Abstract: Shallow geothermal energy is an important component of geothermal resources, and its rational development and utilization are crucial for optimizing the energy structure. This study focuses on the regional characteristics of Haikou City. Using multiple approaches, including data collection, thermal property testing of rock and soil masses, pumping and reinjection tests, and on-site thermal response tests, it systematically characterizes shallow geothermal energy. The index method and analytic hierarchy process (AHP) were adopted to construct a suitability evaluation index system for developing and utilizing shallow geothermal energy in the Haikou area, and to carry out suitability zoning and resource evaluation, filling a research gap in this field in Haikou City. The results show a constant temperature of 27.5 °C, and the self-pressure reinjection/pumping ratio for groundwater ranges from 4.03 % to 11.1 %, indicating that the ground-coupled ground source heat pump system is suitable for exploitation. The total thermal capacity of shallow geothermal energy reaches 179.873×10¹² kJ/℃. The total summer cooling heat exchange power is 20.61×10⁸ W, which can meet a cooling demand of 22.9×10⁶ m². Based on the occurrence characteristics of shallow geothermal energy and the urban planning layout, the study area is divided into three zones: an encouraged exploitation zone, a controlled exploitation zone, and a restricted exploitation zone, covering 217.88 km², 77.07 km², and 13.12 km², respectively. This study provides a theoretical basis and technical support for scientific planning and use of shallow geothermal energy in Haikou City.