If you’re planning to travel along the Hainan Coastal Scenic Highway looking for that perfect stretch of beach, quiet, raw, and far from the resort crowds, Mulan Bay should be on your radar.
Just 90km from Haikou City
Perched at the northernmost tip of Hainan Island near Puqian Town, just 90 kilometers from Haikou, Mulan Bay is one of those rare places where the road meets the wild.
Whether you’re bikepacking, road tripping, or just day-tripping, this spot delivers the kind of coastal escape that’s getting harder to find.
Why Camp Here?
Mulan Bay isn’t groomed for mass tourism. That’s the appeal. This stretch of coast offers seven crescent-shaped beaches broken up by dramatic rock formations. It’s a playground for anyone who loves the simple things: swimming in clear water, exploring tide pools, or watching the sunset with sand between your toes.
The beaches are wide, the sand is loose and white, and the water? Crystal clear. Perfect for pitching a tent right by the waves. Wake up to the sound of the ocean and a sky streaked with sunrise colors, no hotel checkout required.
What Sets It Apart?
The lighthouse is the landmark. Towering 74.2 meters, it’s the tallest lighthouse in Asia and dominates the skyline. It’s not just a photo prop; it’s an active navigation aid visible up to 24 nautical miles out.
Watching the sun dip or rise behind it feels cinematic.
Look south and the view shifts to something unexpected: wind turbines. Dozens of massive white blades turn steadily along the coast, adding an almost surreal contrast to the natural seascape.
Things to Do
Beach Walks & Tide Hunting: The intertidal zone is full of life. Watch hermit crabs shuffle across the sand or search for shells.
Fishing: Locals and travelers alike drop lines from the rocky outcrops.
Photography: You won’t find a bad angle here, whether it’s the lighthouse at sunset, the turbines against a stormy sky, or the textures of sand and stone at your feet.
Hiking: The hinterland links to Qixingling Mountain for those who want to swap sand for elevation.
Nearby: Puqian Town
A visit to Mulan Bay isn’t complete without a detour into Puqian. Old streets lined with traditional arcade-style buildings hold echoes of the past, while the fishing port offers fresh catches straight to the table. Grab a seafood meal before heading back or stock up if you’re camping overnight.
Best Time to Visit
Dry Season (November to March): Cooler, comfortable, with almost no rain, ideal for camping and photography.
Hot Season (May): Bring sunscreen and stay hydrated; temperatures can hit 39°C.
Rainy Season (May-August): Expect heavy rains and moody skies.
Getting There
Thanks to the newly opened Hainan Coastal Scenic Highway, Mulan Bay is a straightforward drive or ride from Haikou. The highway itself is a destination, hugging the coastline for nearly 1,000 kilometers and offering constant sea views.
A Word of Advice
There’s no resort, no bar, no rental shop. Bring what you need: food, water, shade, and respect for the natural environment. What you get in return is space, open skies, endless ocean, and a coastline that still feels like a secret.
If you’re looking for a beach camping spot that skips the crowds without skipping the beauty, Mulan Bay delivers.
Related article: E&W Coffee Puqian
