I give up on Sanya, this place is even better
Alright, Jiejiezhou Island is one of the most popular island-type scenic spots around Hainan Island, China. It is famous for its clear waters, abundant marine entertainment activities, and unique geographical and cultural significance. Here is a detailed travel guide for Jiejiezhou Island.
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1. Core Highlights and Geographical Significance
1. Geographical Boundary: Jiejiezhou Island is an important geographical and cultural dividing line of Hainan Island. It is an extension of the Niuling Mountain Range, marking the boundary between tropical and subtropical zones, as well as between Wanning City and Lingshui County. It is also often considered the cultural boundary between the Han Chinese and ethnic minorities (Li people) in Hainan. The island often exhibits noticeable climate differences.
2. Clear Water Quality: Known as the "Maldives of China" or "Beauty Island," the seawater visibility is extremely high, reaching 5-10 meters, making it one of Hainan’s top seawater quality areas.
3. Rich Entertainment Options: The island offers almost all mainstream marine and underwater entertainment activities, from beginner to advanced levels.
4. Family-Friendly: Home to China’s largest offshore marine theater for feeding and shows, making it perfect for family trips.
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2. Basic Information
· Location: Lingshui Li Autonomous County, Hainan Province (also very close to Wanning City, driving from Wanning is more convenient).
· Transportation:
· Self-driving/Taxi: Highly recommended. Navigate to "Jiejiezhou Island Tourist Scenic Area Parking Lot." About 1.5 hours from Sanya, 40 minutes from Wanning, and 2.5 hours from Haikou.
· High-speed Train: Take the island loop high-speed train to "Lingshui Station" or "Wanning Station," then transfer to a direct shuttle bus or taxi to the scenic area (Lingshui Station is closer, about 20 minutes by car).
· Bus: Tourist shuttle buses are available from Sanya or Lingshui to the scenic area.
· Tickets:
· Ticket + Round-trip Ferry: About 120-130 RMB (adult). Be sure to book in advance on official or reputable travel platforms for discounts.
· Various Packages: Packages including tickets, ferry, and multiple activities offer better value.
· Opening Hours: Usually 8:30 AM - 10:30 PM (the last ferry to the island is around 5:30 PM, and the last ferry leaving the island is around 10:30 PM; check daily announcements for exact times).
· Recommended Visit Duration: 1 day (if you want to do many activities or relax, consider staying overnight on the island).
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3. Main Attractions and Activities
1. Marine Entertainment (Core Experience)
· Diving: A must-try! Includes reef diving and offshore diving. The water is clear and marine life abundant.
· Speedboat/Jet Ski: Fast and thrilling.
· Parasailing: Enjoy aerial views of the blue sea and the entire island.
· Underwater Sightseeing Submarine/Underwater Walking: Suitable for those who don’t want to get wet or older visitors, viewing the underwater world through cabins or helmets.
· Banana Boat, Water Dragon: Classic team or solo water activities.
2. Landscapes and Photo Spots
· Decision Valley/Joy Hall: Located at the island’s highest point on the mountain top, offering spectacular views and representing the "boundary" culture. Accessible by sightseeing bus (ticket required).
· Moonlight Ancient Castle: On the other side of the island, an open-air theater styled like ancient Rome, very photogenic and great for pictures. Accessible by walking.
· Seaside Boardwalk and Viewing Pavilions: Stroll along the wooden boardwalk by the sea with many pavilions and rest spots to enjoy the crashing waves.
· Lighthouse: One of the island’s iconic buildings.
3. Family Must-Do - Marine Theater
· Marine Theater Shows: Fixed daily sessions (e.g., 11:00 AM, 1:30 PM, 3:30 PM) featuring dolphins and sea lions.
· Marine Animal Interaction: After the show, you can pay to get close to dolphins, sea lions, sea turtles, Pacific whale sharks, feed them, and take photos, which kids love.
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4. Itinerary Suggestions
· Classic One-Day Tour (Compact):
1. Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Arrive early to avoid crowds. Start with core water activities like diving or jet skiing (morning water is clearest and energy is highest).
2. Noon (12:00 PM - 1:30 PM): Lunch at island restaurants or snack street (prices are high, consider bringing some dry food).
3. Afternoon (1:30 PM - 4:30 PM): Watch marine theater show and interact → Take sightseeing bus up the mountain to visit Decision Valley and other spots → Walk to Moonlight Ancient Castle for photos.
4. Evening (4:30 PM - 6:00 PM): Walk along the seaside boardwalk, relax on the beach, prepare to leave. Or try parasailing (best light and views).
5. Night: Return to hotel or head to Lingshui/Wanning city for a seafood feast.
· Leisure Vacation Route:
· Consider staying overnight at the island’s fishing clubhouse. After day-trippers leave at dusk and dawn, you can enjoy the island’s tranquility alone, watch stunning sunrises and sunsets over the sea, and have a completely upgraded experience.
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5. Dining and Accommodation
· Dining:
· The island has a food commercial street offering Hainan rice noodles, coconut rice, barbecue, seafood, etc., but prices are generally 2-3 times higher than in the city.
· It is recommended to bring some drinks and snacks.
· After leaving the island, it is highly recommended to visit seafood stalls near Lingshui Xincun Pier or Wanning Shimei Bay/Shenzhou Peninsula for better value and taste.
· Accommodation:
· Jiejiezhou Island Fishing Club: The only hotel on the island, with various room types (such as Houhai Feiya Cliffwood House, Shanhaige, etc.), some built on cliffs or by the sea with unbeatable views. Includes tickets and ferry, definitely worth experiencing.
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6. Practical Tips
1. Book in advance: Tickets, activity packages, and accommodation should be booked online in advance for cheaper prices and guaranteed spots.
2. Weather is crucial: Choose a sunny day to visit. Overcast or windy days reduce water color and activity experience, and ferries may be suspended.
3. Sunscreen! Sunscreen! Sunscreen! Hainan’s UV rays are very strong; bring high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, and sun-protective clothing.
4. Clothing: Wear comfortable sandals or slippers, bring a change of clothes (for after water activities). It’s best to wear swimwear underneath.
5. Storage and Rinse: Paid lockers and freshwater rinse facilities are available on the island.
6. Spend wisely: Prices are high on the island; ask clearly about prices before buying souvenirs or joining extra interactions.
7. Watch the last ferry: Plan your time carefully to avoid missing the last ferry off the island.
Summary: Jiejiezhou Island is a mature island scenic area combining natural scenery, geographical culture, dynamic entertainment, and family fun. With good planning and preparation, you will have an unforgettable trip of blue seas and skies here! Have a great time!