When people think of surfing in Asia, places like Bali, the Philippines, or maybe Sri Lanka usually come to mind, right? But did you know that China is becoming a new surfing destination, both for professional surfers and casual enthusiasts? That’s right, you read that correctly! Between the hidden surf spots of the tropical island of Hainan and the famous Qiantang River tidal bore, China holds some great surprises for board sports lovers.
🏄♂️ Can You Really Surf in China?
It’s naturally one of the first questions that’s bound to cross your mind: can you really surf in China? China and surfing – we’ll give you that, it might seem quite surprising at first. However, the country is home to some real natural treasures for surfing enthusiasts, and we’re not just talking about a few fun little waves to play around in!
Not convinced? Here’s why surfing in China is a brilliant idea!
- 🌴 Hainan, the tropical island that's still a bit of a hidden gem: this island in southern China is fast becoming a Chinese surfing paradise! With warm water all year round (averaging 26.5°C, not bad, right?), impressive waves especially in winter, and a tropical vibe featuring palm trees and white sandy beaches… sounds tempting, doesn't it? The famous Riyue Bay in Wanning has become the unofficial surfing capital of China, with its powerful waves and dozens of surf camps (we’ll tell you more about those in a moment).
- 🌊 The Qiantang Bore Tide, a truly unique spectacle! Near Hangzhou, the Qiantang River creates the world's largest bore tide! We're talking about waves that can reach an incredible 9 metres high and surge upstream at a breathtaking 40 km/h! Every autumn, daring surfers from across the globe attempt to ride this truly unique natural phenomenon. Now that's what we call extreme surfing!
- 🏆 Frequent international championships: it’s easy to forget, but China regularly hosts world-class surfing competitions, particularly at Riyue Bay. It’s a true testament to the quality of the surf spots, perfect for both professionals and amateurs alike.
- 🎯 A booming surf culture: with the country's first Olympic-standard wave pool recently opening in Wanning, dozens of new surf schools popping up every year, and an increasingly passionate local community, the Chinese surf scene is truly on the rise!
- 💰 Prices remain reasonable: compared to the highly touristy spots in Bali or the Philippines, China is still relatively affordable for surfing, especially outside of peak season!
🔥🔥🔥 Popular surfing activities
❤️ We’ve put together a variety of surfing programmes for you. Whether you’re looking to join a surf club or try surfing for the first time, you can choose from the options below⬇️
📅 When to Go Surfing in China?
As with any surf destination, timing really is key! China offers different conditions depending on the season, and some periods are clearly more favourable than others for catching some great waves:?
Period | Terms & Conditions | Recommended spots | Good to know |
🌊 October - March | Consistent waves, 1.5-2m, and wonderfully warm water at 24-27°C! | Hainan (Riyue Bay, Shimei Bay, Houhai Bay) | The golden season for Hainan! Consistent and powerful waves. |
☀️ April - May | Gentle waves, 0.5-1m, and the water a delightful 27-28°C. | Hainan for Beginners | Perfect for learning at a surf camp with gentle conditions |
🌀 June - September | Typhoon season: powerful yet unpredictable waves | Hainan (for seasoned travellers) | Epic sessions are possible, but watch out for the dangers! |
🍂 September - October | The Qiantang River tidal bore at its peak | Qiantang River (Hangzhou) | It's time for the tidal bore in China! A spectacular show is guaranteed. |
💡Trip.com Top Tip: For your first surf trip to China, aim for November to February for the best waves in Hainan, pleasant weather, and to avoid the summer crowds and typhoons!
🏄 Top 5 Surfing Spots in China
Make way for the best surf spots in China! To help you on your way, here is our selection of the 5 best places to surf in China, from the most accessible to the most extreme.
1. Riyue Bay (Sun and Moon Bay) - Wanning, Hainan 🌟
This is undoubtedly the legendary surfing spot of China! Riyue Bay (also known as Sun and Moon Bay) in Wanning on Hainan Island is the ultimate destination for international surfers and amateurs alike. This stunning crescent-shaped bay boasts world-class waves that can reach up to 2 metres during the peak season from November to March.
What’s more, for those who feel the cold, the water is warm all year round (averaging 26.5°C – a total dream!), all with a tropical vibe thanks to the palm trees lining the beach. Finally, as briefly mentioned, the spot regularly hosts international competitions, including the famous WSL Qualifying Series, which attracts the world's best surfers!
When it comes to facilities, it rivals the world's best spots: you'll find dozens of surf camps, schools, restaurants, and cafes run by surfers – in short, everything you need for a fantastic surfing holiday. Whether you're a complete beginner or an experienced surfer, Riyue Bay has spots suited to every level!
📌 Handy budget tips: Board hire £5.50-£17/day, surf lessons from £22, and accommodation from £17 in a hostel to £66+ for a beachfront resort.
💡Trip.com Top Tip: The Riyue Bay Surf Resort officially opened its doors on 11 November 2025 in Wanning, marking a major new milestone in the development of Chinese surfing. This opening is part of the province's 2026 Marine Tourism Year, highlighting innovative sporting and cultural experiences (including wave pools, surf resorts, and more)!
2. Shimei Bay - Wanning, Hainan 🌴
Just 30 minutes from Riyue Bay, Shimei Bay is something of a quieter, wilder little sister. If you're looking to escape the crowds of the main spot while still enjoying great surfing conditions, this is the place to be!
This long, palm-fringed beach offers slightly gentler waves, perfect for intermediate surfers or those looking to improve at their own pace without any pressure.
The vibe is much more laid-back than at Riyue Bay, with fewer crowds in the water and on the beach. You’ll still find some great surf camps and more affordable accommodation. It’s a fantastic choice if you want to combine surf sessions with some downtime on a stunning beach that’s still relatively unspoilt.
📌 Budget-wise: expect to pay between £11 and £44 per night, making it slightly cheaper than Riyue Bay.
3. Houhai Bay - Sanya, Hainan 🏖
The third top surfing spot in China: Houhai Bay near Sanya! It’s a real favourite for those looking for a more authentic experience. Imagine a traditional Chinese fishing village with its colourful boats, little local restaurants serving seafood caught that very morning, and a super friendly community of backpacker surfers who have made this place their home.
The waves are consistent and fairly accessible, making them perfect for beginners and intermediates. The atmosphere is truly unique, with a blend of authentic local life and a burgeoning surf culture. You’ll find surfer-run cafés, lovely budget-friendly guesthouses, and that laid-back vibe we all love. Plus, the prices are definitely more affordable than at Riyue Bay!
4. The Qiantang River tidal bore - Hangzhou, Zhejiang 🌊
Calling all seasoned big wave enthusiasts! This spot is truly something special. The Qiantang River tidal bore near Hangzhou is a natural phenomenon unlike any other on Earth, promising an unparalleled surfing adventure. We're not just talking about any old tidal bore here; this is the biggest in the world! Imagine waves reaching up to 9 metres high, surging up the river at a breathtaking 40 km/h!
💡 Did you know? A tidal bore is simply a tidal wave that forms in certain rivers and estuaries when the incoming tide meets the river's downstream flow!
Every year, especially in September and October during the spring tides and the full moon, the river produces this giant wave that surges upstream for several kilometres.
Professional surfers from all over the world flock here to try and ride it, and honestly, it’s an absolutely breathtaking sight even if you don't surf. The wave is so powerful that it can travel 20-30 km inland!
☝️ A word of caution: This spot is strictly for highly experienced surfers only! It’s dangerous and unpredictable, so you must be accompanied by locals who know the spot and the conditions inside out. Sadly, several people have drowned after underestimating the power of the tidal bore. Please take the safety guidelines very seriously!
📌 Ideal time: September to October during the spring tides.
5. Dadonghai Beach - Sanya, Hainan 🏄♀️
Finally, Dadonghai Beach in Sanya is the ultimate urban spot, located right in the heart of the city! Don't expect competition-level waves here, but rather gentle waves that are perfect for learning or just having some fun on a board without any pressure. It really is the ideal spot for beginners or families looking to introduce the kids to surfing.
The great thing is that all of Sanya’s tourist amenities are right at your fingertips, from hotels and restaurants to shopping centres and a variety of activities. You can easily combine a morning surf session with some sightseeing in the afternoon. The waves are generally small to medium, making it the perfect place to give it a go without any stress.
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🗺 Where to Surf Near China's Major Cities?
Are you in the middle of a road trip through China and still want to give surfing a go near the major cities? Here are the top options available to you:
- From Shanghai, you're just a 1.5 to 2-hour train journey from experiencing the incredible Qiantang River tidal bore in Hangzhou! Fancy a different adventure? You could also hop on a flight to Hainan, which is just a 2.5-hour journey by air.
- From Beijing: Catch a direct flight to Hainan (approx. 4 hours), then transfer to Wanning or Sanya.
- From Hong Kong: A 1.5-hour flight to Hainan is super convenient for a weekend surf trip!
- From Guangzhou, you can hop on a high-speed train or catch a quick flight to Hainan, and you'll be there in just 1.5 to 2 hours!
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🌊 Summary Table of Surf Spots in China
Spot | Location | Level | Best time to visit | Wave type |
Riyue Bay | Wanning, Hainan | All levels | Oct - March | 1.5-2m, consistent |
Shimei Bay | Wanning, Hainan | Beginner - Intermediate | Oct - March | 0.5-1.5m, gentle |
Houhai Bay | Sanya, Hainan | Beginner - Intermediate | Nov - Mar | 0.5-1m, consistent |
Qiantang River Tidal Bore | Hangzhou, Zhejiang | Experts only | Sept - Oct | 2-9m, extreme |
Dadonghai Beach | Sanya, Hainan | Beginner | All year round | 0.3-0.8m, calm |
Cheap Flights to China
💰 Budget for Surfing in China
Here’s a rough idea of how much a one-week surf trip in Hainan might cost.
🏨 Accommodation (7 nights)
- Hostel / guesthouse: £11–£22 per night → £80–£155 per week
- Mid-range hotel: £34–£56 per night → £235–£390 per week
- Beachfront resort: £67–£112+ per night → £470–£780+ per week
🏄 Surfing Costs
- Board hire: £6–£17 per day → £40–£120 per week
- Surf lessons (5-lesson package): £85–£170
- Wetsuit: usually free, or £3–£6 per day
🍜 Food
- Local restaurants: £3–£7 per meal → £20–£45 per day
- Street food / tourist spots: £8–£17 per meal → £60–£120 per day
✈️ Transport
- Return flights (Beijing/Shanghai → Hainan): £85–£225
- Local transport (taxis or scooter hire): £20–£55 per week
💷 Estimated Total for 7 Days
Around £350–£950, depending on your travel style and comfort level.
🏷️ Find Flights, Hotels, Train Tickets, eSIM Cards, and Attraction & Tour tickets at discounted prices for your trip to China.
📝 Trip.com’s Practical Tips for Surfing in China
🎒 Bring Your Own Gear or Rent Locally?
If you surf regularly, it’s best to bring your own board (check baggage fees with your airline). Otherwise, renting in Hainan works well, with decent equipment available.
📱 Prepare Useful Apps Before You Go
Download WeChat (essential!), Alipay or WeChat Pay for payments, and a VPN to access your usual apps.
👉 Get a China eSIM with VPN from just £0.15 and enjoy all your favourite apps.
🌊 Respect Locals and the Sea
The Chinese surf community is very welcoming, but make sure to follow line-up rules and check weather conditions, especially during typhoon season.
🏥 Travel Insurance
Get good travel insurance that covers water sports—it’s really important.
Plan your surf trip on Trip.com now to get the best deals on flights, hotels, and activities.
Happy surfing in China! 🏄♂️✨
❓ FAQ – Surfing in China
Is China a good destination for surfing?
Yes! Especially Hainan, which offers quality waves, warm water all year round, and rapidly developing surf facilities. It’s still a relatively undiscovered surf destination but definitely worth visiting.Where are the best beginner surf spots in China?
Houhai Bay and Dadonghai Beach in Hainan are perfect for beginners, with gentle waves and plenty of surf schools.When is the best time to surf in Hainan?
The best period is from October to March, with consistent waves of 5–6.5 ft (1.5–2 m) and warm water at 24–27°C. Avoid June to September (typhoon season) unless you’re an expert.What is the Qiantang tidal bore?
It’s the world’s largest tidal bore, forming on the Qiantang River near Hangzhou. Huge waves of 6.5–30 ft (2–9 m) travel up the river at 25 mph (40 km/h) in September–October. It’s spectacular but extremely dangerous!How much does a surf trip in China cost?
Expect to spend around £350–970 for a week in Hainan, all included, depending on your comfort level. China is still affordable compared to other Asian destinations.