Lingshui

Hainan’s Lingshui is a hidden-gem coastal town with fewer crowds, beautiful scenery, and excellent value for money. Compared with Sanya, it is quieter and less commercialized, making it perfect for a relaxing vacation. Here is a detailed Lingshui travel guide for you to follow directly!

Transportation Guide

• Major Transportation: Lingshui does not have an airport. You can first fly to Haikou Meilan Airport or Sanya Phoenix Airport, then transfer to a high-speed train directly to Lingshui Station (about 1.5 hours from Haikou, about 20-30 minutes from Sanya).
• Local Transportation: Lingshui’s attractions are fairly spread out, so renting a car and driving yourself is most recommended for freedom and convenience. If you do not want to drive, you can take taxis or rent shared electric scooters, which are suitable for short distances.

Must-Visit Attractions

Recommended 3-Day, 2-Night Itinerary

• Day 1: Arrive in Lingshui and check in to your hotel. In the afternoon, head to Clear Water Bay for a seaside walk and some wave-wading, check in at Freedom Lighthouse and the Raffles lawn, then watch the sunset on the beach in the evening.
• Day 2: In the morning, take a boat to Boundary Island to see the glassy sea and try water activities. After returning in the afternoon, go to Xincun Night Market for food and strolling, and try seafood and local snacks.
• Day 3: In the morning, take the cable car to explore Nanwan Monkey Island. In the afternoon, go to Daidai Island for photos and check-ins. In the evening, head to Perfume Bay to watch an orange-sea sunset and conclude the trip.

Lingshui Local Specialties

How to Choose Accommodation

• Clear Water Bay: Offers the widest range of hotels and guesthouses, with complete facilities and many nearby food streets. Suitable for families seeking a comfortable resort stay or traveling with children.
• Perfume Bay: Quieter with fewer people and good privacy. Suitable for young travelers who like relaxing, watching sunsets, and surfing.
• Near the County Town/Xincun Night Market: Good value for money, close to markets and snack streets, and a good place to experience local everyday life. Suitable for travelers on a limited budget.

Pitfalls to Avoid and Things to Note

• Sun Protection and Mosquito Prevention: Hainan has strong UV rays, so be sure to prepare high-SPF sunscreen, sun-protective clothing, and a sun hat. There are many mosquitoes by the sea, so bring mosquito repellent.
• Monkey Island Safety: On Nanwan Monkey Island, do not carry plastic bags in your hand, do not make eye contact with the monkeys, and do not try to feed them, to avoid having food snatched or being scratched.
• Check the Tide Times for Shorecombing: Before going shorecombing at places such as Gangmenling or Tonghai Village, be sure to check the “tide table”. Go one or two hours before low tide and pay attention to safety.
• Taxis and Car Rentals: Try to use ride-hailing apps and avoid unlicensed roadside taxis that may take detours. When renting a car, be sure to record a full video of the car’s condition throughout the process to avoid disputes when returning it.
• Avoid Guesthouse Pitfalls: When booking apartment-style guesthouses, read negative reviews and check real photos carefully. Try to avoid apartment units in older buildings, places without elevators, or remote locations, and prioritize regular hotels.