Things To Do
in Tanmen

Freshly-caught fish steamed with ginger, scallion and light soy — widely available at family restaurants and market stalls; order by weight or market price.

Must-Try!

Assorted shellfish and squid grilled over charcoal, often brushed with soy, garlic or chili; a popular evening option at harbor-side stalls.

When in season, local preparations focus on braising or light soup to showcase texture and flavor; commonly served at mid-range restaurants.

Comforting rice porridge with flaked fish, scallops or shrimp — a common breakfast at the market and easy on the stomach after travel.

The town’s central market is where fishermen land catches early morning; buy fresh seafood to have a local restaurant cook it, or sample market stalls selling congee, skewers and fried snacks.

Small evening stalls near the pier grill seafood and sell simple sides; ideal for sampling a variety of tastes and photographing bustling food scenes.

Tipping is not customary in most local eateries and markets; for exceptional guided tours or hotel staff, small tips are appreciated but not expected. In restaurants serving tourists, service charges may sometimes be included.

China is heavily cashless: WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used (phones and local accounts make them most convenient). Cash (CNY) is still accepted in markets and small vendors; major cards are accepted at larger hotels and some restaurants, but carry cash for stalls and small businesses.

Mild and pleasant with increasing humidity; good time for boat trips and outdoor photography before the hot season. Expect occasional spring rain; boat operators resume regular schedules.

Hot, humid and sunny with peak temperatures and the start of the monsoon/typhoon season. Afternoon storms are common; plan early-morning activities and monitor weather if going to sea.

Generally the most comfortable period — warm days, clearer skies and reduced rainfall; ideal for diving, snorkeling and exploring coastal trails.

Mild and drier than mainland China winter; daytime temperatures are pleasant but evenings can be cooler. This is a quieter tourist period with fairly stable sea conditions for trips.

Short local trails along the shoreline and mangrove edges offering easy walks for birdwatching, tidepool exploration and sunset views.

A larger nature reserve elsewhere on Hainan island with rainforest trails and wildlife viewing — reachable by car in a few hours and suitable for day trips from Tanmen with early starts.

Hainan’s highest range offering more challenging hikes and lush inland scenery; a longer drive from the coast but rewarding for multi-day nature excursions.

Informal footpaths between coastal villages and small ridges that provide insight into rural life and good vantage points over the sea.

The majority group in coastal Hainan towns, involved in fishing, seafood trade, small businesses and local administration.

Hainan is home to indigenous Li and other minority groups; in coastal towns like Tanmen, these groups may be present in nearby rural areas and contribute cultural diversity.

A distinct occupational community made up of multi-generational fishing families and small-boat operators shaping local culture and economy.

During peak fishing or market seasons, temporary workers and traders may arrive to help process catches and sell goods.

Both a livelihood and a pastime — recreational fishing and competitions are common in coastal communities.

Popular casual community sports played in local recreation areas and small courts.

Commonly played by youth and adults in town courts and open spaces.

Boating, snorkeling and occasional diving or paddleboarding take place when sea conditions are favorable.

Vegetarian options are limited in a fishing town but available: request vegetable stir-fries, tofu dishes, rice and noodle preparations. Carry snacks and clarify no fish sauce or dried seafood are used; Mandarin phrase to help: “我不吃海鲜” (I don't eat seafood).

Vegan dining requires care since many dishes use seafood stock or oyster sauce; speak clearly to cooks and opt for plain rice, steamed vegetables and tofu, or bring essentials if you have strict needs.

Rice-based items are common, but soy sauce contains gluten — request dishes without soy/sauces and prefer steamed preparations; language help and carrying a translation card is useful.

Seafood dominates local cuisine, so travelers with shellfish or fish allergies should be cautious and communicate allergies in Mandarin; consider eating at restaurants that can cook separate meals.