Weizhou Island Beihai China
China's largest volcanic island, offering pristine beaches, unique geology, and stunning sunsets.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Island awakens, pleasant weather
Weizhou Island Beihai China
Best Time
Island awakens, pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
China's largest volcanic island, offering pristine beaches, unique geology, and stunning sunsets.
"A very natural island with a good environment and friendly residents."
Book Ferry Early
Ferry tickets sell out fast, especially in summer. Book ahead to avoid disappointment! :ticket:
Rent an E-bike
Electric scooters are perfect for exploring the island's scenic routes. :motorcycle:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Catholic Church
Nanwan Street
An unexpectedly well-preserved French Catholic church offering a glimpse into the island's history.
Golden Beaches
Various locations
Enjoy the island's natural beauty with pristine beaches perfect for relaxation and water activities.
Volcanic Landscapes
Island-wide
Explore China's largest and youngest volcanic island, with unique geological formations.
Sunsets & Stargazing
Coastal areas
Witness breathtaking sunsets and, with clear skies, the Milky Way for an unforgettable celestial display.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Ferry & Entry Essentials
Island Exploration & Costs
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Ferry Early
Ferry tickets sell out fast, especially in summer. Book ahead to avoid disappointment! :ticket:
Rent an E-bike
Electric scooters are perfect for exploring the island's scenic routes. :motorcycle:
Seafood Strategy
Buy fresh seafood and have it cooked at your hotel to save money. :moneybag:
Passport Ready
Foreigners need their passports for island entry. Keep it handy! :passport_control:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Ferry Early
Ferry tickets sell out fast, especially in summer. Book ahead to avoid disappointment! :ticket:
Rent an E-bike
Electric scooters are perfect for exploring the island's scenic routes. :motorcycle:
Seafood Strategy
Buy fresh seafood and have it cooked at your hotel to save money. :moneybag:
Passport Ready
Foreigners need their passports for island entry. Keep it handy! :passport_control:
Embrace Slow Travel
Enjoy the island's simple, non-commercial vibe. Stay longer than planned! :heart:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Weizhou Island is praised for its natural beauty, volcanic landscapes, and serene atmosphere, offering a unique escape. Visitors enjoy the beaches, historic church, and opportunities for stargazing. However, some find food prices high and activities limited, suggesting a focus on relaxation and natural exploration.
"Nice one-day tour. Unexpected French Catholic church in good shape, possibilities to go out sailing and diving (also for beginners to a max depth of five meters). It is necessary to make reservations for the crowded ferry and foreigners must show their passport (!)."
Romein Ivo
"Good Beaches, Extremely expensive food. Not much things to do. Enjoy the night life in Nanwan street."
Jagadish Krishna
"A very natural island with a good environment and friendly residents. There are many homestays and hotels on the island. You need to take a ferry to get there, which takes 80 minutes. You can rent rechargeable motorcycles and small cars to travel around the island. The island is environmentally friendly. Private cars are not allowed to go to the island. The sunrise and sunset are beautiful. You can buy seafood and process it back at the hotel. It is delicious. But don't expect the diving to be better than abroad. Just enjoy it. I took a photo of the Milky Way on the island."
Connie Deng
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You need to take a ferry from Beihai Port. The journey takes about 80 minutes. It's essential to book ferry tickets in advance, especially during busy periods, as they can sell out quickly. Foreign visitors will need to present their passports for boarding.
No, private cars are not allowed on Weizhou Island. The island promotes environmental friendliness, so you'll need to rely on other modes of transport once you arrive.
Renting an electric scooter or a small electric car is highly recommended for exploring the island. This allows you to easily access different beaches and attractions at your own pace.
While there isn't extensive public bus service, you can find local transport options. However, renting your own electric vehicle offers the most flexibility for sightseeing.
Ferry schedules can vary depending on the season and weather conditions. It's best to check the latest schedule with the ferry operator or your accommodation provider before your trip.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is an entrance fee for Weizhou Island. It's advisable to purchase this along with your ferry ticket, especially during peak travel times.
Yes, foreigners must show their passport to board the ferry and enter the island. Make sure you have your passport with you.
Ferry ticket prices can fluctuate, but generally range from ¥120-¥150 RMB for a round trip. It's best to confirm current pricing when booking.
While possible, it's highly recommended to book ferry tickets in advance, especially during holidays and weekends, to guarantee your spot.
Ferries typically operate from early morning until late afternoon. The last ferry back to the mainland is usually in the early evening, so plan your day accordingly.
🎫 🏝️ Onsite Experience
Weizhou Island boasts several beautiful beaches. Nanwan Street offers a lively atmosphere, while other areas provide more natural and serene settings for relaxation.
You can enjoy swimming, surfing, sailing, and even beginner diving. Exploring the volcanic landscapes, visiting the Catholic church, and enjoying fresh seafood are also popular activities.
Absolutely! The island offers stunning natural scenery, beautiful sunsets, and the chance to capture the Milky Way. The volcanic formations and the Catholic church also make for great photo opportunities. +1
Nanwan Street is a vibrant tourist hub on Weizhou Island, known for its nightlife and proximity to the beach. It's a great place to experience the island's energy.
Yes, the sunrise and sunset views on Weizhou Island are spectacular. Many visitors specifically come to witness these beautiful natural displays. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Seafood is the main culinary highlight, with fresh catches available daily. You can also find local Guangxi cuisine.
Food prices on Weizhou Island can be quite high, especially in tourist-frequented areas. Buying fresh seafood and having it prepared at your accommodation can be a more economical option.
Yes, this is a popular and recommended practice. You can purchase fresh seafood from local markets and have it cooked at many homestays and hotels.
While seafood is dominant, you can usually find some vegetable dishes and other local specialties. It's advisable to inquire at restaurants about vegetarian choices.
Freshly grilled or steamed seafood is a must. Look for local specialties that highlight the island's marine bounty.
📸 📸 Photography
The volcanic coastlines, the historic Catholic church, the beaches during golden hour, and the night sky for stargazing are prime photography locations. +1
Yes, with clear skies and minimal light pollution away from the main town areas, Weizhou Island offers excellent opportunities for astrophotography, including capturing the Milky Way.
The 'golden hour' just after sunrise and before sunset provides the most beautiful, soft light for beach photography. 
The French Catholic church is a unique architectural subject. The dramatic volcanic rock formations and the expansive beaches are also iconic.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes and seascapes. For stargazing, a camera with good low-light performance and a tripod are essential.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be aware that food can be expensive, so packing some snacks or opting for the seafood-processing route at your hotel can help manage costs. The Catholic church offers a unique cultural experience that might be interesting for older children to learn about. The slower pace of the island can be a welcome change for families looking for a less hectic vacation.
💰 Budget Travelers
Renting an electric scooter is generally more budget-friendly than hiring private transport. Pack essentials like sunscreen and basic toiletries from the mainland to avoid inflated prices on the island. Focus on enjoying the natural beauty, which is free, like the beaches and sunsets, rather than expensive paid activities.
+1📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1For astrophotographers, the island's relatively low light pollution away from the main town makes it an excellent spot for stargazing and capturing the Milky Way. The historic Catholic church also provides a unique architectural subject. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens for landscapes and a tripod for low-light and night photography.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Island Transportation: Navigating Weizhou
For those seeking a more active experience, renting a rechargeable motorcycle is also an option. This allows you to feel the sea breeze as you cruise along the coastal roads. Remember to factor in rental costs when budgeting for your trip. Many visitors find that the ease of access and the ability to stop whenever a beautiful vista presents itself makes these rental options well worth the expense.
While there isn't a comprehensive public bus system, local transport options can sometimes be found. However, for the best experience and to truly immerse yourself in the island's charm, renting your own electric vehicle is the way to go. It allows you to easily visit attractions like the historic Catholic church and the various beaches without being tied to a schedule.
Culinary Delights: Seafood and Beyond
While seafood reigns supreme, you can also find other local Guangxi dishes. However, be prepared for potentially higher prices in tourist-centric areas. To make the most of your dining budget, strategically choose where and how you eat. Exploring local eateries away from the main tourist strips might offer more affordable options.
Don't miss the opportunity to try dishes that highlight the island's marine bounty. The simplicity of preparation often allows the freshness of the ingredients to shine through. For those who aren't seafood enthusiasts, inquire about vegetable dishes and other local specialties, though options might be more limited.
A Volcanic Gem: Understanding Weizhou's Geology
The volcanic activity has endowed the island with fertile soil, supporting lush vegetation and contributing to its appeal as a natural retreat. Visitors can observe the evidence of its fiery past in the island's topography. This geological heritage is a key part of what makes Weizhou Island a distinctive travel experience, setting it apart from typical beach destinations.
Understanding its volcanic nature adds another layer of appreciation for the island's beauty. It's a reminder of the powerful forces that have shaped this picturesque corner of China, offering a blend of natural wonder and historical intrigue.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit