Things To Do
in Weihai
Weihai is a coastal city on the eastern tip of the Shandong Peninsula known for calm seas, clean air, and a relaxed pace compared with China's larger metropolises. Once an important naval base and treaty port, it combines seafront promenades, islands, and a compact city center with modern amenities. The landscape mixes sandy beaches, rocky headlands and tree-lined parks, with fresh seafood prominent in local life.
Weihai is easy to get around, family-friendly, and ideal for short coastal escapes from nearby provincial hubs.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Weihai Pavilion, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the coastline and the city. Wander through the adjacent historic streets, soaking in the architecture that dates back to the late 19th century. Don’t forget to stop by a local bakery for a freshly baked ‘moon cake’ to fuel your morning.
After lunch at a traditional seafood restaurant, make your way to the Weihai Museum to learn about the city's rich history and cultural heritage. Take your time exploring the exhibits that showcase artifacts from the region's maritime past and the Sino-Japanese War. This afternoon is perfect for a leisurely walk along the scenic coastline, enjoying the fresh sea breeze.
As the sun sets, head to the bustling night market where you can sample local street food delicacies like grilled squid and dumplings. The vibrant atmosphere is filled with the sounds of vendors and laughter, making it a great place to immerse yourself in local culture. End your evening with a peaceful stroll along the beach, where you can watch the stars twinkle above the tranquil waters.
Catch a ferry from Weihai to Liugong Island, where you will be greeted by stunning natural landscapes and historical sites. Begin your exploration with a hike up to the top of the island’s mountain for panoramic views of the sea and surrounding islands. The fresh air and picturesque scenery make this a refreshing start to your day.
After your hike, enjoy a packed lunch on the beach, surrounded by the soothing sounds of waves lapping against the shore. Spend the afternoon visiting the island's naval museum, where you can learn about the significance of Liugong Island during various historical conflicts. Don’t miss the chance to explore the beautiful coastal paths that offer stunning views at every turn.
Return to Weihai in the late afternoon and unwind at a local café with a cup of tea. As night falls, treat yourself to a seafood dinner at a waterfront restaurant, savoring the day's catch while listening to the gentle sound of the ocean. After dinner, take a moonlit walk along the coastal path, allowing the serene ambiance to wrap around you.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-50 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-5 |
| 🚕Local taxi, typical short ride | $2-6 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $40-100 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Clean coastal scenery with good beaches and sea views
- Fresh seafood and a relaxed, low-stress atmosphere
- Compact, easy-to-navigate city with family-friendly attractions
- Good base for exploring islands and nearby natural areas
- Less international infrastructure than larger Chinese port cities
- Limited English signage outside main tourist spots
- Seasonal crowding in summer and fewer activities in winter
- Mobile payment dominance can be tricky for visitors without local apps
- "你好 (nǐ hǎo)" - Hello
- "谢谢 (xiè xie)" - Thank you
- "请问……在哪里？(qǐng wèn... zài nǎ lǐ?)" - Excuse me, where is...?
- "多少钱？(duō shǎo qián?)" - How much does this cost?
- "我吃素 (wǒ chī sù)" - I am vegetarian
- "可以刷卡吗？(kě yǐ shuā kǎ ma?)" - Can I pay by card?
Places to Visit in Weihai
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic island with coastal cliffs, colonial-era buildings and naval museum—excellent for seascapes, architecture and sunset shots.
Long, tree-lined promenade and sandy stretches with clean lines and views across the bay—ideal for sunrise, street photography and lifestyle shots.
Early-morning fish markets, colorful fishing boats and working docks provide vibrant, authentic photo opportunities.
Rocky headlands near the city offer dramatic sea vistas and birdlife; good for wide-angle landscape photography.
Well-maintained parks and cultural sites give options for portrait photography and night scenes when landmarks are lit.
Food in Weihai
Weihai Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Seasonal Yellow Sea crab, often steamed and served simply with vinegar and ginger — the definitive Weihai seafood experience; many harbor-side restaurants and seafood stalls offer it when in season.
Must-Try!
A communal pot of broth to cook fresh fish, shrimp, clams and vegetables — great for groups and cooler days; available at many specialty restaurants.
Hand-pulled or knife-cut noodles served in broths or stir-fried with local seafood and vegetables — widely available at casual eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Early-morning markets near the harbor where fishers sell fresh catches; you can often buy seafood and have it cooked at nearby stalls or restaurants.
Small night markets and street vendors sell grilled shellfish, scallion pancakes, skewers, dumplings and sweet snacks — good for sampling multiple small dishes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A nod or small handshake is common; addressing elders with respect matters. Use polite phrases and show modesty in conversation.
Wait to be seated at formal meals, try a bit of each dish if offered, and use both hands when receiving or offering items when appropriate. Avoid sticking chopsticks upright in rice.
If invited to a local home, bring a small gift like fruit or packaged tea; avoid overly expensive gifts that may embarrass hosts.
Remove shoes when entering private homes if requested; watch for cues at the door.
Safety
Tipping in Weihai
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not widely expected in Weihai. Small tips for exceptional service in high-end restaurants or for private guides and drivers are appreciated but not mandatory.
Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) dominate for many transactions; carry a card (UnionPay) or some cash for taxis, markets and smaller vendors. International credit cards are accepted at major hotels and restaurants but less so at local stalls.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blossoming trees make outdoor exploration pleasant; occasional rain—bring a light jacket and umbrella. Sea breezes can be cool in the mornings and evenings.
Warm to hot weather with higher humidity and busy beaches—great for swimming and seafood dining but expect more tourists on weekends and holidays. Bring sun protection and a hat.
Often the most comfortable season — clear skies, cooler temperatures and excellent visibility for coastal views and photography. Ideal for hiking and outdoor activities.
Cold and windy with occasional freezing temperatures; fewer tourists and lower hotel prices. Outdoor activities are possible with warm clothing, but swimming is off-season.
Weihai at Night
Hiking in Weihai
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short trails circling parts of the island with coastal viewpoints, historical sites and easy terrain suitable for half-day exploration.
A flat coastal walk combining beachside paths with rocky headland viewpoints—good for casual hikes and photography.
Rugged trails and forested slopes a drive from Weihai offering longer hikes, temples and panoramic views — suitable for a day trip for fitter hikers.
Airports
How to reach Weihai by plane.
The city's main airport with domestic flights to major Chinese hubs. Located a short drive from downtown; taxis and airport buses connect the city and the harbor/rail station.
About 1–2 hours' drive west of Weihai, offering domestic and some regional flights. Useful alternative if flight options are limited in Weihai.
Major regional airport serving Qingdao with extensive domestic and international connections; roughly 2–3 hours by car or high-speed rail plus road, practical for international arrivals or onward travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority ethnic group in Weihai, forming the cultural and linguistic core of the city.
Local families and communities tied to fishing and maritime trades, with traditions and livelihoods centered on the sea.
Weihai attracts domestic tourists and retirees seeking quieter seaside living, especially outside peak tourist months.
A modest number of foreign residents and business travelers present, often related to trade, education or seasonal tourism.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Coastal location makes sailing, recreational boating and regattas popular, especially in summer.
Both traditional commercial fishing and recreational angling are part of local life and leisure.
Common community sports in parks and schools, with many local courts for casual play.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Weihai.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available but limited compared with seafood choices; order vegetable dishes, tofu, egg dishes and noodles—use the phrase “我吃素” (wǒ chī sù) to indicate vegetarian.
Vegan meals require care because many sauces and broths contain animal products — ask about broths and request no egg or dairy; bringing a translation card helps.
Wheat is common (noodles, pancakes, dumplings). Rice-based dishes, simple steamed seafood and plain rice are safer; bring a gluten-free card in Chinese for clarity.