Summary: Celebrate CNY 2026 with family on Weizhou Island. Watch Bryde's whales from Dec-Apr, enjoy festive markets, light shows, and volcanic landscapes. Stay in coral stone houses and savor seafood feasts. Travel via Beihai for a warm, memorable holiday.
Imagine sailing into the deep blue, the sea breeze brushing your cheeks, when suddenly a dark gray dorsal fin breaks the surface in the distance...
Look, it's here! A Bryde's whale leaps from the water, its massive tail pausing mid-air as if waving to welcome 2026.
Welcome to Weizhou Island! The Bryde's whale is the first gift this warm southern paradise offers for the New Year.
Are you ready for a 'whale-come' adventure in 2026?
1st Stop: Beihai
Starting Point of Your Whale-Watching Journey
Let this adventure begin in Beihai. Don't be fooled by its name—Beihai has no winter chill, only warm sunshine and sea breezes. It's the gateway to Weizhou Island and the starting point of our whale-watching journey.
Getting to Beihai is easy, with Fucheng Airport connecting to many domestic and international cities. From there, take a high-speed ferry from Beihai International Passenger Port and sail about 24 nautical miles south. In just 80 minutes, you'll arrive at Weizhou Island.
Before boarding, remember to book your ferry tickets and park entry in advance. You can easily purchase them through the official WeChat account 'Lai You Ba' or the mini-program 'En O Wa.'
During the Chinese New Year peak, we recommend booking round-trip tickets early for a smoother journey.
2nd Stop: Weizhou Island
Pearl of the South China Sea
In the heart of the Beibu Gulf lies an island first recorded in the Jiaozhou Ji during the Jin Dynasty:
"Eighteen miles from Hepu lies Weizhou, spanning one hundred li. This land produces pearls."
Weizhou means 'land surrounded by water'—aptly describing Weizhou Island.
As China's largest and youngest volcanic island, over 95% of Weizhou Island's terrain is composed of volcanic rock.
With a total area of 24.74 square kilometers and a peak elevation of 79 meters, it's a national 5A-level scenic area.
The nutrient-rich, warm waters surrounding the island support a vibrant marine ecosystem, attracting diverse marine life—including the star of our whale-watching journey, the Bryde's whale.
Crown Jewel 1
The World's Largest Coastal Bryde's Whale Population
Bryde's whales belong to the baleen whale family, feeding mainly on small fish and shrimp.
Research has identified over 70 individual Bryde's whales in the waters around Weizhou Island, making this a favored home where you have a high chance of encountering these gentle ocean giants.
Crown Jewel 2
China's Only Reliable Whale-Watching Destination
Every year, from December to April, Bryde's whales return to Weizhou Island to feed, play, and raise their calves.
This seasonal regularity ensures your whale-watching hopes won't be in vain. In China, this is the only place where you can confidently set out to witness Bryde's whales.
Crown Jewel 3
One of China's Most Beautiful Islands
Weizhou Island's beauty is officially recognized. As Guangxi's largest island, it's a vibrant young volcanic island where ancient lava formations meet turquoise waters and white sandy beaches.
This unique charm earned it a spot among Chinese National Geographic's "Top Ten Most Beautiful Islands in China."
Crown Jewel 4
China's Hawaii at 21°N
Weizhou Island lies along the magical 21°N latitude, sharing the same sunny blessings as destinations like Hawaii and Miami.
With an average annual temperature of 23°C, crystal-clear waters, and gradually recovering coral coverage, it provides an ideal habitat for marine life.
In winter, it's a warm escape from the cold; in summer, sea breezes bring cool relief. Whenever you visit, Weizhou Island promises a pleasant coastal holiday.
3rd Stop: Whale-Watching Guide
Now that you're equipped with the basics, let's turn you into a lucky and professional whale watcher!
Golden Timing
Understanding Whale Daily Rhythms
The best season for whale watching is December to April. Each day, between 1pm and 4pm, when seawater temperatures are most comfortable, Bryde's whales are most active—this is their "golden performance time" for feeding.
Whale-Watching Options
Join a Professional Tour
You can board the newly introduced 52-seat luxury whale-watching yacht Jing Yu Wei Zhou at Nanwan Marine Sports Park.
Designed specifically for whale-watching, its open second deck offers 360° panoramic views.
Experienced captains will take you to the most likely whale-spotting areas, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride.
Alternatively, opt for the more flexible 11-seat whale-watching speedboats.
They allow closer observation of whales while maintaining a safe and regulated distance.
4th Stop: Chinese New Year Fun
What Else to Do on Weizhou Island?
Whale watching typically takes half a day, leaving you plenty of time to immerse yourself in Weizhou Island's vibrant Chinese New Year atmosphere.
A festive celebration blending tradition and island flair awaits you.
From February 17—Chinese New Year's Day—to February 23rd—7th day of the New Year—Nanwan Marine Sports Park • Lang Street will transform into a festive hub, offering a unique celebration filled with island charm, all-night energy, and family-friendly warmth.
During the New Year, Nanwan Lang Street becomes a holiday playground. Discover island specialties, handicrafts, and local delicacies—endless shopping and delicious eats await.
As night falls, countless lights rise and bloom to the rhythm, like a shower of stars illuminating the bay and the smiling faces below.
Stand side by side with loved ones, make wishes under the romantic night sky, and let every burst of light echo your hopes for the New Year.
Engrave this shining, warm reunion memory into your 2026 Chinese New Year.
Daily performances add to the festive spirit. Watch intangible cultural heritage acts like face-changing with fire-breathing, fire juggling, and bursts blazing across the seaside night sky. Here, traditional art meets modern performances, igniting the night's passion.
Of course, music is essential too!
From soothing folk melodies to explosive electronic beats, let the sea and stars embrace you as you dance to the rhythm, releasing energy and enjoying the island's sleepless night carnival.
Whether you're a fun-seeking young traveler or a family looking for shared moments, everyone can find their own New Year joy and create laughter-filled, warm memories of a Chinese New Year!
The New Year festivities at Nanwan Marine Sports Park transcend the traditional stage. Intangible cultural heritage flash mobs, performances, and fireworks markets transform into dynamic, ever-moving platforms, greeting you unexpectedly around a street corner or by the water's edge.
Here, tradition meets trend in a dazzling fusion—a unique celebration that will set your pulse racing.
Follow the official WeChat account 'Come Play' to uncover surprises and collect precious, heartwarming island memories, filled with the rich rituals of a Chinese New Year.
From Feb 17-23, experience non-stop festivities from afternoon until night on Weizhou Island.
Catch incredible luck with close-up performances like Yingge Dance and fire-spitting.
Enjoy EDM nights with singalongs and beach fun.
Explore the Whale Joy Market for snacks, crafts, and family activities.
Ring in the New Year together with dazzling lights bursting in the night sky and a festive confetti countdown.
Scan the QR code on the poster above to create perfect memories with your family on Weizhou Island this Spring Festival.
5th Stop: In-Depth Exploration
A Complete Experience from Nature to Culture
Weizhou Island offers a complete journey, from majestic volcanic landscapes and rich cultural heritage to authentic fishing village life.
Natural Landscapes
Touching the Island's Soul
The heart of Weizhou Island lies within Nanwan Crocodile Hill Park, home to China's youngest volcanic remains.
Rich in negative oxygen ions, a stroll through this area offers a restorative retreat for both body and mind.
At sunset, head to Dishui Danping's volcanic cliffs to witness the breathtaking gradient of reds and purples—an idyllic spot for evening views.
Add to this the crystal azure waters of Shiluo Kou Beach, the "sky mirror" effect of Five-Color Beach at low tide, and the boundless ocean vistas from the Spring-Summer Cliff Garden, and you'll discover the island's stunning and diverse natural canvas.
Slide to view more
Cultural Charms
Exploring Island History & Vibrancy
Slide to view more
Don't miss Shengtang Catholic Church.
Built in 1853, it's a historical landmark constructed entirely with local volcanic stone, coral, and timber—a serene and solemn fusion of Chinese materials and Gothic architecture.
For vibrancy, head to Nanwan Marine Sports Park—the island's only comprehensive marine sports base with official credentials. Experience diving, sailing, and more, with safety and fun guaranteed.
Key reminder! The whale-watching departure point and most New Year activities are based at Nanwan Marine Sports Park.
The adjacent Nanwan Street, built along the coast, is known as the 'Most Beautiful Coastal Road,' perfect for leisurely strolls and ocean gazing.
Island Life
Live Like a Local
To immerse yourself in local life, follow the "low tide out, high tide back" rule. During early morning or evening low tides, join the locals in Tidal Foraging.
Search for sea snails, crabs, and shellfish among the rocks, experiencing the joy of "living off the sea."
Then, head to Nanwan Street Seafood Market. Pick out plump mantis shrimp (recommended with salt and pepper seasoning), the island's unique stone oysters, and sweet Beihai squid.
Have a restaurant prepare your catch for an affordable, authentic seafood feast!
Accommodation
Stay in traditional coral stone houses, where porous walls naturally regulate temperature. Weizhou Island Coral Courtyard preserves this ancient architecture.
Enjoy butler service, transfers, and authentic local cuisine like banana chicken and volcanic goat at its on-site restaurant.
Skip the ticket-booking hassle with two convenient double packages:
2 Days, 1 Night All-Inclusive Package
Covers business-class ferry tickets, Weizhou Island Coral Courtyard stay, island electric bike rental, and exclusive yacht whale-watching for a hassle-free whole holiday.
Traveler's Practical Guide
3 Days to Experience Weizhou Island During CNY
Day 1: Beihai
First Taste of Southern Charm
Noon: Arrive in Beihai, head directly to Beihai International Passenger Port to board the ferry to the island (passports accepted for ticket purchase).
Afternoon: Check into Weizhou Island Coral Courtyard, experience the island's "breathing" houses.
Evening: Visit Nanwan Lang Street, explore the market, savor delicacies, and enjoy the night light show and intangible cultural heritage performances.
Day 2: Weizhou Island
Heart-Pounding Whale-Watching Day
Dawn: Welcome the magnificent South China Sea sunrise at Five-Color Beach.
Afternoon: Begin your whale-watching journey at Nanwan Marine Sports Park. Set sail and have that romantic encounter with the Bryde's whales you've been anticipating, capped with a sea sunset.
Evening: Enjoy an authentic seafood feast and continue experiencing Lang Street's New Year activities.
Day 3: Island
In-Depth Exploration Day
Morning: Visit Nanwan Crocodile Hill Park, walk the boardwalks to explore marvelous volcanic remains.
Noon: Enjoy a sumptuous seafood lunch at a restaurant near Shiluo Kou and relax a little.
Afternoon: Visit the Catholic Church, or go shell collecting at Shell Beach, then and have afternoon tea at the Spring-Summer Cliff Garden.
Evening: Take the ferry back to Beihai, ending your perfect journey filled with memories and photos.
Tips for International Travelers
Visa
Apply for a Chinese tourist visa 1-2 months in advance through the Chinese Visa Application Service Centre (CVASC).
Island Transportation
Renting an electric bike is the most free and convenient way to explore Weizhou Island, allowing you to stop anytime for scenery.
Island buses and chartered car services are also available.
Language
Major tourist areas and visitor centers offer basic English-language services. It is recommended to download a translation app in advance for assistance.
Alternatively, you may pick up an English map or arrange for an English-speaking guide at the visitor center.
Weizhou Island Awaits
As Chinese New Year 2026 draws near, the clear blue waters around Weizhou Island welcome you to a magnificent meeting with the whales.
May your journey bring you a stretch of sea to call your own, and a sight so wondrous it stays with you forever.
All that remains is for you to set forth.
No comments:
Post a Comment