Sanya, a vibrant coastal city located at the southern tip of Hainan Island, China. With its year-round warm weather, turquoise waters, and miles of soft white sand, Sanya is often referred to as “the Hawaii of China.” What surprised me most was how this destination is no longer just a favorite for domestic travelers escaping winter—it’s increasingly becoming a must-visit tropical getaway for Western travelers seeking both relaxation and cultural immersion. Here’s my in-depth Sanya travel guide, perfect for planning your first trip.
Best Things to Do in Sanya, Hainan
1. Explore Sanya’s Iconic Beaches
Yalong Bay — Luxury Meets Crystal Waters
Imagine waking up to the sound of gentle waves and stepping out onto some of the clearest waters in China. Yalong Bay, about 30 minutes from downtown, is lined with five-star international resorts such as the Ritz-Carlton, Mandarin Oriental, and Marriott.
Highlights: clear turquoise sea, soft white sand, peaceful atmosphere
Activities: snorkeling, scuba diving, sailing, jet skiing, or simply sunbathing under a palm tree
Vibe: upscale and serene — perfect for couples and luxury travelers
Dadonghai Beach — Vibrant & Convenient for First-Timers
Located just a short ride from the city center, Dadonghai Beach is a lively hub that blends convenience with a youthful energy.
Highlights: bustling nightlife, proximity to restaurants, bars, and shops
Activities: surfing, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), bar-hopping, exploring the lively night markets
Vibe: energetic, ideal for families and younger travelers looking to socialize
Sanya Bay — Where the Sunset Steals the Show
Stretching over 20 kilometers along the coast, Sanya Bay is famous for its Coconut Dream Corridor, a scenic coastal road lined with palm trees.
Highlights: breathtaking sunset views over the South China Sea
Activities: biking, leisurely walks, sunset photography
Vibe: more local and affordable than Yalong Bay — a great spot for travelers on a moderate budget
2. Natural & Cultural Exploration
Tianya Haijiao — “The Edge of the Earth”
Literally meaning “Edge of the Sky and the Sea,” Tianya Haijiao is one of China’s most romantic seaside spots, dotted with giant granite boulders and lush coconut groves. It’s the perfect place for a scenic photo session.
Travel Tip: Visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and crowds.
Nanshan Cultural Tourism Zone — Serenity Meets Spirituality
This area blends traditional Chinese Buddhist culture with striking architecture. The star attraction is the 108-meter-tall Guanyin statue, rising dramatically from the sea.
Travel Tip: Dress modestly and respect the serene atmosphere — it’s both a tourist attraction and a place of worship.
Wuzhizhou Island — China’s Maldives for Divers
If you love underwater adventures, Wuzhizhou Island is your dream spot. With incredibly clear water and a rich marine ecosystem, it’s often called “China’s Maldives.” Activities include scuba diving, snorkeling, sea walking, parasailing, and speed boating. Travel Tip: Book ferry tickets in advance, especially during peak season.
3. Cruise & City Experiences
For a unique perspective, consider boarding an international cruise such as the Navigator Star, departing from Sanya Phoenix Island International Cruise Port — which even offers dedicated services for foreign travelers.
Back on land, the city offers plenty of modern attractions. Don’t miss the Atlantis Aquarium, a stunning marine world, and the Sanya Duty-Free Shopping Mall, where you can pick up luxury brands at tax-free prices.
4. Traditional Chinese Wellness Experiences
One of Sanya’s most distinctive offerings is Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) wellness tourism. At the Sanya International TCM Friendship Hospital, visitors can experience acupuncture, massage therapy, and moxibustion treatments.
Some local institutions even offer TCM workshops, where you can learn about herbal medicine, cupping, and other ancient practices. These experiences offer a deeper cultural connection beyond beaches and resorts.
Tropical Flavors & Local Cuisine
Seafood Stalls: Head to First Market for freshly caught fish and shellfish — pick your ingredients and have them cooked on the spot.
Coconut Chicken Hotpot: A fragrant local specialty, where tender chicken simmers in fresh coconut water.
Hainan Rice Noodles & Qingbuliang: Light, refreshing snacks perfect for hot afternoons.
Beach Bars: Sanya Bay and Dadonghai have charming open-air bars, ideal for sunset drinks with live music.
Where to Stay — For Every Traveler
Luxury Resorts: Yalong Bay is home to international names like Ritz-Carlton and Mandarin Oriental — ideal for honeymooners or anyone wanting a full-service tropical escape.
Mid-range Boutique Hotels: Dadonghai offers stylish, affordable stays with easy access to beaches and nightlife.
Local Guesthouses & Villas: Perfect for travelers seeking privacy and a more authentic local atmosphere.
Travel Tips for Western Visitors
Best Time to Visit: November to April (dry season) offers sunny skies and warm waters — ideal for winter getaways from colder climates.
Transportation: Sanya Phoenix International Airport is just 30 minutes from downtown. Use DiDi, China’s version of Uber, for easy travel.
Language: English is spoken in major hotels and attractions, but having a translation app is helpful.
Currency: Chinese Yuan (RMB) is standard. Credit cards work in upscale hotels, but small vendors often prefer cash or mobile payments (WeChat/Alipay).
Sun Protection: UV rays are strong — don’t forget sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.
Why Sanya Should Be on Your China Travel Itinerary ?
✅ Tropical island atmosphere that rivals Maldives and Southeast Asia
✅ A unique blend of luxury resorts and authentic Chinese culture
✅ Diverse experiences — from diving to Buddhist temples to TCM wellness
✅ Excellent value, especially for winter escapes
Whether you’re looking for a luxurious beach holiday, a cultural deep dive, or a warm tropical escape from winter, Sanya, Hainan delivers it all.