Haikou Transport Guide: How to Get Around the City
Getting around Haikou is simple, even if it is your first time visiting. The city is well planned, roads are clear, and transport options are easy to understand. You can move around using public buses, taxis, ride hailing apps, and the city rail system. If you arrive by plane, train, or ferry, getting into the city is straightforward and affordable. In this guide, I will share the easiest and most budget friendly ways to travel around Haikou, so you can focus on enjoying your trip without stress.
Haikou Airport Transfers
Arriving at Haikou Meilan International Airport is smooth and well organised. Clear signs and official transport options make it easy to reach the city.
🚌 Airport Shuttle Bus
- Fare: Around ¥20
- Travel time: 40–60 minutes
- Runs from early morning until late night
- Best for budget travelers who want a direct ride
🚌 Public City Bus
- Fare: ¥2–6
- Travel time: 60 minutes or more
- Daytime and evening service
- Best for light travelers, can be crowded at peak hours
🚄 Airport Train Connection
- Fare: ¥10–20
- Travel time: 10–20 minutes to Haikou East Station
- Fast and comfortable if your hotel is near a station
🚖 Taxi
- City center: ¥40–60
- Nearby areas: ¥20–30
- Travel time: 25–40 minutes
- Tip: Show your hotel name in Chinese
🚗 Hotel Transfer or Private Car
- Cost: Free or paid, depending on hotel
- Travel time: 30–40 minutes
- Tip: Check availability with your hotel in advance
Book Flights to Haikou Now
See all flights
Haikou Urban Rail and High-Speed Train
Haikou does not have a subway-style metro system. Instead, the city uses urban rail services and the Hainan Island high-speed railway to connect the airport, major stations, and nearby cities. The trains are clean, air-conditioned, and easy to use, making them a convenient option for first-time visitors, especially if your hotel is near a railway station.
🛤️ Key Stations in Haikou
Some of the most useful railway stations for travelers include:
Haikou East Railway Station
- Main high-speed rail hub in the city
- Convenient for travel to Sanya, Wenchang, and other cities in Hainan
Haikou Meilan International Airport
- Direct railway access inside the airport
- Easy connection between the airport and city stations
Haikou Railway Station
- Serves some long-distance and cross-strait routes
- Useful for ferry-linked rail travel to mainland China
If your accommodation is close to any of these stations, the train can save time and avoid road traffic.
⏱️ Operating Hours and Frequency
- Trains generally run from early morning until late evening
- Frequency varies by route, usually every 10 to 20 minutes for busy sections
- Schedules may change slightly on public holidays
You usually won’t need to wait long, especially during the day.
💳 Tickets and Payment
- Short trips within Haikou: around ¥10–20
- Intercity trips within Hainan: higher, based on destination
- Buy tickets at station counters, ticket machines, or official railway apps
- Payment accepted: cash (CNY), Alipay, WeChat Pay
⚠️ Things to Note
- This is not a full metro network, so stations are spaced farther apart than subways in larger cities
- You may need a short taxi or bus ride from the station to your hotel
- Last trains usually run before midnight, so late-night travel may require a taxi
Public Buses in Haikou
Taking the public bus is one of the easiest and cheapest ways to explore Haikou. If you want to save money and experience the city like a local, the bus is a good choice.
🚍 Routes and Fare
Haikou’s bus network covers most parts of the city, including:
- Downtown Haikou – shopping areas, local markets
- Haikou East Railway Station – for high-speed train connections
- Haikou Meilan Airport – airport buses available
- Tourist spots – Evergreen Park, Arcaded Streets, Hainan Museum
- Local neighborhoods and universities
Standard Fare
- Most routes cost ¥1 to ¥2 per ride (around PHP 8–15)
- Express or longer-distance routes may cost up to ¥5 (about PHP 35)
You can check the route number and destination at the bus stop sign. Bus stops usually show route maps and schedules.
💳 How to Pay for the Bus
You have a few ways to pay:
- Cash: Exact change only. Drivers do not give change
- Transportation card (Hainan Tong Card): Tap when boarding
- Mobile payment: Alipay or WeChat Pay on supported buses
✅ Good to know
- Stations are farther apart than metro systems, so a short taxi or bus ride may still be needed
- Last trains usually run before midnight, so late-night travel may require a taxi
Sightseeing Buses in Haikou
If you’re visiting Haikou for the first time, the sightseeing bus is an easy and relaxed way to see the main attractions without planning every stop.
🗺️ How It Works
These hop-on hop-off buses follow a fixed route that covers many of Haikou’s most popular tourist spots. You can get off at any stop, explore, and then hop back on the next bus using the same ticket.
- Just one ticket for unlimited rides that day
- Great way to move around if you’re not familiar with the area
- Buses come with recorded guides or signage in Chinese (some may have English audio or printed maps)
⏱️ Route and Duration
- Full loop: about 60–70 minutes
- Stops near Evergreen Park, Arcaded Streets, Century Bridge, Holiday Beach, and Hainan Museum
- Pick-up points in downtown areas and near large hotels
Routes, stops, and operating hours may change by season or local arrangements. Check the latest information at the ticket counter or official city tourism platforms before boarding.
🌃 Night Sightseeing Tour
Haikou also has open-top night buses that take you around the city after dark. These are perfect if you want to enjoy the lights, bridges, and coastal views in a calm setting.
- Night tours usually take around 45 to 50 minutes
- Great way to cool down and enjoy the breeze after a warm day
- Some routes may pass through Haikou Bay, Century Park, and lit-up shopping areas
🎟️ Ticket Info
- Sold near boarding points or via Alipay and WeChat
- Day and night tours require separate tickets
- Prices are affordable, especially for families or groups
Hotel Free Shuttle Bus in Haikou
Some large hotels and resorts in Haikou offer free shuttle buses for guests, usually connecting the airport, nearby shopping areas, railway stations, and selected attractions. Availability and routes vary by hotel, so it’s best to check with the hotel in advance.
🏨 Common Hotels with Shuttle Buses
Hotels such as The Ritz-Carlton Haikou, Mission Hills Resort, and Wyndham Garden Haikou are known to provide shuttle services. Pick-up points are usually located near the hotel lobby or main entrance.
🟢 Key Things to Know
- Shuttle buses are usually free for hotel guests
- Some hotels may allow non-guests to ride if seats are available, but this is not guaranteed
- Always check with hotel staff first before boarding
- Routes commonly include shopping areas, parks, resorts, and transport hubs
- Shuttle frequency varies by hotel and time of day, especially during busy hours
📍 Good For
- Travelers with luggage
- Visitors staying in resort or hotel areas
- Anyone looking for a convenient ride to nearby transport hubs or attractions
Secure Your Stay in Haikou
5 star
Very Good9086 Reviews
Wanlv Park/Friendship Sunshine City Haikou|3.89km from city center
This stay truly exceeded my expectations. Perched above the stunning Haikou skyline, the incredible cloud-level views captivated me instantly. My room offered a prime ocean view with an excellent high-altitude perspective overlooking the city center, providing panoramic vistas of Haikou Bay and Century Bridge. In the evening, I was treated to breathtaking sunsets – this is truly a place where the sunset glow paints your face. After dark, the city lights sparkled brilliantly, creating an unbeatable nightscape. The sea-view room was fantastic; I could lie in bed and gaze out at the ocean, enjoying the romantic seamless blend of sea and sky. The scenery outside the window was absolutely magnificent. If you're coming to Haikou, you absolutely must stay here!From€63
Outstanding3418 Reviews
Perimeter of Haikou Airport/Mission Hill/East Coast Haikou|13.31km from city center
The room was spacious and very clean, and the room service was excellent and thoughtful. My child absolutely loved playing in the water, and all the facilities were communal, which made for a great experience. The complimentary photoshoot was fantastic! The photographer knew all the best spots in the hotel and even fulfilled my child's wish to take photos at the golf driving range. My child wanted every single photo when we were selecting them!From€64
Very Good6647 Reviews
Holiday Beach/Wuyuan River Stadium Haikou|13.5km from city center
I was thoroughly impressed by the service at this hotel! From helping with luggage to check-in, everyone greeted us with a smile. I was traveling with my child, and the front desk immediately provided a toiletries kit, which my child loved. Our butler, Nita, was incredibly helpful, answering all our questions and even assisting with booking a travel photoshoot. In the evening, she prepared a bedtime dessert for my child – the papaya and white fungus soup was delicious! Before we checked out, Nita also arranged a late check-out for us, telling us not to rush, which was incredibly thoughtful. I definitely have to commend the hotel's service! 👍🏻From€69
Very Good5365 Reviews
Perimeter of Haikou Airport/Mission Hill/East Coast Haikou|8.27km from city center
The hotel's facilities are quite good. I booked a family room, which came with three single beds. The original room probably had two, and the additional bed wasn't a foldable one, it was just like a regular bed, which was a nice touch. The view from the king-size room is as shown in the picture – it doesn't compare to Sanya or Wanning, but it's decent enough considering the price.
However, there are a couple of things I need to complain about: 1. The light switch in our room stopped working one evening, already past midnight. I had to call the front desk to get a technician to fix it. Thankfully, it was fixed quickly, but it was quite frustrating late at night. 2. Out of the three guest elevators, it seemed like only one was working. We kept using the same one repeatedly, and the waiting times were incredibly long, which significantly impacted our experience.From€56
Very Good8129 Reviews
Holiday Beach/Wuyuan River Stadium Haikou|16.05km from city center
The lobby and other public areas are grand and comfortable, and the cleanliness is excellent.
Family Activities:
1. Free rental of sand digging tools brought much joy to the children. A 5-10 minute walk leads to a private, fine sand beach and an endless ocean.
2. The dedicated children's pool is thoughtfully designed with depths of 0.3m and 0.5m, allowing toddlers to play freely. The water quality is good, and there's a daily record of water quality and temperature checks. Life jackets are plentiful, with staff members at almost every corner. A particularly nice touch is that the shared towels are warm from being dried, making them feel very clean.
3. The organized family activities are well-planned and engaging, with staff members actively guiding the children.
Pros:
1. The rooms are spacious, and you can enjoy sea views right from the balcony.
2. The staff at the front desk, concierge, restaurant, and recreation center are enthusiastic and responsible.
3. The Marriott star standards are consistently met, from the lighting to the lawns and pool setups, creating a comfortable and relaxing atmosphere.
Cons:
1. The room facilities are old and emit a strong, musty smell.
📞 After providing feedback, I was initially told, 'This is normal for a seaside city,' as if I should just accept it.
📞 After clearly stating that I couldn't accept it, a dehumidifier was brought to the room ['improvement measure offered'].
📞 After contacting the butler, an effective solution was provided immediately: we were moved to a room with a relatively more comfortable smell.
2. In both the original and replacement rooms, the doors were heavy and lacked magnetic catches, making them difficult to hold open or close easily.
3. The cleanliness of the public areas outside the rooms was quite poor.
Dining: The buffet breakfast offers a wide variety, with each dish having a unique flavor. There were Cantonese favorites like rice rolls, Mexican-style grilled meats, carefully prepared congee and dim sum, and a diverse selection of noodles. The highlight was definitely the wide array of Western pastries.
Overall: This is a child-friendly hotel that's great for family vacations and relaxation. However, if you are sensitive to smells or suffer from rhinitis, there is significant room for improvement regarding the room odors.From€75
Excellent4365 Reviews
Holiday Beach/Wuyuan River Stadium Haikou|15.42km from city center
I originally chose this hotel because it was 'about to become a Fairmont,' and even though the sign outside no longer says that, my overall experience far exceeded my expectations. The hardware was particularly surprising: the hotel extensively uses carpeting, both in the rooms and public areas. Knowing that maintaining carpets in a high-humidity, high-salinity coastal area is extremely difficult (most seaside hotels opt for wood or tile floors – I still remember the indescribable smell at The Royal Begonia, a Luxury Collection Resort, Sanya), the carpet condition in my room this stay was excellent. It's clear they put a lot of effort into maintenance, especially for a hotel that's already nearly 20 years old (or even older?). Check-in was seamless (I didn't catch the name of the kind lady who helped me). There was also a follow-up call to the room after I settled in, which very few hotels do. While the hotel's pool isn't huge, it's very well-designed, encircling the garden with both deep and shallow areas. Seating is well-spaced out (unlike the packed rows at Sheraton, for instance), offering a genuine resort feel where guests can relax without disturbing each other. Swimming and sunbathing there were very pleasant. From the pool, you can walk out to the seaside boardwalk, which leads all the way down to Wuyuanhe National Wetland Park. It's perfect for an evening stroll or a morning workout. Coming back from a run along the beach in the morning and then soaking in the hot spring really brings on that holiday vibe. Even though it hasn't become a Fairmont yet, the hospitality lives up to the 'Royal Service' mentioned on the phone. Thank you for the hospitality, and special thanks to Megan for her thoughtful touch. For someone who loves carpets and a resort atmosphere, this is a place in Haikou worth relaxing at, and I'd definitely want to come back again.From€52
Outstanding1607 Reviews
Holiday Beach/Wuyuan River Stadium Haikou|15.45km from city center
The hotel is in a good and comfortable location, with relatively new facilities and close to customers. The store is clean and sanitary, and the service staff is of good quality and can meet the needs and requirements of customersFrom€33
Outstanding8986 Reviews
Haidian Island Haikou|3.95km from city center
True to its reputation as a venerable five-star hotel in the city, everything from its location and design to its facilities and service is top-notch. EX, who handled both the front desk and concierge duties, helped us upgrade our room during check-in. We got a spacious sea-view room with fantastic scenery, and they even thoughtfully converted the living room sofa into a sofa bed. The hotel's foam party and pool were a huge hit with the kids. On our second night, we opted for the BBQ buffet on the hotel's lawn – incredibly delicious and excellent value for money. We were lucky enough to have the entire lawn to ourselves that evening, enjoying one-on-one service from the chef. We'll definitely be back the next time we visit Haikou!From€63
Business travel
962 Reviews
Wanlv Park/Friendship Sunshine City Haikou|4.89km from city center
The warm light in the room is so cozy. If a girl is afraid of the dark, she can turn on the warm light to sleep. The service of the lady at the front desk is very good. It is a very good experience. I will come here again next time. It is clean and the service attitude is considerate. I like the lady at the front desk. She speaks gently. You can see the sea in the room. Not bad, like itFrom€17
Very Good10952 Reviews
Perimeter of Haikou Airport/Mission Hill/East Coast Haikou|15.85km from city center
The room facilities were decent, I quite liked them. It's very close to the airport and the outlets, which is convenient. However, there's not much to browse at the outlets.
The service was terrible!!! I stayed here for the convenience of catching a flight. I was supposed to be able to check-in and check my luggage directly at the hotel. I even specifically asked about this when I checked in, but the staff couldn't give me clear information. They didn't tell me that you have to check in from the hotel three hours in advance!!!!! As a result, I couldn't check in at the hotel and still had to go to the airport. And the staff had absolutely no attitude about it, it was truly frustrating.From€43
Outstanding3255 Reviews
Haidian Island Haikou|4.61km from city center
The location is a bit out of the way, not in the city center, and the hotel rooms and facilities are relatively old. However, the breakfast was much better than at the Langham. After staying for one night, I felt the hotel had a unique style. They were very responsive to any issues, and the service felt genuinely sincere. I'd definitely stay here again; it's perfect for relaxing. Enjoying the evening breeze and stargazing on the big lawn was incredibly comfortable.From€50
Very Good7870 Reviews
Wanlv Park/Friendship Sunshine City Haikou|2.76km from city center
This stay truly exceeded my expectations, it was fantastic! 👍🏻 I originally booked a city view room, but I wanted a full ocean view, so I paid to upgrade to a business suite with a balcony. The room was incredibly photogenic, and the service was excellent. Since I had plans in the afternoon and wanted to take a nap, the front desk attendant was kind enough to extend my check-out time until 2 PM – really appreciate that! My only slight disappointment was the hairdryer in the room; it wasn't very good and could definitely be upgraded to a more premium model. I was also pleasantly surprised to find that the hotel offers laundry service, which is a lifesaver for someone lazy like me who dislikes doing laundry!From€65
Excellent7572 Reviews
Wanlv Park/Friendship Sunshine City Haikou|3.66km from city center
This Sofitel truly offers amazing value for money. The floor-to-ceiling windows directly overlook Wanlu Park and the ocean, and waking up to that view in the morning instantly melts away all stress. Just a short walk around the corner brings you to Friendship Sunshine City, a popular local mall for shopping and dining. The hotel's sunset views are also absolutely breathtaking, truly stunning. I have to give a special shout-out to the front desk lady; she noticed I had a sore throat during check-in and without a word, she handed me extra bottles of water and kindly reminded me to drink warm water. Very thoughtful!From€66
Outstanding9245 Reviews
Century Bridge/Qilou Old Street/Jiefang West Haikou|2.84km from city center
I visited before the May Day holiday, so it wasn't crowded. They upgraded my room, and I have to say, the Westin beds are incredibly massive – I've never seen one so big, it's like a traditional 'kang' bed from the countryside! 😂 Definitely an experience. However, the bedding is on the softer side, which might be uncomfortable for those with back issues. The weather in Hainan hasn't been very hot recently, so the pool water was still a bit chilly, not ideal for very young babies. The bathroom floor was so damp that white scale powder had surfaced. The location is excellent, making it convenient to get around by taxi.
The river view from the window is nice, and the Century Bridge view is fantastic.
Special shout-out to Mr. Bao at the entrance – his service was exceptional, and he was very friendly. He even gave me a small gift when I left.From€73
Very Good1710 Reviews
Perimeter of Haikou Airport/Mission Hill/East Coast Haikou|12.84km from city center
I had the pleasure of staying at the Ritz-Carlton in Haikou during the Easter break, and it was nothing short of exceptional. Nestled in a beautiful and expansive resort, the hotel offers a multitude of activities that made our stay both delightful and engaging.
From the moment we arrived, we were captivated by the picturesque surroundings and the sheer size of the resort. The options for outdoor activities seemed endless, with golf, golf frisbee, croquet, gym, tennis, and even pickleball available for guests. The staff was remarkably attentive, going above and beyond to arrange the sports activities we were keen on trying.
Our room was always pristine, thanks to the meticulous housekeeping team who serviced it twice a day. This level of attention to detail did not go unnoticed and was greatly appreciated.
A pleasant surprise was the complimentary photoshoot included in our package. The photographer managed to capture wonderful memories for us, making our stay even more special.
In summary, we had an incredible time and thoroughly enjoyed every moment at the Ritz-Carlton Haikou. The combination of luxurious amenities, engaging activities, and unparalleled service made it a stay to remember. We are already looking forward to our next visit and have eagerly recommended this outstanding resort to all our friends.From€129
Outstanding3054 Reviews
Longhu Hainan Haikou Tianjie/Jinniuling Park Haikou|3.45km from city center
Just checked out, and Haikou Mingguang Shengyi Hotel is truly fantastic! I have to give a shout-out to a few things: the free laundry service is a lifesaver for summer travel; the 24-hour check-in meant we could sleep in as long as we wanted; and the free-flow mini-bar with sodas, plus the scheduled airport/station shuttle service, was incredibly convenient. The location is superb, right next to Longhu Tianjie Mall and close to Chenxi High-speed Rail Station, making both shopping and getting around super easy. Highly recommend!From€33
Breakfast
1550 Reviews
Perimeter of Haikou Airport/Mission Hill/East Coast Haikou|12.75km from city center
Exceeded my expectations, a fantastic experience! I originally just needed a place for a layover, but I never expected such a wonderful resort. The gardens are beautifully designed, the rooms are spacious, and they even have a royal zoo, a card room, and a swimming pool – absolutely everything you could ask for.From€43
Very Good1909 Reviews
provincial government Haikou|0.28km from city center
This is a really comfortable hotel. Every time I visit Haikou, I make sure to stay here for a night. The main reason is their amazing 830-meter deep hot spring directly in the rooms – a soak there just melts away all the fatigue. The rooms are spacious and bright. Plus, the hotel is very close to the Qilou Old Street, just a short taxi ride (minimum fare). There's even an airport shuttle nearby. It's truly great.From€17
Good2148 Reviews
Wanlv Park/Friendship Sunshine City Haikou|2.64km from city center
The hotel staff were incredibly helpful and went above and beyond to assist guests. Special shout-out to employees 0181 and 032 for their excellent service! The hotel's location is fantastic, the environment is top-notch, and the facilities are comprehensive. The breakfast offers a wide variety and tastes delicious. I'll definitely be recommending this hotel to my colleagues for their business trips.From€35
Very Good574 Reviews
Century Bridge/Qilou Old Street/Jiefang West Haikou|1.49km from city center
Cleanliness: The room was spotless, the sheets were clean with no strange odors or dust, making for a very comfortable sleep.
Facilities: There's a washing machine, and the bathroom has a convenient wet/dry separation with plenty of space.
Ambiance: It's very quiet upstairs, with an elegant, antique-inspired decor.
Service: They proactively helped with luggage and resolved any issues.
Excellent value for money. I've stayed at a few guesthouses in the Qilou area, and this one is my favorite.From€11
Good273 Reviews
Perimeter of Haikou Airport/Mission Hill/East Coast Haikou|24.52km from city center
I have to say that the service of Wyndham Garden Hotel Haikou Nanguo is really first-class! Because of the flight delay, I arrived at the hotel late at night. I thought I would be very tired and embarrassed. Unexpectedly, the staff greeted me with a smile throughout the whole process. Not only did they quickly help me arrange the room, but they also sent me a warm midnight snack, which instantly made me feel a sense of belonging. The hotel's fitness facilities are very new, with treadmills, dumbbells, etc., which are very convenient for people like me who have a daily fitness habit. The smart control system in the room is also great. You can adjust the lighting and temperature with just a few clicks, which is full of technology. The water in the swimming pool is clear and the surrounding environment is elegant. Swimming here will make all the stress of the day disappear. Next time I come to Haikou, I will definitely stay here again!From€37
Very Good8432 Reviews
Century Bridge/Qilou Old Street/Jiefang West Haikou|1.7km from city center
Staying at the Nanyang Royal Hotel Qilou Branch in Haikou was an amazing experience, offering incredible value for money. I highly recommend it!
The hotel's location is superb, right in the heart of the Qilou Old Street. Step out and you're surrounded by centuries-old Qilou buildings. It's within walking distance of attractions like Shuixiangkou and the Bell Tower, and there's an abundance of great food nearby, making it super convenient for enjoying local 'Laoba Cha' (daddy tea) and specialty snacks. Getting around is a breeze.
The hotel boasts a Nanyang retro style, converted from an old building, exuding a strong vintage atmosphere everywhere. The public areas are decorated with antique items, giving it a rich cultural feel. The service is also very thoughtful; the front desk staff are warm and attentive, proactively recommending local travel tips, and their attention to detail is excellent.
The only minor drawbacks are that, due to Hainan's climate, the room felt a bit damp, and the air conditioning's outdoor unit was a bit noisy when operating.From€29
Very Good7483 Reviews
provincial government Haikou|1.03km from city center
Great service and clean rooms. The breakfast is fantastic, with noodles and meatballs, so you don't even need to go out for dim sum. They also have coffee ☕️ and delicious milk tea that's sweet but not cloying, plus iced tea. The location is super convenient: a RT-Mart supermarket is just to the left when you exit, and to the right, you'll find the old town with plenty of local eateries.From€26
Very Good1097 Reviews
Wanlv Park/Friendship Sunshine City Haikou|2.55km from city center
The hotel offers welcome fruit and late-night snacks. They also provide both human and robot delivery services for guests with mobility issues, which is very thoughtful and attentive. The breakfast spread is extensive, catering to different tastes. With a Chinese restaurant and a buffet, dining options are very convenient. The location is excellent; the elegant charm of Wanhua Park and the tranquil atmosphere of the beach are unforgettable. Public transport is easily accessible with frequent buses to city malls, hospitals, and major attractions. Although the hotel is older, the decor is elegant and grand, and the rooms are clean. Compared to other places on the island, the room size is a bit smaller. Overall, it was a very satisfying and enjoyable service experience.From€31
Taxis and Ride-Hailing in Haikou
Taking a taxi in Haikou is a simple and comfortable way to get around, especially if you are carrying luggage, arriving late at night, or traveling with a group. It is faster than public transport and easy to use for visitors.
💰 Haikou Taxi Fare Guide
There are two common options: regular street taxis and ride-hailing through apps like Didi.
1. Standard Taxis (Blue or Yellow Cars)
- Base fare: ¥10 for the first 3 kilometers (around PHP 80)
- After 3 kilometers: ¥2 per kilometer
- Waiting time: ¥1 every few minutes if the car is not moving
- Luggage: Usually free unless you have oversized bags that need the trunk
2. Didi Ride-Hailing App
- Works like Grab
- You can choose from regular, comfort, or carpool rides
- Prices may be slightly higher during busy times
- You can use the app in English and pay with card or mobile wallets
3. Extra Charges
- Some trips starting from the airport or train station may include an extra charge of ¥5 to ¥10
- Check the estimated fare before you ride, especially during peak hours
🚖 How to Get a Taxi in Haikou
- Hail one on the street by raising your hand
- Go to a taxi stand near malls, hotels, or stations
- Use the Didi app to book a ride without needing to speak Chinese
Tip: Download the Didi app before your trip. Choose English in the settings and link your card or Alipay account for easy payment.
Always ensure the meter is turned on. Avoid accepting rides from unofficial drivers inside the terminal.
✅ When to Take a Taxi
- When public buses are not running or hard to find
- If you have lots of luggage or are tired
- When traveling with two or more people
- To reach places far from the city center or tourist areas
Private Transfer in Haikou
Private transfers offer a comfortable and stress-free ride, ideal for families, groups, or travelers with large luggage. Drivers provide door-to-door service from the airport, train station, or other locations directly to your hotel.
Good to know
- Book at least 24 hours in advance
- Meet-and-greet and luggage help may be included
- More expensive than taxis, but more convenient for first-time visitors
Exploring Haikou on Foot
Haikou is a relaxed and walkable city, especially around the old town, parks, and coastal areas. Many attractions are close together, making walking a budget-friendly way to enjoy the scenery, take photos, and discover local snacks at your own pace.
🏛️ Suggested Walking Routes in Haikou
1. Old Town Culture Walk (2 to 3 hours)
Route: Qilou Old Street → Zhongshan Road → Arcade Streets → Haikou Clock Tower → People’s Park
Tip: Look for the unique colonial-style buildings along Qilou Street. Try local coconut desserts or rice cakes at small shops nearby.
2. Coastal and Nature Walk (2 to 3 hours)
Route: Evergreen Park → Century Bridge (walkable area) → Haikou Bay → Holiday Beach
Tip: Go in the late afternoon for cooler weather and sunset views. Street vendors often sell cold drinks and snacks near the beach area.
3. History and Market Walk (3 to 4 hours)
Route: Hainan Museum → Wugong Temple (Five Officials Temple) → Haikou Arcade Street Market → Renmin Avenue
Tip: Visit early in the morning or after 4 PM to avoid strong heat. Bring a small fan or umbrella for shade. Local markets are great for pasalubong shopping.
Haikou can be hot and humid, especially from April to October. Walk early in the morning or after 4 PM for better comfort.
Find Hotels in Haikou Now
See All Hotels
NO.1
Traveling from Haikou to Other Cities
One of the best things about visiting Haikou is how easy it is to travel to nearby cities in Hainan or even to mainland China. Whether you want to explore tropical beaches or visit larger cities, you have a few good options by train, bus, or ferry.
🚄 Haikou to Sanya
Sanya is a famous beach city in the south of Hainan Island. It is a popular weekend destination with beautiful beaches, resorts, and seafood.
- By high-speed train: About 1.5 to 2 hours from Haikou East Railway Station
- Trains run often from early morning until evening
- Tip: Book a window seat to enjoy the scenic views along the coast
🚌 Haikou to Wenchang
Wenchang is a smaller city northeast of Haikou known for its Hainanese chicken rice and space launch center.
- By train: About 30 to 40 minutes
- By bus or car: Around 1 to 1.5 hours
- Tip: Try the local-style chicken rice in the city center for a food trip
🛳️ Haikou to Mainland China (via ferry or train)
You can also travel from Haikou to mainland cities like Guangzhou or Zhanjiang. These trips usually take longer but offer a unique travel experience.
- By ferry to Guangdong: Some ferries connect Haikou’s ports to cities like Zhanjiang
- By train: Haikou Railway Station also has trains that cross the Qiongzhou Strait using a rail ferry
- Travel time: Usually 8 to 12 hours, depending on the destination
- Tip: Overnight trains are more convenient if you want to save on hotel costs
Recommended eSIMs Options for China
See all attractions
📱 Useful Transport Apps in Haikou
To make getting around easier, download these apps before arriving:
1. Didi
Best for taxis and private rides. Easy to use in English and ideal if you don’t speak Chinese.
2. Baidu Maps or Amap (Gaode)
Baidu Maps
Amap (Gaode)
More accurate than Google Maps in China. Useful for bus routes, walking directions, and travel time estimates.
3. Alipay (Transport QR)
Lets you pay for buses and some transport services without cash. Very convenient for daily travel.
📌 Tip: Set up mobile payment before your trip, as many transport services prefer cashless payment.
Many drivers and transport services prefer mobile payment. Set up Alipay or WeChat Pay in advance if possible.
🎯 Getting Around Haikou Made Easy
Plan your routes early and combine different transport options to make the most of your trip. Use public buses or hotel shuttles for short and cheap rides. Choose taxis or private cars if you have luggage or arrive late at night. For relaxed sightseeing, take a walk through parks, beaches, or the old town. With a little planning, moving around Haikou becomes part of the fun and not just a way to get from place to place.
FAQs About Haikou Transport
What is the best way to get around Haikou?
The easiest ways to get around Haikou are taxis, ride-hailing apps, public buses, and walking in certain areas. For comfort and convenience, many travelers prefer taxis or Didi.Can I use ride-hailing apps in Haikou?
Yes. Didi is widely used and has English support.
Payment is usually cashless, so it is best to set up Alipay or WeChat Pay before your trip.Is public bus transport convenient in Haikou?
Haikou has a large and affordable bus network covering most parts of the city.
However, bus signs and announcements are mostly in Chinese, so map apps are recommended.Are hotel shuttle services available in Haikou?
Some hotels and resorts offer free or paid shuttle services to airports, train stations, or nearby attractions.
Always check with your hotel before arrival.Is Haikou transport suitable for families and seniors?
Yes. Taxis, Didi, and private transfers are comfortable and convenient for families, seniors, and travelers with luggage.
Disclaimer: This article has been provided by an individual contributor or third party platform. If there is any discrepancy regarding the copyright, please contact us directly and we will delete the content immediately.
<h2>Trending Searches</h2>
Popular Content
Popular Flights
- Plane tickets from Chengdu to Haikou
- Cheap flights from Cebu to Haikou
- Plane tickets from Guangzhou to Haikou
- Plane tickets from Shanghai to Haikou
- Plane tickets from Hong Kong to Haikou
- Cheap tickets from Dalian to Haikou
- Cheap flights from Manila to Haikou
- Plane tickets from Bangkok to Haikou
- Plane tickets from Singapore to Haikou
Popular Hotels
- Mercure Haikou City Center
- Hotel Luckyever (Haikou Nanhai Avenue)
- Homeinn Plus (Haikou Friendship Sunshine City Wanlv Park)
- JI Hotel (Haikou Yehai Dadao)
- Yingmen Hotel (Chengxi Haida Campus)
- Holiday Inn HAIKOU WEST COAST by IHG
- ELONG ME Hotel (Haikou Meilan Airport Terminal T1 and T2 Branch)
- Huasheng Hotel (Haikou Yilong West Road Qilou Old Street Branch)
- Four Points by Sheraton Haikou International Airport Hotel
- SiManHotel
- Hotels near Hainan International Convention and Exhibition Center
- Hotels near Hainanshifan University
- Hotels near Swan Lake Animal Park
- Hotels near Haikou Intangible Cultural Heritage Exhibition Hall
- Hotels near Azure Sea and Silver Beach
Popular Things to Do
- South Korea SIM Card
- South Korea Local Tour Guides
- South Korea Day Tours
- South Korea Group Tours
- South Korea Visa Application Services
- South Korea Transport Card
- South Korea Paragliding
- South Korea Photoshoot
- South Korea Pocket Wifi Router
- South Korea Travel Services
- Haikou premium private 1-day tour: Volcanic cluster geopark - Hainan museum - Haikou arcaded streets
- Haikou Arcaded Streets + Volcanic Crater Geological Park + Hainan Tropical Wildlife Park and Botanical Garden Private Chartered Day Tour
- Hainan museum+Wenchang Mulan bay 1 day trip within 7 people
- Cloudscape Library + Xixiu Beach + Haikou Century Bridge Park day tour with Chinese and English service
- 1-Day Tour of Haikou Clock Tower + Swan Lake Animal Park + World Park + Sotte Porticos Streets Maikou
Featured guides
Trip.com links
About
Payment methods
Our partners
Copyright © 2026 Trip.com Travel Singapore Pte. Ltd. All rights reserved
Site Operator: Trip.com Travel Singapore Pte. Ltd.
Site Operator: Trip.com Travel Singapore Pte. Ltd.