Things To Do
in Sanya
Sanya is a tropical paradise on Hainan Island known for its palm-fringed beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters. This resort city blends offshore scenery with a distinct local culture and a laid-back island vibe. Visitors can enjoy pristine coastlines, vibrant seafood markets, and a range of water-based adventures.
Expect warm weather year-round, with lush scenery and easy access to nature escapes just beyond the city center.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at Yalong Bay, where the soft white sands beckon you to unwind. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a beachfront café, savoring fresh tropical fruits and local delicacies. Afterward, take a stroll along the shoreline, feeling the gentle waves lap at your feet and the warm sun on your skin.
In the afternoon, indulge in water sports such as snorkeling or jet skiing, exploring the vibrant underwater life that Yalong Bay has to offer. For lunch, try a seaside seafood restaurant, known for its fresh catch of the day and stunning ocean views. As the sun climbs higher, relax under a beach umbrella with a good book or take a dip in the clear, turquoise waters.
As the sun sets, the sky transforms into a canvas of colors, making it the perfect backdrop for a romantic dinner. Dine at a beachside restaurant, where you can enjoy a delicious seafood feast while listening to the soothing sounds of the waves. After dinner, take a moonlit walk along the beach, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere of Yalong Bay.
Visit the Nanshan Temple, a serene place of worship surrounded by lush gardens and stunning coastal views. Start by ascending the steps to the temple, admiring the intricate architecture and the towering 108-meter Guanyin statue. Spend the morning learning about Buddhist culture and enjoying the peaceful ambiance of this sacred site.
After exploring the temple, enjoy a vegetarian lunch at one of the local eateries, where you can taste traditional Buddhist cuisine. Then, stroll through the nearby Nanshan Cultural Tourism Zone, where you can find beautiful sculptures and gardens. Take your time to soak in the spiritual atmosphere and snap photos of the stunning landscape.
As the day winds down, participate in a meditation session at the temple, allowing you to connect with your inner peace. Afterward, return to your accommodation, freshen up, and prepare for dinner. In the evening, enjoy a quiet meal at a local restaurant, reflecting on the tranquility of the day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $20-40 |
| 🏨1 night in a mid-range hotel | $60-120 |
| 🚕Taxicab starting fare / short ride | $3-8 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at a cafe | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and clear waters
- Wide range of outdoor activities and nature experiences
- Pleasant year-round climate for beachgoing
- Strong seafood and local cuisine
- Crowded in peak season
- Humidity and heat can be intense in summer
- Some areas are touristy and commercialized
- Weather can be typhoon-prone (summer/early autumn)
- "你好" - Hello
- "请问，最近地铁站在哪里？" - Excuse me, where is the nearest subway station?
- "谢谢" - Thank you
- "多少钱？" - How much is this?
- "厕所在哪里？" - Where is the bathroom?
- "可以刷信用卡吗？" - Do you take credit cards?
Places to Visit in Sanya
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic rock formations jutting into the sea at the southern tip of Hainan, celebrated for dramatic sunsets and sweeping ocean views.
A large Guan Yin statue overlooking the coastline; a serene backdrop for wide-angle and silhouette shots.
Long crescent beach with clear turquoise water; perfect for sunrise or golden-hour beach photography.
Pristine coastline, emerald water, and resort-backed promenades offering refined beach photography opportunities.
Vibrant reef views, turquoise water, and clear skies ideal for underwater and aerial photography.
Food in Sanya
Sanya Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Tender boiled chicken served with fragrant rice and a light soy-dipping sauce; a Hainan staple widely available in local eateries.
Must-Try!
Rice vermicelli with pork or seafood in a flavorful broth, often topped with fresh herbs and chili oil.
Fragrant rice cooked with coconut milk, commonly served with seafood or roasted meats.
Brightly seasoned local crab dish, typically steamed or stir-fried with garlic and ginger to highlight the crab’s sweetness.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Open-air stalls with a variety of fresh seafood; buy live seafood and have it cooked to order on-site.
Vibrant street-food hub with snacks, skewers, fried delights, and playful banter; ideal for trying small bites and local specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly when visiting temples; remove shoes if required; ask for permission before photos with people or sacred sites; avoid loud behavior in sacred spaces.
Public queues are common; wait your turn patiently and avoid cutting lines. Maintain polite conversation and avoid loud or aggressive tones in crowded areas.
Small tokens or souvenirs are appreciated when visiting homes or local communities; avoid public displays of affection in rural areas.
Safety
Tipping in Sanya
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not traditionally expected in China, but in tourist-heavy areas a small tip for good service at hotels or guided tours is appreciated (around 5–20 CNY). Cash is simplest, and round-ups at taxis or rideshares are common if you feel the service warranted it.
Mobile payments (Alipay and WeChat Pay) are widely used. Cash (RMB) is accepted nearly everywhere, while some higher-end shops and hotels may accept international cards. Always have some local currency for markets and smaller vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with moderate humidity; blooming tropical flora; comfortable for outdoor activities and hiking.
Hot and humid with frequent showers; expect a higher chance of typhoons in the peak period; water activities are very popular, and mornings are best for outdoor exploration.
Pleasant and drier than summer; sea conditions stabilize; great time for beach days and offshore excursions.
Mild and comfortable with temperatures often in the 18–25°C range; a popular time for swimming and outdoor dining without the peak heat.
Sanya at Night
Hiking in Sanya
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Dense tropical rainforest with well-maintained trails, waterfalls, and canopy views; guided tours available.
Extensive tropical forest with elevated hiking routes and diverse flora and fauna.
Coastal trails with opportunities for snorkeling and reef views; easier hikes suitable for most visitors.
Airports
How to reach Sanya by plane.
Main international airport serving Sanya; frequent domestic flights to major Chinese cities and some international routes.
Northern hub about 250-320 km away by road; used for many domestic connections and convenient travel via high-speed rail.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Han Chinese with local Hainanese cultural influences; a mix of long-term residents and migrant workers.
Seasonal visitors from mainland China and international travelers attracted to beaches and water activities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely available along main beaches and near islands.
Common on busy beaches during the day.
Several resort courses with ocean views and challenging holes.
Popular at sunrise or sunset; scenic routes along the beachfront.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sanya.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Navigate by asking for vegetable dishes, tofu-based options, and soups without meat stock. In Chinese: 素食者 (sùshí zhě). Look for dishes labeled as 清淡 (qaln) and avoid gelatin or meat broths; many places can adapt dishes with vegetables and tofu.