Dongfang Yulinzhou Scenic Area in Dongfang,Hainan

The romance of Hainan is not limited to the polished bays and famous resorts of the island's east coast. On the quieter west coast, Dongfang Yulinzhou Scenic Area (东方鱼鳞洲风景区) offers a more peaceful and lesser-known coastal escape.

Located in Basuo Town (八所镇), Dongfang City, Yulinzhou is one of the westernmost coastal areas of Hainan Island and a long-established seaside attraction. Here, distinctive fish-scale-shaped reefs meet a coastline dotted with white wind turbines and a photogenic lighthouse. With the waves of the Beibu Gulf stretching toward the horizon and spectacular sunsets filling the sky, this uncrowded destination is an excellent place to experience Hainan's quieter west coast, chase the sunset and capture atmospheric coastal scenery.

A Remarkable Coastal Landscape and the Famous Fish-Scale Reefs

Discover a Unique Geological Wonder Along the Coast

Yulinzhou takes its name from its distinctive coastal geological formations. Along the shore, layers of reddish-brown reefs are arranged in overlapping patterns, with clear textures that resemble the shimmering scales of a fish when illuminated by sunlight. This unusual landscape was already recorded in local historical gazetteers during the Qing Dynasty and has long been one of Dongfang's distinctive natural landmarks.

Unlike Hainan's more familiar stretches of soft, white sand, Yulinzhou is characterized primarily by rocky shores and pebble beaches. The natural coastline feels wild yet peaceful, with waves breaking continuously against the rocks and sending white spray across the shore.

The sound of the sea, the textured reefs and the open coastal horizon create a landscape with a strong sense of natural character and a very different atmosphere from Hainan's busier resort beaches.

A Lighthouse and Wind Turbines Framing the Beibu Gulf

Yulinzhou's landmark scenery is especially recognizable. Standing on higher ground above the coast, the lighthouse is the visual centerpiece of the area. Simple and elegant in appearance, it quietly overlooks the waters of the Beibu Gulf, serving as both a traditional navigation landmark and one of the best places for photography.

Along the coast, giant white wind turbines stand in a line and slowly turn in the sea breeze. The combination of blue water, dramatic reefs, wind turbines and the lighthouse creates one of the most distinctive coastal views on Hainan's west coast.

Natural seaside scenery and the clean, minimalist visual character of modern wind power come together here, producing a landscape that feels both raw and unexpectedly cinematic.

A Relaxed Coastal Walk and a Magical Hainan Sunset

Slow Down and Enjoy the Quiet Beauty of the Sea

Yulinzhou is easy and relaxing to explore, making it suitable for family outings, couples, solo travelers and visitors who simply want to spend time beside the sea. Walk slowly along the coastal paths, with the open waters of the Beibu Gulf on one side and the distinctive fish-scale reefs on the other.

Sea breezes bring a refreshing break from the tropical heat, while the relatively peaceful environment allows visitors to enjoy the surrounding mountains and sea without the pressure of large tourist crowds.

For wider views, head toward the lighthouse viewing area, where the coastline and broad expanse of sea unfold before you. The sweeping views of sea and sky are particularly rewarding on clear days.

One of the Best Places to Watch the Sunset on Hainan's West Coast

Yulinzhou is also one of the most attractive places in Hainan for sunset watching. Its position along the island's far western coastline gives visitors an open view toward the setting sun.

As evening approaches, warm light gradually spreads across the sea, reefs and wind turbines. The sky often turns shades of gold and orange, while the remaining sunlight reflects across the water and rocky coastline. The result is a soft, romantic and highly photogenic atmosphere.

At low tide, small marine creatures and shells can sometimes be found among the rocks, offering visitors the opportunity to experience the simple pleasure of exploring the intertidal zone and looking for small crabs and other coastal life.

Spend the day listening to the waves, then stay for a glowing orange sunset over the Beibu Gulf. This simple rhythm of slow coastal life is one of the greatest pleasures of visiting Yulinzhou.

Explore More of Dongfang and Hainan's West Coast

Combine Yulinzhou with Beaches, Local Food and Mountain Scenery

Yulinzhou is conveniently located near Dongfang's main coastal urban area, making it easy to combine with several other attractions on Hainan's west coast.

After visiting the scenic area, travelers can continue to Dongfang Haidongfang Beach Park (东方海东方沙滩公园) for a walk along the sandy beach and to enjoy the evening sea breeze.

Visitors can also explore local streets and sample some of Dongfang's distinctive flavors, including roasted suckling pig, Sigeng rice noodles (四更粉) and fresh seafood served with traditional fermented vinegar soup.

For travelers with more time, the wider Dongfang area also offers mountain and reservoir scenery, including Daguangba (大广坝) and Exianling (俄贤岭). Together, these destinations reveal several sides of Dongfang—from mountains and reservoirs to rugged coastlines, local communities and the everyday flavors of Hainan's less-visited west coast.

Practical Travel Guide to Dongfang Yulinzhou Scenic Area

Address

Yulinzhou Scenic Area, Linzhou Road (磷洲路), Basuo Town (八所镇), Dongfang City, Hainan Province, China.

Opening Hours

The scenic area is generally open throughout the year and accessible all day, with no fixed closing period. Visitors can plan their trip according to the weather and the time of sunset.

Tickets and Reservations

Yulinzhou Scenic Area is open to the public free of charge, and advance reservations are not required. Visitors can explore the coastal area freely without an admission fee.

Recommended Visiting Time

Allow approximately 1.5 to 2 hours for a visit.

The best time to arrive is generally between 17:00 and 19:00, when the light becomes softer and the sunset scenery is at its most impressive. This is also an excellent time for photography.

The coastal rocks can be rough and slippery, particularly when wet, so comfortable shoes with good grip are strongly recommended. Visitors should also use sun protection during the day. Sea breezes can become cooler in the evening, so bringing a light outer layer is advisable.

With its unusual reefs, lighthouse, wind turbines and spectacular western sunsets, Dongfang Yulinzhou Scenic Area offers one of the most distinctive and peaceful coastal experiences for travelers exploring Hainan beyond its famous eastern beach resorts.