Dongfang

Dongfang is relatively dry from autumn and winter through spring, while summer sun can be strong.

Located on Hainan’s west coast, Dongfang has a slower pace than many better-known seaside cities, and travel costs are generally lower. The climate is dry and pleasant, with a mix of coastline, villages, mountains, rivers, and reservoir scenery. It is especially well suited to a short trip focused on sunsets, Li ethnic culture, and scenic self-drives.

• Yulinzhou Scenic Area: This is the westernmost point of Hainan’s land area. Its lighthouse, reefs, and wind turbines can all be captured in one frame, and it is one of the classic spots for watching orange sunsets over the sea.
• Baicha Village Li Boat-Shaped Houses: A well-preserved traditional Li village, with 87 thatched boat-shaped houses retaining a distinctive original appearance. It is a good place to learn about local folk culture and photograph cultural scenes.
• Exian Ridge: Known for its karst landforms and tropical rainforest scenery, it is often called Hainan’s “Little Guilin.” Visitors can take a boat trip on the lake and enjoy the quiet mountain-and-water setting.
• The Lesser-Known Beach Behind Hong Bar: A quiet beach open to the public for free, with relatively few visitors. Facing the sunset, it is a good place to bring a chair, sit by the sea, and simply unwind.
• Daguangba Reservoir: The second-largest reservoir in Hainan, with broad water views and an open, scenic road across the dam. It is suitable for photographing road and lake views during a self-drive trip.

Classic 2–3 Day Itinerary

• Day 1: Coastal Scenery and Sunset
  • Morning: Go to Yulinzhou Scenic Area, walk along the pebble beach, and enjoy views of the lighthouse and wind turbines.
  • Afternoon: Feel the sea breeze at the lesser-known beach behind Hong Bar, or visit Changshun Market in the city to experience local everyday life.
  • Evening: Return to Yulinzhou, or head to the Sigeng Tourist Road and wait for the sunset over the sea.
  • Night: Try Sigeng roast suckling pig, or have dinner at Fumin Night Market or Haili Snack Street.
• Day 2: Li Culture and Hidden Mountain-Water Scenery
  • Morning: Drive to Baicha Village, photograph the overall view of the boat-shaped houses, and learn about traditional Li culture.
  • Afternoon: Go to Exian Ridge, take a boat tour through the “Little Guilin” scenery, and relax in the tropical rainforest environment.
  • Night: Return to the city and choose a seafood food stall to try local seafood.
• Day 3: Reservoir Views and Leisurely Tidal Flat Foraging
  • Morning: Drive along the road across Daguangba Reservoir Dam and enjoy the lake and road scenery.
  • Afternoon: Go tidal flat foraging in Duntou Village, or slow down the pace with afternoon tea at a seaside café.
  • Night: Buy Dongfang local specialties, such as pickled cucumbers, dragon fruit, and pineapple, then prepare for the return trip.

Must-Try Local Foods

Dining prices in Dongfang are relatively friendly, and the local flavors are distinctive. The following are worth setting aside time to try.

• Sigeng Roast Suckling Pig: One of Dongfang’s signature dishes. The skin is roasted until golden and crispy, while the meat stays tender. It can be eaten with sugar or a special sauce.
• Gangmen Lumian: A common local breakfast. The sesame-based gravy has a salty-sweet flavor and can be served with flat rice noodles or thin rice noodles, giving it a rich texture.
• Dongfang Shrimp Cakes: A traditional fried snack made with fresh shrimp and starch. After frying, the outside is crisp and fragrant, while the inside is soft and tender.
• Seafood Congee / Seafood Noodles: Seafood from Basuo Central Fishing Port is fresh and relatively affordable. It is often used in congee or noodles, with a naturally sweet broth.
• Qingbuliang / Stir-Fried Ice Dessert: Common Hainan desserts with a strong coconut milk aroma and plenty of toppings, especially suitable in hot weather.

Accommodation and Transport Tips

• Where to Stay: Consider staying in downtown Dongfang (Basuo Town) or near Yulinzhou. The city center is more convenient for dining and transport, and comfortable hotels are available at around 150–300 yuan per person. Staying near Yulinzhou makes it easier to watch the sunset, and sea-view rooms offer good value, making the area better suited to travelers who prefer quiet ocean views.
• Transport:
  • Getting There: You can first arrive at Sanya Phoenix Airport or Haikou Meilan Airport, then take the island-loop high-speed railway to Dongfang Station. The journey takes about 40 minutes to 1.5 hours.
  • Getting Around Locally: Dongfang’s attractions are fairly spread out, so self-driving is more convenient, offers a flexible schedule, and makes it easier to stop for views along the way. If you do not drive, you can rent a shared electric scooter in the city for short trips, or hire a car to reach farther attractions.

Practical Tips

• Best Season: October to April is the most comfortable period, with dry weather and less rain. Summers are hot and UV rays are strong, so sun protection is important.
• Sun and Mosquito Protection: Hainan has strong sunlight, so apply sunscreen and wear a hat when going out. Mosquitoes can be more common by the sea or in villages in the evening, so bring mosquito repellent.
• Buying Seafood: When buying seafood at Basuo Central Fishing Port or farmers’ markets, confirm whether the price is per jin or per liang, ask clearly in advance, and try to choose regular stalls. After buying seafood, you can have it cooked at nearby small restaurants.
• Respect Local Customs: When visiting Li villages such as Baicha Village, do not enter locked homes without permission. Ask before taking photos, and note that open flames are strictly prohibited throughout the village.