Things To Do
in Benhao
Benhao is a windswept coastal town in Guangxi that blends fishing heritage with gentle modernity. The harbor bustles with colorful boats, markets, and seafood restaurants, while inland hills cradle limewashed temples and pagodas. Limestone karst scenery rises beyond the shoreline, offering easy hikes and scenic viewpoints.
Locals are welcoming, and the town's relaxed pace makes it perfect for leisurely exploration.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely stroll through the ancient streets of Benhao, where traditional architecture whispers tales of the past. Visit the iconic Benhao Ancient Town, taking in the vibrant local markets and artisanal shops that showcase handcrafted goods. Don't forget to stop by a local tea shop for a refreshing cup of jasmine tea to energize your morning.
After lunch at a quaint local restaurant, immerse yourself in the cultural heritage by visiting the Benhao Museum, which houses fascinating artifacts from the region's history. Spend some time exploring the nearby temples, where you can appreciate intricate carvings and serene gardens. As the afternoon sun casts a warm glow, take a moment to capture the beauty of the surroundings with your camera.
As dusk approaches, find a cozy spot at a riverside café to enjoy a traditional meal while watching the sunset over the water. The ambiance transforms as street vendors set up their stalls, offering a variety of local delicacies to sample. End your evening with a leisurely walk along the riverbank, where twinkling lights reflect off the water, creating a magical atmosphere.
Wake up early and head to the nearby Benhao National Park for a refreshing nature walk amidst the lush greenery and stunning landscapes. The morning air is crisp, and the sounds of chirping birds accompany you as you explore various trails that lead to breathtaking viewpoints. Don't forget to bring your binoculars for birdwatching and a camera to capture the scenic beauty.
After a morning of exploration, enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature, savoring local delicacies packed for your adventure. Continue your hike in the afternoon, discovering hidden waterfalls and tranquil ponds where you can relax and take in the serene environment. Keep an eye out for unique flora and fauna that inhabit this beautiful region.
Return to your accommodation to freshen up before venturing out for dinner in a local eatery known for its farm-to-table cuisine. Engage in conversation with friendly locals who are eager to share stories about the area and its natural wonders. Cap off the night with a stargazing session, marveling at the clear skies away from the city lights.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🚖Taxi ride (short trip) | $3-7 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-90 |
| 🛍️Groceries and market snacks | $10-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal scenery and seafood
- Friendly locals and good value for money
- Easy access to nature and culture with manageable crowds
- Limited nightlife and English widely spoken in some areas
- Weather can be hot, humid, and typhoon-prone in season
- Smaller tourist infrastructure compared to major cities
- "你好" - Hello
- "谢谢" - Thank you
- "请问最近的厕所在哪儿？" - Where is the nearest bathroom?
- "多少钱？" - How much is it?
- "我需要帮助" - I need help
Places to Visit in Benhao
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful boats and golden-hour reflections create painterly silhouettes over calm waters.
Lantern-lit lanes and pastel, colonial-style façades provide moody evening shots.
Cliffs meeting the sea offer dramatic panoramas, especially at golden hour.
Boardwalk through mangroves with birds, roots, and water reflections for nature shots.
Food in Benhao
Benhao Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A bubbling pot of crab, prawns, and fish cooked with lemongrass and chili, best enjoyed with rice.
Must-Try!
Fresh shrimp flash-fried with garlic, lime, and a hint of chili.
Rice noodles tossed with herbs, lime, and a light, fragrant sauce—local twist on a Guangxi staple.
Fresh fish steamed in coconut milk with ginger and scallions.
Marinated chicken skewers grilled over charcoal with bright citrus notes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Morning stalls selling freshly caught fish, shellfish, chili sauces, and savory snacks.
Little stalls offering grilled seafood, fish ball soup, and fried additives served with hot sauce.
Market by the mangroves with fresh fruit, coconut desserts, and light bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A smile or light nod is standard; address elders with respect; avoid loud public displays of anger.
Dress modestly at temples; remove hats; speak softly and avoid loud conversations.
Gifts aren’t expected but are appreciated on special occasions; avoid overly expensive items in some contexts.
Safety
Tipping in Benhao
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated in higher-end restaurants; many places include a service charge; rounding up is common in casual spots.
Cash is widely accepted; mobile payments (WeChat Pay and Alipay) are very common; some places accept international cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming fruit trees; great for hiking and outdoor markets.
Hot and humid with frequent rain; stay hydrated and seek shade; beaches and night markets thrive.
Pleasant temperatures and lower humidity; ideal for photography and coastal walks.
Cool but mild; fewer crowds; enjoy warming seafood dishes and spicy broths.
Benhao at Night
Hiking in Benhao
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal hill hike with ocean views; moderate difficulty.
Boardwalk through mangrove wetlands; birdwatching opportunities.
Scenic ridge with karst formations and sunset views.
Airports
How to reach Benhao by plane.
Primary gateway to the region with domestic routes; roughly 1-2 hours by road to Benhao.
Guangxi's main international gateway; requires train or road transfer to Beihai or Benhao for onward travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population with rural communities in surrounding hills.
A significant ethnic group in Guangxi with distinct customs and language.
Indigenous coastal communities near mangroves and on nearby islands.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Traditional coastal sport featured in local festivals and river events.
Widely played in parks and schools; popular spectator sport.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Benhao.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many places offer tofu and mushroom dishes; ask for no seafood or meat.
Opt for rice-based dishes and clearly request no soy sauces with gluten.
Communicate vegan needs; many restaurants can tailor with vegetables, tofu, and rice.