Things to do in Dongfang
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Top 10 attractions in Dongfang
Yulinzhou Scenic Area
Yulinzhou Scenic Area is situated on the southwest coast of Dongfang City, Hainan. It is a coastal cape surrounded by the sea on three sides and a classic destination on the west coast of Hainan Island for viewing the sea and sunsets. Local chronicles from the Kangxi period of the Qing Dynasty listed it as a famous site in Hainan, noting that "a stone peak rises abruptly by the seaside, with overlapping rocks shaped like fish scales." On sunny days, the layered rock walls shimmer in the sunlight like fish scales, which is how the place got its name. Its landmark is the white lighthouse standing atop the small rocky hill, which also serves as an important navigational beacon for the Beibuwan sea area. Climb the stone steps to the top to take in the harbor and the winding coastline. The beach here differs from typical fine sandy beaches. It is covered with smooth pebbles that feel slightly prickly under bare feet. If you want to walk on the beach or wade in the water, it is safer to wear thick-soled shoes. The surrounding rugged reefs and crashing waves create a raw, primitive coastal landscape. Rows of milky white windmills along the coast turn in the wind, creating a rare scene on the west coast of Hainan when framed with the lighthouse and reefs. Evening is the golden hour for visiting, as the sunset dyes the westward sea orange-red. The silhouettes of the lighthouse and windmills are particularly photogenic, and many photography enthusiasts wait by the reefs in advance to capture this moment.Dongfang · 3.6 km from downtown
Exianling Ecological and Cultural Tourism Zone
Exianling Ecological and Cultural Tourism Zoneis located in Donghe Town, Dongfang City, Hainan Province, close to the "Dagangba" reservoir, the second largest artificial lake on Hainan Island, and is an important part of the Hainan Tropical Rainforest National Park.Hainan has karsts that are relatively well preserved in their original state.The landform is a pristine tropical rainforest known as the "Little Guilin of the East". There are rich tourism resources and cultural elements around and inside the scenic area: 1. The scenic area relies on the Daguang Dam on the bank of the Changhua River, and the rare lake-shaped reservoir in the area provides people on both sides with abundant fish resources; 2. Here are the ruins of China's earlier Xiaoguangba Hydropower Station, which is a historical witness of Japan's invasion of China and the plundering of resources from our ancestors. A scenic spot with red genes can provide academic enthusiasts with more learning materials and creation Inspiration; 3. In the rare rainforest karst landform scenic spot in China, tourists can not only overlook the E Niang Jiufeng Mountain and the dreamlike E Xian Bay, but also personally explore the park's 1,409 species of tropical plants and nearly a hundred specialized tropical limestone species and 59 terrestrial shellfish species; 4. Various stalactites, stalagmites, stone pillars, and winding karst waterfalls in Erniang Cave form a unique cave wonder; 5. The scenic spot has a rich cultural heritage of the Li ethnic group, and the three members of the Meifu Li tribe The traditional festival on the third day of the lunar month attracts tens of thousands of tourists every year. Generally speaking, Exianling is a scenic spot integrating landscape wonders, scientific research and exploration, red genes, and humanistic charm. The total planned area of the scenic spot is 80.49 square kilometers, and the first phase development scope totals 1.15 square kilometers, of which the core area is 1,665.41 acres. It integrates various tourism resources such as "green mountains, beautiful waters, strange caves, beautiful forests, and beautiful scenery". It has developed "one mountain" (Exian Ridge), "one cave" (Eniang Cave), "one mountain" and "one cave". Waterfall" (Eniang River) and other characteristic landscapes. There are not only the wonders of the rainforest such as "Exian Dreamland", "Lanxi Flower Valley", "Butterfly Path" and "Millennium Fairy Lizard", but also the uncanny craftsmanship of "Eniang Welcomes Guests", "Phoenix Flying" and "Colorful Yaochi". The tropical karst is waiting for you to explore.Dongfang · 38.6 km from downtown
Little Guilin, Hainan
Hainan's Little Guilin is well-known among locals. It has a beautiful environment and is a great place for locals to relax and unwind.Dongfang · 43.6 km from downtown
Ezhen Crocodile Park
Ezhen Crocodile Park: An immersive experience in China's premier crocodile industry town In Sanjia Town, Dongfang City, Hainan, lies a national core crocodile breeding base – Dongfang Crocodile Town. Its main attraction, Ezhen Crocodile Park, is a nationally certified 3A tourist destination integrating ecological sightseeing, industrial experience, and leisure tourism. With over 60,000 Nile crocodiles, saltwater crocodiles, Siamese crocodiles, and American alligators as its foundation, it offers a comprehensive "see, play, shop, eat, stay" experience, allowing every visitor to unlock a magical encounter with these "living prehistoric fossils." Industrial foundation: The nation's largest breeding base The crocodile town where Ezhen Crocodile Park is located has been recognized by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs as a national demonstration town for distinctive "One Village, One Product" industries and a benchmark for "industrial powerhouse towns." Leveraging its unique tropical climate, the town has established a top-tier crocodile farming system in China: with 50,000 breeding crocodiles, accounting for 50% of the nation's total breeding stock. The crocodile population stands at approx. 600,000, representing 60% of the country's total, while annual crocodile hatchling production accounts for 80% of the national market, firmly securing its core position in the national breeding market. The alligator industry chain in the town has achieved an output value of CNY 677 million, forming a complete closed loop of "breeding - processing - tourism - cultural creativity," making it an exemplary model for rural revitalization. Step into Ezhen Crocodile Park, where crocodile ponds of all sizes are scattered across the landscape. Tens of thousands of crocodiles can be seen either resting on the water's surface or lying in wait, offering visitors a firsthand experience of the majestic grandeur of China's "Crocodile Capital." 🐊 Immersive experience: Safe interaction with "living fossils from prehistoric times" Ezhen Crocodile Park, with "safety, fun, and interaction" at its core, offers a variety of unique experience programs: Big Alligator Mouth Glass Walkway Step onto the suspended glass walkway, where you can see hundreds of pounds of crocodiles in the pool below. With the assistance of staff, hang the bait and experience the thrill of "crocodile teasing" – when the crocodiles leap to snatch the food, the safety net ensures you have nothing to fear, capturing the breathtaking moment. Variety-specific feeding experience The park divides crocodile pools by species, with dedicated areas for Nile crocodiles, saltwater crocodiles, and Siamese crocodiles. Get hands-on by feeding the Nile crocodiles and watching these massive creatures open their jaws to devour the bait. The fun photo spot at the "Ex-Boyfriend Feeding Pool" creates unique memories for families and couples through interactive experiences. Crocodile Maze: Fun and challenges for kids The crocodile maze adorned with adorable crocodile sculptures is a popular family attraction. Children play and run through it as if playing hide-and-seek with "little crocodiles," while many adults also find themselves getting lost at first, rediscovering their childlike joy through this fun challenge. Tongue and fingertips: An in-depth experience across the entire industry chain Ezhen Crocodile Park goes beyond just "seeing" and "playing," extending its experience to your taste buds and fingertips. Crocodile feast: A delicacy for the palate The park entrance restaurant serves an exquisite crocodile banquet prepared with farm-raised crocodiles. From nourishing crocodile bone soup to tender crocodile delicacies, each dish balances nutrition and flavor, offering you a rare culinary experience. Crocodile Cultural Creations: Take "Crocodile Memories" Home Leveraging the advantages of a full industrial chain, the park has developed five product categories: natural green food, leisure snacks, nutritional supplements, beauty and daily chemicals, and leather goods. Exquisite souvenirs like crocodile leather products and crocodile peptide skincare items embody the town's industrial characteristics, allowing you to take home a piece of "crocodile memory." Featured homestay: Sleep with the "Crocodile Story" In addition to its rich daytime experiences, Ezhen Crocodile Park also offers unique homestay rooms, each incorporating distinctive crocodile elements for an immersive local experience. You can spend the night accompanied by these "living prehistoric fossils" and fall asleep to the unique charm of the countryside. Future blueprint: An internationally renowned crocodile-themed destination Today, Ezhen Crocodile Park is advancing toward becoming "a nationally recognized core crocodile breeding base, an internationally renowned crocodile-themed tourism destination, and a national model for rural revitalization through distinctive industries." In the future, it will further develop the "crocodile +" model, creating more immersive experience projects to allow every visitor to enjoy the unique charm of "Crocodile Town." From the thrilling experience of the glass walkway to the delightful surprise of crocodile cuisine, from the awe-inspiring sight of the industrial base to the exquisite craftsmanship of cultural and creative products – Ezhen Crocodile Park is more than just a tourist attraction. It offers an immersive experience of industry, ecology, and culture. Here, you'll find excitement, warmth, and amazement, along with unique memories worth revisiting. Come and unlock it all!Dongfang · 19.9 km from downtown
Hainan Rosewood Valley Cultural Tourism Area
Hainan Rosewood Valley Cultural Tourism Zone consists of two major sections: "Cultural Tourism Section" and "Health and Wellness Vacation", with a total of 28 scenic spots planned, including the Rosewood Museum, Rosewood Sightseeing Area, Rosewood Adoption Area, Rosewood Cultural and Creative Area and many other landscapes with rosewood culture as the core, as well as colorful flower fields, cute pet zoos, fruit and vegetable picking gardens and other attractions.Dongfang · 41.4 km from downtown
Baicha Village Traditional Settlement of Li Ethnic Group
The traditional architectural craftsmanship of the Li people is best exemplified by their thatched houses, specifically the iconic boat-shaped houses found in this village. With few such structures remaining across the Li region, Baicha Village stands out as a remarkably well-preserved example. Baicha Village Traditional Settlement of Li Ethnic Group: The boat-shaped house is the culmination of thousands of years of Li architectural heritage. While the materials are simple, the construction is highly sophisticated, embodying the architectural wisdom of the Li people. In appearance, the structure resembles an overturned boat. These ground-based, boat-shaped thatched houses are long and wide with low eaves, a design that provides excellent protection against wind and rain. The house is divided into front and back sections, with doors at both ends. Three tall central pillars, known as "Ge'e" in the Li language, symbolize men, while 6 shorter pillars on either side, called "Geding," symbolize women—representing the idea that a home is built by both men and women. The floor is made of packed earth; villagers bring in clay, level it, add water, and stomp it flat with their feet. This process is repeated until the floor is smooth and hard. Much like the stilt houses of the Miao people or the bamboo houses of the Dai people in Yunnan, the Li boat-shaped house is a classic example of traditional ethnic architecture. On the southeast side of the village lies the communal granary area. These granaries are elevated on foundation stones to protect against moisture and rodents. Square timbers are laid across the stones to support the wooden floor. The roof, framed with bamboo and wood and topped with thatch, provides shelter from the rain. Both the interior and exterior of the granaries are plastered with clay, and the floor is coated with a 4 cm layer of mud to ensure a tight seal. Fire prevention is critical for these thatched houses. When leaving home, villagers extinguish fires using water or wood ash. In the event of a fire, a gong is sounded immediately. According to village custom, anyone nearby who fails to assist in firefighting is fined "three hundreds"—100 jin of rice, 100 jin of wine, and 100 jin of meat. While this may appear to be merely a village regulation, it is, in fact, a reflection of the unique culture of the Li people. Baicha Village preserves traditional Li culture. You might see elderly women weaving Li brocade using a rare tie-dye technique, where threads are bound before being dyed. You can also witness women brewing Shanlan rice wine, continuing the long-standing tradition of growing and fermenting their own rice. Another rarity is the Li water-crossing gourd, a unique form of transportation. It is said that when crossing a river, people would place their clothes inside the gourd, seal it, and then hold onto the gourd to float across. The origin of Baicha Village: In the Meifu dialect, Baicha Village is known as "Biecha." In the Li language, "Bie" refers to a muddy field with water, and "Cha" refers to a thick-skinned tree. Historically, there was a muddy field with water near the village, surrounded by many of these thick-skinned trees. The villagers named their home "Biecha," meaning "thick-skinned trees near the muddy field," and "Baisha Ancient Town" is the phonetic transliteration of this Li name.Dongfang · 34.9 km from downtown
Haidongfang Beach Park
The park boasts a winding bay lined with lush green trees, a long stretch of fine, soft white sand, and clear, azure waters, making it a scenic area primarily for leisure, recreation, and seaside sightseeing.Dongfang · 4.7 km from downtown
Hainan Railway Museum
The Hainan Railway Museum is located on Binhai South Road, Basuo Town, Dongfang City, Hainan Province. On October 11, 2018, it was selected as a "National Research and Practice Education Base for Primary and Secondary School Students."Dongfang · 2 km from downtown
Datian National Nature Reserve
It is 20 kilometers away from Dongfang City, covers an area of 2,000 hectares, and has more than 400 Eld deer. The Eld's deer has a beautiful body and is similar to the sika deer, except that its horns are bent forward, which is worth watching. Eld's deer are good at running and jumping, and can jump over 5-meter-wide ravines when frightened. They have keen senses of sight, hearing and smell. The male deer finds mates by singing; the female deer calls the fawns by singing, and they can hear each other even if they are separated by a kilometer. Climb to the observation tower of the reserve to see the deer swimming. Eld's deer like red color, so when the sun rises and the sun sets, they come out in groups. At this time, climb the tower to watch deer, and occasionally see wild animals.Dongfang · 14.3 km from downtown
Qizi Bay
Qizi Bay is backed by Changhua Ridge to the east and faces the sea to the west, with a coastline that winds in an S-shape, curving like a crescent moon. It is characterized by abundant stones, white sand, and calm waves, featuring both fine, soft, white sandy beaches and rocky coasts with rugged, craggy reefs. Colorful pebbles resembling chess pieces are scattered among the reefs, which is how it got its name. The coast here is not just a single, straight sandy beach, but rather a mix of different landforms like sandy shores and rocky coasts, where you can see a relatively complete natural coastal environment. Because it is located on the west coast of Hainan, the sunset view is also a prominent natural feature here. In the evening, the sea, reefs, and sky display different colors as the light changes.Changjiang · 29.4 km from Dongfang
Free things to do in Dongfang
Yulinzhou Scenic Area
Dongfang · 3.6 km from downtownBaicha Village Traditional Settlement of Li Ethnic Group
Dongfang · 34.9 km from downtownHainan Railway Museum
Dongfang · 2 km from downtownQizi Bay
Changjiang · 29.4 km from Dongfang
Atlantis Sanya
China · Sanya
Dongfang Museum
Dongfang · 9m from downtown
What travelers say about Dongfang
常青树福寿安康January 2, 2026
4.0
Dongfang City is a livable city, but it doesn't have as many tourist attractions as Sanya.
This is probably the best beach in Dongfang City; you can see the lighthouse and hike to see the sea. It's very popular and crowded.
Yulinzhou Scenic Area
M47***55January 22, 2026
5.0
Although it's a less-visited spot on the western coast of Hainan, the village of the Li ethnic minority is picturesque, with fresh air, and features both natural caves and karst landforms, making it a miniature Guilin worth recommending.
Exianling Ecological and Cultural Tourism Zone
海鸥在飞February 11, 2025
5.0
The environment of Exianling is nice, but we didn't go up because we had to climb the mountain. On the way back to Little Guilin, there is a stop for the battery car, where you can take a boat tour. The boat starts with 10 people, and we only waited for 10 minutes. The scenery on the boat is really beautiful, worthy of being Little Guilin.
Little Guilin, Hainan
Anonymous userDecember 24, 2024
5.0
This crocodile park is pretty good, and the package is pretty good. Children like it very much. They can feed the crocodiles. There are so many crocodiles lying there. They will start to scramble for the big fish thrown to them. If they can't grab it, they will bite the claws of the ones that can.
Ezhen Crocodile Park
婷婷April 30, 2025
5.0
In spring, the huanghuali forest is covered with flowers like snow, and the branches are dotted with thousands of lilies. The sweet fragrance of flowers flows in the breeze. The hot springs in the park are steaming with warmth, soothing the body and mind; the quiet museum hides the stories of the past, waiting for visitors to explore. There is also a cute paradise, where the furry little animals blink their smart eyes and invite you to a healing appointment. The fragrance of flowers, the charm of springs, the charm of literature and the cuteness are intertwined here, outlining a beautiful picture that is both dynamic and static. This treasure place will definitely live up to your expectations!
Hainan Rosewood Valley Cultural Tourism Area
木易真人February 21, 2023
4.0
Baicha Village in Dongfang is the best-preserved ancient village of boat-shaped houses of the Li nationality in Hainan. The villagers have now moved to the new village. It takes about an hour to get there from Dongfang. Just keep going forward after the new village. There is no charge for the scenic spot, and it takes about an hour to visit. There are food stalls in the scenic spot.
Baicha Village Traditional Settlement of Li Ethnic Group
我的老鼠猫June 21, 2025
4.0
摩天轮下的海东方沙滩公园，这里里是东方乐园，有过山车、旋转木马。碰碰车等游戏，孩子们在沙滩🏖玩一天才10元，海滩上到处是宝贝们奔跑留下小小的脚印，老人们沿着海滩漫步。望北看 可以清晰看到六座洁白的风车，往南就是繁忙的八所港码头。海东方连着四壁湾形成一个月牙形的港湾，是极佳的海水浴场，沙滩洁白细腻。
Haidongfang Beach Park
GY悠然游January 1, 2020
3.0
When we travel, we usually visit local museums. However, even Baidu Navigation got the wrong route for this railway museum. I asked the bus driver and the locals where it was, but they didn't know where it was? This shows that this is a museum that no one cares about. Finally, I happened to meet a lady working on the railway on the bus, and then I knew that I should get off there. The transportation in Dongfang City is indeed not very convenient. Didi taxi did not respond several times, and there were few buses. Today, I changed buses 3 times and it took more than 2 hours to reach this museum. However, unfortunately, it has been closed for renovation since November 12, 2019. When I asked the guard, he said that he didn't know the opening hours. Standing inside the gate, you can see an old locomotive. It was shot with a pull lens. The museum is now a youth education base for Guangdong Railway Group and Hainan Railway Company. I learned from several old and dilapidated display pictures that there were originally 3 exhibition rooms. It is not recommended for tourists to visit.
In fact, the Hainan Railway Museum is located at the terminal of Binhai South Road, and further south is the Basuo Port Wall and Beach. Opposite is Basuo Port North Life Area A.
Transportation: Take bus No. 2, 3, 5, or 19 to Gangbei Community Station, then walk south for 500 meters.
Hainan Railway Museum
还不曾去过倒悬山！November 29, 2020
4.0
Hainan's Eld's Deer is very unique. From the name, you would think it lives on the hillside. But in Hainanese, "po" means flat land. This is a deer that lives on flat land! It runs fast and is good at jumping!
Datian National Nature Reserve
揽月踏山河January 22, 2026
5.0
A hidden gem on Hainan's western coast, Qizi Bay boasts stunning scenery and fewer crowds, perfect for a slow-paced vacation.
I've always felt that Hainan's western coast possesses a rugged, unspoiled beauty, and Qizi Bay is a prime example. Compared to the hustle and bustle of Sanya, it feels like a tranquil paradise.
🌊 About the seascape: The water at Qizi Bay is crystal clear, a deep turquoise. The sand is incredibly fine, feeling wonderful underfoot. The most unique feature is the diverse rock formations, perfect for taking photos. If you visit in the evening, the sunset is absolutely breathtaking, turning the sky into a sea of orange – truly a stunning sight.
📍 About location: Located in Changjiang Li Autonomous County, it's a relatively less-visited bay in Hainan. While transportation isn't as convenient as in Sanya, this is precisely its charm – preserving its pristine natural beauty. It's also a filming location for the sixth season of the popular Taiwanese variety show "Back to Field" (Shayutang Village is nearby), allowing you to see many familiar scenes.
💡 Travel Tips: It's recommended to drive or rent an electric scooter for easier exploration of the surrounding area. If you come in summer, remember to wear sunscreen; if it's winter (like in January where I am now), the sea breeze can be quite strong, so a windproof jacket is highly recommended.
In summary: If you prefer a quiet place with fewer crowds and the sound of the waves, Qizi Bay will definitely not disappoint you.
Qizi Bay
