Yulinzhou: A Journey to Hainan’s West Coast—A Secret Lighthouse Sanctuary and Windmill Coast

The Name of the "Immortal Isle"—The Origin of "Fish Scales"

The name "Yulinzhou" (Fish Scale Isle) derives from its unique geological features. A rocky peak rises abruptly from the coastline, reaching a height of approximately 80 to 90 meters. Its rock formations are layered in dense succession; when refracted by sunlight, they resemble the shimmering scales of a fish—hence the name. The 18th volume of the *Qiongzhou Prefecture Gazetteer* (compiled during the Qing Dynasty) records: "A solitary peak rises abruptly to a height of thirty *zhang*; its rocky strata overlap in layers resembling fish scales, and thus it was named." Ancient travelers visiting Yulinzhou left behind poetic verses describing the scene: "Yulinzhou towers, touching the clouds and sky; climbing its slopes reveals a world apart. Strange rocks twist and turn, a sight one never tires of; wondrous peaks overlap, linked by emerald green. A single well flows with water, pure and clear; waves crash in a thousand layers, threatening to topple the land. Where does one seek the immortal mountains of the sea? Clearly, this very scene is a realm of the divine." The "single flowing well" mentioned in the poem refers to a miraculous stone well located on the isle; its spring water never runs dry throughout the year, offering a taste that is both sweet and refreshing. To the west of the well lies a cave where seabirds and waterfowl build their nests within the crevices of the rock walls, thriving and multiplying in this natural sanctuary.

A Poignant Legend—The Vigil of a Li Couple

A moving legend of the Li people is told at Yulinzhou. In ancient times, a Li couple lived a blissful life in this very spot; the husband would head out to sea to fish, while the wife stayed home to weave fishing nets. Later, government troops sought to drive them deep into the mountains. The husband rose up in resistance but, outnumbered, was killed, and his body was cast into the sea. Sea turtles and crabs carried his body back to the beach. Upon seeing her husband's remains, the wife was overcome with grief and passed away; she transformed into a sea swallow, tirelessly carrying mud day and night to cover her husband's body. Over time, the accumulated earth piled up into a towering mountain, its layers overlapping like fish scales. To commemorate this devoted couple, the local people named this place "Yulinzhou" (Fish Scale Islet).

The Path of Rebirth—A Vigil Through Vicissitudes to Renewal

The modern story of Yulinzhou unfolds as a sweeping historical scroll—one marked by the passage of time and great change, yet defined by an enduring spirit of watchfulness:

Splendor of the Ming and Qing Eras: During the reign of Emperor Kangxi in the Qing Dynasty, Yulinzhou was designated as one of the "Eight Scenic Spots of Qiongzhou." In the Ming Dynasty, a "Yulinzhou Military Fort" was established here to defend against Japanese pirates.

Scars of Humiliation: In 1940, during the construction of Basuo Port, invading Japanese forces blasted away a section of the islet's peak, leaving behind a lasting historical scar.

The Lighthouse Reborn: In 1957, maritime authorities installed a beacon at Yulinzhou. This was upgraded in 1986 to a pavilion-style structure, and in 2003, it was rebuilt as an 18.6-meter-tall cylindrical lighthouse made of reinforced concrete, becoming a vital navigational aid for the Beibu Gulf region.

Ecological Restoration: From 2022 to 2023, an ecological restoration and greening project was implemented on the slopes of Yulinzhou, involving a total investment of 8.4313 million RMB. Since December 2023, the lighthouse has been open to the public for limited-time free visits. > Dive Deeper: Explore More Hidden Gems on Hainan's Western Route.>>[Sanya Phoenix Island]>>[Laoshan]

Nature's Masterpiece — The Eternal Dialogue Between Sea Breeze and Reefs

The natural landscape of Yulinzhou is a magnificent symphony of sea breezes, rugged reefs, and shifting light and shadow.

Rugged Rocks: An Open-Air Museum Carved by the Sea

The rocky hills of Yulinzhou serve as a living textbook of geology. Rising just over 80 meters above sea level, this coastal peak has been sculpted by millions of years of wind and waves; its rocks overlap in layers, resembling fish scales—hence the name "Yulinzhou" (Fish-Scale Isle). On the western face of the hill, a scattering of bizarrely shaped rocks blankets the beach. Waves crash against the stone cliffs, sending plumes of snowy-white spray into the air, while the roar of the surf—reminiscent of distant thunder—rises and falls with a steady, rhythmic beat. These reefs take on myriad forms: some resemble a recumbent ox, others a colossal warship, while still others—requiring a touch of imagination—evoke images of immortals playing chess or a divine turtle exploring the depths. This place is a natural classroom for geology enthusiasts and, even more so, an ideal destination for families with children to spark their imagination through the wonders of nature.

Gritty Shores: A Unique Pebble-Strewn Coastline

Unlike the fine white sands found along Hainan's eastern coast, the beaches of Yulinzhou are carpeted with small pebbles, creating a slightly prickly sensation when walking barefoot. This unique type of pebble beach features grains that are as fine as dust, as white as snow, and as soft and yielding as cotton, creating a distinct rustling sound with every step. The beach is dotted with cacti, yet curiously, other forms of vegetation are scarce—a fascinating natural phenomenon. At low tide, small crabs and seashells hide among the reefs, making this an excellent spot for beachcombing and shell-gathering.

The Array of Windmills: Hainan's Only Coastal Wind Farm

Situated on the edge of the Gulf of Tonkin, Yulinzhou is constantly buffeted by westerly winds blowing in from the sea year-round, endowing the region with exceptionally rich wind energy resources. Towering over the beach stand 18 massive, milky-white wind turbines; lined up along the coastline like a colossal fleet, they reach heights of several dozen meters. Set against the backdrop of the azure sky and the deep blue sea, these turbines create Yulinzhou’s signature "Windmill Coast"—a landscape found nowhere else in Hainan. This place is a paradise for photography enthusiasts, as well as a vivid testament to Hainan's development of clean energy.

> Photography Tips:

> The best time to shoot is around sunset in the evening, when the lingering glow of the setting sun casts a magnificent array of colors upon the wind turbines and the sea;

> The optimal vantage point is on the beach situated between the wind turbine array and the lighthouse, allowing you to capture the lighthouse, the turbines, and the ocean all in a single frame;

> Use a slow shutter speed when photographing the waves to transform the moving water into a soft, ethereal, mist-like texture;

> Drone flight is permitted here, enabling you to capture epic, "God's-eye-view" perspectives.

Human Ingenuity—The Century-Old Lighthouse Keeping Watch Over the Beibu Gulf

Yulinguo Lighthouse: The Navigational Beacon at Hainan's Westernmost Point

The Yulinguo Lighthouse serves as the iconic symbol of Yulinzhou as well as the city of Dongfang. This cylindrical lighthouse, constructed from reinforced concrete and painted white, stands 18.6 meters tall with its light source positioned at an elevation of 62.9 meters. Boasting a light range of 18 nautical miles and equipped with a radar transponder, it fulfills vital light and radar navigation functions for vessels traveling between Basuo Port in the Beibu Gulf and along the western route of the island's perimeter. Since the establishment of a navigational beacon at this site in 1957, this lighthouse has stood as a silent sentinel, keeping watch over the Beibu Gulf for nearly 70 years. As of December 2023, the lighthouse is open to the public free of charge on designated visiting days, allowing visitors to ascend the tower and enjoy panoramic views of the magnificent Beibu Gulf.

Basuo Port: A Crossroads of History and Modernity

To the east of Yulinzhou lies the majestic Basuo Port. This port serves as the economic lifeline of western Hainan and stands as a witness to history—in 1940, occupying Japanese forces constructed the port here, a process that involved blasting away a section of the Yulinzhou peak. Today, the port operates with bustling efficiency and order, with massive cargo ships constantly moving in and out—a fascinating contrast to the tranquil serenity of Yulinzhou. On clear days, peering through high-powered binoculars, one can faintly discern the distant city of Haiphong, Vietnam.

Natural Ecology: A Sanctuary for Seabirds

Yulinzhou is surrounded by the sea on three sides and is constantly battered by crashing waves; rows of dark, rugged reefs are stacked and clustered at the foot of the hill, forming a natural protective barrier. This place is a paradise for seabirds; egrets, seagulls, and other avian species roost and breed here. Every May, these seabirds lay their eggs and hatch their young amidst the vegetation covering the islet. In the early morning or late evening, it is a common sight to see seabirds skimming just above the water's surface, hunting for small fish in the shallows—adding a touch of lively vitality to Yulinzhou.

Five Must-Do Activities to Unlock the Complete Yulinzhou Experience

1. Capture a Stunning Sunset Photo Series

Time: 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM (varies by season); the moment the sun dips below the horizon into the Gulf of Tonkin is the most breathtaking.

Locations: The Windmill Array Beach (for panoramic views), the Lighthouse Stone Steps (for human silhouettes), and the Rocky Shore (for shots of waves and the setting sun).

Attire: Light-colored maxi dresses or flowing garments are recommended, as they create excellent interplay of light and shadow during the sunset hour.

2. Keep a Date with the Lighthouse

Key Point: The lighthouse is open for visitors to climb to the top on designated days.

Experience: Ascend the tower to overlook the Gulf of Tonkin, gaze out toward the distant shores of Vietnam, and learn about lighthouse navigation history.

Tip: Opening hours are limited; it is advisable to check the scenic area's official announcements in advance.

3. Go "Tide-Foraging" and Gather a Basket of Shells

Experience: At low tide, the rocky intertidal zones reveal a hidden world of small crabs, seashells, and sea snails.

Tools: It is recommended to bring a small bucket, a small shovel, and beach shoes (walking barefoot on the pebbles can be painful).

Time: Check the local tide tables before your visit; low tide is the ideal time for tide-foraging.

4. Savor a Feast of Authentic "Dongfang" Flavors

Must-Order Dishes: Sigeng Roasted Suckling Pig (crispy skin, tender meat—a 300-year-old tradition), Dongfang Sour Cucumber Fish Soup (tangy, aromatic, and appetizing), and Braised Shark with Sour Cucumber.

Snack Hunt: Gangmen *Lumi* (rice-noodle soup served with a savory sauce), *Qingbulang* (a refreshing coconut milk dessert perfect for cooling down), and Freshly Fried Shrimp Cakes.

Seafood Market: The Basuo New Port Seafood Market, where fishermen sell their daily catch directly, and vendors offer on-the-spot cooking services. 5. Linking Up Nearby Hidden Gems

Exian Ridge (approx. 1-hour drive from Yulinzhou): A pristine tropical rainforest featuring karst topography—often dubbed "Hainan's Little Guilin."

Baicha Village (approx. 1.5-hour drive): An ancient village featuring traditional Li ethnic "boat-shaped houses"—a designated National Intangible Cultural Heritage site.

Hainan Railway Museum (within the city center): Home to vintage locomotives and classic "green-skinned" trains, offering a deeply nostalgic, retro atmosphere.

Suggested Itineraries

Half-Day "Essential Highlights" Tour (Ideal for those short on time):

Arrive at Yulinzhou at 4:00 PM → Snap photos at the Windmill Coast (30 mins) → Climb the lighthouse steps for panoramic views (30 mins) → Go "tide-pooling" and shell-collecting on the rocky beach (40 mins) → Stroll along the sandy beach while awaiting the sunset (1 hour) → Depart after enjoying the sunset.

IntoTravelChina Tip: The sunset period attracts a large crowd; we recommend arriving early to secure a prime spot for photography.

Full-Day "Immersive Experience" Tour (Recommended):

Arrive at 10:00 AM → Climb the lighthouse and admire the unique rock formations (1.5 hours) → Lunch at the seafood market at Basuo New Port (1.5 hours) → Afternoon visit to the Hainan Railway Museum (1.5 hours) → Return to Yulinzhou in the evening for a stroll along the Windmill Coast and tide-pooling (2 hours) → Enjoy the sunset, followed by a dinner of the famous Sigeng Roasted Suckling Pig.

IntoTravelChina Advantage: We can provide you with a customized full-day itinerary for Dongfang City—including seamless transport connections, dining recommendations, and tide-timing alerts—ensuring a truly immersive and hassle-free travel experience. 

Recommended Combinations with Nearby Attractions

Yulinzhou serves as an excellent starting point for exploring Dongfang City, allowing you to easily cover all the hidden gems in the surrounding area:

Exian Ridge (1 Day): Karst rainforest hiking, exploring the mysterious "Eniang Cave," and panoramic views overlooking the Daguangba Reservoir.

Baicha Village + Daguangba Reservoir (1 Day): Li ethnic boat-shaped houses, Asia's longest earthen dam, and picturesque lake-and-mountain scenery. Dongfang City Full-Area Tour (2–3 Days): Yulinzhou + Railway Museum + Beili Ancient Village + Exian Ridge + Baicha Village.

> Expert Guides: IntoTravelChina offers fully customized itineraries, including exclusive guides, transportation, and activity arrangements, allowing you to deeply explore the hidden gems of Hainan's western coast.  >> [Inquire Now for a Customized Itinerary]

How to Get There: A Seamless Connection Guide

Yulinzhou is located in Basuo Town, Dongfang City. Dongfang City itself does not have an airport; Sanya serves as the primary transit hub.

1.  From Anywhere in the Country: We recommend flying to Sanya Phoenix International Airport, then transferring to the High-Speed ​​Rail (HSR) to Dongfang Station (approx. 1.5 hours). Sanya Airport and the HSR station offer seamless connectivity.

2.  From Haikou: Take the Round-the-Island HSR to Dongfang Station (approx. 1.5–2 hours). Trains run frequently; advance booking is recommended.

3.  From Sanya: Take the Round-the-Island HSR to Dongfang Station (approx. 1 hour). There are multiple departures daily.

4.  From Dongfang City Center: Take a taxi or public bus to Yulinzhou (approx. 15–20 minutes). Navigate to "Yulinzhou Scenic Area"; free parking is available.

5.  From Nearby Cities (Self-Driving/Chartered Car): Danzhou (1.5 hours) and Changjiang (1 hour) are ideal starting points for a combined multi-city tour.

Important Return Tip: Taxis returning to the city center from Yulinzhou are scarce at night. We recommend booking a ride-hailing service in advance or arranging a specific waiting time with your driver.

Best Time to Visit

Yulinzhou is a destination that can be enjoyed year-round, but the late afternoon—specifically at sunset—offers the most exceptional experience.

Peak Season (November to April): The climate is pleasant—warm and dry—and the sunset views are at their most magnificent. This period coincides perfectly with the post-fishing ban season (fishing resumes in August), ensuring an abundance of fresh seafood.

Spring & Summer (May–September): The weather is hot, so sun protection is essential. However, afternoon sea breezes often provide a refreshing respite. During the summer, the sun sets later in the evening.

Winter (December–February): Temperatures are comfortable (hovering around 20°C), making it an ideal winter escape for visitors from northern regions. Visitor crowds are relatively lighter during this period, resulting in a more relaxed and enjoyable experience. Best Time of Day: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM. As the sun dips below the horizon of the Gulf of Tonkin, the windmills and lighthouse appear particularly captivating amidst the golden afterglow.

Accommodation Options

Accommodation in the City Center (Top Choice / Recommended):

1. Basuo Town Hotels/Guesthouses:

Experience: A wide variety of options ranging from budget-friendly to luxury, offering convenient transportation and abundant dining choices.

Recommendations: Oriental Aoyue Licheng Hotel (300+ RMB), Atour / Quanjing / Meihao Lizhi (200+ RMB).

Suitable for: Most travelers.

2. Guesthouses near Yulinzhou:

Experience: Within walking distance of the beach; perfect for evening strolls and stargazing.

Suitable for: Travelers who wish to enjoy close-up ocean views and have easy access to beachcombing activities.

Accommodation Outside the City Center (For Unique Experiences):

1. Guesthouses near Exianling: Ideal for travelers planning an in-depth exploration of Dongfang City or a multi-day itinerary.

2. High-End Hotels in Dongfang City: Feature comprehensive amenities and facilities, suitable for travelers with higher standards for their accommodation.

IntoTravelChina Accommodation Booking Tips:

We recommend planning your itinerary and booking your accommodation at least 1–2 months in advance—especially during peak seasons (winter and the Lunar New Year). By booking through us, you gain access to real-time room availability and the opportunity to bundle your accommodation, attraction tickets, and transportation into a single plan, often resulting in package discounts. Simply tell us your budget and requirements, and we will match you with the perfect "West Coast Home."  >> [Click to contact IntoTravelChina Travel Consultant]

Yulinzhou is by no means the end of your journey, but rather the perfect starting point for exploring the spectacular West Coast of Hainan.

Classic 3-Day West Coast Loop: Dongfang (Yulinzhou + Exianling + Baicha Village) → Changjiang (Qiziwan + Bawangling) → Danzhou (Millennium Ancient Salt Fields + Ocean Flower Island). This itinerary offers an immersive journey that seamlessly blends coastal scenery, rainforest landscapes, and local culture. 

Island-wide Loop Tour (5–7 Days): Haikou → Lingao → Danzhou → Changjiang → Dongfang → Sanya. Experience the diverse facets of Hainan—from the lively atmosphere of the East Coast to the tranquil serenity of the West Coast. 

"Migratory Bird" Long-Stay Living (15–30 Days): With its warm, comfortable winters and affordable cost of living, Dongfang City is an ideal destination for a winter retreat. 

The story of Yulinzhou is one of nature's breathtaking artistry, the vicissitudes of history, and the century-long vigil of its lighthouse. IntoTravelChina specializes in crafting in-depth, personalized, and hassle-free travel experiences across China.

Our travel experts can assist you with:

Tailored Itineraries: Designing the perfect route—customized to your interests and schedule—that features Yulinzhou and other attractions along Hainan's West Coast.

One-Stop Service: Handling all arrangements, including transportation transfers, unique accommodations, local guides, and bookings for tide-foraging activities.

Exclusive Experiences: Arranging special access to climb the lighthouse, opportunities to purchase fresh seafood directly from the fishing harbor, guidance on the best times for sunset photography, and more.

Let your visit to Yulinzhou be more than just sightseeing; let it be an immersive experience of the laid-back lifestyle found along Hainan's West Coast.