Dongfang is a coastal city in western Hainan Province, known for its scenic sea areas and cultural attractions. Notable sites include Yulinzhou, a historic sea area, and the Osheli Culture and Ecotourism Area, which offers a full day of exploration. The city also features natural landscapes like Little Guilin and family-friendly spots such as Ezhen Crocodile Park. Traditional Li architecture can be seen at Bai Cha Cun Li Zu Chuan Xing Wu.
Overview
Dongfang features Yulinzhou sea area with pebble beach and lighthouse, Osheli Ecotourism Area with karst landscapes, and Little Guilin scenic spot.
Ideal Pace
2-3 days
Seasonal Window
Nov–Apr: dry and mild
Overview
Dongfang, on Hainan's west coast, is known for Yulinzhou sea area and Osheli Culture and Ecotourism Area.
Getting There & Around
Attractions spread across city; taxis or buses needed. Travel times vary from 1 hour to full day.
Transportation
Dongfang's city center is located at approximately 108.65°E, 19.10°N. Attractions are spread across the city, with most requiring local transport such as taxis or buses to reach. Visitors should plan for travel times ranging from 1 hour to a full day depending on the destination.
Practical Information
Visit durations: Yulinzhou 1-2h, Osheli 1 day, Little Guilin 0.5-1 day, Ezhen Crocodile Park 1-3h.
Practical Info
Dongfang offers a variety of attractions with recommended visit durations from 1 hour to 1 day. Popular sites include Yulinzhou (1-2 hours), Osheli Culture and Ecotourism Area (1 day), and Little Guilin (0.5-1 day). Ezhen Crocodile Park is suitable for 1-3 hours. Visitors should check local opening hours and plan accordingly.
Top Experiences
Visit Yulinzhou pebble beach and lighthouse. Explore Osheli Ecotourism Area with karst scenery. See Little Guilin.
Dongfang offers a mix of coastal and cultural attractions.
- Yulinzhou: Unique pebble beach and historic lighthouse.
- Osheli Culture and Ecotourism Area: Pristine tropical rainforest with karst landscapes near Daguangba Reservoir.
- Little Guilin: Scenic area known for its beautiful environment.
- Ezhen Crocodile Park: Crocodile exhibits, great for family outings.
- Bai Cha Cun: Li ethnic heritage site with traditional thatched houses showcasing ancient architectural skills.
Best Time to Visit
Tropical climate. Dry season Nov–Apr is best with mild weather; wet season May–Oct has humidity and rain.
Dongfang has a tropical climate. The best time to visit is during the dry season from November to April, when weather is mild and rainfall is low. The wet season from May to October brings higher humidity and rain, but attractions remain open year-round.
Attraction Highlights
Yulinzhou, Osheli Culture and Ecotourism Area, Little Guilin, Ezhen Crocodile Park, Baicha Village boat-shaped houses.
Yulinzhou
Yulinzhou is a scenic sea area on the west coast of Hainan, known since the Qing Dynasty. Its beach features small stone sand rather than typical fine sand, with reefs and a lighthouse atop a rocky hill. Ideal for listening to waves and enjoying sea breezes, it is perfect for natural bathing. Open 24/7, a visit lasts 1-2 hours.
Osheli Culture and Ecotourism Area
Located in Donghe Town, this ecotourism area is part of the Hainan Tropical Rainforest National Park. It features well-preserved karst landscapes and a pristine tropical rainforest, often called 'Little Guilin of the East'. The area includes the Daguangba Reservoir, offering lake views and fish resources, and historical ruins of an early hydropower station. Open 8:30 AM-6:00 PM, a full day is recommended.
Little Guilin, Hainan
Little Guilin is a scenic spot well-known among locals for its beautiful environment. It offers a relaxing atmosphere and is a great place to unwind. Located within the Osheli Culture and Ecotourism Area, it features karst scenery. Open 9:00 AM-6:30 PM, a visit can take half to a full day.
Ezhen Crocodile Park
Ezhen Crocodile Park, located in Dongfang City, is a top rural tourist attraction in Hainan. Spanning 237 acres, it integrates ecological sightseeing and breeding, featuring saltwater, Nile, and Siamese crocodiles. The park also develops crocodile-based products, including food, health supplements, and leather goods. Highlights include a crocodile pool glass walkway.
Baicha Village Li Ethnic Boat-shaped Houses
Baicha Village in Dongfang City preserves traditional Li ethnic boat-shaped houses, a unique architectural style resembling upside-down boats. These thatched houses are built with simple materials but demonstrate sophisticated design, offering wind and rain protection. The village is one of the best-preserved examples of this cultural heritage.
Baichacun
Baicha Village, under Jiangbian Township in Dongfang City, is renowned for its 81 well-preserved boat-shaped houses, a traditional Li architectural form. Recognised as a national intangible cultural heritage in 2008, the village offers a glimpse into the Li people's architectural wisdom and cultural heritage.
Basuo Town
Basuo Town is the administrative centre of Dongfang City, offering a glimpse into local urban life. With a high rating, it serves as a convenient base for exploring the surrounding area. The town is open year-round, making it accessible for visitors.
Tielu Museum
The Railway Museum in Basuo Town, Dongfang City, showcases the history of Hainan's railways. It was designated a national research and practice education base for primary and secondary school students in 2018. The museum is open in the morning and afternoon, offering a focused look at railway heritage.