(儋州市 | Danzhou City)
Explore Culture, Coastlines & Cutting-Edge Resorts on Hainan’s Northwest Shore
Located on Hainan Island’s northwest coast, Danzhou is the province’s largest city by land area and a rising destination for travelers looking beyond the usual tourist paths. Combining natural beauty, historical depth, and futuristic development, Danzhou offers a rich and refreshing experience—especially for self-driving explorers.
⭐ 1. 🏝️ Ocean Flower Island (海花岛) – China’s “Dubai of the Sea”
This ambitious artificial island megaproject is one of China’s most futuristic coastal developments, featuring:
🐠 Ocean Park & Aquarium
💒 Wedding Manor (wedding halls, photo spots)
🏛️ Cultural exhibition pavilions showcasing global styles
🌸 European-style gardens and light-filled plazas
🌃 Nightly light and water shows along the promenade
While still partially under development, many attractions are open and draw visitors from all over China.
Perfect for: Families, couples, photographers, architecture lovers
⭐ 2. ⚓ Baimajing Port (白马井渔港) – Authentic Coastal Life
This quaint fishing harbor offers a window into Danzhou’s traditional way of life.
🐟 Watch fishermen unload their daily catch
🦐 Sample ultra-fresh seafood at local stalls
🌅 Enjoy beautiful sunset scenes over anchored boats
Best for: Cultural immersion, seafood lovers, slow travel
⭐ 3. 📚 Dongpo Academy (东坡书院) – Literary Legacy of Su Dongpo
Named after the legendary Song Dynasty poet Su Dongpo, who lived in exile here, the academy offers:
🏯 Traditional Chinese architecture
🪵 Peaceful courtyards and stone inscriptions
🧘♂️ A tranquil atmosphere ideal for reflection and history exploration
Ideal for: History buffs, scholars, heritage tourism
⭐ 4. 💦 Longmen Waterfall (龙门瀑布) – Hidden Natural Retreat
Tucked away in the lush hills outside the city, Longmen Waterfall is a peaceful spot ideal for:
🌳 Light hiking and nature walks
🧺 Picnics by the flowing stream
📷 Refreshing landscape photography, especially in the rainy season
Note: Best visited after rainfall when the waterfall is most vibrant.
⭐ 5. 🌴 Guangcun Coconut Forest & Beach (光村椰林海滩) – Underrated Tropical Coastline
A serene beach lined with swaying coconut palms, Guangcun offers:
🏖️ Soft sands and calm waves
🐚 Fewer crowds compared to Sanya
🔥 Popular BBQ and beach picnic area for locals
Perfect for: Quiet afternoons, swimming, local beach vibes
⭐ 6. ♨️ Lanyang Hot Springs (蓝洋温泉) – Natural Mineral Retreat
Set in a peaceful tropical area inland from the coast, Lanyang Hot Springs features:
🌿 Soothing thermal pools in a garden-like setting
🧘 Perfect for post-hike relaxation or road trip breaks
🪷 Some springs offer herbal or mineral-infused soaking options
Ideal for: Wellness travelers, couples, older tourists
⭐ 7. 🍽️ Danzhou Cuisine – Flavors of the Northwest
Danzhou offers distinctive local dishes, including:
🫘 Black Bean Tofu (黑豆腐) – a unique fermented specialty with rich umami flavor
🐙 Seafood Hotpot – featuring locally caught fish, shrimp, and squid
🐖 Danzhou-style pork belly – savory, slow-braised Hainanese comfort food
Tip: Visit local markets or small-town restaurants for the most authentic experience.
📝 Travel Tips for Visiting Danzhou
🌐 Category | 📍 Details |
---|---|
🚗 Getting Around | Best explored by self-driving; buses are limited |
🛌 Where to Stay | From luxury resorts on Ocean Flower Island to budget inns in town |
🍴 Local Delights | Try seafood BBQ, tropical fruits, and Danzhou pork dishes |
📅 Best Time to Visit | October to March for cool, dry weather |
📍 Location Note | Ideal stop on a west coast road trip from Haikou to Changjiang |
🌟 Why Visit Danzhou?
✅ A perfect mix of modernity and tradition
✅ Amazing coastal views, historic depth, and natural springs
✅ Far fewer tourists than Sanya or Haikou—ideal for relaxed, immersive travel
Whether you’re intrigued by Ocean Flower Island’s futuristic skyline, drawn to ancient Chinese poetry at Dongpo Academy, or simply want to unwind in a coconut forest or hot spring, Danzhou invites you to experience a different side of Hainan.