Beihai 北海 — Silver Beach Coast — Gateway to Weizhou Island
Beihai (北海), whose name means "North Sea" despite facing south, is one of China's premier beach destinations and the country's southwesternmost coastal city. With 24 km of pristine white sand at Silver Beach (银滩), the volcanic wonderland of Weizhou Island offshore, and a charming colonial-era old town, Beihai offers the complete tropical escape just 3 hours from Guangzhou.
The city was one of China's first "open ports" in the late 19th century, and its Old Town preserves the arcaded streets and European consular buildings from that era. Beihai is also famous for its South Sea pearls — some of the finest in the world are cultivated in the waters here. The combination of beaches, islands, history, and seafood makes Beihai one of Guangxi's most diverse destinations.
Unlike Sanya in Hainan, Beihai remains relatively affordable and uncrowded outside peak summer months. The city's mild winters (average 15°C in January) make it a popular retreat for northern Chinese seeking warmth. The nearby Weizhou Island (涠洲岛) — China's largest and youngest volcanic island — has become a hotspot for young travelers seeking island adventure and Instagram-worthy sunsets.
Silver Beach stretches 24 km along the South China Sea with fine white sand that sparkles like silver under sunlight — hence the name. The beach has been rated among China's top 10 and is known for exceptionally clean water and sand. Unlike many Chinese beaches, it's been protected from overdevelopment, with most hotels set back behind a green belt.
The beach is divided into sections: the main tourist area with lifeguards and facilities, quieter stretches for walking, and the western end where locals gather. Swimming is safe in the designated zones with gentle slopes and no strong currents. The best time is early morning or late afternoon when the heat is bearable and the light is beautiful. The beach is free and open 24 hours — rare for a beach of this quality in China.
Hours: Open 24 hours (lifeguards 8:00–18:00)
Admission: Free
Best time: Sunrise (6 AM) or sunset (6 PM)
China's largest and youngest volcanic island, Weizhou rises from the South China Sea 36 nautical miles south of Beihai. The 25 km² island features dramatic volcanic landscapes, pristine beaches, coral reefs, and a laid-back fishing village atmosphere. It's become one of southern China's trendiest destinations for young travelers seeking island adventure.
Key attractions include Crocodile Hill Volcano Park (鳄鱼山) with lava formations and sea caves; Colorful Beach (五彩滩) with mineral-stained rocks; Shilu Mouth Beach for swimming; and the old Catholic Church built by French missionaries in 1853. Rent an electric scooter (¥60/day) to explore the whole island. Stay in a guesthouse run by locals, eat fresh seafood caught that day, and watch the sunset from the west coast. The island is a designated geopark with excellent snorkeling in season.
Ferry: 70 min from Beihai International Cruise Port; ¥120–150 one-way
Island admission: ¥98 (includes all scenic areas)
Recommended stay: 2–3 nights
The historic center of Beihai preserves over 1 km of arcaded streets (骑楼) dating from the late 19th century when the city was opened as a treaty port. The architecture blends Chinese, French, British, and German influences — a unique colonial legacy from the city's days as a major trading port for silk, pearls, and tea.
Zhuhai Road is the main street, lined with 19th-century shophouses featuring ornate plaster facades, French windows, and covered walkways. The street comes alive in the evening when restaurants and bars set up tables outside. Visit the former French Consulate, the Catholic church, and the small museums documenting Beihai's maritime history. The area is less touristy than similar districts in Guangzhou or Xiamen, with a genuine local atmosphere.
Hours: Open 24 hours (shops 10:00–22:00)
Admission: Free
One of southern China's largest aquariums, Beihai Underwater World features a 280-meter underwater tunnel through a massive tank containing sharks, rays, sea turtles, and thousands of tropical fish. The facility covers 18,000 m² and includes coral reef exhibits, a penguin house, and educational displays about South China Sea marine life.
The highlight is walking through the acrylic tunnel surrounded by marine life on all sides. Feeding shows occur several times daily. The aquarium also runs conservation programs for endangered species like the Chinese white dolphin. Allow 2–3 hours. Particularly popular with families and on rainy days when beach activities aren't possible.
Hours: 9:00–18:00
Admission: ¥138 adult; ¥78 child (2024 prices)
Location: On the waterfront near Silver Beach
Beihai has been the center of South Sea pearl cultivation for over 2,000 years. The pearls from these waters — called "Nanzhu" (南珠) — were tributes to Chinese emperors and remain among the finest in the world. Several pearl farms and showrooms around the city demonstrate cultivation and offer pearls for purchase.
The Beihai Pearl Museum explains the history and process of pearl cultivation. You can watch divers retrieve oysters (in season) and see how pearls are sorted and processed. Pearls here cost 30–50% less than in Beijing or Shanghai. Be prepared to bargain at markets, but buy from established shops for quality certification. Pearl powder cosmetics and jewelry are popular souvenirs. The annual Beihai Pearl Festival draws buyers from across Asia.
Museum Hours: 8:30–17:30
Admission: ¥30–50 depending on venue
Price range: ¥100–10,000+ for pearl jewelry
A 5 km² forest park on a peninsula west of the city center, Guantouling offers hiking trails through subtropical forest to dramatic cliff viewpoints over the South China Sea. The highest point reaches 120 meters, with panoramic views of the coastline, islands, and fishing boats below.
Several temples dot the hillside, including the Sea Goddess Temple where fishermen pray for safe returns. The hiking trails range from easy to moderate and take 2–3 hours round-trip. The sunsets from the western cliffs are spectacular. The park is a pleasant escape from the beach crowds, especially in the cooler months. A lighthouse at the point is a popular photo spot.
Hours: 8:00–17:30
Admission: ¥20 (2024)
Distance: 8km west of city center
A 3,000-hectare mangrove wetland reserve on the eastern edge of Beihai, Golden Bay protects one of China's most important coastal ecosystems. The mangroves serve as nurseries for fish and shellfish, feeding grounds for migratory birds, and natural barriers against storm surges.
Wooden boardwalks wind through the mangrove forest, allowing close observation of crabs, mudskippers, and birds including egrets and kingfishers. Traditional oyster farming continues in designated areas — you can watch locals harvesting oysters at low tide. The best time to visit is during the falling tide when more wildlife is visible. Evening visits offer beautiful light on the mudflats. Educational but less crowded than the beaches.
Hours: 8:00–18:00
Admission: ¥40 (2024)
Distance: 15km east of city center
Waisha Island, connected to the mainland by bridge, is Beihai's seafood heart. The island's morning fish market is one of the liveliest in southern China — fishing boats unload their catch at dawn, and stalls sell everything from grouper to sea cucumber to exotic shells. The market runs from 5 AM to noon.
The real attraction is the waterfront restaurants where you select your seafood live from tanks, then have it cooked to order. Grilled oysters (烤生蚝) at ¥2 each, steamed grouper (清蒸石斑), spicy crabs, and conch dishes are specialties. Prices are negotiable — expect to pay ¥60–100 per person for a feast. The island also has a beer garden and live music venues. Evening is the best time to visit when the waterfront is packed with diners.
Market Hours: 5:00–12:00; restaurants 11:00–23:00
Budget: ¥60–120 per person for seafood dinner
Beihai's modern cruise terminal is more than just a transit point — it's become an attraction in itself with shopping, dining, and entertainment. The port serves ferries to Weizhou Island and Ha Long Bay in Vietnam, and cruise ships to Southeast Asian destinations.
The terminal building features duty-free shops, pearl showrooms, and restaurants overlooking the harbor. Book ferry tickets to Weizhou at least one day in advance during peak season (summer, Chinese New Year) as they sell out. The area around the port has been developed with parks and walkways — arrive early to explore before your ferry. International cruises to Vietnam (Ha Long Bay, Da Nang) operate seasonally.
Ferry to Weizhou: 8:30, 11:15, 15:20 daily; 70 minutes
Ticket: ¥120–150 one-way; book 1–2 days ahead