Things To Do
in Sanya

Sanya, located on Hainan Island in China, is renowned for its stunning beaches and tropical climate, making it a popular destination for relaxation and water sports. This coastal city boasts vibrant coral reefs, lush rainforests, and luxurious resorts that cater to tourists from around the globe. Sanya is often referred to as the 'Hawaii of China' due to its picturesque landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, delicious local cuisine, and a lively nightlife scene.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Beaches
morning
:

Start your day at Yalong Bay, renowned for its soft sands and clear waters; enjoy a leisurely swim or sunbathing.

afternoon
:

Visit the Sanya Coral Reef National Park for some snorkeling and observe the vibrant marine life.

evening
:

Dine at a beachside seafood restaurant and take a stroll along the promenade to enjoy the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Nature
morning
:

Explore the Nanshan Temple, a beautiful site featuring a giant statue of the Goddess of Mercy.

afternoon
:

Head to the nearby Luhuitou Park for hiking and panoramic views of Sanya.

evening
:

Experience local culture at a night market where you can sample street food and shop for souvenirs.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at a local restaurant$5
🛏️Budget hotel per night$30
🍺Domestic beer$2
🚌Public transport fare$1
🍉Fresh fruit$1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful beaches and natural scenery
  • Diverse culinary scene
  • Vibrant nightlife and cultural experiences
  • High tourist traffic during peak seasons
  • Language barrier for non-Chinese speakers
  • Some areas may be overly commercialized
  • "你好" - Hello
  • "谢谢" - Thank you
  • "请问厕所在哪里?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "我想要这个" - I want this
  • "多少钱?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Sanya

Visit one of these nice places.

Yalong Bay

A stunning beach with crystal-clear waters and palm trees, perfect for capturing sunset shots.

Nanshan Temple

A beautiful temple complex with intricate architecture and a giant statue of the Goddess of Mercy.

Luhuitou Park

Provides panoramic views of Sanya and is a great spot for landscape photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Sanya

Sanya offers a diverse culinary experience, featuring fresh seafood and tropical fruits that reflect its coastal location.

Sanya Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Hainan Chicken Rice

A simple yet flavorful dish made with poached chicken and seasoned rice, served with chili sauce.

Must-Try!

Sanya Seafood Hotpot

A hotpot filled with fresh seafood, vegetables, and spices, perfect for sharing.

Coconut Rice

Fragrant rice cooked with coconut milk, providing a sweet and creamy flavor.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Sanya Night Market

A bustling market where you can find various street foods, local snacks, and souvenirs.

Jiefang Road Food Street

Offers a wide range of street food options from skewers to fresh fruits.

Climate Guide

Weather

Sanya has a tropical monsoon climate, with warm temperatures year-round. The average temperature ranges from 20°C (68°F) in winter to 30°C (86°F) in summer. Rainfall is highest from May to October, coinciding with the typhoon season, while winter months are drier and cooler.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always greet and show respect to older individuals, as it is highly valued in Chinese culture.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating before you begin and do not stick chopsticks upright in rice.

Personal Space

Maintain a comfortable distance when interacting, as personal space is valued.

Safety Guide

Safety

Sanya is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to stay vigilant in crowded areas and keep personal belongings secure. Be cautious when swimming in the ocean, as currents can be strong.

Tipping in Sanya

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not mandatory in China, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated.

Payment Methods

WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used; carrying cash is also advisable for small vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Temperatures are mild, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer

Hot and humid, perfect for beach activities but beware of occasional typhoons.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and less humidity, great for hiking and exploring cultural sites.

Winter

Mild weather attracts tourists seeking to escape colder climates, ideal for relaxation.

Nightlife Guide

Sanya at Night

Sanya boasts a lively nightlife with beach bars, nightclubs, and live music venues. Popular areas include Sanya Bay, where you can find beachfront bars serving cocktails and local beers. The city also offers karaoke bars and night markets, providing a mix of entertainment options for visitors looking to experience the local scene.

Hiking in Sanya

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Wuzhizhou Island

Features scenic trails with stunning ocean views and diverse flora.

Nanshan Mountain

Offers hiking paths leading to temples and lookout points, ideal for nature lovers.

Airports

How to reach Sanya by plane.

Sanya Phoenix International Airport

Located about 15 km from downtown Sanya, this airport serves domestic and international flights, providing easy access to the city.

Getting Around

Walkability

Sanya is relatively walkable, especially in tourist-centric areas like Yalong Bay and Sanya Bay, where pedestrian paths and sidewalks are well-maintained. However, public transportation is recommended for longer distances or if you wish to explore less touristy areas.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Han Chinese

The majority ethnic group in Sanya, contributing to the local culture and traditions.

Li People

An indigenous group in Hainan, known for their unique customs, language, and crafts.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Beach Volleyball

A popular sport on Sanya's beaches, with many courts available for public use.

Water Sports

Activities such as jet skiing, parasailing, and windsurfing are widely available along the coast.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Sanya can be congested, particularly during peak tourist seasons. Public buses are available and are a cost-effective way to get around, but taxis and ride-hailing apps like Didi are also widely used for convenience.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Sanya.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask about ingredients.

Allergen Awareness

Seafood is a staple; clarify any allergies to avoid cross-contamination.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Sanya has several hospitals and clinics offering medical services, with the Sanya People’s Hospital being the largest. Healthcare facilities are generally adequate for tourists, but it's advisable to have travel insurance and know the location of the nearest hospital in case of emergencies.

Discover China

Read more in our China 2025 Travel Guide.

China Travel Guide