Beihai, Where Is A Coastal Gem in Guangxi's Tourism Crown

Where the Beibu Gulf laps gently against golden shores, Beihai emerges as a shimmering coastal escape in the southernmost tip of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. This port city, with its turquoise waters, pristine beaches, and a history steeped in maritime trade, offers a starkly different experience from Guangxi’s inland landscapes of karst peaks and winding rivers. For travelers seeking sun, sea, and a blend of cultural influences, Beihai is a revelation—a place where tropical breezes carry the scent of saltwater and seafood, and every sunset paints the sky in hues of orange and purple over the horizon.


At the heart of Beihai’s allure is Weizhou Island, China’s youngest volcanic island and a UNESCO Global Geopark. A short ferry ride from the mainland, Weizhou Island is a world of contrasts: black volcanic rock formations, shaped by ancient eruptions, stand alongside white sandy beaches and crystal-clear bays. Hiking trails crisscross the island, leading visitors to viewpoints like the Camel Peak, where the rock resembles a kneeling camel overlooking the sea, and the Volcanic Museum, which showcases fossils and exhibits explaining the island’s geological origins. Snorkeling and diving in the surrounding waters reveal vibrant coral reefs and tropical fish, while the island’s villages, with their traditional fishing boats and coconut groves, offer a glimpse into a laid-back coastal lifestyle.

Beihai Silver Beach, often hailed as one of China’s most beautiful beaches, stretches for over 24 kilometers along the city’s coastline. Its name comes from the fine, silvery sand that feels cool underfoot even on the hottest days, a result of its high quartz content. Unlike many crowded beaches, Silver Beach offers ample space for activities like beach volleyball, kite flying, or simply lounging under a parasol with a book. At dawn, the beach comes alive with locals practicing tai chi or jogging along the shore, while at dusk, it transforms into a romantic spot for couples and families, with the setting sun turning the water into a sheet of gold. The beach’s proximity to the city center makes it easily accessible, yet it retains a sense of tranquility that draws visitors back year after year.

Beihai’s history as a key port on the Maritime Silk Road is evident in its architecture and cultural heritage. The Old Street, a pedestrian thoroughfare lined with buildings dating back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries, reflects the city’s past as a trading hub frequented by Chinese, French, British, and Vietnamese merchants. These structures, with their arched doorways, iron railings, and verandas, blend Western colonial styles with Chinese elements, creating a unique architectural fusion. Today, the Old Street is a bustling mix of shops, cafes, and seafood restaurants, where visitors can sample local specialties like grilled squid, shrimp cakes, and coconut candy while admiring the historic facades.

The city’s multicultural past is also celebrated in its festivals and traditions. The Beihai International Beach Festival, held annually, features beach sports competitions, seafood tastings, and live music performances, drawing visitors from across China and abroad. During the Mid-Autumn Festival, locals gather on the beach to light lanterns and share mooncakes, their laughter mingling with the sound of waves. These events, much like the festivals honoring Liu Sanjie in inland Guangxi, highlight the region’s ability to blend tradition with celebration, creating moments of joy that resonate with both locals and travelers.

For nature enthusiasts, Beihai offers more than just beaches. The Mangrove Nature Reserve, located on the outskirts of the city, is a thriving ecosystem of mangrove forests that serve as a nursery for fish, crabs, and birds. Boardwalks wind through the reserve, allowing visitors to explore the mangroves up close and observe the diverse wildlife, including herons, egrets, and even the occasional otter. Kayaking through the narrow waterways between the mangrove roots is a popular activity, offering a peaceful perspective on this unique coastal environment.

Water sports lovers will find plenty to do in Beihai’s clear waters. Parasailing over the gulf provides a bird’s-eye view of the coastline, while jet skiing and banana boat rides offer thrills for those seeking adventure. Sailing trips to nearby islands, such as Xieyang Island, allow visitors to escape the crowds and enjoy secluded beaches and snorkeling spots, where the water is so clear that fish can be seen swimming among the coral.
Accommodation in Beihai ranges from luxury beachfront resorts with infinity pools and spa services to budget-friendly guesthouses in the Old Street, catering to all types of travelers. Many hotels offer seafood dinners with fresh catches of the day, prepared in local styles that emphasize the natural flavors of the ingredients. Waking up to the sound of waves and enjoying a breakfast of fresh fruit and seafood porridge is a perfect way to start a day in this coastal city.

Beihai’s strategic location near the border with Vietnam has also made it a gateway for exploring the wider region. Day trips to nearby cities like Fangchenggang, with its border markets and scenic bays, offer a glimpse into the cross-cultural influences that have shaped this part of Guangxi. For those with more time, ferry services to Ha Long Bay in Vietnam provide an opportunity to combine a visit to Beihai with an exploration of one of Southeast Asia’s most iconic coastal landscapes.

As the sun sets over Beihai, casting a warm glow over the Silver Beach and the Old Street, it’s easy to see why this city has become a beloved destination. It offers a rare combination of natural beauty, historical charm, and relaxed atmosphere, providing a counterpoint to the bustling energy of China’s larger cities. Whether you’re exploring volcanic landscapes on Weizhou Island, strolling along the Old Street’s historic lanes, or simply soaking up the sun on the beach, Beihai invites you to slow down, breathe in the sea air, and savor the simple pleasures of coastal life.

In Beihai, the past and present coexist harmoniously, much like the blend of cultures that defines its character. It’s a city where every wave tells a story of trade and travel, every building whispers of history, and every sunset reminds us of the timeless beauty of the sea. For travelers seeking a coastal escape that combines adventure, relaxation, and cultural discovery, Beihai is a destination that delivers on all fronts, leaving memories that linger like the salt in the air.

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