How to Meet Locals & Make Friends in Beihai, China

1. Beihai International Sailing Center

Meet local sailors and participate in international regattas. Join a class to learn sailing.

Cultural Exchange: Opportunity for cross-cultural interaction with international participants.
Outdoor Activities: Engage in a fun and unique water sport that the locals love.
Regular Events: Participate in frequent regattas and sailing events.

Hang out at the popular local beach, join group activities, or take a beach volleyball class.

Local Hangout Spot: A popular place for locals to unwind and socialize.
Group Activities: Join in on beach games or group activities organized by the beach management.
Volunteer Opportunities: Participate in clean-up events or contribute to local initiatives.

Join a sports club, take a fitness class, or play basketball with locals.

Variety of Activities: Offers numerous sports and fitness activities for all ages and skill levels.
Community Spirit: A place where locals come together to play sports and maintain an active lifestyle.
Club Membership: Join a club for regular meetings, team activities, and events.

Sample local street food, shop for souvenirs, and interact with friendly vendors.

Authentic Local Cuisine: Taste delicious traditional Beihai dishes not found in tourist areas.
Social Atmosphere: Buzzing atmosphere that attracts locals and tourists alike.
Local Shopping Experience: Discover unique Beihai-made souvenirs and handicrafts.

Visit the campus, attend cultural events, or join language exchange programs.

Cultural Exchange: A great opportunity to learn about local culture and traditions.
Language Learning: Improve your Mandarin skills through language exchange programs.
Student Population: Engage with friendly, ambitious students seeking cross-cultural connections.

Join a guided tour, learn about tea cultivation, and make new friends.

Tea Culture: Gain insight into the centuries-old Chinese tea culture.
Guided Tours: Experience professional guided tours led by knowledgeable locals.
Tea Tasting Sessions: Participate in tea tasting sessions and learn to appreciate the subtle differences between teas.

Spot rare bird species with fellow birdwatchers and ask locals for tips.

Wildlife Spotting: Observe a wide variety of bird species up close.
Community of Birdwatchers: Meet fellow enthusiasts and share tips on bird watching techniques.
Natural Beauty: Enjoy the stunning scenery of Beihai's wetlands and wildlife reserve.

Participate in traditional festivals and celebrate local customs with locals.

Cultural Immersion: Experience the richness of Beihai's cultural heritage firsthand.
Community Spirit: Join in on community activities and share in local joy and excitement.
Authentic Cultural Experience: Gain a deeper understanding of the region's unique customs and traditions.

Join a local cycling group, explore scenic routes, and make new friends.

Scenic Routes: Cycle through beautiful landscapes, mountains, and coastal roads.
Community Spirit: Join a community that shares the love of cycling and adventure.
Group Activities: Participate in group rides, competitions, and charity events.

Learn Mandarin or the local dialect with friendly teachers and students.

Language Learning: Improve your language skills through structured lessons.
Cultural Exchange: Gain a deeper understanding of local customs and traditions.
Friendly Atmosphere: Learn in a friendly, supportive environment with fellow language learners.

Relax, exercise, or socialize in one of Beihai's many beautiful parks.

Local Atmosphere: Experience the laid-back, friendly atmosphere of local parks.
Community Activities: Join in on group exercises, activities, or sports events.
Natural Beauty: Enjoy the tranquility and beauty of Beihai's numerous parks.

Learn to cook traditional Beihai dishes with local chefs.

Cultural Exchange: Gain insight into local culinary traditions.
Hands-on Experience: Learn by doing, with hands-on cooking classes led by local experts.
New Friends: Meet fellow classmates and make new friends.

Listen to local musicians, attend concerts or open mic nights.

Local Talent: Discover up-and-coming and established local music talent.
Social Atmosphere: A fun, lively atmosphere for meeting new people and enjoying music.
Cultural Exchange: Gain insight into local musical traditions and tastes.

Participate in community service projects and make connections with locals.

Community Service: Contribute to the local community while making a positive impact.
Cultural Exchange: Learn about local customs and traditions through service projects.
New Friendships: Make new friends while working together to improve the community.

Join a guided biking tour and explore Beihai with a local guide.

Scenic Routes: Cycle through beautiful landscapes, mountains, and coastal roads.
Local Knowledge: Learn about local history, culture, and customs from a knowledgeable guide.
Small Group Sizes: Enjoy intimate group sizes for a more personal experience.