Where the South China Sea meets Jade Belt River — home to the Boao Forum for Asia and one of Hainan's most unspoiled coastal towns. A blend of international diplomacy, tropical nature, and ancient fishing village culture.
History · Why Go · Location · Quick Facts
Bo'ao (博鳌) is a small coastal township within Qionghai City on the eastern coast of Hainan Island. For centuries it was a humble fishing village where the Wanquan, Jiuqu, and Longgun rivers converge before emptying into the South China Sea — a geography that earned the area the poetic name "三江入海" (Three Rivers Meeting the Sea).
The town's transformation began in 2001 when the Boao Forum for Asia (BFA) — often called "Asia's Davos" — was established here by the heads of state of 26 Asian nations. Bo'ao was chosen precisely for its tranquil setting, natural beauty, and symbolic position as a meeting place of waters. Since then, the BFA Annual Conference has made Bo'ao a venue of global diplomatic significance, attracting world leaders, business titans, and Nobel laureates each spring.
Despite its international profile, Bo'ao has retained its village character. The old fishing port, the Jade Belt sandbar peninsula, traditional Hainanese architecture, and the surrounding wetlands and mangroves make it a compelling destination for travelers seeking both culture and nature beyond Hainan's famous beach resorts like Sanya.
Top attractions, experiences, and things to do in and around Bo'ao
Monthly temperature, rainfall, and travel tips for Bo'ao, Hainan
Bo'ao has a tropical monsoon climate with warm temperatures year-round, averaging 24°C. The dry season runs from October to April; the wet season from May to September. Hainan is occasionally affected by typhoons between June and October. The sea temperature remains swimmable (25–30°C) year-round.
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From luxury international resorts to boutique guesthouses and budget options — click Full Details for rates, highlights and directions
Hainanese cuisine, seafood, local dishes, restaurants, cafés and bars — click Full Details for menus, tips and locations
Bo'ao's food scene is anchored by Hainanese cuisine (琼菜), famous for fresh seafood, coconut-infused dishes, and its most iconic export — Hainanese Chicken Rice. Local specialities include whelk congee (花螺粥), wenchang chicken (文昌鸡), dongshan lamb (东山羊), and fresh grilled seafood at harbor-side stalls. Coconut milk features prominently in both savory and sweet dishes.
Local crafts, duty-free goods, Hainanese specialities, and souvenir shops — click Full Details for opening hours and practical tips
Transportation options — air, rail, bus, taxi, and local mobility
Useful websites, official tourism portals, travel blogs, and planning resources