Haikou, China

One of Haikou's premier attractions is the Haikou Volcanic Cluster Global Geopark, located about a 45-minute drive from the port. Visitors can explore a landscape of dormant volcanoes, climb to crater rims, and walk through lava rock tunnels. Another must-see is the Haikou Arcade Old Street (Qilou Old Street), a beautifully preserved historic area featuring colonial-era architecture, bustling shops, and charming cafes.

For a dose of history, visit the Temple of the Five Lords (Wugong Ci), a serene temple complex dedicated to five exiled officials from the Tang and Song dynasties. If you prefer a relaxing stroll, Evergreen Park (Wanlv Park) is a large, beautiful green space along the coast, perfect for enjoying Haikou's pleasant climate.

For those with a longer day in port, a trip to Wenchang is a great option. Located about a 90-minute drive east, it is famous for its vast coconut plantations and is home to the impressive Wenchang Satellite Launch Center. This offers a fascinating glimpse into China's space program.

Another excellent choice is taking a high-speed train to Qionghai, approximately an hour away. This city is renowned for hosting the annual Boao Forum for Asia and offers a scenic look at the Wanquan River. Both destinations are best visited through organized tours to manage time effectively.

Cruise ships dock at the Haikou Xiuying Port, which is a modern facility handling both passengers and cargo. The port is conveniently located just a few kilometers west of the city center, approximately a 15-20 minute drive from key attractions like the Haikou Arcade Old Street.

The immediate port area has limited amenities for tourists, so transportation is necessary to explore the city. Cruise lines typically offer shuttle buses to the downtown area, and taxis are readily available at the terminal. Passengers will find that ships dock directly at the pier, so there is no need for tendering.

The official currency in Haikou is the Chinese Yuan (CNY), also referred to as the Renminbi (RMB). It is highly recommended to use the local currency, as US dollars or Euros are generally not accepted for everyday transactions.

You can find ATMs at the cruise terminal and throughout the city, which are the most convenient way to get cash. Currency exchange services are available at banks and some larger hotels, but require a passport. Major credit cards like Visa and Mastercard are accepted in large hotels, department stores, and upscale restaurants, but smaller shops and taxis will almost always require cash.

Haikou is generally a very safe city for tourists, with low rates of serious crime. Visitors can feel comfortable exploring the main tourist areas independently during the day. As in any city, it is wise to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against petty theft, such as pickpocketing, in crowded places like markets and bus stations.

Be cautious of common tourist scams, such as invitations to a 'tea ceremony' or 'art gallery' from overly friendly strangers, which can lead to exorbitant bills. Using official taxis and sticking to well-known areas will help ensure a trouble-free visit.

Haikou features a tropical climate, making it a pleasant year-round destination. The primary cruise season, from late autumn to spring (November through April), offers the best weather. During these months, conditions are typically dry, sunny, and comfortable, with average temperatures ranging from 18°C to 26°C (64°F to 79°F).

The summer months, from May to October, are the rainy season and are significantly hotter and more humid. This period also coincides with the Pacific typhoon season, which can occasionally impact port calls. Visitors should pack lightweight clothing, sunscreen, a hat, and a light raincoat or umbrella, especially if traveling during the summer.

Getting around Haikou is relatively straightforward. Taxis are the most convenient option for cruise passengers and can be found waiting outside the port terminal. Fares are metered and affordable, but it is wise to have your destination's name written in Chinese to avoid confusion.

Ride-sharing services, primarily Didi Chuxing, are also very popular and can be cheaper than taxis, though they require a specific app and a local payment method. While Haikou has an extensive public bus system, it can be challenging for non-Chinese speakers to navigate. For a hassle-free day, many visitors opt for a pre-arranged shore excursion or hire a private car with a driver for the day directly from the port.

Haikou offers a diverse shopping experience, from bustling markets to modern duty-free complexes. For local souvenirs and a unique atmosphere, head to the Haikou Arcade Old Street (Qilou Old Street), where you can find handicrafts, pearls, and local snacks. Remember that haggling is common and expected in these smaller shops and market stalls.

For a more upscale experience, visit one of the city's large malls like Haikou Riyue Plaza. A major draw is the Haikou International Duty Free City, one of the world's largest duty-free malls, where visitors can shop for luxury goods, cosmetics, and electronics. Be sure to check the specific duty-free allowance rules for tourists before purchasing.