Top Things to do in Sanya: Best Activities & Must-Sees
By Tina
August 24, 2026
If you're looking for a tropical paradise where you can enjoy the beach, switch off for a few days, or experience the essence of nature, Sanya is for you.
Known as the "Hawaii of China", it is a city that stands out for its white sandy beaches, night markets, and year-round tropical climate. It is located at the southern tip of Hainan Island, China's southernmost island province.
At Trip.com, we'll show you what to see in Sanya, the most iconic places, the must-visit spots, and the spaces that are sure to surprise you.
📍 Popular Things to Do in Sanya
- 🌳 Sanya Romance Park: From £30.52 - A night-time theme park featuring light shows, traditional dances, and a unique atmosphere to enjoy Sanya by night.
- 🏝️ Wuzhizhou Island: From £14.50 - The jewel of diving in China with crystal-clear waters, the famous Lovers' Bridge and water sports for all tastes.
- 🏖️ Yalong Bay Tropical Paradise Forest Park: From £14.17 - Pure nature with sea views, suspension bridges and a tropical rainforest that looks like it's straight out of a movie.
- 🏯 Nanshan Cultural Tourism Zone: From £7.42 - A vast Buddhist park home to the imposing 108-metre Guanyin statue, surrounded by gardens and temples.
- 🏙️ Luhuitou Scenic Area: Free - A deer-shaped viewpoint offering the best panoramic views of Sanya.
- 🏰 Atlantis Sanya: From £39.13 - A mega-resort with a water park. You can even swim with dolphins; it's an ideal plan for the whole family.
🗺️ What to Do in Sanya Based on Your Stay
Whether you're only spending a day in Sanya or have time to explore it at a leisurely pace, you'll find plans to make the most of your stay.
You can visit its most iconic spots in a single day or spend several days discovering the city, its beaches, and the surrounding area. Whether you're travelling solo, with friends, as a couple, or with the family, we're sure the city will surprise you.
Trip type | Recommendation |
Things to do in 1 day | Morning: Yalong Bay Tropical Paradise Forest Park Afternoon: Dadonghai Bay Sunset: Luhuitou Scenic Area Evening: Night market |
2-day getaway | Day 1: Wuzhizhou Island (diving or walking) + sunset at the Coconut Dream Corridor. Day 2: Yalong Bay Tropical Paradise Forest Park + afternoon at the beach in Yalong Bay |
3-day trip | Add the Nanshan Cultural Zone with its 108m Guanyin statue and a night market visit to your 2-day itinerary |
Couples' trip | Wuzhizhou Island (Lovers' Bridge) + romantic stroll along the Coconut Dream Corridor + dinner with a view at a restaurant in Haitang Bay |
Family trip | Yalong Bay Tropical Paradise Forest Park + West Island + sandcastles at Yalong Bay |
Solo travel | Dadonghai Bay, Luhuitou Scenic Area and a night visit to the local markets |
Cultural trip | Nanshan Cultural Zone, Great Compassion Temple, Li/Miao Village in Yalong Bay Tropical Paradise Forest Park |
Attractions and Tours in Sanya
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2792 booked
![Sanya Zhuzhuxia wakesurfing experience [beginners + wave boat + full coaching]](https://ak-d.tripcdn.com/images/0353h12000a51a1zf9C58_C_568_320.jpg)
![Diving experience in Sanya Dadonghai International Diving Club + Sanya Summer Flower Sea Entertainment Club + Yalong Bay Diving + Yalong Bay Underwater World for scuba diving/PADI advanced freediving for 2 hrs [Sanya Dadonghai PADI diving + beach lounge chair]](https://ak-d.tripcdn.com/images/0357012000phcdq8x7723_C_568_320.jpg)
🏙️ Must-Visit Areas in Sanya
To help you better organise your visit, we have divided the must-visit places in Sanya between those within the city and those located in other parts of Hainan Island.
📍 In the city and its immediate surroundings
Guanyin Statue, in the Nanshan Cultural Zone: This is Sanya's great icon. Standing 108 metres tall, this statue dedicated to the goddess of compassion is one of the largest in the world and rises up facing the sea. The park surrounding it is part of a vast complex dedicated to Buddhist culture, with temples and tropical gardens.
Luhuitou Scenic Area (literally, "The deer that turns its head"): This is one of the best natural viewpoints in Sanya, offering views of both the city and the sea. Its name comes from a love legend of the Li ethnic group, and it is a particularly popular spot at sunset.
Tianya Haijiao: This coastal spot holds great symbolic and romantic value. It is known for its two huge rocks engraved with these words and for having once been considered the southernmost point of China.
Coconut Dream Corridor: This is a promenade stretching about 20 kilometres, lined with coconut palms. Both locals and travellers often explore it on foot or by bike, though one of its biggest draws is watching the sunset over the sea.
🏝️ In the surroundings of Sanya, on Hainan Island
To discover other corners of the island beyond the city, here are some of the most outstanding areas:
Yalong Bay: It is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Sanya, thanks to its white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Nearby is the Tropical Paradise Forest Park, a jungle located in the heights from which you can get stunning views of the bay.
Wuzhizhou Island: This is the most popular island for diving and water sports. It’s known as the “Maldives of China” due to its crystal-clear waters and coral reefs. It’s also a great option for spending the day relaxing by the sea.
Nanwan Monkey Island: This is a highly recommended visit for those travelling with children or with a special interest in nature. It is a natural space where hundreds of macaques live in the wild. To reach the island, you can take the longest over-water cable car in China.
Yanoda Tropical Rainforest: This ecological park, located in the interior of the island, allows you to venture into the jungle, cross suspension bridges, traverse waterfalls or go zip-lining. It is a greener and cooler alternative to beach plans.
Bin Lang Ethnic Village: This acts as a true "living museum" dedicated to preserving the culture of the Li and Miao indigenous peoples of Hainan. During your visit, you can discover their traditional dwellings, handicrafts, and dances.
Each of these places shows a different side of Sanya: its spirituality, its history, its natural landscapes, and its extensive coastline.
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Top Hotels in Sanya
5 star
Outstanding6963 Reviews
Dadonghai Beach Sanya|3.6km from city centre
I originally only booked for two days, but I extended my stay for another two because it was so great. The service was fantastic, and they paid close attention to cleanliness; the supervisor even came to check when the cleaning staff was tidying up. The details were truly heartwarming. For example, they knew I had a 5-year-old, and when we entered the room, we found children's bathrobes already there. (Famous parent-child resorts in Sanya Bay typically require you to request them to send over kids' items later). While there aren't a ton of recreational facilities, they were more than enough for a 3-5 year old. The ball pit in the kids' club alone kept my child entertained for an hour. There were plenty of lounge chairs, and the beach towels provided in the room were very convenient.From£64
Very Good9366 Reviews
Dadonghai Beach Sanya|3.86km from city centre
This stay truly exceeded my expectations, definitely a five-star experience! Both the hardware facilities and the soft services were impeccable. It is absolute perfection for a relaxing getaway.
🌴【Environment & Facilities】The resort vibe is simply top-notch! The public area features a super soothing little lawn with blue lounge chairs and cute giraffe sculptures, surrounded by lush greenery—every snapshot looks like a postcard. The pool water is crystal clear, and the infinity design faces the ocean directly with unbeatable views. Swimming here is a pure delight.
The room was spotlessly clean. I was worried about a moldy smell after reading some online reviews, but there was no such issue at all during our stay. The bedding is of great quality, ensuring a very sound sleep. The front desk service was attentive and thoughtful, arranging a suitable room according to our requests. We are very satisfied.
🍽️【Food & Dining】The hotel offers plenty of dining options with exceptionally lavish dishes, superb quality, and great value for money. The restaurants have distinct characters, including a revolving buffet BBQ serving top-quality freshly sliced meats and mint beef with fruit. The seafood buffet dinner offers incredible value, featuring a rich iced seafood station with very fresh prawns, squid, and shellfish, plus live-steamed oysters and piping-hot seafood congee. The biggest pleasant surprise was the hotel's Peking duck restaurant (reservation required in advance). The duck is sliced right at the table with a great sense of ceremony—crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and absolutely divine!
Overall, this stay was flawless across hardware, service, and dining. I strongly recommend it to anyone looking for a relaxing vacation, and I will definitely come back again next time!From£49
Good890 Reviews
Dadonghai Beach Sanya|4.9km from city centre
I previously stayed at the InterContinental next door, and it felt like I was walking 10,000 steps every day. This time, I switched to the Luhuitou Resort Hotel next door, and the layout is so much more reasonable – you don't have to walk far to get anywhere. The beach is right outside the hotel. Even though the hotel has been rebranded after all these years, I have to say, the hardware is still well-maintained! The staff were also super great. On my first day, I accidentally fell down the steps at the spa. The young ladies helped me out, giving me a massage and even some medicated patches. I'm so grateful to everyone! I definitely won't be doing other things while walking anymore! I went to the spa twice in a row, and the Thai masseuses had excellent techniques! It really helped me relax both body and mind after a week of running around.From£62
Outstanding13126 Reviews
Dadonghai Beach Sanya|4.12km from city centre
The room type was pretty standard; it seemed like a regular twin room where one bed was removed to add a bunk bed for families. There was no view whatsoever. However, the family activities arranged by JW Marriott and the thoughtful and attentive butler service from Una, especially with the corn (referring to Una Corn's service), were truly excellent. I'll definitely come back next time if I can get a sea-view room!From£54
Good7201 Reviews
Yalong Bay Sanya|15.64km from city centre
After reading many reviews, I chose this hotel, and my overall experience was excellent. The front desk staff, other employees, and the concierge were all warm, thoughtful, and incredibly responsive to every request. The hotel is clean and tidy, the bedding is comfortable, and the breakfast spread is rich. It's also convenient to order food delivery. The front desk gave me a high-floor room with a fantastic view; I could see the sea right from the window. On a clear day, I could even catch a stunning sunset from the balcony. Evening strolls by the sea were lovely, with the sea breeze and the sound of the waves being very therapeutic. For my vacation next year, I'll definitely be back to this hotel to relax by the sea.From£49
Family friendly
Good5838 Reviews
Yalong Bay Sanya|12.62km from city centre
This time, I brought my family to Sanya Yalong Bay for a vacation and ultimately chose to stay at the Pullman Sanya Yalong Bay Villas & Resort. The biggest surprise throughout the entire trip came from the housekeeping service. I absolutely must write a detailed review to commend these dedicated housekeeping staff.
The hotel as a whole has a Southeast Asian tropical garden style, surrounded by large areas of lush greenery. The standalone villas come with private hot spring pools, offering great privacy. You can feel the sea breeze and greenery of Sanya right in your own courtyard, creating an incredible atmosphere. The villa space is ample, with clearly defined areas for the living room, bedroom, and separate bathrooms. A large soaking tub, outdoor shower, and courtyard loungers are all available, making it perfect for a family relaxing holiday. The cleanliness and service of the room were definite highlights of this stay.
The housekeeping staff were meticulous and professional. Every day when they came to clean the room, they would gently knock to confirm, respecting our rest time. While cleaning, they not only wiped the floors, surfaces, and bathrooms spotlessly clean but also paid attention to corners and crevices. The bathroom glass and sink were free of water marks, the toilet and shower area were clean and odorless, and the bedding was neatly replaced with pillows tidily arranged. Our personal luggage, electronic products, and children's toys, which were left casually in the room, were carefully organized without being arbitrarily moved by the cleaners, protecting guests' belongings – this was particularly reassuring. After cleaning each day, the housekeeping staff would thoughtfully arrange towels into cute elephant and swan shapes on the bedside, bringing a lot of joy to the children.
During our stay, we occasionally needed extra mineral water and children's toiletries. After contacting housekeeping, the response was swift, and items were delivered to our room shortly after, with a gentle and polite attitude. One evening, when there were quite a few mosquitoes in the room, we contacted housekeeping, and staff quickly brought mosquito repellent and kindly reminded us to close the courtyard door to prevent mosquitoes from entering the room. Their thoughtfulness was evident everywhere. For several days, the room remained fresh and clean. Even when we went out for the day and brought back sand and beach items, the housekeeping staff meticulously cleaned the sand particles from the courtyard and room the next day, keeping the entire villa spotless. The area around the villa's pool was also cleaned, with fallen leaves and debris promptly cleared, ensuring the courtyard environment remained neat and comfortable.
The housekeeping staff always greeted guests with a smile and sincere demeanor, without any perfunctoriness. You could tell the housekeeping team was professionally trained and dedicated to every room and every guest. Although some hotel facilities showed their age, the room maintenance was excellent. The housekeeping team consistently carried out daily upkeep and promptly reported any equipment issues to ensure guests' comfort as much as possible. It is precisely the diligent cleaning and thoughtful service of the housekeeping staff, day in and day out, that made the entire stay warm and pleasant. When on vacation, a clean and safe room is fundamental, and the Pullman housekeeping team exceeded expectations.
The hotel's amenities are also very good. The in-park buggies were available on demand, shuttle services made travel convenient, and breakfast offered a rich variety. The distance to Yalong Bay Beach was not far. Our family enjoyed relaxing in the villa's courtyard and soaking in the private pool, making for a truly vacation-like experience.
A big thank you to all the housekeeping staff for their patient, meticulous, and thoughtful service. They created a comfortable and safe living environment for us with their professionalism and dedication. The housekeeping service at Pullman Yalong Bay is highly commendable, and I strongly recommend it to anyone vacationing in Sanya. The next time we visit Yalong Bay, we will still prioritize Pullman and look forward to meeting this warm housekeeping team again, especially the butler Chen Shanzhu and housekeeper Xu Yiming, and Sun Youhui. Thank you, and see you next time.From£85
Good6001 Reviews
Yalong Bay Sanya|13.95km from city centre
During our two-week trip across China, staying at Grand Mercure Sanya Yalong Bay was by far the best experience!
First of all, the international vibe here is wonderful. Guests from all over the world - Russians, Europeans, Arabs, and Chinese travelers - coexist harmoniously in a very welcoming atmosphere.
Another massive advantage is how seamless they make the stay for international tourists.
You don't have to stress about setting up local payment methods or having foreign bank cards: they easily accept cash, and you can also pay seamlessly using Russian cards via the Nihao China app.
The hotel amenities are top-notch:
• Beautiful, lush grounds with 3 great swimming pools;
• Well-equipped gym;
• Great variety of accommodations (both in the main building and spacious townhouses/villas).
The service here is on a truly remarkable level compared to many other places in China. Frankly speaking, I was amazed to realize that the hospitality and attention to detail here easily surpassed 5-star resorts in Turkey. Every staff member is friendly, polite, smiling, and always eager to help.
Special and heartfelt thanks to our host/assistant Daisy! She was simply amazing - super responsive, professional, and handled all our inquiries and requests almost instantaneously. She made our stay truly unforgettable. The management of Grand Mercure is very lucky to have such dedicated and hard-working talent on their team!
Highly recommended! We will definitely come back again.From£38
Very Good9497 Reviews
Sanya Bay Sanya|2.03km from city centre
This hotel boasts an unbeatable location on Sanya Bay, offering stunning views and direct beach access – the sunrises and sunsets are not to be missed! It's incredibly convenient for both leisure and business travel. The rooms are clean and well-equipped, with a pool, gym, self-service laundry, and various entertainment options available. The service is outstanding; staff in the lobby help with luggage, and check-in is quick, professional, and courteous, indicating high overall quality. The guest rooms are decent, with a practical layout and slightly upscale toiletries in individual boxes, including small bottles of shampoo and body wash – a thoughtful touch for sustainability. The breakfast offers a wide variety of local dishes, typical of a Hainan star-rated hotel, and booking a room with breakfast is definitely a pleasant surprise. There's a free outdoor parking lot, and entry/exit is also free. A KFC and supermarket are nearby, and Sanya Bay No.1 is not far ahead. Food delivery by robot is also available, making it very convenient. This established hotel offers excellent value for money and a very reasonable price. Overall, it's a great stay and definitely worth it, especially for a final stop. It's only a 20-minute drive to both the airport and train station. Many thanks to Felix!From£28
Excellent13814 Reviews
Sanya Bay Sanya|7.16km from city centre
This hotel is a bit older, but it feels well-maintained. It's right by the sea entrance of Coconut Dream Corridor, with a strong Indonesian resort vibe, reminiscent of 'Summer's Tale.' There are plenty of activities for children, and a fantastic kids' play area. All the staff are very pleasant, especially the ladies at the kids' play area – they're all super nice. The breakfast service is excellent too; even though it's crowded, there's never a shortage of food. Every morning, they offer at least five kinds of fruit, plus numerous delicious pastries, special Hainanese noodles, and great coffee. If I had to find a fault, it would be the abundance of bugs near Coconut Dream Corridor. I got three extremely itchy bites by the hotel pool, so definitely remember to protect yourself thoroughly. Lastly, there's a personal butler, Cici, available 24/7. No matter how late, she'll respond to requests for things like bathtub covers or children's bath sets – very responsible. Oh, and the guy who teaches crab catching at the recreation center – he seems to genuinely love his job and creates a joyful atmosphere for guests! In conclusion, I'll definitely be back next time. Keep up the great work!From£63
Outstanding24907 Reviews
Yalong Bay Sanya|13.08km from city centre
Our family trip to Sanya this time led us to book the Sheraton Sanya Yalong Bay Resort, which we reserved about two months in advance. It was a non-cancellable booking, and after comparing many hotels, we ultimately chose the Sheraton. It turns out, from the moment we checked in, everything exceeded our expectations! First, the front desk lady proactively upgraded us to a lake view room for free, offering warm and thoughtful service. Security guards helped with our luggage, and we had a dedicated manager for one-on-one assistance throughout our stay. The cleaning staff were also gentle and enthusiastic, keeping our room very tidy and comfortable every day. Secondly, the hotel's location in the core resort area of Yalong Bay is fantastic; you can walk straight to the beach from the hotel. The hotel's lawns are also perfect, and there are multiple swimming pools and splash pools, which the kids absolutely loved. Adults could take beautiful photos anywhere. Finally, I have to give a huge shout-out to Sanya's weather – it was sunny all five days we were there! On the second day, we woke up at 6:30 AM and saw the sunrise over the sea, all thanks to the hotel's amazing location! The breakfast was incredibly rich too. Oh, and it was my daughter's birthday on our second day, and the hotel specially delivered a birthday cake to our room, which was incredibly heartwarming~ It was a very, very satisfying stay~ We will definitely choose the Sheraton again next time!From£88
Swimming pool
Outstanding11946 Reviews
Sanya Bay Sanya|8.37km from city centre
The room was clean and odorless!
The staff were excellent and very efficient!
The room was spacious, facing the sea directly. It was very quiet with the door closed.
The takeaway concierge delivered food right to our room. They even rushed to help us with our bags as soon as we got out of the car! So thoughtful. The kids' club was also very large.
There were many lifeguards at the pool, and the pool itself was very clean!
Everything here is better than the Pullman next door. Staying here was a very smart choice.From£45
Very Good28824 Reviews
Yalong Bay Sanya|12.69km from city centre
Having stayed at almost all the beachfront hotels in Yalong Bay, this was my second visit to the Hilton. The public areas are incredibly vast and beautiful, with a circular layout that connects all the buildings to the pool and gardens. My kids absolutely love the Hilton's pool; even though there were many people, it never felt crowded. The BBQ buffet was delicious, and the breakfast offered a wide variety, including thoughtful touches like Hainan's Baoluo noodles hidden in a corner. The room felt a bit older compared to my first stay, but I really like the split-level design, and I heard it's getting renovated soon. During my stay, there was a minor issue, and I have to commend the impressive capabilities of the front desk managers. Their priority is excellent service, and after addressing the concern, they transfer it to the relevant department, always ensuring guests remain relaxed.From£97
Good18080 Reviews
Haitang Bay Sanya|26.5km from city centre
We traveled as a group of three adults and one toddler (two seniors over 60 and a 16-month-old), so the hotel needed to cater to both the elderly and the little one.
We were torn between a few hotels in Haitang Bay at the time: Holiday Inn Resort, InterContinental, and Shangri-La. We ultimately chose Shangri-La for the following reasons:
1. The Executive Lounge offers hot dishes in the evening, which is very convenient. It saved us the trouble of taking the elderly and the baby out to hunt for food or figuring out where to eat.
2. Room type: The sofa in the Shangri-La king room can be folded out into a 1.5-meter double bed, which was a perfect fit for our group composition.
3. Since our child is too young, most activities at Holiday Inn Resort wouldn't suit him anyway, and the little train alone is enough. The little train at Shangri-La is also free, taking about 15 minutes for a full loop, which was very comfortable.
4. We didn't choose the InterContinental because there was construction going on at nearby hotels, and we heard their executive lounge wasn't as good as Shangri-La's.
Check-in Experience:
Before our arrival, the hotel called us, and the butler added me on WeChat. Based on my requests, the room was already set up with a baby bathtub, welcome fruits, and the humidifier was turned on. This was genuinely great 👍. I arrived at the hotel at 5 PM, checked in, handed my luggage tags to the front desk, and went out for dinner. Two hours later, when we returned to the room, our luggage hadn't arrived yet. After reporting this to the butler, we were told the front desk forgot. A huge thumbs-down for this! Later, the butler offered a remedy: a little monkey toy for the child and two sets of L'Occitane samples (expiring in November 2026). Honestly, it would've been better to give nothing.
Room:
I booked an ocean-front room, and the view was truly fantastic. We stayed on the 5th floor; I bet the 7th floor would be even more amazing. The AC made occasional noises, but since it wasn't constant, we decided to just bear with it and didn't bother calling maintenance.
Regarding room upgrades: We stayed during the National Day golden week, so we got nothing. Also, I had read online that the executive lounge access for two adults and two kids could be switched to cover three adults, but they wouldn't do it for us, claiming it wasn't allowed during the National Day holiday ❌. I couldn't help feeling discriminated against, and in the end, we still had to pay extra. Even though the butler had added a note to our profile, every time we entered the lounge, the staff would still question us. I wonder if anyone else has had this experience. I paid out of pocket and didn't want my parents to find out, so I was frantically winking at the staff, but they just kept talking loudly anyway. So speechless!
Dining:
We always had breakfast at the Executive Lounge instead of the main restaurant, and it was totally sufficient. The various freshly cooked congees were delicious, which easily solved the baby food issue. Usually, we had a late breakfast, skipped lunch, and then had dinner at 5 PM. The Executive Lounge was completely adequate! Don't worry about whether the food is gourmet; just focus on being well-fed.
Activities:
We just hung out at the hotel, rode the little train, and drove the go-karts. Swimming during the day wasn't a problem despite the sun, thanks to the sunshades. Unlike the Holiday Inn, the go-karts here don't force you to wear a helmet. Our toddler hates helmets, but he still got to ride the go-karts. They are very slow, safe, and not crowded at all.
Service:
Proactive service awareness is weak. When we were playing at the beach, it started raining. Grandma went back to the hotel to get umbrellas and asked the front desk. The staff insisted she go upstairs to get them, claiming they were kept on the upper floor. In the end, there was only one umbrella brought out for three adults and a toddler. Except for the child, the rest of us got completely soaked. There were clearly umbrellas right there at the front desk. Even if scanning a QR code is required, how hard is it to teach an elderly person how to do it?
However, the pros outweigh the cons. It's still a decent hotel to visit, and after all, the price isn't high, so you can't expect perfection.From£65
Outstanding17124 Reviews
Yalong Bay Sanya|12.92km from city centre
During the National Day holiday, I stayed for 5 consecutive days in a full ocean view room at the Sanya Yalong Bay Marriott Hotel.
Firstly, the pool and beach services are all complimentary, including swimming rings, volleyballs, pickleballs, beach towels, sand digging tools, etc. All are provided free of charge, you just need to return them. There's no need to lug essential beach holiday items all the way here. The complimentary beach bag is also really practical, so you don't have to worry about bringing your own.
Secondly, the pool is quite interesting. It's divided into two levels, one deeper and one shallower, with tunnels and small bridges connecting them, which adds a lot of fun. The areas are interconnected in a winding way, allowing for a certain degree of privacy and enjoyment while still being able to see each other. Compared to the large, open pools at other hotels, this design avoids a lot of awkwardness.
Thirdly, the beach is gentler than those at Hilton and Ritz-Carlton. Overall, the sea view is excellent. If you can book a room on the seventh floor or higher, the view is absolutely stunning.
Fourthly, breakfast was decent. Marriott members receive complimentary coconuts. If you're a family of three and only one person is a member, you can still get three coconuts, which is quite a good deal. However, after five days, I really couldn't eat any more.
Fifthly, the housekeeping service was quite attentive. For example, when I needed nail clippers or other regular room services, the response was very prompt. It made for a very comfortable stay.
Sixthly, the balcony is excellent and practical. It has a foldable drying rack, which is very convenient, and small chairs where you can watch the sunrise and sunset.
Some people complain about the rooms, but I don't think it's that bad. It still has the quality of an established five-star hotel. I personally prefer hotels with a bit of history, and while everyone is different, I actually like hotels that are aged but well-maintained. Conversely, I'm not a fan of very new and modern hotels. I had anticipated the issue of the small room before arriving, but I still chose the Marriott because of its other advantages, and overall, it exceeded my expectations.From£113
Excellent10519 Reviews
Dadonghai Beach Sanya|4.7km from city centre
I've been coming to the InterContinental Sanya Haitang Bay Resort for six consecutive years, and I've always been satisfied. Sanya has several bays, but Dadonghai best fits the image of a clear, gradually deepening ocean with sandy beaches and coconut trees.
Yalong Bay beach isn't always accessible, and Haitang Bay is more suitable for duty-free shopping. Dadonghai is close to the city center and the airport, and the road to the airport is relatively easy to navigate, being within the city.
Dadonghai has corals, making it suitable for beachcombing, snorkeling, and some friends were also paddleboarding there.
Let's talk about the hotel. The InterContinental's design is very thoughtful. It won a gold award for hotel architecture back in the day, drawing inspiration from local ethnic minority handicrafts and incorporating many aesthetic elements of traditional Chinese architecture, such as borrowed scenery, symmetry, carved landscapes, and the use of water features. The element of water is also extensively used in other InterContinental hotels. Green landscaping is interspersed throughout the hotel, allowing guests to relax and enjoy their vacation. I've stayed at other hotels in Sanya, where some, to accommodate more rooms, make guests walk a lot without any scenic views along the way. The InterContinental, however, offers a new delightful view with every step.
This time, booking through Trip.com, I had a butler, Annie, who communicated with me via WeChat throughout my stay. This is an exclusive Trip.com service. The butler was professional and answered all my questions. Sometimes she'd reply even at 10 PM, which made me feel a bit embarrassed.
This stay was in a one-bedroom villa, which offers unbeatable value for money. It has a small courtyard, a private plunge pool, and you can see the ocean right from your bed. The Executive Lounge is also free to use and offers breakfast, afternoon tea, and dinner. Breakfast isn't crowded, with a separate menu. The dishes aren't as extensive as the Mediterranean restaurant, but it's good enough for breakfast. The Executive Lounge's afternoon tea includes sandwiches, burgers, fruits, cakes, soft drinks, and Qingbuliang (a local dessert). The Executive Lounge is right by the sea, with both indoor and outdoor seating, all very comfortable. Dinner includes alcoholic beverages, Chinese and Western salads, hot Chinese and Western dishes, noodles, and cakes, satisfying dinner needs with healthy and delicious options, as expected from a good hotel.
Thanks to the housekeeping staff, Ms. Guo Junfang, for her warm service every day. When she saw the pool was dirty, she immediately contacted customer service to have it cleaned.
All the hotel staff are excellent, including the electricians, air-conditioning repair personnel, the gentlemen and ladies in white uniforms at the Executive Lounge, and the gentlemen and ladies in blue uniforms at the Executive Lounge, as well as the chefs. They are all very good, highly professional, and diligent.
Due to many foreign guests, the hotel has a good number of international staff. The service has improved compared to two years ago.
Regarding check-in wait times, I arrived at 12 PM, had lunch, and waited for 40 minutes before checking in. During the wait, I was given drink vouchers. The hotel usually has a 12 PM check-out time, and rooms require thorough cleaning afterward. Some friends shouldn't be unhappy about this; just enjoy the beautiful scenery and walk around a bit.
I will continue to stay here again and again, like visiting a friend.From£97
⭐ Top 5 Activities and Landmarks in Sanya
Guanyin statue in the Nanshan Cultural Zone🙏
The great symbol of Sanya and one of the most imposing Buddhist monuments in the world. Its presence facing the sea is breathtaking.
📌 Trip Tip: the park is huge, so don't skimp on the tourist bus to get around it. Bring water and sun protection, and wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees so you can access the temples.
Wuzhizhou Island 🏝️
A paradise for diving and water sports. Its crystal-clear waters and the famous Lovers' Bridge make it the queen of Sanya's islands.
📌 Trip Tip: arrive before 10:00 am to avoid queues. Set aside a full half-day and don't forget your sun cream.
Yalong Bay and its park🌴
The most beautiful beach in Sanya combined with a jungle in the heights. The views from the suspension bridge and the glass-bottomed viewpoint are spectacular.
📌 Trip Tip: visit the forest park first thing in the morning (around 7:00 am) to avoid the heat. The afternoon is perfect for the beach.
Luhuitou Park Viewpoint 🦌
The best free viewpoint in the city. The panoramic views at sunset, with the sea and the lights of Sanya, are one of the most beautiful scenes you will take away with you.
📌 Trip Tip: go at sunset and bring mosquito repellent. You can take the bus to save time and effort.
Tianya Haijiao 🌅
China's symbolic "end of the world". Its engraved rocks and romantic atmosphere make it an almost essential stop for postcard-perfect photos.
📌 Trip Tip: make the most of it at sunset and combine it with a seafood dinner at the nearby First Market.
☀️ Best Time to Visit Sanya
Before visiting this paradise, it's important to take the weather and crowd levels into account. November to April is considered high season, as the weather is stable and the temperatures are pleasant.
From May to October, it's the complete opposite: temperatures often climb above 30ºC, humidity levels rise, and you might encounter the risk of heavy rainstorms.
Season | What it's like | Recommendation |
November to February | Dry and cool season. This is Sanya's "winter", with daytime temperatures of 25-28°C and cooler nights (18-22°C). | The best time to travel. The weather is ideal for the beach, diving, and outdoor activities. Avoid Chinese New Year (January/February), as the city gets packed with domestic tourists and prices skyrocket. |
March and April | Temperatures start to rise (28-32°C) and humidity increases slightly. The days remain mostly sunny. | A great time to visit, with an excellent balance: the weather is still pleasant, there are fewer tourists than in the winter months, and prices drop. |
May to June | Start of the rainy season. The heat and humidity increase significantly. | Acceptable if you don't mind the heat. You can find deals on accommodation, but you need to be prepared for the rain and the humidity. |
July to October | Typhoon and heavy rain season. It is the hottest, most humid, and most unstable time of year. | Not recommended. The sea is often rough, it rains frequently, and there's a risk that outdoor activities or island excursions might be cancelled. |
We recommend travelling between November and April, always keeping local holidays in mind, with March and April offering the best balance between weather and price.
Cheap flights to Sanya
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🥢 What to Eat in Sanya
Sanya's cuisine combines the taste of the sea with the intensity of tropical flavours. You'll find everything from hearty stews to seafood and meat dishes. Without a doubt, trying the island's gastronomy is an experience you simply cannot miss.
- Coconut chicken: tender chicken cooked in the pure juice of three green coconuts. A sweet broth with an intense coconut aroma.
- Zaopo: a sweet and sour broth fermented with rice wine, in which fresh seafood is cooked. A refreshing and addictive flavour.
- Fresh seafood: a coastal essential. Try the steamed grouper or the stir-fried crab. Buy them at the market and have them cooked on the spot.
- Hainan noodles: thin noodles with fried peanuts, bean sprouts, pork, and a special sauce. A classic that never fails.
- Tengqiao fried ribs: ribs marinated in honey and fried until crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
- Qing Bu Liang: a refreshing dessert with coconut milk, fruit, red beans, taro, and tapioca. Perfect for beating the heat.
🚇 Transport Options in Sanya
Sanya has its own international airport: Sanya Phoenix International Airport, with the code SYX.
Although Sanya doesn't have an underground system, it does have an 8.37-kilometre tram line with 15 stops. It connects the city centre with Sanya railway station, and a ticket costs around £0.35.
The most budget-friendly option is the local bus. The city has an extensive network of routes connecting the centre with the beaches and other places of interest. Tickets start from £0.20, but bear in mind that journey times can be longer during rush hour.
For getting around more comfortably, you can use taxis or ride-hailing apps like DiDi. Some orange vehicles identified with the “Hainan Trusted Pay” logo allow you to pay with international bank cards.
Renting a car can be a great alternative if you're travelling in a group or want to explore other parts of Hainan Island at your own pace. One of the advantages is that the island's motorways are toll-free. Plus, for short trips along the coast, it's also common to hire a bicycle or an electric scooter.
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📱 Sanya Travel tips
- Book tickets for the most popular attractions in advance.
- Always carry your passport, as you may be asked for it to access certain places.
- Download map, translation, transport, and payment apps before you arrive.
- Check the entry requirements for China.
- Consider getting an eSIM for China with a VPN.
- Check out how to use Alipay in China safely.
Connect without limits with a China eSIM
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✈️ Book your flight + hotel in China at the best price on Trip.com.
❓ FAQ – Things to Do in Sanya
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Do I need a visa for Sanya?
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