Dongfang

On Hainan’s west coast, Dongfang is quieter than Sanya. Seaside sunsets, traditional Li villages and relatively low prices are the main draws of this small city. The following guide covers sights, food, itineraries and transport.

• Yulinzhou: At the westernmost tip of Hainan Island, a white lighthouse and rocks shaped like fish scales define the coastal scenery. Come in the evening to see orange sunset clouds reflected on the sea. Open all day; admission is free.

• Baicha Village: The village preserves 81 traditional Li boat-shaped thatched houses, offering a chance to learn about Li architecture. It is also known as a “living fossil” of Li architecture. Admission is free.

• Exianling: Karst formations and tropical rainforest create a landscape nicknamed “Hainan’s Little Guilin.” You can explore by boat or hike to the summit.
• Gan’en Cape Wind Turbine Coast: Nearly 100 white wind turbines line one side of the coastal road, beside clear water and quiet beaches. At sunset, the turbines, sea and glowing clouds make a striking scene.

• Daguangba Reservoir: Known for having Asia’s longest earth dam, this reservoir has an expansive stretch of water. Drive along the road atop the dam for lake views and softly toned, Japanese-style road photos.

• Beili Ancient Village: Southeast Asian-style arcaded buildings and weathered old walls remain in the village. It is a good place for a leisurely stroll, with old street architecture to photograph.

Local Flavors and Snacks

Eating out in Dongfang is relatively affordable. Local snacks often combine sweet and savory flavors, while fresh seafood is another important part of the local diet.

• Sigeng Roast Suckling Pig: This signature Dongfang dish has a 300-year history. Local small spotted pigs are slow-roasted over fruitwood charcoal, producing thin, crisp skin and juicy meat. It is usually served with a sweet-and-sour garlic sauce.

• Gangmen Lumian Noodles: This local Dongfang snack resembles flat rice noodles. A thick sesame gravy, crushed peanuts and pickled vegetables give it a soft, sticky texture, a sweet-savory flavor and a sesame aroma.

• Basuo Fishing Port Seafood: Visit Basuo Central Fishing Port in the early evening to watch fishing boats return and buy seafood. Prices here are about half those at the market. Nearby eateries can cook your purchases, and RMB 60–90 per person is enough for a generous meal.

• Basuo Shrimp Fritters: These traditional fritters are made with small shrimp and chopped scallions. Crisp on the outside and tender inside, they are often served with the shop’s own vinegar-based dipping sauce.

• Fumin Night Market: A popular evening food spot among local residents, with stalls selling stir-fried ice desserts, qingbuliang dessert soup, stinky tofu and other snacks. It is ideal for an evening stroll with food stops along the way.

3-Day, 2-Night Itinerary

• Day 1: Arrive in Dongfang and check in to a hotel in the city center. Spend the afternoon at Yulinzhou and stay for sunset, then head to Fumin Night Market for snacks and a glimpse of local nightlife.
• Day 2: Drive to Baicha Village in the morning to see the traditional Li boat-shaped houses. In the afternoon, visit Daguangba Reservoir for expansive water views. Have fresh seafood for dinner at Basuo Central Fishing Port.
• Day 3: Head to Beili Bay at dawn to watch the sunrise, then visit the Gan’en Cape Wind Turbine Coast, photographing the road and coastal scenery along the way. Try Sigeng roast suckling pig for lunch before leaving in the afternoon.

Accommodation and Transport

• Where to stay: Consider Basuo Town in the urban area, particularly near Wanda Plaza or Fumin Night Market, for convenient dining, shopping and good-value accommodation. Options include Dongfang Guesthouse, Jiayuan Dongfang Sochi Hotel and chain hotels in the city center. A budget of RMB 100–250 per person offers a choice of reasonably comfortable accommodation.

• Getting there and around:
  • Getting there: Take a high-speed train to Dongfang Station. The journey takes about 1.5 hours from Haikou or 40 minutes from Sanya. You can also fly to Sanya or Haikou, then transfer to a high-speed train.
  • Local transport: Attractions are spread far apart, so driving makes it easier to link them into an itinerary. If you are not driving, shared electric scooters are available in the city center for about RMB 30–40 per day. For more distant sights such as Baicha Village and Exianling, you will still need a taxi or a hired car with a driver.

Travel Tips

• Sun protection and footwear: UV levels are high on Hainan’s west coast. Bring SPF50+ sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses. Coastal rocks at places such as Yulinzhou can be slippery and sharp-edged, so wear thick-soled, non-slip shoes when walking among them.
• Avoid spiny plants: Wild cacti near the coast have venomous spines. Keep your distance and do not touch them.
• Check opening information: Places such as the Hainan Railway Museum may close temporarily for renovations. Check a map app or an official account for opening information before visiting.
• Bring water and food: Shops are sparse along the west coast. Keep plenty of drinking water and snacks in the car when driving between sights.
• Plan ahead for roast suckling pig: Popular long-established Sigeng roast suckling pig restaurants such as Huang Ji usually serve limited quantities. During holidays, arrive early to queue before they sell out.

Dongfang suits a slower itinerary centered on coastal walks, village visits and local food. Prices are relatively affordable, and even RMB 150 per person can cover a relaxed outing, with sea breezes and a daily rhythm far removed from that of a busy city.