Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Beihai gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from BHY to the city takes roughly 75 minutes by Taxi and Airport Shuttle Bus, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Before heading into Beihai, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for China vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Beihai is roughly 75 minutes from BHY via Taxi and Airport Shuttle Bus. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in CNY. Avoid exchanging money at the airport if you can — city-center ATMs usually give you a better deal.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
From BHY, the Taxi and Airport Shuttle Bus gets you to Beihai in around 75 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 95 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Taxi and Airport Shuttle Bus offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Things to Do During Your Layover
If you head into Beihai, here are two things worth checking out:
City Center Walk is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. It’s the kind of area you can wander through at your own pace.
Local Market is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. It’s a good place to browse local goods and soak up the atmosphere.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at BHY, check out Airport Lounge or Duty Free Shopping to keep yourself occupied.
Where to Grab a Meal
In Beihai
If you make it into town, Local Restaurant is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Popular Eatery.
Inside BHY
If you’re staying in the terminal, Airport Cafe is your main option. Terminal Restaurant works too if you want something quick.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Beihai:
Transport to the city and back runs about $5 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $9 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $24 USD total.
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Beihai.
What to Do With Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at BHY aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Beihai itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
WiFi at BHY should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in China and you’re good to go.
Need a Nap? Options at BHY
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at BHY.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Beihai with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Beihai may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.