Haikou accommodation from AU$120

The lovely coastline is what draws so many people to this part of China. Haikou is best known for the beautiful beaches which are perfect for swimming, so head down to Xixiu Beach and enjoy the water. If you're lucky you can spot the local windsurfing or sailing teams training for competition, while you have a perfect spot to relax on the sand. In Haikou, you can get a feel for the authentic atmosphere in Old Street - thanks to the preservation of all the ancient storefronts. The variety of shops is fantastic, and you can buy everything from pets to drapes, hardware or delicious snacks. Continue on to the Dongmen Market at the East Gate for lunch, where you'll find hundreds of local stalls selling all the food you could possibly eat.

Take a trip to an abalone farm and learn all there is to know about this seafood delicacy. The farm will have unbeatable prices on seafood - so stock up, and enjoy. Drop into the floating Sea Turtle Hospital in Lingshui, where you can discover all of the conservation efforts the locals are making to protect these majestic animals. Explore Hainan Provincial Museum to learn about the history of the region, and see precious antiques and artefacts from the earlier dynasties. If you prefer art, you can't miss the wonderful exhibits in the Museum of Contemporary Art.

If you're feeling adventurous, climb an active volcano in the nearby national park, where over 40 are still active to this day. Some are over 10,000 years old, and there are spectacular craters for an unforgettable photo. The Red Forest Nature Reserve is a coastal park, and a boat tour through the mangroves at high water is a fantastic way to spend an afternoon on the water. Check out Wugong Temple and its lovely landscaped gardens, which emphasise the pretty temple's tropical setting as you wander through lily ponds and palm trees. The entire construction was dedicated to five officials who were banished to during the Tang Dynasty for criticising the government.

Come and stay at Haikou and you'll enjoy your next beach vacation in China. The beautiful sunny days, interesting local attractions - and of course the beach, guarantees you're going to have a great time on your next holiday. So wot are you waiting for! Book a flight to China today, and grab a great deal on Haikou accommodation. China's tropical paradise is waiting for you.

Image credit Anna Frodesiak