is the 8 km stretch of the Ring Island Road (环岛路). This section of the road is relatively flat and starts from the Shengtang village junction. As you cycle north, you’ll pass rural landscapes, banana groves, and coastal views. You can rent an electric bike or mountain bike to enjoy the journey while feeling the cool sea breeze. It’s a great way to explore the island’s natural beauty and relax along the way.
Fourth Stop: Shell Beach (贝壳沙滩) (1 hour)
End your day at Shell Beach (贝壳沙滩), where you can enjoy the tranquility of the beach, collect seashells, and watch the waves. This is a perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploration. In the evening, catch the last ferry back to Beihai at 5 pm.
Optional Day 4: Xieyang Island (斜阳岛)
Xieyang Island (斜阳岛) is an undeveloped small island with a rustic charm. The island is home to a few dozen fishermen, most of whom are elderly. The island features sea-eroded cliffs and massive sea-eroded platforms, as well as volcanic remnants near the fishing village. It is a great place for sea fishing.
Transportation Tip: There are no regular ferries to Xieyang Island. You can ask your guesthouse to help arrange a boat trip, or head to the dock near the town center to inquire about booking a ride with local fishermen. The trip typically involves a same-day round trip.
Dining Recommendations:
- Mei Wei Guan Xi (美•味关系): A small eatery next to the Catholic Church, offering local specialties like Lao You Fen (老友粉), Snail Rice Noodles (螺蛳粉), and Seafood Soup Noodles. The freshly grilled oysters with garlic sauce are a popular choice.
- Chongqing Hao Wei Dao Restaurant (重庆好味道餐厅): Known for its delicious small stir-fried dishes and steamed seafood, this unassuming restaurant is one of the most well-regarded on the island. Just make sure to inform them if you don’t eat spicy food.
- Ming Tian Jian (明天见): A charming dessert shop located 100 meters west of the Catholic Church, offering homemade yogurt and ice cream. The store’s cozy atmosphere and cheerful “See you tomorrow” as you leave will leave you in a good mood.
