Linhai Park: A New Coffee Spot in a Pine Forest

In Weihai’s western coastal district, a long-neglected coastal pine forest is being transformed into a large-scale public park. For locals like 65-year-old Qi Bensong, who walks the area daily, the question isn’t why—but when—the new space will open. With construction underway since last year, the site is evolving into much more than just green space: it will feature walking paths, playgrounds, a wedding area, and yes, a coffee house nestled inside the pine woods.

The first phase of Linhai Park, including a forest leisure area with a coffee house, is set to open by May Day this year, with about 63,000 square meters already structured and under final interior work.

Turning a Coastal Forest into a Multifunctional Park

Linhai Park is being built on a 167,000-square-meter site of original coastal protection forest in Gao District, Weihai. Bordered by the International Seaside Bathing Beach to the north, Gaoxin Building to the south, and residential areas on the east and west, the park has been designed to combine leisure, culture, fitness, and entertainment in a natural setting. Work began in May last year, with the goal of creating a premier leisure destination on Weihai’s western coast.

The forest itself consists mainly of black pines, originally planted in the 1950s to combat wind and sand erosion. Having stood for over 60 years, the trees now form the natural core around which the new park is designed. The name "Linhai," meaning "Forest Sea," reflects both the site’s dense pine woods and its oceanfront location, evoking imagery of swaying trees and blue-green waves.

What’s Included in Phase One?

The first phase of Linhai Park spans approximately 63,000 square meters and includes several key features already taking shape. A 300-meter-long central promenade, dubbed "Happy Avenue," cuts through the pine forest, lined with classical-style lanterns and flanked by colorful wind turbines that generate power for park lighting while enhancing the scenery.

The forest leisure area—set to draw visitors seeking quiet enjoyment of nature—will include a coffee house and wooden pavilions. Visitors can relax amid tall pines with views and scents reminiscent of a natural oxygen bar. Other planned elements in this phase consist of a children’s activity zone, an area for senior citizens, a matchmaking and wedding section, and an adventure play area for kids.

Design Features and Natural Integration

Construction has emphasized preserving the original forest while integrating man-made features. A planned rain fog area will feature a stream created from a white-pebble waterway, including designed landscapes such as layered flower-waterfalls, stone springs, and winding creeks. Water will flow gently through the forest, accompanied by mist effects, sound, and greenery to engage multiple senses.

The park’s overall layout is divided into functional zones: north and south entrances, Happy Avenue, children’s activity area, forest leisure zone, wedding area, adventure zone for children, and spaces for the elderly. Despite the slow pace due to cold, damp coastal winter weather, most structures are framed, with finishing work ongoing. Workers are currently limited onsite, with full construction set to resume around February 20.

Community Anticipation and Future Plans

Local residents have shown strong interest in the project. Qi Bensong looks forward to having a nearby place for morning exercise and leisure, while his grandson will have easy access to the children’s play equipment. Nearby resident Wang Lin noted the lack of quality public parks in Gao District and welcomes the upcoming addition.

Officials highlight that once complete, Linhai Park will partner with the nearby International Seaside Bathing Beach to offer three types of natural bathing experiences: sea, forest, and sunshine. The park is expected to boost the region’s cultural environment, attract investment, and serve as a key recreational hub for western Weihai. Phases two and three are either underway or still in planning.

Frequently Asked Questions

When will Linhai Park open to the public?

The first phase of Linhai Park is scheduled to open before May Day 2024. As of February 10, most structural work is complete, with interior finishes underway. Full site preparation is expected to restart around February 20.

What will be in the first phase of the park?

Phase one includes Happy Avenue, a central forest path; a children’s activity zone with play equipment; a forest leisure area with a coffee house and wooden pavilions; a wedding and matchmaking area; and zones for seniors and general leisure. Approximately 63,000 square meters will be open to the public.

What are the key natural features being preserved?

The park is built around an existing coastal pine forest, with black pines that have grown since the 1950s. The design preserves the forest while adding paths, streams, and landscaped areas. A rain fog zone with water features and mist will enhance the natural experience.

Where is Linhai Park located?

Linhai Park is located in Gao District, Weihai, bordered by the International Seaside Bathing Beach to the north, Gaoxin Building to the south, and residential and hotel buildings on the east and west sides.

Will there be more phases after the first opening?

Yes. Phase two is already partially under construction, and phase three remains in planning. The full park development is phased to allow gradual completion and public access.

What can visitors do at Linhai Park?

Visitors can enjoy walking along Happy Avenue, relax in the forest leisure area, take children to play in the kids’ zone, visit the wedding area, or explore nature in the rain fog section. A coffee house in the forest offers a relaxing rest spot.

Recommended FrontStreet Beans for a Park Café

For the new coffee house in Linhai Park’s forest leisure area, consider FrontStreet Coffee’s Ethiopia Huakui for a bright, floral cup with notes of jasmine and bergamot—perfect for sunny park mornings. Pair it with the Panama Huacai, offering sweet citrus and almond tones, ideal for relaxed sipping. Both single origins highlight clean, nuanced profiles that complement the natural surroundings. Freshly roasted within 5 days · Orders placed before 17:00 ship the same day · Next-day delivery across most of Guangdong Province.