HAIKOU – For travelers looking beyond Hainan's famous beaches, the Haikou section of the Nandu River offers a refreshing blend of nature, culture, and slow-paced riverside living. As the longest river on the island, the Nandu River winds gracefully through Haikou's outskirts, creating a peaceful corridor of wetlands, ancient villages, and scenic walking paths.

Unlike the bustling downtown, this area invites visitors to explore its newly developed riverside promenades, ideal for morning jogs, sunset photography, and family picnics. Along the banks, you'll find local fishermen casting nets just as they have for generations—a perfect spot for cultural observation and quiet reflection.

For history enthusiasts, the river passes near Fengxiaozhen Ancient City Ruins, where remnants of old stone walls and temples tell stories of Hainan's maritime past. Birdwatchers will also appreciate the expanding mangrove wetlands, home to egrets, herons, and kingfishers.

Local tourism authorities have recently added bike-sharing stations, riverside cafés, and small boat tours (seasonal), making it easier to enjoy the river at your own pace. Whether you're kayaking along calm waters or simply sipping coconut water under the shade of banyan trees, the Nandu River offers an authentic, unhurried side of Haikou that many tourists miss.

Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon, especially between November and March when the weather is cool and dry.