Things To Do
in Meilan
Meilan is a vibrant district on the tropical island of Hainan, part of Haikou city. It blends palm-lined streets with modern amenities, traditional markets, and a lively waterfront vibe. The area serves as a convenient base for exploring both Haikou’s culture and nearby coastal scenery.
Expect warm tropical weather, flavorful seafood, and a welcoming local community.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Meilan Historic Center, where you can stroll through the charming streets lined with well-preserved traditional architecture. Enjoy a breakfast of local delicacies at a nearby café, indulging in steamed buns and rice porridge. Take a moment to appreciate the vibrant local culture as you interact with friendly residents going about their morning routines.
In the afternoon, visit the Meilan Museum to delve into the rich history and cultural heritage of the area. Afterward, explore the lush gardens surrounding the museum, offering a peaceful retreat and beautiful photo opportunities. Don’t miss the chance to sample local snacks from street vendors and enjoy the bustling atmosphere of the market nearby.
As the sun sets, head to a traditional restaurant to savor a dinner of Hainanese chicken rice, an iconic dish that reflects the region's culinary heritage. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the waterfront to watch the stunning sunset over the South China Sea. Conclude your evening with a visit to a local tea house, where you can unwind with a cup of fragrant Chinese tea while listening to live traditional music.
Kick off your day with a refreshing swim at the beautiful Meilan Beach, known for its soft sands and clear waters. Enjoy a beachside breakfast at a local café, where you can savor fresh tropical fruits and pastries. After breakfast, rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the coastline and enjoy the gentle waves.
In the afternoon, join a snorkeling tour to discover the vibrant marine life that inhabits the nearby coral reefs. As you swim among colorful fish and sea turtles, take in the stunning underwater scenery that Hainan Island is famous for. After snorkeling, relax on the beach with a good book or indulge in some sunbathing.
As evening falls, enjoy a beachfront barbecue dinner featuring freshly caught seafood cooked to perfection. Take a leisurely stroll along the shore, feeling the sand between your toes and listening to the soothing sound of the waves. End the day by attending a local fire dance performance, immersing yourself in the island's cultural celebrations.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at cafe | $2-5 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-90 |
| 🍡Street snack or small bite | $1-3 |
| 🚇Public transit ride (one-way) | $0.50-1 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strong tropical cuisine with fresh seafood
- Affordable costs and easy-to-reach coastal scenery
- Humid climate can feel intense for some travelers
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- "Nǐ hǎo" - Hello
- "Xièxiè" - Thank you
- "Duìbuqǐ" - Sorry
- "Qǐngwèn, zhèr shì nǎlǐ?" - Excuse me, where is this place?
- "Wǒ yào zhège" - I want this
Places to Visit in Meilan
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic arcade streets with colorful facades and lantern-lit storefronts—great for golden-hour photos.
Reflections on the water, palm trees, and skyline views ideal for sunset photography.
Dramatic basalt columns and lava formations provide striking natural compositions.
Calm waters, lotus flowers, and locals practicing tai chi offer tranquil subject matter.
Food in Meilan
Meilan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A quintessential Hainan dish featuring tender boiled chicken served with fragrant rice and a light ginger-scallion sauce.
Must-Try!
Rice cooked in coconut milk, commonly paired with grilled fish or shrimp for a coastal twist.
A bubbling pot of freshly caught seafood, herbs, and spices cooked at the table.
Bright broth with shrimp, greens, and delicate noodles—comfort food found in many casual eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling stalls offering fried snacks, seafood skewers, dumplings, and tropical fruits.
Fresh seafood stalls and fruit vendors along the harborfront; great for a quick bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite nod or light handshake; address elders with courtesy and titles if appropriate.
Keep voices moderate in public; dress modestly at religious sites; avoid loud displays of anger.
Use chopsticks properly, wait for everyone to be served, and try shared dishes with a calm, friendly vibe.
Safety
Tipping in Meilan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in most places; small tips may be given in higher-end establishments for exceptional service.
Cash is still used, but mobile payments via Alipay and WeChat Pay dominate; many larger venues also accept credit cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Pleasant temperatures around 20-28°C with blooming tropical plants and lower humidity.
Hot and humid with frequent showers; the sea is inviting, but be prepared for sudden rain and possible typhoons.
Milder days and clearer skies; comfortable conditions for outdoor sightseeing.
Warm by mainland standards, typically 15-22°C; occasional cool mornings and sea breezes.
Meilan at Night
Hiking in Meilan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short to moderate hikes among basalt formations with scenic overlooks and interpretive displays.
Easier coastal hikes with sea breezes, viewpoints, and opportunities to observe local wildlife.
Airports
How to reach Meilan by plane.
Main international airport serving Haikou; around 20-40 minutes by car to central Meilan depending on traffic. Domestic and some international flights operate here.
Located in Sanya, about a 3- to 4-hour drive from Haikou; serves domestic and some international routes and can be a gateway for a longer Hainan itinerary.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group; urban culture is shaped by Han communities across Meilan and Haikou.
Small minority communities exist across Hainan; visitors may encounter cultural diversity in markets and festivals.
A sizable student population and residents who frequent parks, markets, and coastal areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played in schools, clubs, and parks; local leagues and pickup games are common.
Popular in gyms, schools, and community centers; public courts are common in urban areas.
A favorite pastime with many community centers and clubs offering access to tables.
Common in parks and recreation centers; casual matches are easy to arrange.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Meilan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose vegetable-forward dishes, tofu, and mushroom stir-fries; ask for no fish sauce and clarify ingredient lists when ordering.