A port community in Guangxi, China, Beihai is situated on the shores of the Gulf of Tonkin. This is a fast-growing community that rates well with Chinese tourists and increasingly draws international visitors.
With the influx of tourism revenue, locals have responded with increased development. Bars and nightclubs are more common than ever, and there’s plenty to keep visitors occupied. Experts predict Beihai will be one of the world’s fastest-growing communities in the next decade.
Silver Beach is the centerpiece of local tourism, but it isn’t as sought-after as the island paradise, Hainan Island. Visitors regularly depart from Beihai’s port for Hainan (dubbed ‘China’s Hawaii‘), but those who don’t have time can make do with the beach facilities in Beihai.
Other major sites in the city are a product of an international influx of embassies during the late 1800s. Beihai boasts several century-old consulates and colonial-style buildings that have fared well in this tropical climate.
Getting There & Away
Beihai Fucheng Airport operates regular flights to Beijing (over 2 hours) and several other cities in China. Trains to Nanning take 3 hours, 30 minutes, while buses are faster but less comfortable. The port regularly launches ferries to the islands and connects to other piers along the coast.
Things to Do
Beihai Attractions
- Silver Beach
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Although it’s popular with locals, this beach doesn’t have the allure of its counterparts deeper into southeast asia. motorized buggy-rides on the sand are fun.
- Christ Church
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This small two-story church was built over the site of the former sanhuang temple.
- British Consulate
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The international influx in the late 19th century added several interesting buildings to beihai including this former consulate with its lovely verandas and shuttered windows.
- Beihai Aquarium
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Is surprisingly nice and features a number of species from the gulf of tonkin.